FCT forces plan to deny me the opportunity to enthrone my successor

The Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi has lamented that the insistence of Abuja leaders to enthrone a new governor without his input is the root cause of the crisis in his state.

Rotimi Amaechi

He regretted that the politicians are bent on denying him this privilege by insisting on enthroning politicians opposed to him as his successor.

He attributed the dwindling fortunes of the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Rivers state to the rising insecurity in the state.

The Rivers governor said insecurity came at a time when desperate politicians resorted to power-play at the national level, ahead of the 2015 elections and the recent influx of political thugs and miscreants, that were chased out of the state when he assumed office in 2007.

Amaechi spoke at the Government House in Port Harcourt when officers and students of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, Plateau State, visited him.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) chairman noted that the prevalent insecurity in Rivers state prevented most companies from operating outside Port Harcourt, the state capital, which he said negatively affected the state’s IGR, that would have hit N10 billion monthly.

He said: “Things were improving before now, with the Army, Police and the State Security Service (SSS), which enabled us to arrest the insecurity in the state.

“It is also important for you to know the economic interest of the people, and our private interest too.

“Now, people are being kidnapped like in recent times. Some of my colleagues in government, like a lawyer I met this morning, he was kidnapped and kept for eight days, but he was just released on Friday. You are also aware of the Bishop that was kidnapped, but these issues were not there after I assumed office in 2007. But because of the elections (2015), the Abuja front has released all the people (militants) we chased out of Port Harcourt back into the state.”

FCT forces plan to deny me the opportunity to enthrone my successor

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi has lamented that the insistence of Abuja leaders to enthrone a new governor without his input is the root cause of the crisis in his state.

Rotimi Amaechi

He regretted that the politicians are bent on denying him this privilege by insisting on enthroning politicians opposed to him as his successor.

He attributed the dwindling fortunes of the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Rivers state to the rising insecurity in the state.

The Rivers governor said insecurity came at a time when desperate politicians resorted to power-play at the national level, ahead of the 2015 elections and the recent influx of political thugs and miscreants, that were chased out of the state when he assumed office in 2007.

Amaechi spoke at the Government House in Port Harcourt when officers and students of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, Plateau State, visited him.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) chairman noted that the prevalent insecurity in Rivers state prevented most companies from operating outside Port Harcourt, the state capital, which he said negatively affected the state’s IGR, that would have hit N10 billion monthly.

He said: “Things were improving before now, with the Army, Police and the State Security Service (SSS), which enabled us to arrest the insecurity in the state.

“It is also important for you to know the economic interest of the people, and our private interest too.

“Now, people are being kidnapped like in recent times. Some of my colleagues in government, like a lawyer I met this morning, he was kidnapped and kept for eight days, but he was just released on Friday. You are also aware of the Bishop that was kidnapped, but these issues were not there after I assumed office in 2007. But because of the elections (2015), the Abuja front has released all the people (militants) we chased out of Port Harcourt back into the state.”

Earn a UNICAF scholarship and pay ONLY 2000 Euro for the MBA, M.Ed or BBA Degree*

The UNICAF Scholarship Programme was founded to offer gifted underprivileged students from Africa the opportunity of furthering their education by studying towards a University of Nicosia distance learning degree.

The UNICAF Scholarship Programme is one of the most generous scholarship programmes available for African students and provides opportunities for studies towards the distance learning MBA,M.Ed or BBA programmes of the University of Nicosia at a fraction of the cost. The normal fees for the MBA,M.Ed or BBA degrees are €10,000 out of which UNICAF subsidises €8,000. Students that qualify and are studying towards the distance learning MBA,M.Ed or BBA degrees will therefore pay ONLY €2000*.

For the last two decades the University of Nicosia has been offering partial scholarships to international students. The vast majority of these students were able to make a significant contribution to their home countries and in many cases at the highest level.

The primary objective of the UNICAF Scholarship Programme is to provide the opportunity to students from Africa to pursue advanced academic studies and to earn internationally recognised qualifications by studying through distance learning.

Applicants will be expected to meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a permanent resident of an African country.
• Be earning less than €12,000 per year.
• Be available to commence their academic studies within 6 months from the date of receiving admission.
• Meet the entry requirements of the respective programme of study.

To apply please click here

* Note: The €2000 amount applies when the fees are paid in one lump-sum payment. For other payment options click here

Earn a UNICAF scholarship and pay ONLY 2000 Euro for the MBA, M.Ed or BBA Degree*

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The UNICAF Scholarship Programme was founded to offer gifted underprivileged students from Africa the opportunity of furthering their education by studying towards a University of Nicosia distance learning degree.

The UNICAF Scholarship Programme is one of the most generous scholarship programmes available for African students and provides opportunities for studies towards the distance learning MBA,M.Ed or BBA programmes of the University of Nicosia at a fraction of the cost. The normal fees for the MBA,M.Ed or BBA degrees are €10,000 out of which UNICAF subsidises €8,000. Students that qualify and are studying towards the distance learning MBA,M.Ed or BBA degrees will therefore pay ONLY €2000*.

For the last two decades the University of Nicosia has been offering partial scholarships to international students. The vast majority of these students were able to make a significant contribution to their home countries and in many cases at the highest level.

The primary objective of the UNICAF Scholarship Programme is to provide the opportunity to students from Africa to pursue advanced academic studies and to earn internationally recognised qualifications by studying through distance learning.

Applicants will be expected to meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a permanent resident of an African country.
• Be earning less than €12,000 per year.
• Be available to commence their academic studies within 6 months from the date of receiving admission.
• Meet the entry requirements of the respective programme of study.

To apply please click here

* Note: The €2000 amount applies when the fees are paid in one lump-sum payment. For other payment options click here

MOST EXPENSIVE TRANSFERS IN FOOTBALL HISTORY EVER - 10

MOST EXPENSIVE TRANSFERS IN FOOTBALL HISTORY EVER - 10

Well, Ever heard of one man turning the fortunes of an entire team? Ozil did that for Arsenal. After pressure from many Arsenal fans, Arsene made a big-money signing for the first time and what a signing that has turned out to be. For me the best player to have played for Arsenal after the legendary Invincibles era.

MOST EXPENSIVE TRANSFERS IN FOOTBALL HISTORY EVER - 10

Posted by Sylvester No comments

MOST EXPENSIVE TRANSFERS IN FOOTBALL HISTORY EVER - 10

Well, Ever heard of one man turning the fortunes of an entire team? Ozil did that for Arsenal. After pressure from many Arsenal fans, Arsene made a big-money signing for the first time and what a signing that has turned out to be. For me the best player to have played for Arsenal after the legendary Invincibles era.

Florida mom brings daughter, 15, to New York for Super Bowl prostitution and 'fetish stuff': cops

Bronx detectives, trolling the Web pretending to be johns, struck a deal to pay the girl $200 for an undisclosed sex act at Midtown hotel.

Cops have been cracking down on prostitution on the lead up to the Super Bowl.

An early candidate for worst mother of the year brought her 15-year-old daughter more than 1,300 miles to Manhattan — to pimp her out to Super Bowl fans.
The mom’s sick admission, spelled out in court papers, shows Yolanda Ostoloza, 39, of Hollywood, Fla., knew exactly what she was doing.
“We came up here to work and make money with a pimp,” she told cops, according to a criminal complaint. “I knew it was for escorting and prostitution.”
Then there was this gem from the pimping parent:

Yolanda Ostoloza was arrested at the Double Tree Metropolitan on Lexington Ave. and E. 51st St. and has been charged with promoting her 15-year-old daughter for sex.

Florida mom brings daughter, 15, to New York for Super Bowl prostitution and 'fetish stuff': cops

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Bronx detectives, trolling the Web pretending to be johns, struck a deal to pay the girl $200 for an undisclosed sex act at Midtown hotel.

Cops have been cracking down on prostitution on the lead up to the Super Bowl.

An early candidate for worst mother of the year brought her 15-year-old daughter more than 1,300 miles to Manhattan — to pimp her out to Super Bowl fans.
The mom’s sick admission, spelled out in court papers, shows Yolanda Ostoloza, 39, of Hollywood, Fla., knew exactly what she was doing.
“We came up here to work and make money with a pimp,” she told cops, according to a criminal complaint. “I knew it was for escorting and prostitution.”
Then there was this gem from the pimping parent:

Yolanda Ostoloza was arrested at the Double Tree Metropolitan on Lexington Ave. and E. 51st St. and has been charged with promoting her 15-year-old daughter for sex.

Deadly marijuana? Doctors weigh in on British woman who supposedly overdosed on cannabis

News that Gemma Moss, of Bournemouth, England, died after smoking a joint and the local coroner reportedly declared the cause of death 'cannabis toxicity' taveled quickly in British tabloids. But doctors and marijuana-experts say that the thought of someone overdosing on pot is ridiculous and virtually impossible.

 

Gemma Moss died after after smoking a joint in her bedroom, according to local reports

The coroner who said "cannabis poisoning" killed a British mother of three is likely blowing smoke.

Gemma Moss, 31, a devout Christian, reportedly collapsed and died after smoking half a joint at her home in Bournemouth, England.

Coroner Sheriff Payne found that she had moderate to high levels of pot in her system and attributed her death to cannabis toxicity, according to British news sites such as the Mirror Online and The Telegraph.

Deadly marijuana? Doctors weigh in on British woman who supposedly overdosed on cannabis

Posted by Sylvester No comments

News that Gemma Moss, of Bournemouth, England, died after smoking a joint and the local coroner reportedly declared the cause of death 'cannabis toxicity' taveled quickly in British tabloids. But doctors and marijuana-experts say that the thought of someone overdosing on pot is ridiculous and virtually impossible.

 

Gemma Moss died after after smoking a joint in her bedroom, according to local reports

The coroner who said "cannabis poisoning" killed a British mother of three is likely blowing smoke.

Gemma Moss, 31, a devout Christian, reportedly collapsed and died after smoking half a joint at her home in Bournemouth, England.

Coroner Sheriff Payne found that she had moderate to high levels of pot in her system and attributed her death to cannabis toxicity, according to British news sites such as the Mirror Online and The Telegraph.

SAD NEWS: Another Nollywood Actor Is Dead

Charles Warren, a veteran Nollywood actor died yesterday, Thursday night.

It was gathered that the actor, in the evening, complained of severe chest pains and was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

His first major break was a movie titled “Mark of the Beast” which featured Majek Fashek in 2001.

He was one of the script writers for “Dear Mother.”

The first child of the family and only son. He’s survived by a father, mother and 5 sisters.

SAD NEWS: Another Nollywood Actor Is Dead

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Charles Warren, a veteran Nollywood actor died yesterday, Thursday night.

It was gathered that the actor, in the evening, complained of severe chest pains and was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

His first major break was a movie titled “Mark of the Beast” which featured Majek Fashek in 2001.

He was one of the script writers for “Dear Mother.”

The first child of the family and only son. He’s survived by a father, mother and 5 sisters.

'One-stop shopping' drug and prostitution ring, Asian Wave Escorts, busted ahead of Super Bowl

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's Organized Crime Task Force and the NYPD worked together for nearly year to investigate the ring, which specialized in drug and sex 'party packs.' The operators had apparently ramped up efforts as Super Bowl XLVIII approached.

A sophisticated Manhattan-based prostitution ring that offered "one-stop shopping" and delivered both drugs and debauchery was sacked just days before the Super Bowl.
"Always a treat and always fast to your door," Asian Wave Escorts promised in sexy come-ons broadcast on public access TV, sources said.
The ring was headed by a middle-aged madam named Hyun Ok Yoonung, a 41-year-old Korean immigrant who officials said is something of a legend in the flesh-peddling business.
"She was really the leader," Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said Thursday. "This is someone we've heard of from other criminals, really sort of admiring the scope of her enterprise. She's well known in this industry."
Code-named "Beige," the madam was arrested at her Long Island home while police were rounding up the 17 other alleged members of the ring in overnight raids.

Hyun Ok Yoonung was the alleged ringleader of the drug and prostitution ring that used phony companies to accept credit card payments. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said the investigation leading to the sting, 'Operation Out of Bounds,' had been going on for a year.

“We have identified in the last year more than $3 million in credit card charges related to this enterprise," Schneiderman said. "Keep in mind that most johns pay cash, so that is a staggering number for an enterprise like this.”

'One-stop shopping' drug and prostitution ring, Asian Wave Escorts, busted ahead of Super Bowl

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's Organized Crime Task Force and the NYPD worked together for nearly year to investigate the ring, which specialized in drug and sex 'party packs.' The operators had apparently ramped up efforts as Super Bowl XLVIII approached.

A sophisticated Manhattan-based prostitution ring that offered "one-stop shopping" and delivered both drugs and debauchery was sacked just days before the Super Bowl.
"Always a treat and always fast to your door," Asian Wave Escorts promised in sexy come-ons broadcast on public access TV, sources said.
The ring was headed by a middle-aged madam named Hyun Ok Yoonung, a 41-year-old Korean immigrant who officials said is something of a legend in the flesh-peddling business.
"She was really the leader," Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said Thursday. "This is someone we've heard of from other criminals, really sort of admiring the scope of her enterprise. She's well known in this industry."
Code-named "Beige," the madam was arrested at her Long Island home while police were rounding up the 17 other alleged members of the ring in overnight raids.

Hyun Ok Yoonung was the alleged ringleader of the drug and prostitution ring that used phony companies to accept credit card payments. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said the investigation leading to the sting, 'Operation Out of Bounds,' had been going on for a year.

“We have identified in the last year more than $3 million in credit card charges related to this enterprise," Schneiderman said. "Keep in mind that most johns pay cash, so that is a staggering number for an enterprise like this.”

Football family patriarch Archie Manning is psyched for Super Bowl XLVIII

The father of Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, himself once the New Orleans Saints’ QB, couldn’t say enough nice things about New York City, although he admitted he always gets nervous when one of his sons plays an NFL game.

Archie Manning, left, — shown here in 2012 talking with his son Peyton, right, and fellow former quarterback Joe Montana, center — is having a good time in New York City with his family before Peyton Manning again hits the Super Bown gridiron Sunday.

He loves New York.

With apologies to the Big Easy and all the warm-weather cities vying for the Big Game, the Manning family patriarch said Gotham is the perfect site for Super Bowl XLVIII.

“I’m all for it,” Archie Manning told the Daily News on Thursday when asked about MetLife Stadium hosting his son Peyton, the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks for Sunday’s NFL title game.

Football family patriarch Archie Manning is psyched for Super Bowl XLVIII

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The father of Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, himself once the New Orleans Saints’ QB, couldn’t say enough nice things about New York City, although he admitted he always gets nervous when one of his sons plays an NFL game.

Archie Manning, left, — shown here in 2012 talking with his son Peyton, right, and fellow former quarterback Joe Montana, center — is having a good time in New York City with his family before Peyton Manning again hits the Super Bown gridiron Sunday.

He loves New York.

With apologies to the Big Easy and all the warm-weather cities vying for the Big Game, the Manning family patriarch said Gotham is the perfect site for Super Bowl XLVIII.

“I’m all for it,” Archie Manning told the Daily News on Thursday when asked about MetLife Stadium hosting his son Peyton, the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks for Sunday’s NFL title game.

Warren Sapp escalates war of words with Michael Strahan: 'Pick the spot and I'll come see you'

Sapp, who made the Hall of Fame in 2013, has questioned the ex-Giant defensive end's credentials for Canton earlier in the week. Now Sapp suggests the two get together and resolve the dispute.

Warren Sapp (c.), who was joined by QBs Kurt Warner and Nick Foles, during Super Bowl week event Thursday, tells Michael Strahan to 'pick the spot' so they can resolve their feud.

The rather juvenile feud between two of the greatest defensive players of their era continues to spill over into Super Bowl Week.
On Tuesday, Warren Sapp, who made the Hall of Fame in 2013, took a jab at Michael Strahan by suggesting the former Giants defensive end doesn’t deserve to join him in Canton this year. Strahan responded by calling Sapp a “coward,” and things escalated again after Sapp sat down with CBS Sports Radio host Jim Rome on Wednesday.

Warren Sapp escalates war of words with Michael Strahan: 'Pick the spot and I'll come see you'

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Sapp, who made the Hall of Fame in 2013, has questioned the ex-Giant defensive end's credentials for Canton earlier in the week. Now Sapp suggests the two get together and resolve the dispute.

Warren Sapp (c.), who was joined by QBs Kurt Warner and Nick Foles, during Super Bowl week event Thursday, tells Michael Strahan to 'pick the spot' so they can resolve their feud.

The rather juvenile feud between two of the greatest defensive players of their era continues to spill over into Super Bowl Week.
On Tuesday, Warren Sapp, who made the Hall of Fame in 2013, took a jab at Michael Strahan by suggesting the former Giants defensive end doesn’t deserve to join him in Canton this year. Strahan responded by calling Sapp a “coward,” and things escalated again after Sapp sat down with CBS Sports Radio host Jim Rome on Wednesday.

Kim Kallstrom at Arsenal training ground

Spart ak Moscow midfielder linked with loan move

 

Spartak Moscow midfielder Kim Kallstrom is currently at the Arsenal training ground ahead of a possible loan-move until the end of the season.

The Swedish international could be Arsene Wenger's only signing today as he desperately searches for a new midfielder due to Mathieu Flamini's suspension and Aaron Ramsey's injury setback, which will see him miss another month of action.

The 31-year-old looks set to complete a loan move to the Emirates Stadium until the end of the season, and this news comes after Wenger confirmed that the Julian Draxler deal is a no-go.

BBC News, Sky Sports News and media in Russia are all reporting the news and it looks like a loan-deal could be agreed later on today.

Kim Kallstrom at Arsenal training ground

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Spart ak Moscow midfielder linked with loan move

 

Spartak Moscow midfielder Kim Kallstrom is currently at the Arsenal training ground ahead of a possible loan-move until the end of the season.

The Swedish international could be Arsene Wenger's only signing today as he desperately searches for a new midfielder due to Mathieu Flamini's suspension and Aaron Ramsey's injury setback, which will see him miss another month of action.

The 31-year-old looks set to complete a loan move to the Emirates Stadium until the end of the season, and this news comes after Wenger confirmed that the Julian Draxler deal is a no-go.

BBC News, Sky Sports News and media in Russia are all reporting the news and it looks like a loan-deal could be agreed later on today.

Oritsejafor sues Lagos Government over demolition of his church

The Word of Life Bible Church (WLBC) has filed an action at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere, seeking an order that will halt the demolition of structures at its headquarters.

The building is on Plot 21E, Abdulraman Okene Close, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos.

Joined as defendants in the suit are the Lagos State Government, its Governor, state Attorney-General, state Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Lagos Building Control Agency and Lagos Physical Planning Permit Authority.

The church wants an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, their agents, servants, officers, privies or whosoever from demolishing, destroying, dispossessing or forcibly ejecting the claimant from, or continuing to take steps or in any other manner engaging in any activity detrimental or inimical or contrary to the rights of ownership or possession of the claimant in respect of the land registered No.34 on page 34 in Volume 2081 of the Register of Deed, kept at the Lagos State Land Registry.

It is equally asking for N90 million penalty, of which N20 million serves as cost of the action.

But General Overseer of WLBC and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsajefor, has called on Governor Babatunde Fashola to respect the rule of law, maintaining that any action taken would be illegal.

At a press conference yesterday on his behalf, by the resident pastor in Lagos, Segun Braimoh, Oritsejafor asked the Lagos State Government to allow them reap the maximum benefit of the land they bought legitimately.

“Lagos State Government should grant our church all necessary approvals as has been done for others,” he said.



“We bought the property over 10 years ago and perfected the titles on April 30, 2003. Our construction work was stalled since 2005 because Land Bureau would not issue us clearance letter to perfect our building plan approval despite that we have submitted all relevant documents and paid all statutory fees for building approval.

“We have sought audience with the authorities, including the past and present government of Lagos as to why the clearance letter and approval we sought were being denied since 2005, (but) no explanation was given to us. The current governor requested the physical planning department to look into our complaint following high-level intervention via our letter of 27/6/2010.”

“The Department of Physical Planning wrote to inform us on 27/7/2010 that all efforts to trace the file for application No. IV04/DO/208/68A in the office had been unsuccessful. We were then enjoined to resubmit all documents to enable the processing of our application.

“We have since reproduced all the documents as directed, except the clearance letter from the Land Bureau. We reapplied for the renewal of the clearance letter issued to us by the Land Bureau on October 15, 2010 – it is one of the documents specified by physical planning to enable them process and grant approval of our building plan.

“The Land Bureau, in its wisdom, has refused to renew the clearance letter. It is pertinent to note that it is renewal we need now as the bureau had issued one clearance in 2010 after all due diligence.”

Braimoh recalled that following another appeal letter to Governor Fashola, dated February 19, 2013, the church was asked to liaise with Land Bureau for the clearance letter, but the bureau has failed to issue the letter even after complying with all the processes.

Continuing, he stated that, “However, on January 20, 2014, we got a notice and the next day, January 21, a demolition notice. On January 23, we saw the Lagos State Building Agency Enforcement Department with a team of armed policemen, bulldozers and caterpillar pull down our gate and part of our fence.”

Oritsejafor sues Lagos Government over demolition of his church

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Word of Life Bible Church (WLBC) has filed an action at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere, seeking an order that will halt the demolition of structures at its headquarters.

The building is on Plot 21E, Abdulraman Okene Close, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos.

Joined as defendants in the suit are the Lagos State Government, its Governor, state Attorney-General, state Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Lagos Building Control Agency and Lagos Physical Planning Permit Authority.

The church wants an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, their agents, servants, officers, privies or whosoever from demolishing, destroying, dispossessing or forcibly ejecting the claimant from, or continuing to take steps or in any other manner engaging in any activity detrimental or inimical or contrary to the rights of ownership or possession of the claimant in respect of the land registered No.34 on page 34 in Volume 2081 of the Register of Deed, kept at the Lagos State Land Registry.

It is equally asking for N90 million penalty, of which N20 million serves as cost of the action.

But General Overseer of WLBC and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsajefor, has called on Governor Babatunde Fashola to respect the rule of law, maintaining that any action taken would be illegal.

At a press conference yesterday on his behalf, by the resident pastor in Lagos, Segun Braimoh, Oritsejafor asked the Lagos State Government to allow them reap the maximum benefit of the land they bought legitimately.

“Lagos State Government should grant our church all necessary approvals as has been done for others,” he said.



“We bought the property over 10 years ago and perfected the titles on April 30, 2003. Our construction work was stalled since 2005 because Land Bureau would not issue us clearance letter to perfect our building plan approval despite that we have submitted all relevant documents and paid all statutory fees for building approval.

“We have sought audience with the authorities, including the past and present government of Lagos as to why the clearance letter and approval we sought were being denied since 2005, (but) no explanation was given to us. The current governor requested the physical planning department to look into our complaint following high-level intervention via our letter of 27/6/2010.”

“The Department of Physical Planning wrote to inform us on 27/7/2010 that all efforts to trace the file for application No. IV04/DO/208/68A in the office had been unsuccessful. We were then enjoined to resubmit all documents to enable the processing of our application.

“We have since reproduced all the documents as directed, except the clearance letter from the Land Bureau. We reapplied for the renewal of the clearance letter issued to us by the Land Bureau on October 15, 2010 – it is one of the documents specified by physical planning to enable them process and grant approval of our building plan.

“The Land Bureau, in its wisdom, has refused to renew the clearance letter. It is pertinent to note that it is renewal we need now as the bureau had issued one clearance in 2010 after all due diligence.”

Braimoh recalled that following another appeal letter to Governor Fashola, dated February 19, 2013, the church was asked to liaise with Land Bureau for the clearance letter, but the bureau has failed to issue the letter even after complying with all the processes.

Continuing, he stated that, “However, on January 20, 2014, we got a notice and the next day, January 21, a demolition notice. On January 23, we saw the Lagos State Building Agency Enforcement Department with a team of armed policemen, bulldozers and caterpillar pull down our gate and part of our fence.”

National Conference to hold in Abuja for three months [Read full modalities]

The Federal Government yesterday announced the modalities of the National Conference.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, gave the modalities at a press briefing in his office in Abuja.

He disclosed that a total of 492 delegates will partake in the dialogue which would be named National Conference.
According to him, the National Conference will last for a total of three months and nomination of delegates will commence on Thursday, January 30 and end on February 20.

Anyim divulged further that after deliberation of the Advisory Committee, the following recommendations were adopted for immediate implementation:

- The Official name of the conversation/conference shall be “The National Conference.”

- The National Conference shall hold in Abuja;

- The National Conference shall tentatively last for three months and shall discuss any subject matter, except the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a nation, therefore the unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable;

- A conference management secretariat shall be established to manage, administer and run the affairs of the conference;

- Decisions at the National Conference shall be by consensus; but where it is not achievable; it shall be by 75% majority;

- The National Conference shall advise the government on the legal framework, legal procedures and options for integrating the decisions and outcomes of the national conference into the Constitution and laws of the country; and

- The National Conference shall have a Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of unimpeachable integrity.
A breakdown of the modalities for the nomination of the delegates is as follows:

- Elder Statesmen: One per state and the FCT making a total of 37 will be nominated by the President;

- Retired Military and Security Personnel which include one delegate per geopolitical zone each from the Military, Police, State Security and National Intelligence Agency – making it a total of 18 delegates to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Traditional Rulers: two per zone and one from the FCT making a total of 13 delegates to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Retired Civil Servants: one per zone. A total of six to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Labour Representatives: the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and Trade Union Congress, TUC, shall each nominate 12 delegates making it a total of 24 which would reflect Geo-political and gender balance;

- The Organised Private sector: NECA, MAN, NACCIMA, NESG shall each nominate two delegates;

- Nigeria Youth Organisations: National Youth Council of Nigeria and National Association of Nigerians Students, NANS, shall each nominate six delegates, one from each geo-political zone, while the Federal Government shall nominate six delegates, one from each geo-political zone for “other” (Outstanding Youths and Role Models) making it a total of 18 delegates;



- Women Groups: National Council Of Women Society, NCWS, shall nominate 12 delegates – two per geo- political zone, while Market Women Association shall nominate one per geo-political zone. International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA; Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ; and Women in Management and Business, WINBIZ, shall each nominate two Delegates;

- Political Parties: parties that have representation in the National Assembly, including the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, All Progressives Congress, APC, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Accord Party, Labour Party, LP, shall each nominate two delegates making it 10 delegates;

- Christian and Muslim Leaders each shall nominate six delegates while Civil Society Organisations shall nominate 24 delegates across board;

- Nigerians in Diaspora ( Europe, America, Africa, Asia, and Middle East) shall nominate two delegates per location, making it eight delegates;

- People Living with Disabilities shall nominate six delegates, one per geo-political zone.

- Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, Nigeria Guild of Editors, Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria shall nominate 2 delegates each;

- Socio – Political/ Cultural and Ethnic Nationality Groups shall nominate 15 delegates each, per geo-political zone to reflect religious and ethnic diversities;

- Professional Bodies including NBA, NSE, CIB, NMA, NIM, NIA, ICAN, ANAN, NIPR, AAPN, NIESV, Nigerian Environment Society and Nigeria Economic Society, shall each nominate one delegate, making it a total of 13 delegates.

- National Academies including the Academy of Science, Academy of Engineering, Academy of Education, Academy of Letters and the Academy of Social Sciences shall each nominate 1 delegate;

- The President shall nominate six persons not currently serving on the bench from the Judiciary;

- Former Political Office Holders including former governors, Senators Forum, House of Reps Forum and the Association of Former Speakers shall each nominate one delegate per geo-political zone making it a total of 24 delegates;

- The Federal Government of Nigeria shall nominate 20 delegates of which at least six will be women;

- The state governments shall each nominate 3 delegates while the FCT shall nominate 1 delegate based on Senatorial District at least one of whom shall be a woman. The nomination shall be done by the state governors and where the state fails to nominate, the President shall nominate the required number from the state;

- The ALGON shall nominate one Former Local Government Chairman each from the six geo- political zones;

- The President shall nominate the Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary, observing geo-political spread.

Anyim disclosed that there was already a proposal for the funding of the Conference in the Budget, adding that the dialogue will be concluded before the election period.

National Conference to hold in Abuja for three months [Read full modalities]

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The Federal Government yesterday announced the modalities of the National Conference.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, gave the modalities at a press briefing in his office in Abuja.

He disclosed that a total of 492 delegates will partake in the dialogue which would be named National Conference.
According to him, the National Conference will last for a total of three months and nomination of delegates will commence on Thursday, January 30 and end on February 20.

Anyim divulged further that after deliberation of the Advisory Committee, the following recommendations were adopted for immediate implementation:

- The Official name of the conversation/conference shall be “The National Conference.”

- The National Conference shall hold in Abuja;

- The National Conference shall tentatively last for three months and shall discuss any subject matter, except the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a nation, therefore the unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable;

- A conference management secretariat shall be established to manage, administer and run the affairs of the conference;

- Decisions at the National Conference shall be by consensus; but where it is not achievable; it shall be by 75% majority;

- The National Conference shall advise the government on the legal framework, legal procedures and options for integrating the decisions and outcomes of the national conference into the Constitution and laws of the country; and

- The National Conference shall have a Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of unimpeachable integrity.
A breakdown of the modalities for the nomination of the delegates is as follows:

- Elder Statesmen: One per state and the FCT making a total of 37 will be nominated by the President;

- Retired Military and Security Personnel which include one delegate per geopolitical zone each from the Military, Police, State Security and National Intelligence Agency – making it a total of 18 delegates to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Traditional Rulers: two per zone and one from the FCT making a total of 13 delegates to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Retired Civil Servants: one per zone. A total of six to be nominated by stakeholders;

- Labour Representatives: the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and Trade Union Congress, TUC, shall each nominate 12 delegates making it a total of 24 which would reflect Geo-political and gender balance;

- The Organised Private sector: NECA, MAN, NACCIMA, NESG shall each nominate two delegates;

- Nigeria Youth Organisations: National Youth Council of Nigeria and National Association of Nigerians Students, NANS, shall each nominate six delegates, one from each geo-political zone, while the Federal Government shall nominate six delegates, one from each geo-political zone for “other” (Outstanding Youths and Role Models) making it a total of 18 delegates;



- Women Groups: National Council Of Women Society, NCWS, shall nominate 12 delegates – two per geo- political zone, while Market Women Association shall nominate one per geo-political zone. International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA; Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ; and Women in Management and Business, WINBIZ, shall each nominate two Delegates;

- Political Parties: parties that have representation in the National Assembly, including the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, All Progressives Congress, APC, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Accord Party, Labour Party, LP, shall each nominate two delegates making it 10 delegates;

- Christian and Muslim Leaders each shall nominate six delegates while Civil Society Organisations shall nominate 24 delegates across board;

- Nigerians in Diaspora ( Europe, America, Africa, Asia, and Middle East) shall nominate two delegates per location, making it eight delegates;

- People Living with Disabilities shall nominate six delegates, one per geo-political zone.

- Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, Nigeria Guild of Editors, Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria shall nominate 2 delegates each;

- Socio – Political/ Cultural and Ethnic Nationality Groups shall nominate 15 delegates each, per geo-political zone to reflect religious and ethnic diversities;

- Professional Bodies including NBA, NSE, CIB, NMA, NIM, NIA, ICAN, ANAN, NIPR, AAPN, NIESV, Nigerian Environment Society and Nigeria Economic Society, shall each nominate one delegate, making it a total of 13 delegates.

- National Academies including the Academy of Science, Academy of Engineering, Academy of Education, Academy of Letters and the Academy of Social Sciences shall each nominate 1 delegate;

- The President shall nominate six persons not currently serving on the bench from the Judiciary;

- Former Political Office Holders including former governors, Senators Forum, House of Reps Forum and the Association of Former Speakers shall each nominate one delegate per geo-political zone making it a total of 24 delegates;

- The Federal Government of Nigeria shall nominate 20 delegates of which at least six will be women;

- The state governments shall each nominate 3 delegates while the FCT shall nominate 1 delegate based on Senatorial District at least one of whom shall be a woman. The nomination shall be done by the state governors and where the state fails to nominate, the President shall nominate the required number from the state;

- The ALGON shall nominate one Former Local Government Chairman each from the six geo- political zones;

- The President shall nominate the Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary, observing geo-political spread.

Anyim disclosed that there was already a proposal for the funding of the Conference in the Budget, adding that the dialogue will be concluded before the election period.

Vodka blamed for Russian death rate

The high number of early deaths in Russia is mainly due to people drinking too much alcohol, particularly vodka, research shows.

The study, in The Lancet, said 25 per cent of Russian men die before they are 55, and most of the deaths are down to alcohol. The comparable United Kingdom figure is seven per cent.
Causes of death include liver disease and alcohol poisoning. Many also die in accidents or after getting into fights.

The BBC reports that the study is thought to be the largest of its kind in the country.
Researchers from the Russian Cancer Centre in Moscow, Oxford University in the UK and the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer, in France, tracked the drinking patterns of 151,000 adults in three Russian cities over up to 10 years.

During that time, 8,000 of them died. The researchers also drew on previous studies in which families of 49,000 people who had died were asked about their loved ones’ drinking habits.

Study co-author Prof. Sir Richard Peto, from the University of Oxford, said: “Russian death rates have fluctuated wildly over the last 30 years as alcohol restrictions and social stability varied under Presidents Mikhail Gorbachev, Boris Yeltsin, and Vladmir Putin, and the main thing driving these wild fluctuations in death was vodka.”

In 1985, the then Soviet leader Gorbachev drastically cut vodka production and did not allow it to be sold before lunch-time.
Researchers say alcohol consumption fell by around a quarter when the restrictions came in, and so did overall death rates. Then, when communism collapsed, people started drinking more again and the death rates also rose.

Vodka blamed for Russian death rate

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The high number of early deaths in Russia is mainly due to people drinking too much alcohol, particularly vodka, research shows.

The study, in The Lancet, said 25 per cent of Russian men die before they are 55, and most of the deaths are down to alcohol. The comparable United Kingdom figure is seven per cent.
Causes of death include liver disease and alcohol poisoning. Many also die in accidents or after getting into fights.

The BBC reports that the study is thought to be the largest of its kind in the country.
Researchers from the Russian Cancer Centre in Moscow, Oxford University in the UK and the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer, in France, tracked the drinking patterns of 151,000 adults in three Russian cities over up to 10 years.

During that time, 8,000 of them died. The researchers also drew on previous studies in which families of 49,000 people who had died were asked about their loved ones’ drinking habits.

Study co-author Prof. Sir Richard Peto, from the University of Oxford, said: “Russian death rates have fluctuated wildly over the last 30 years as alcohol restrictions and social stability varied under Presidents Mikhail Gorbachev, Boris Yeltsin, and Vladmir Putin, and the main thing driving these wild fluctuations in death was vodka.”

In 1985, the then Soviet leader Gorbachev drastically cut vodka production and did not allow it to be sold before lunch-time.
Researchers say alcohol consumption fell by around a quarter when the restrictions came in, and so did overall death rates. Then, when communism collapsed, people started drinking more again and the death rates also rose.

CHAN: Eagles will fight for bronze – Uzoenyi

Ejike Uzoenyi has vowed that disappointed Nigeria will still fight to win the third-place at CHAN against Zimbabwe on Saturday.

Uzoenyi, who said he was disappointed the Eagles lost to rivals Ghana on penalties in Wednesday’s semi-final, promised that the team will fight to win the bronze to make up for not reaching the final.
“It’s the only thing we have to leave here with and we are determined to compensate Nigerians with a third-place finish,” MTNFootball.com quoted the Enugu Rangers winger as saying ahead of the classification match.
Uzoenyi almost passed out when Ghanaian defender Kwabina Adusei, elbowed him around his neck leading to a minor concoction mid-way into the first half of the CHAN semi-final in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
The medical staff described Uzoenyi’s condition at the time as Cortica Artery seizure, noting that it took quite a while to get his pulse back from the leg region.
“It was scary but we thank God, it didn’t degenerate more than that and the player’s recovery rate was phenomenal,” one of the medical official attached to the team noted.
He said: “That player wanted to kill me with that vicious elbow and I was blank and did not know where I was until I started hearing noises, but I was determined to continue that was why I was rushing back to the pitch.
“But I think it was God that saved my life because some lesser cases have resulted in fatalities.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria sports minister Bolaji Abdulahi has fulfilled his cash promise to the team by doling out the sum of $200,000 for their victory against Morocco and the loss to Ghana.

CHAN: Eagles will fight for bronze – Uzoenyi

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Ejike Uzoenyi has vowed that disappointed Nigeria will still fight to win the third-place at CHAN against Zimbabwe on Saturday.

Uzoenyi, who said he was disappointed the Eagles lost to rivals Ghana on penalties in Wednesday’s semi-final, promised that the team will fight to win the bronze to make up for not reaching the final.
“It’s the only thing we have to leave here with and we are determined to compensate Nigerians with a third-place finish,” MTNFootball.com quoted the Enugu Rangers winger as saying ahead of the classification match.
Uzoenyi almost passed out when Ghanaian defender Kwabina Adusei, elbowed him around his neck leading to a minor concoction mid-way into the first half of the CHAN semi-final in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
The medical staff described Uzoenyi’s condition at the time as Cortica Artery seizure, noting that it took quite a while to get his pulse back from the leg region.
“It was scary but we thank God, it didn’t degenerate more than that and the player’s recovery rate was phenomenal,” one of the medical official attached to the team noted.
He said: “That player wanted to kill me with that vicious elbow and I was blank and did not know where I was until I started hearing noises, but I was determined to continue that was why I was rushing back to the pitch.
“But I think it was God that saved my life because some lesser cases have resulted in fatalities.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria sports minister Bolaji Abdulahi has fulfilled his cash promise to the team by doling out the sum of $200,000 for their victory against Morocco and the loss to Ghana.

Mark in a fix as pressure grows over 11 senators

Senate President David Mark did not read on the floor the letter written by the 11 senators who dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) for six tactical reasons, The Nation learnt last night.

Mark, who is said to be in a fix, plans to meet with the Senators on Monday to weigh some options on managing the situation . The reason, it was said, is to avoid a crisis in the Senate.

Mark is under pressure from majority of the Senators and the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) to invoke Section 68(1) (g) and (h) of the 1999 Constitution to declare vacant the seats of the senators, until a court decides otherwise.

According to the PDP camp’s plot, which The Nation reported exclusively yesterday, the 11 vacancies would be declared as soon as the letter is read at the plenary.

There are also plans to engage the police and other security agencies to prevent the senators from either entering the premises of the National Assembly or participating in the Senate’s activities.

But there were fears last night that such a drastic action could lead to a serious crisis, which could ground the Senate.

According to sources, Mark offered to stay action on the letter for six reasons. The reasons are:

•the yet-to-be considered report of the Ayo Akinyelure’s Senate Ad Hoc Committee on the defection of Senator Ajayi Robert Boroffice from Labour Party (LP) to APC;

•likely ethnic backlash from the North, which is mostly affected by the defection;

•pressure from PDP, which would make him (Mark) a partisan leader;

•attendant disunity in the Senate;

•the long-standing relationship between him ( Mark) and the affected Senators; and

•the international implication of wielding the big stick on 11 Senators on democracy.

Mark is said to have been consulting on available options beyond the brief from the PDP.

It was learnt that the need to explore all options informed the “tactical method” adopted in managing the letter and in fixing a meeting for Monday with the 11 senators.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “Mark is in a fix because he does not want to invoke to invoke Section 68(1) (g) and (h) of the 1999 Constitution to declare the seats of the 11 affected Senators vacant and create a crisis in the Senate.

“Yet, he is under pressure from PDP and most PDP senators, who are desirous of staving off the heat from the opposition coalition, the APC.

“What has created a dilemma was the report of the Ayo Akinyelure Ad Hoc Committee on the defection of Senator Ajayi Boroffice from the Labour Party to APC. Some of the defecting Senators condemned Boroffice and agreed in principle that his seat should be declared vacant by Mark.

“The report, which has been submitted to the Senate is still awaiting consideration by the Committee of the Whole.

“So, there is agitation from PDP senators to consider the report and adopt the same sanction for the 11 senators. By implication, 12 seats of APC senators would be declared vacant in one day.

“There is no way APC will take this from Mark and it might lead to different court injunctions which could ground the Senate.”

Another senator said: “Mark is being careful because if he declares the seats of the 11 senators vacant, it will reawaken North-South conflict in the Senate. Out of the 11 Senators, nine are from the North, including the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Umaru Dahiru.

“Being from a minority state in the North, Mark might be seen as pursuing anti-Hausa/Fulani agenda or anti-Muslim agenda.

“Declaring the seats of the Senators vacant would also confirm that Mark is acting President Goodluck Jonathan’s script. With the 2015 polls already assuming the colour of religion, the Senate will be the worst for it.”

Another Senator expressed fears that a crisis in the Senate might have “fatal consequences” on the nation’s democracy.

“Once there is commotion in the Senate, which is the livewire of our democracy, the prediction that Nigeria might be a failed state in 2015 will manifest,” he said, pleading not to be named.

“Those whose seats have been declared vacant would not lie low and anarchy might set in. It will get to a stage that the Senate will now choose which order of the court it will obey.

“And a crisis in the Senate will go viral internationally. Mark and a few of us are looking at the issue beyond the PDP-APC bitter politics. We are considering the bigger picture,” he added.

A PDP Senator said: “If Mark declares the seats of the 11 senators, some of whom he respects or relates with at interpersonal level, he will be regarded as partisan and might lose his rating as a national figure.

“Some of us in PDP do not mind whatever toga Mark is robed because there is a constitutional provision to support his action. A court has pronounced that there is no crisis in PDP; therefore, there is no basis for defection by any senator from the ruling party to APC.”

An APC senator, however, criticised the arguments to support the declaration of the 11 senators’s seats vacant.

He said: “It will be subjudice to declare the seat of any defecting senator vacant because there is a case in court. And the Senate has a tradition of respecting the Judiciary by staying action on any matter before the court.

“To avoid anarchy, Mark should leave the court to determine the fate of the senators. Some people in PDP are deceiving him that heaven will not fall, if the seats are declared vacant, but he should think of posterity.

“If there is no crisis in PDP, why did the party change its National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur? Why did five governors defect to APC? Even President Goodluck Jonathan admitted in his speech at the PDP NEC meeting that the party was in crisis.

“The judgment of the court which made a pronouncement that there was no crisis in PDP is also being challenged at the appellate court.”

Mark in a fix as pressure grows over 11 senators

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Senate President David Mark did not read on the floor the letter written by the 11 senators who dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) for six tactical reasons, The Nation learnt last night.

Mark, who is said to be in a fix, plans to meet with the Senators on Monday to weigh some options on managing the situation . The reason, it was said, is to avoid a crisis in the Senate.

Mark is under pressure from majority of the Senators and the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) to invoke Section 68(1) (g) and (h) of the 1999 Constitution to declare vacant the seats of the senators, until a court decides otherwise.

According to the PDP camp’s plot, which The Nation reported exclusively yesterday, the 11 vacancies would be declared as soon as the letter is read at the plenary.

There are also plans to engage the police and other security agencies to prevent the senators from either entering the premises of the National Assembly or participating in the Senate’s activities.

But there were fears last night that such a drastic action could lead to a serious crisis, which could ground the Senate.

According to sources, Mark offered to stay action on the letter for six reasons. The reasons are:

•the yet-to-be considered report of the Ayo Akinyelure’s Senate Ad Hoc Committee on the defection of Senator Ajayi Robert Boroffice from Labour Party (LP) to APC;

•likely ethnic backlash from the North, which is mostly affected by the defection;

•pressure from PDP, which would make him (Mark) a partisan leader;

•attendant disunity in the Senate;

•the long-standing relationship between him ( Mark) and the affected Senators; and

•the international implication of wielding the big stick on 11 Senators on democracy.

Mark is said to have been consulting on available options beyond the brief from the PDP.

It was learnt that the need to explore all options informed the “tactical method” adopted in managing the letter and in fixing a meeting for Monday with the 11 senators.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “Mark is in a fix because he does not want to invoke to invoke Section 68(1) (g) and (h) of the 1999 Constitution to declare the seats of the 11 affected Senators vacant and create a crisis in the Senate.

“Yet, he is under pressure from PDP and most PDP senators, who are desirous of staving off the heat from the opposition coalition, the APC.

“What has created a dilemma was the report of the Ayo Akinyelure Ad Hoc Committee on the defection of Senator Ajayi Boroffice from the Labour Party to APC. Some of the defecting Senators condemned Boroffice and agreed in principle that his seat should be declared vacant by Mark.

“The report, which has been submitted to the Senate is still awaiting consideration by the Committee of the Whole.

“So, there is agitation from PDP senators to consider the report and adopt the same sanction for the 11 senators. By implication, 12 seats of APC senators would be declared vacant in one day.

“There is no way APC will take this from Mark and it might lead to different court injunctions which could ground the Senate.”

Another senator said: “Mark is being careful because if he declares the seats of the 11 senators vacant, it will reawaken North-South conflict in the Senate. Out of the 11 Senators, nine are from the North, including the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Umaru Dahiru.

“Being from a minority state in the North, Mark might be seen as pursuing anti-Hausa/Fulani agenda or anti-Muslim agenda.

“Declaring the seats of the Senators vacant would also confirm that Mark is acting President Goodluck Jonathan’s script. With the 2015 polls already assuming the colour of religion, the Senate will be the worst for it.”

Another Senator expressed fears that a crisis in the Senate might have “fatal consequences” on the nation’s democracy.

“Once there is commotion in the Senate, which is the livewire of our democracy, the prediction that Nigeria might be a failed state in 2015 will manifest,” he said, pleading not to be named.

“Those whose seats have been declared vacant would not lie low and anarchy might set in. It will get to a stage that the Senate will now choose which order of the court it will obey.

“And a crisis in the Senate will go viral internationally. Mark and a few of us are looking at the issue beyond the PDP-APC bitter politics. We are considering the bigger picture,” he added.

A PDP Senator said: “If Mark declares the seats of the 11 senators, some of whom he respects or relates with at interpersonal level, he will be regarded as partisan and might lose his rating as a national figure.

“Some of us in PDP do not mind whatever toga Mark is robed because there is a constitutional provision to support his action. A court has pronounced that there is no crisis in PDP; therefore, there is no basis for defection by any senator from the ruling party to APC.”

An APC senator, however, criticised the arguments to support the declaration of the 11 senators’s seats vacant.

He said: “It will be subjudice to declare the seat of any defecting senator vacant because there is a case in court. And the Senate has a tradition of respecting the Judiciary by staying action on any matter before the court.

“To avoid anarchy, Mark should leave the court to determine the fate of the senators. Some people in PDP are deceiving him that heaven will not fall, if the seats are declared vacant, but he should think of posterity.

“If there is no crisis in PDP, why did the party change its National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur? Why did five governors defect to APC? Even President Goodluck Jonathan admitted in his speech at the PDP NEC meeting that the party was in crisis.

“The judgment of the court which made a pronouncement that there was no crisis in PDP is also being challenged at the appellate court.”

Actor Yomi Fabiyi addresses marriage break-up tales with British wife

Months after popular Actor cum film maker, Yomi Fabiyi wedded his European wife, Fran Fabiyi , a report surfaced on the blogsphere that the Actor’s marriage had crashed due to some irreconcilable issues.

However, speaking with ENCOMIUM weekly in a new interview, the Lagos-based Actor, Yomi expressed total dismay over the tale, advising those sponsoring the rumour to find something better to do with their time instead of indulging in wasteful tittle-tattle.

“My brother, my marriage has not crashed. I don’t know why people are saying that. It’s just a frivolous talk. I am still in good terms with my wife. There is nothing wrong with our marriage.”

Asked to clear the air on the issue of marrying the white woman to obtain a British passport, he said, “That’s not true, people are only saying rubbish. There was nothing like that in our agreement when we got married. A lot of people have that wrong impression that the reason for marrying a white woman is to secure Green card or British passport as the case may be. In the UK, they can’t issue you British passport like that. Everything has stages. After marriage, they will issue your spouse visa which allows you to stay there for five years. After that, they will give you indefinite visa, which lasts forever. During which you can be moving in and out of the UK and still maintain your citizenship. British passport can only be issued based on request. They don’t just issue it like that. When you discover that your marriage has worked and you need British passport, they can give you.

“Meanwhile, that wasn’t my priority for marrying her. Since we got married, I have never collected money from my wife. Everybody has reason or reasons for marrying whoever he marries. I didn’t marry Fran because of British passport and I have not applied for it. So, that can’t be an issue between the two of us.

Actor Yomi Fabiyi addresses marriage break-up tales with British wife

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Months after popular Actor cum film maker, Yomi Fabiyi wedded his European wife, Fran Fabiyi , a report surfaced on the blogsphere that the Actor’s marriage had crashed due to some irreconcilable issues.

However, speaking with ENCOMIUM weekly in a new interview, the Lagos-based Actor, Yomi expressed total dismay over the tale, advising those sponsoring the rumour to find something better to do with their time instead of indulging in wasteful tittle-tattle.

“My brother, my marriage has not crashed. I don’t know why people are saying that. It’s just a frivolous talk. I am still in good terms with my wife. There is nothing wrong with our marriage.”

Asked to clear the air on the issue of marrying the white woman to obtain a British passport, he said, “That’s not true, people are only saying rubbish. There was nothing like that in our agreement when we got married. A lot of people have that wrong impression that the reason for marrying a white woman is to secure Green card or British passport as the case may be. In the UK, they can’t issue you British passport like that. Everything has stages. After marriage, they will issue your spouse visa which allows you to stay there for five years. After that, they will give you indefinite visa, which lasts forever. During which you can be moving in and out of the UK and still maintain your citizenship. British passport can only be issued based on request. They don’t just issue it like that. When you discover that your marriage has worked and you need British passport, they can give you.

“Meanwhile, that wasn’t my priority for marrying her. Since we got married, I have never collected money from my wife. Everybody has reason or reasons for marrying whoever he marries. I didn’t marry Fran because of British passport and I have not applied for it. So, that can’t be an issue between the two of us.

Wolves accept £3 million bid from Palace for Hennessey.

Keeper off to South London.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have accepted a bid from Crystal Palace for unsettled goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, with a fee agreed of up to £3 million.

Hennessey has been a back up keeper to Carl Ikeme for Wolverhampton this season, and spent three months on loan at Somerset Championship club Yeovil Town, as a replacement for Marek Stech.

Hennessey spent a spell at the Glovers, following 18 months out injured with a serious knee injury, which he suffered in Wolves' Premier League game against Manchester City in April 2012.

The Welsh keeper missed the whole of last season with the injury, as Wolves were relegated from the Championship , in a double dip relegation.

But the keeper has been unsettled at the League One club, after refusing to play in his sides recent 1-0 defeat away at Gillingham.

Gary Neville stated that the move could leave first choice keeper Julian Speroni out in the cold.

Neville said: "Transfer deadline day can be unsettling for players. At Manchester United I was sheltered from much of it because we rarely did business on the final day.

"But that is not always the case and players can become unsettled.

"Take Palace's goalkeeper for example, he may not be feeling too good about himself if they have signed Hennessey. He may be wondering what is going to happen next."

Elsewhere at Selhurst Park, Palace are tying up deals for Blackburn centre back Scott Dann, Celtic full back Joe Ledley, and Thomas Ince.

Wolves accept £3 million bid from Palace for Hennessey.

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Keeper off to South London.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have accepted a bid from Crystal Palace for unsettled goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, with a fee agreed of up to £3 million.

Hennessey has been a back up keeper to Carl Ikeme for Wolverhampton this season, and spent three months on loan at Somerset Championship club Yeovil Town, as a replacement for Marek Stech.

Hennessey spent a spell at the Glovers, following 18 months out injured with a serious knee injury, which he suffered in Wolves' Premier League game against Manchester City in April 2012.

The Welsh keeper missed the whole of last season with the injury, as Wolves were relegated from the Championship , in a double dip relegation.

But the keeper has been unsettled at the League One club, after refusing to play in his sides recent 1-0 defeat away at Gillingham.

Gary Neville stated that the move could leave first choice keeper Julian Speroni out in the cold.

Neville said: "Transfer deadline day can be unsettling for players. At Manchester United I was sheltered from much of it because we rarely did business on the final day.

"But that is not always the case and players can become unsettled.

"Take Palace's goalkeeper for example, he may not be feeling too good about himself if they have signed Hennessey. He may be wondering what is going to happen next."

Elsewhere at Selhurst Park, Palace are tying up deals for Blackburn centre back Scott Dann, Celtic full back Joe Ledley, and Thomas Ince.

Chelsea swoop for ex-Newcastle target Kurt Zouma,

The Blues are about to announce their fourth signing of the January transfer window, after they agreed a £12.5m deal 

 

The central defender looks set to be immediately loaned back to the French outfit for the remainder of the season, before immediately going into the first team when he returns in the summer.
Chelsea have refused to comment, but St Etienne have revealed that they are set to make an announcement on the player.
The deal puts further pressure on captain John Terry, who has not yet been offered a contract and looks set for the exit door.
The Blues are also in talks with Porto over a potential deal for central defender Eliaquim Mangala, but as of yet no feel has been agreed.
Written by Steve Milne

Chelsea swoop for ex-Newcastle target Kurt Zouma,

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Blues are about to announce their fourth signing of the January transfer window, after they agreed a £12.5m deal 

 

The central defender looks set to be immediately loaned back to the French outfit for the remainder of the season, before immediately going into the first team when he returns in the summer.
Chelsea have refused to comment, but St Etienne have revealed that they are set to make an announcement on the player.
The deal puts further pressure on captain John Terry, who has not yet been offered a contract and looks set for the exit door.
The Blues are also in talks with Porto over a potential deal for central defender Eliaquim Mangala, but as of yet no feel has been agreed.
Written by Steve Milne

Foundation donates educational materials

Nigerian Turkish International College (NTIC) Foundation has given education materials to over 6500 pupils of public schools.

It gave out the materials in 20 different public schools in Kano, Kaduna, Ogun states and Abuja.

Last Friday, it gave out 500 education materials, including exercise books, mathematical set, colouring material and eraser, among others to pupils of Local Government Primary School, Iseri Olofin, Ogun State.

The pupils were full of joy as the Director of the foundation, Fetullah Celik and Ogun State Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Mr Segun Odubela presented the materials to them.

Celik said the Foundation’s gesture was aimed at improving education in Nigeria and helping the needy in all the ways it can.

He said the foundation also plans to adopt the school and provide other things beyond the stationery.

Appreciating the college on behalf of Governor Ibikule Amosun, Odubela thanked the foundation for partnering with the state government by being social responsibility.

“This is not the first time that NTIC will be assisting our state. Some years back, you extended your kind gesture to some of us in the ministry of education to travel to Turkey where we saw your educational operations and of course we have also learnt a lot from that and it is part of what we are implementing in our state today.

“The foundation also took us to Abuja to see the hospital they built there. We moved round and saw the development they are making in our health sector in the country.

“Today, we are here to appreciate you because you are also donating some educational materials to our pupils”, the Commissioner said.

Odubela, lawyer, noted that education is a big venture that requires a lot of investment. He said the government was spending a lot on its free education scheme.

“Even at that, we cannot do it alone, this is why we are partnering with private entities particularly our private schools and that is why NITC stands out of those private schools in the state because they are doing great for Ogun State,” he said.

He congratulated Oba Nurudeen Adekanbi, the Olofin of Isheri-Olofin that this was happening in his time.

Oba Adekanbi on his part thanked the Commissioner and the foundation. He said the foundation has done a great job in the areas of education, infrastructure and health.

“The foundation has given scholarships to students in Ogun State; they give us cow in the community during the in Eid-Il-Adha celebration,” he said.

The monarch also used the opportunity to plead with the ministry to establish a public secondary school in the local government. He said that the one in existence in the 80s was relocated because of low enrolment.

“Now we need the school. We have many private schools in this community but no government-owned secondary school. We want government to please develop this area; we need our education to be upgraded here,” Adekanbi said.

Foundation donates educational materials

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Nigerian Turkish International College (NTIC) Foundation has given education materials to over 6500 pupils of public schools.

It gave out the materials in 20 different public schools in Kano, Kaduna, Ogun states and Abuja.

Last Friday, it gave out 500 education materials, including exercise books, mathematical set, colouring material and eraser, among others to pupils of Local Government Primary School, Iseri Olofin, Ogun State.

The pupils were full of joy as the Director of the foundation, Fetullah Celik and Ogun State Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Mr Segun Odubela presented the materials to them.

Celik said the Foundation’s gesture was aimed at improving education in Nigeria and helping the needy in all the ways it can.

He said the foundation also plans to adopt the school and provide other things beyond the stationery.

Appreciating the college on behalf of Governor Ibikule Amosun, Odubela thanked the foundation for partnering with the state government by being social responsibility.

“This is not the first time that NTIC will be assisting our state. Some years back, you extended your kind gesture to some of us in the ministry of education to travel to Turkey where we saw your educational operations and of course we have also learnt a lot from that and it is part of what we are implementing in our state today.

“The foundation also took us to Abuja to see the hospital they built there. We moved round and saw the development they are making in our health sector in the country.

“Today, we are here to appreciate you because you are also donating some educational materials to our pupils”, the Commissioner said.

Odubela, lawyer, noted that education is a big venture that requires a lot of investment. He said the government was spending a lot on its free education scheme.

“Even at that, we cannot do it alone, this is why we are partnering with private entities particularly our private schools and that is why NITC stands out of those private schools in the state because they are doing great for Ogun State,” he said.

He congratulated Oba Nurudeen Adekanbi, the Olofin of Isheri-Olofin that this was happening in his time.

Oba Adekanbi on his part thanked the Commissioner and the foundation. He said the foundation has done a great job in the areas of education, infrastructure and health.

“The foundation has given scholarships to students in Ogun State; they give us cow in the community during the in Eid-Il-Adha celebration,” he said.

The monarch also used the opportunity to plead with the ministry to establish a public secondary school in the local government. He said that the one in existence in the 80s was relocated because of low enrolment.

“Now we need the school. We have many private schools in this community but no government-owned secondary school. We want government to please develop this area; we need our education to be upgraded here,” Adekanbi said.

SSS seizes arms in Port Harcourt

State Security Service (SSS) operatives intercepted yesterday high-calibre ammunition in a 20-foot container at the Port Harcourt Port in Rivers State.

The interception of the ammunition raises fears of impending violence in the state ahead of the 2015 elections.

Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi raised the alarm on the return of militants to the state after a rally by the Save Rivers Movement (SRM) —a group loyal to him— was smashed in Bori, Khana Local Government Area, three weeks ago.

The vessel carrying the lethal cargo, MV Iron Trader, came from Panama in Central America.

The captain is under arrest. Also being held are the agent and six crew members. They were undergoing interrogation at the SSS office in the oil city last night.

The container was being guarded yesterday by a combined team of SSS operatives, soldiers and policemen.

It was gathered through a security source that the intercepted ammunition was packed in many iron boxes in the container.

The source said: “The interrogation of the eight arrested persons is ongoing to determine the consignee and the destination of the seized items.”

Senior officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in Port Harcourt declined to comment on the “sensitive” issue yesterday.

The SSS’s interception of the ammunition is coming at a time militants have been let loose in the state, shooting, killing and maiming, with the police, led by Commissioner Mbu Joseph Mbu, seeming helpless.

The Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, who is the grand patron of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI) – the organisation pushing his governorship ambition – also declared at its rally in Degema-Kalabari, the headquarters of Degema Local Government Area — on January 19 that Amaechi would not know peace, until he resigns.

Amaechi, who is the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), however, declared that he would remain focused and complete his tenure in 2015 “by God’s grace” and that his successor would be decided by the Rivers people.

The NGF chairman also expressed surprise that the militants he used the military to chase away in 2007, when he assumed office, were returning to the state. He said those he described as the “Abuja forces” are behind insecurity in the state.

SSS seizes arms in Port Harcourt

Posted by Sylvester No comments

State Security Service (SSS) operatives intercepted yesterday high-calibre ammunition in a 20-foot container at the Port Harcourt Port in Rivers State.

The interception of the ammunition raises fears of impending violence in the state ahead of the 2015 elections.

Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi raised the alarm on the return of militants to the state after a rally by the Save Rivers Movement (SRM) —a group loyal to him— was smashed in Bori, Khana Local Government Area, three weeks ago.

The vessel carrying the lethal cargo, MV Iron Trader, came from Panama in Central America.

The captain is under arrest. Also being held are the agent and six crew members. They were undergoing interrogation at the SSS office in the oil city last night.

The container was being guarded yesterday by a combined team of SSS operatives, soldiers and policemen.

It was gathered through a security source that the intercepted ammunition was packed in many iron boxes in the container.

The source said: “The interrogation of the eight arrested persons is ongoing to determine the consignee and the destination of the seized items.”

Senior officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in Port Harcourt declined to comment on the “sensitive” issue yesterday.

The SSS’s interception of the ammunition is coming at a time militants have been let loose in the state, shooting, killing and maiming, with the police, led by Commissioner Mbu Joseph Mbu, seeming helpless.

The Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, who is the grand patron of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI) – the organisation pushing his governorship ambition – also declared at its rally in Degema-Kalabari, the headquarters of Degema Local Government Area — on January 19 that Amaechi would not know peace, until he resigns.

Amaechi, who is the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), however, declared that he would remain focused and complete his tenure in 2015 “by God’s grace” and that his successor would be decided by the Rivers people.

The NGF chairman also expressed surprise that the militants he used the military to chase away in 2007, when he assumed office, were returning to the state. He said those he described as the “Abuja forces” are behind insecurity in the state.

UNICAL Registration 2013/2014 for New Students - Official Thread

This is the official thread for all newly admitted students of University of Calabar in the 2013/2014 Academic Session.

According to reports filtering out from the institution, registration is expected to continue as from Monday, 20th Jan, 2014 through up to 31st Jan.

Students are further advised to visit Faculty and Departmental Notice Boards for details of the Semester’s academic calendar.

Myschool specially calls on all new and returning students who are partaking in this registration exercise for 2013/2014 to report situations and post updates on this thread for the benefit of all UNICAL students.

Thanks.

UNICAL Registration 2013/2014 for New Students - Official Thread

Posted by Sylvester No comments

This is the official thread for all newly admitted students of University of Calabar in the 2013/2014 Academic Session.

According to reports filtering out from the institution, registration is expected to continue as from Monday, 20th Jan, 2014 through up to 31st Jan.

Students are further advised to visit Faculty and Departmental Notice Boards for details of the Semester’s academic calendar.

Myschool specially calls on all new and returning students who are partaking in this registration exercise for 2013/2014 to report situations and post updates on this thread for the benefit of all UNICAL students.

Thanks.

UNICAL will not conduct 2nd choice 2013/2014 screening test?

The University of Calabar will not conduct its 2013/2014 second choice post utme ..This is as a result of JAMB's directives that was issued out to all Varsities to round up its admission processes on or before October 31st, 2013.

On this note, candidates who chose Unical as their first and second choice Varsity will be awarded admission into their second course of choice, based on their first choice aggregate ... For example, Biochemistry cutoff point for admission in the second choice is; Merit 228 Locality 217 Elds 215...

This new development has really affected thousands of candidates who banked their hope on the second choice screening test.

Post your reactions to this using the comment box below this page.

UNICAL will not conduct 2nd choice 2013/2014 screening test?

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The University of Calabar will not conduct its 2013/2014 second choice post utme ..This is as a result of JAMB's directives that was issued out to all Varsities to round up its admission processes on or before October 31st, 2013.

On this note, candidates who chose Unical as their first and second choice Varsity will be awarded admission into their second course of choice, based on their first choice aggregate ... For example, Biochemistry cutoff point for admission in the second choice is; Merit 228 Locality 217 Elds 215...

This new development has really affected thousands of candidates who banked their hope on the second choice screening test.

Post your reactions to this using the comment box below this page.

UNICAL Registration 2013/2014 for New Students - Official Thread

This is the official thread for all newly admitted students of University of Calabar in the 2013/2014 Academic Session.

According to reports filtering out from the institution, registration is expected to continue as from Monday, 20th Jan, 2014 through up to 31st Jan.

Students are further advised to visit Faculty and Departmental Notice Boards for details of the Semester’s academic calendar.

Myschool specially calls on all new and returning students who are partaking in this registration exercise for 2013/2014 to report situations and post updates on this thread for the benefit of all UNICAL students.

Thanks.

UNICAL Registration 2013/2014 for New Students - Official Thread

Posted by Sylvester No comments

This is the official thread for all newly admitted students of University of Calabar in the 2013/2014 Academic Session.

According to reports filtering out from the institution, registration is expected to continue as from Monday, 20th Jan, 2014 through up to 31st Jan.

Students are further advised to visit Faculty and Departmental Notice Boards for details of the Semester’s academic calendar.

Myschool specially calls on all new and returning students who are partaking in this registration exercise for 2013/2014 to report situations and post updates on this thread for the benefit of all UNICAL students.

Thanks.

Official Results of UNIZIK 2014 SUG Election

Listed below are the official result/data from the 2014 Students Union Government of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka. The election was held yesterday, January 29, 2014.

PRESIDENT
Ibe Chukwunonso Cico - 193
Humphrey Onyemsiri - 154
Keneth Onuorah - 129
Obasi Tobias Joseph - 101
Nonso Obieze - 89
Nwamaka Uzoigwe - 52
Ikeze Kenechi - 23
Omega Peter Odili - 19

VICE PRESIDENT
Agulefo Queen - 421
Unekwe Callista - 163
Anthonieth Oliora - 119
Aruma Chinenye - 46

SEC GEN
Onyebuchi - Unopposed

ASST SEC GEN
Onumajuru Chiama Jane - Unopposed

TREASURER
Chinwuko Chisom - 313
Bright Chidozie - 309
Otobo Solomon - 152

FIN SEC
Chukwu Kelechi - 425
Ojukwu Samson - 335

P.R.O
Chukwu Clinton - 394
Anyawu Simeon - 360

DIRECTOR OF SOCIALS
Divine Ezike - 423
Chioma Uchenna Ibe - 330

Handover ceremony to hold today at council chambers Admin Block, within the university main campus Awka by 9:00am.

Source: UNIZIK SUG WEBSITE.

Official Results of UNIZIK 2014 SUG Election

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Listed below are the official result/data from the 2014 Students Union Government of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka. The election was held yesterday, January 29, 2014.

PRESIDENT
Ibe Chukwunonso Cico - 193
Humphrey Onyemsiri - 154
Keneth Onuorah - 129
Obasi Tobias Joseph - 101
Nonso Obieze - 89
Nwamaka Uzoigwe - 52
Ikeze Kenechi - 23
Omega Peter Odili - 19

VICE PRESIDENT
Agulefo Queen - 421
Unekwe Callista - 163
Anthonieth Oliora - 119
Aruma Chinenye - 46

SEC GEN
Onyebuchi - Unopposed

ASST SEC GEN
Onumajuru Chiama Jane - Unopposed

TREASURER
Chinwuko Chisom - 313
Bright Chidozie - 309
Otobo Solomon - 152

FIN SEC
Chukwu Kelechi - 425
Ojukwu Samson - 335

P.R.O
Chukwu Clinton - 394
Anyawu Simeon - 360

DIRECTOR OF SOCIALS
Divine Ezike - 423
Chioma Uchenna Ibe - 330

Handover ceremony to hold today at council chambers Admin Block, within the university main campus Awka by 9:00am.

Source: UNIZIK SUG WEBSITE.

FUTMINNA 2013/2014 Registration & Clearance Requirements for Freshers

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE UNDERGRADUATE REGISTRATION, CLEARANCE & PAYMENT OF FEES FOR FUTMINNA TO Be SCANNED AND UPLOADED ARE:

1-Guarantors/Refrees letter.
2-Birth certificate.
3-First sitting result.
4-Second sitting result.
5- Your signature.
6- State of origin.
7-Jamb result slip (Obtain yours here.
8-Evidence of name (Optional)

You will be required to fill in your First result details, Your date of Birth and your Nationality.

After the above document have been uploaded, you'll be forwarded to the schools Payment gateway were you'll be required to pay in the sum of #46,700 + Bank charge #250 (#46,700+#250 = #46,950) ie a sum Total of #46,950.

If payment is successful you'll be taken to your students page with an indication of payment and some other details. The page is to serve as your payment receipt.

Good luck!

FUTMINNA 2013/2014 Registration & Clearance Requirements for Freshers

Posted by Sylvester No comments

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE UNDERGRADUATE REGISTRATION, CLEARANCE & PAYMENT OF FEES FOR FUTMINNA TO Be SCANNED AND UPLOADED ARE:

1-Guarantors/Refrees letter.
2-Birth certificate.
3-First sitting result.
4-Second sitting result.
5- Your signature.
6- State of origin.
7-Jamb result slip (Obtain yours here.
8-Evidence of name (Optional)

You will be required to fill in your First result details, Your date of Birth and your Nationality.

After the above document have been uploaded, you'll be forwarded to the schools Payment gateway were you'll be required to pay in the sum of #46,700 + Bank charge #250 (#46,700+#250 = #46,950) ie a sum Total of #46,950.

If payment is successful you'll be taken to your students page with an indication of payment and some other details. The page is to serve as your payment receipt.

Good luck!

UNIZIK 2013/2014 Part Time Programme Application Begins

The Authorities of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, hereby invites Applications from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the Continuing education Programme (CEP) of the University, leading to the award of the Bachelor’s Degree in relevant disciplines for 2013/2014 academic session.

Available Programmes
Courses will be offered in the following areas in 2013/2014 academic session.

A.) Faculty of Arts
*.B.A. English Language and Literature
*.B.A. Philosophy
*.B.A. Religion and Human Relations
*.B.A. Linguistics
*.B.A. History and International Studies
*.B.A. Igbo, African and Asian Studies
*.B.A. Modem and European Language

B.) Faculty of Biosciences
*.B. Sc. Applied Microbiology & Brewing
*.B. Sc. Biochemistry

C.) Faculty of Education
1. B.Sc. (Ed) Human Kinetics and Health Education
2. B. Ed. Adult Education
3. B Sc (Ed) Science Education
4. B.Sc. (Ed) Library and Information Science
5. B. Ed. Guidance & Counseling
6. B. Ed Educational Foundations
7. B. Ed. Education Management & Policy
8. B. Ed. Early Childhood Education

REQUIREMENTS:
• The minimum academic qualification is exactly the same as for those applying for admission through the UTME (JAMB), namely five O’level credits in the GCE, SSCE, TCII examinations or their equivalents. Faculty/Departmental requirements must also be fulfilled.
• Candidates must have taken the 2013/2014 UTME examination and must have scored up to 180 and above.

Closing Date: 10th March 2014.

Method of Application: Application formsare obtainable at the under listed Banks, located at the Awka Campus of UNIZIK, on payment of N8,000.00 only.

• UBA Plc Awka
• Access Bank Plc Awka
• First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Awka
• GTB Plc Awka
• Enterprise Bank Plc, Awka
• Zenith Bank, Plc
• Bank Plc, Awka
• Fidelity Bank Plc Awka

Sale of forms commences on 3rd February and ends on 3rd March 2014.

Return of Completed Application Forms:
Completed application forms must be returned to the CEP office, on or before 10th March 2014, with photocopies of All Claimed Qualifications including relevant documents on 2013/2014 UTME securely attached to the application forms.

Share this information, good luck!

UNIZIK 2013/2014 Part Time Programme Application Begins

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Authorities of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, hereby invites Applications from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the Continuing education Programme (CEP) of the University, leading to the award of the Bachelor’s Degree in relevant disciplines for 2013/2014 academic session.

Available Programmes
Courses will be offered in the following areas in 2013/2014 academic session.

A.) Faculty of Arts
*.B.A. English Language and Literature
*.B.A. Philosophy
*.B.A. Religion and Human Relations
*.B.A. Linguistics
*.B.A. History and International Studies
*.B.A. Igbo, African and Asian Studies
*.B.A. Modem and European Language

B.) Faculty of Biosciences
*.B. Sc. Applied Microbiology & Brewing
*.B. Sc. Biochemistry

C.) Faculty of Education
1. B.Sc. (Ed) Human Kinetics and Health Education
2. B. Ed. Adult Education
3. B Sc (Ed) Science Education
4. B.Sc. (Ed) Library and Information Science
5. B. Ed. Guidance & Counseling
6. B. Ed Educational Foundations
7. B. Ed. Education Management & Policy
8. B. Ed. Early Childhood Education

REQUIREMENTS:
• The minimum academic qualification is exactly the same as for those applying for admission through the UTME (JAMB), namely five O’level credits in the GCE, SSCE, TCII examinations or their equivalents. Faculty/Departmental requirements must also be fulfilled.
• Candidates must have taken the 2013/2014 UTME examination and must have scored up to 180 and above.

Closing Date: 10th March 2014.

Method of Application: Application formsare obtainable at the under listed Banks, located at the Awka Campus of UNIZIK, on payment of N8,000.00 only.

• UBA Plc Awka
• Access Bank Plc Awka
• First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Awka
• GTB Plc Awka
• Enterprise Bank Plc, Awka
• Zenith Bank, Plc
• Bank Plc, Awka
• Fidelity Bank Plc Awka

Sale of forms commences on 3rd February and ends on 3rd March 2014.

Return of Completed Application Forms:
Completed application forms must be returned to the CEP office, on or before 10th March 2014, with photocopies of All Claimed Qualifications including relevant documents on 2013/2014 UTME securely attached to the application forms.

Share this information, good luck!

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University 1st Admission List Is Out for 2013/2014

The 1st Batch of 2013/2014 Undergraduate Admission List is for Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi has been released online.

From our review, 2557 candidates were admitted for first batch. The list includes the names of direct entry candidates also.

The list is said to consist of the names of candidates who's names appeared on jamb website via check admission status.

Aspirants who are yet to see their names via jamb website are advised to be patient and await the release of the second batch list on ATBU website www.atbu.edu.ng .

Good luck.

Your ATBU ADMISSION LETTER from 2004 to 2013 Admissions is now ready for collection. You can confirm your Admission Status and get the letter online. Click here for details.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University 1st Admission List Is Out for 2013/2014

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The 1st Batch of 2013/2014 Undergraduate Admission List is for Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi has been released online.

From our review, 2557 candidates were admitted for first batch. The list includes the names of direct entry candidates also.

The list is said to consist of the names of candidates who's names appeared on jamb website via check admission status.

Aspirants who are yet to see their names via jamb website are advised to be patient and await the release of the second batch list on ATBU website www.atbu.edu.ng .

Good luck.

Your ATBU ADMISSION LETTER from 2004 to 2013 Admissions is now ready for collection. You can confirm your Admission Status and get the letter online. Click here for details.

Reminder: Submission of MSc & Phd forms at UNIJOS ends February 1.

The school of Postgraduate studies, University of Jos (UNIJOS) will stop collection of Msc and Phd application forms tomorrow, February 1, 2014.

The sale of form for this programme, which lasted for several months was advertised at myschool.com.ng/unijos.

It is important that all prospective PG student who purchased the form make haste to submit on or before tomorrow or forfeit chance of admission.

Good luck!

Your UNIJOS ADMISSION LETTER from 2004 to 2013 Admissions is now ready for collection. You can confirm your Admission Status and get the letter online. Click here for details.

Reminder: Submission of MSc & Phd forms at UNIJOS ends February 1.

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The school of Postgraduate studies, University of Jos (UNIJOS) will stop collection of Msc and Phd application forms tomorrow, February 1, 2014.

The sale of form for this programme, which lasted for several months was advertised at myschool.com.ng/unijos.

It is important that all prospective PG student who purchased the form make haste to submit on or before tomorrow or forfeit chance of admission.

Good luck!

Your UNIJOS ADMISSION LETTER from 2004 to 2013 Admissions is now ready for collection. You can confirm your Admission Status and get the letter online. Click here for details.

PDP regains majority in House of Reps •PDP — 174 • APC — 172

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives, on Thursday, regained its majority position in the House.This followed the defection of a member of APC from Nassarawa State, Honourable David Ombugadu, to the PDP.

From available records, the PDP now has 174 members as against the All Progressives Congress (APC) with 172 members.

It will be recalled that a member of APC from Nassarawa State, Honourable Joseph Kigbu Haruna, had, on Tuesday, defected to PDP, while the Nigerian Tribune exclusively reported that Honourable Ombugadu had also perfected plan to defect to PDP.

The Speaker, Honourable Aminu Tambuwal, at the plenary session on Thursday, read a letter from Honourable Ombugadu, quoting the lawmaker as saying that he decided to dump the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), which had now merged with APC for PDP, after due consultation with his constituents.

The defection of the lawmaker resulted in jubilation among PDP members, as they accompanied him to the PDP leaders for introduction.

Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Honourable Victor Ogene, while responding to questions from newsmen during the weekly briefing, said that it was too early to give any political party in the House a clear majority, saying that “it (the defection) is an ongoing process.”

PDP regains majority in House of Reps •PDP — 174 • APC — 172

Posted by Sylvester No comments

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives, on Thursday, regained its majority position in the House.This followed the defection of a member of APC from Nassarawa State, Honourable David Ombugadu, to the PDP.

From available records, the PDP now has 174 members as against the All Progressives Congress (APC) with 172 members.

It will be recalled that a member of APC from Nassarawa State, Honourable Joseph Kigbu Haruna, had, on Tuesday, defected to PDP, while the Nigerian Tribune exclusively reported that Honourable Ombugadu had also perfected plan to defect to PDP.

The Speaker, Honourable Aminu Tambuwal, at the plenary session on Thursday, read a letter from Honourable Ombugadu, quoting the lawmaker as saying that he decided to dump the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), which had now merged with APC for PDP, after due consultation with his constituents.

The defection of the lawmaker resulted in jubilation among PDP members, as they accompanied him to the PDP leaders for introduction.

Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Honourable Victor Ogene, while responding to questions from newsmen during the weekly briefing, said that it was too early to give any political party in the House a clear majority, saying that “it (the defection) is an ongoing process.”

Varsity teachers want local languages used in schools

Some university lecturers on Wednesday called for the re-introduction of indigenous languages for teaching primary and secondary schools students and even undergraduates in Nigeria, arguing that education would be complete and developed if indigenous languages were used in classes.

Prof. Dayo Duyile, a Senior Lecturer in the Mass Communication Department, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun, said the use of indigenous languages would help to develop the students.

“Education is not complete without indigenous languages because this is the easiest way of communication.

“When we learn in our own mother’s tongue, it makes things easy for both the lecturers and the students.

“There are things you want to explain to the students that cannot be well expressed except you explain it in a language that will be clearer to them,’’ Duyile said.

Prof. Ayo Fadahunsi, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun, said indigenous languages should be adopted to make teaching and learning easier at the tertiary level.

“Indigenous languages should also be used in teaching our undergraduates to make their learning.

“It is good we adopt indigenous languages in our classrooms. When you do something in your language, it is very good,’’ he said.

Fadahunsi urged the Federal Government to adopt and implement the policy, saying that the country had enough resources to adopt it.

Dr Sule Sheidu of the Department of Education Administration, University of Lagos, said indigenous languages should be used from the primary to the tertiary levels.

“If the country can put this development into consideration, I think it will help our students.

“The use of indigenous languages would be a very good development. It is used in countries like South Africa and others,’’ Sheidu said.

Varsity teachers want local languages used in schools

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Some university lecturers on Wednesday called for the re-introduction of indigenous languages for teaching primary and secondary schools students and even undergraduates in Nigeria, arguing that education would be complete and developed if indigenous languages were used in classes.

Prof. Dayo Duyile, a Senior Lecturer in the Mass Communication Department, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun, said the use of indigenous languages would help to develop the students.

“Education is not complete without indigenous languages because this is the easiest way of communication.

“When we learn in our own mother’s tongue, it makes things easy for both the lecturers and the students.

“There are things you want to explain to the students that cannot be well expressed except you explain it in a language that will be clearer to them,’’ Duyile said.

Prof. Ayo Fadahunsi, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun, said indigenous languages should be adopted to make teaching and learning easier at the tertiary level.

“Indigenous languages should also be used in teaching our undergraduates to make their learning.

“It is good we adopt indigenous languages in our classrooms. When you do something in your language, it is very good,’’ he said.

Fadahunsi urged the Federal Government to adopt and implement the policy, saying that the country had enough resources to adopt it.

Dr Sule Sheidu of the Department of Education Administration, University of Lagos, said indigenous languages should be used from the primary to the tertiary levels.

“If the country can put this development into consideration, I think it will help our students.

“The use of indigenous languages would be a very good development. It is used in countries like South Africa and others,’’ Sheidu said.

Confab: Nigeria’s unity, no-go area— FG

* All 492 delegates to be nominated
*75% majority to approve decisions
*Conference may begin late February

By Okey Ndiribe

ABUJA—THE Federal Government, yesterday, declared that the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria would be the only no-go area for the planned National Conference which may be convened before the end of February.

This was disclosed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, while briefing newsmen in Abuja on the Federal Government’s endorsement of the recommendations of the Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue which submitted its report few weeks ago.

During the briefing, Anyim was flanked by Chairman and Secretary of the Presidential Committee on National Dialogue, Senator Femi Okurounmu and Dr. Akilu Indabawa, respectively.

He also said the Federal Government had provided for the confab in the 2014 Appropriation Bill currently before the National Assembly.


Anyim further disclosed that a total of 492 delegates would be expected to attend the conference which is scheduled to take place in Abuja after the conclusion of nomination of delegates slated for February 20.

The SGF said that the confab which is scheduled to last for three months shall have a Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of “unimpeachable integrity.” He added that the exercise must be concluded before the commencement of political activities leading up to next year’s general elections.

According to Anyim: “The official name of the conversation/conference shall be “The National Conference”.
He stated that decisions at the National Conference shall be by consensus, but where it is not achievable, it shall be by 75 per cent majority.

He further stated that the National Conference shall advise the Government on the legal framework, legal procedures and options for integrating the decisions and outcomes of the confab into the Constitution and laws of the country.

Anyim disclosed that a Conference Management Secretariat shall be established to manage, administer and run the affairs of the Conference.

He also stated that nomination of delegates which shall begin immediately must be completed by all stakeholders before a date for the commencement of the confab could be fixed.
List of nominees
According to him: “The list of nominees shall be submitted either online to www.osgf.gov.ng or in hard copy to the Office of the Permanent Secretary (Special Duties Office), Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Secretariat Complex, Phase I, 3rd Floor, Central Business District, Abuja.”

The SGF also released a list indicating the details of the proposed composition of the conference which showed that the Federal Government would nominate a minimum of 73 delegates.

A break down of this figure shows that the President shall appoint the Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary of the confab. He shall also nominate 37 elder statesmen representing the 36 states of the federation and the FCT. The document further indicates that the Federal Government shall directly nominate 20 delegates, of which six shall be women.

The confab shall also have six retired judiciary nominees which would be appointed by the President. Another six nominees who shall represent outstanding youths in the country shall be appointed by the Federal Government to represent the nation’s six geo-political zones.

The list further shows that state governments and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, would nominate a total of 109 delegates to represent the nation’s Senatorial Districts. Each state in the federation would be expected to nominate three delegates while the FCT would be represented by one delegate.

The list provides that ethnic nationalities in the country, alongside socio-political and cultural groups will produce a total of 90 delegates which shall comprised 15 per geo-political zone. Nominations for delegates in this category must reflect the ethnic and religious diversity of the various geo-political zones.

The comprehensive list
The comprehensive list is as follows: Retired military and security personnel:
Military – six delegates: one from each geo-political zone; Police- six delegates, one from each zone; State Security Service and Nigerian Intelligence Agency NIA, six, one from each zone.

A total of 13 traditional rulers in all shall be delegates at the confab. Every zone shall send two traditional rulers, while one would come from FCT. Retired civil servants would nominate six delegates from the six zones.

The Nigeria Labour Movement shall be represented by a total of 24 delegates which shall comprise 12 each from the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Unions Congress, TUC.

The Organised Private Sector would be represented by eight delegates who are to be nominated by NECA, MAN, NACCIMA and NESG. Each of them shall nominate two delegates.

Nigerian youths shall also be represented by 18 delegates at the confab: Six of them shall come from the six zones; six from NANS representing the six zones while another six “ outstanding youths and role models” would represent the six zones.

Women groups in the country would be represented by a total of 24 delegates. Among the groups that would nominate delegates are NCWS-12; Market Women associations- six, reflecting the six zones. Other women groups that would send two delegates each are NAWOJ, FIDA and WINBIZ.

Political parties in the country which have members in the National Assembly would also be represented by two delegates each; they include PDP, APC, Labour Party, APGA and Accord Party.

The two major religions in the country that is Christianity and Islam are to be represented by six delegates each, while civil society groups are to be represented by 24 delegates who are expected to reflect the nation’s federal character.

Nigerians in diaspora would not be left out as eight of them would also participate in the confab as delegates. The eight delegates are to represent Nigerians in the Americas-two, Europe-two, Asia and the Middle-East, two and Africa-two.

People living with disabilities would nominate six delegates to the confab, one from each zone.
The media would also be represented by NPAN, NUJ, NGE and BON which were allotted two slots each.
Professional bodies in the country would also send 13 delegates. They include NBA, NSE and CIB. Others include NMA, NIM, NIA, ICAN, ANAN, NIPR, AAPN, NIESV and Nigeria Environmental Society. They are all expected to send one delegate each.

The various academies in the country would send a total of five delegates. They include: Academies of Science, Engineering and Education. Others are academies of letters and social sciences. Each of them would send one delegate.

Former political office holders would also be accommodated at the confab. Former governors in the country would send six delegates- from the six zones. This also applies to former Senators, former members of the House of Representatives and Association of former Speakers. Former chairmen of local government areas would also send six delegates reflecting the six zones. They would be nominated by ALGON.

It would be recalled that President Goodluck Jonathan had during his Independence Day broadcast last October, informed Nigerians that he had set up a Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue with the following composition: Senator Dr. Femi Okurounmu-Chairman; Dr. Akilu Sani Indabawa -Secretary and

Senator Khairat Abdulrazaq-Gwadabe as member.
Others included: Senator Timothy Adudu; Professor Olufunke Adeboye; Professor George A. Obiozor and Professor Ben Nwabueze, SAN, NNOM.

Also appointed into the committee were Dr. Abubakar Siddique Mohammed; Malam Bukhari Bello, MFR, mni; Mr. Tony I. Uranta; Col. Tony Nyiam (Rtd); Alhaji Dauda Birmah, OFR and Dr. Mrs. Mairo Ahmed Amshi, MFR.

In his remarks while inaugurating the Committee on October 7, 2013, President Jonathan had said it comprised of ‘Nigerians with wide experiences from various disciplines. He also described the formation of the Committee as ‘a child of necessity.’ He stated that the foundational principle that drove the composition of the Committee was to work towards convening a national conversation.

Vanguard

Confab: Nigeria’s unity, no-go area— FG

Posted by Sylvester No comments

* All 492 delegates to be nominated
*75% majority to approve decisions
*Conference may begin late February

By Okey Ndiribe

ABUJA—THE Federal Government, yesterday, declared that the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria would be the only no-go area for the planned National Conference which may be convened before the end of February.

This was disclosed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, while briefing newsmen in Abuja on the Federal Government’s endorsement of the recommendations of the Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue which submitted its report few weeks ago.

During the briefing, Anyim was flanked by Chairman and Secretary of the Presidential Committee on National Dialogue, Senator Femi Okurounmu and Dr. Akilu Indabawa, respectively.

He also said the Federal Government had provided for the confab in the 2014 Appropriation Bill currently before the National Assembly.


Anyim further disclosed that a total of 492 delegates would be expected to attend the conference which is scheduled to take place in Abuja after the conclusion of nomination of delegates slated for February 20.

The SGF said that the confab which is scheduled to last for three months shall have a Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of “unimpeachable integrity.” He added that the exercise must be concluded before the commencement of political activities leading up to next year’s general elections.

According to Anyim: “The official name of the conversation/conference shall be “The National Conference”.
He stated that decisions at the National Conference shall be by consensus, but where it is not achievable, it shall be by 75 per cent majority.

He further stated that the National Conference shall advise the Government on the legal framework, legal procedures and options for integrating the decisions and outcomes of the confab into the Constitution and laws of the country.

Anyim disclosed that a Conference Management Secretariat shall be established to manage, administer and run the affairs of the Conference.

He also stated that nomination of delegates which shall begin immediately must be completed by all stakeholders before a date for the commencement of the confab could be fixed.
List of nominees
According to him: “The list of nominees shall be submitted either online to www.osgf.gov.ng or in hard copy to the Office of the Permanent Secretary (Special Duties Office), Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Secretariat Complex, Phase I, 3rd Floor, Central Business District, Abuja.”

The SGF also released a list indicating the details of the proposed composition of the conference which showed that the Federal Government would nominate a minimum of 73 delegates.

A break down of this figure shows that the President shall appoint the Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary of the confab. He shall also nominate 37 elder statesmen representing the 36 states of the federation and the FCT. The document further indicates that the Federal Government shall directly nominate 20 delegates, of which six shall be women.

The confab shall also have six retired judiciary nominees which would be appointed by the President. Another six nominees who shall represent outstanding youths in the country shall be appointed by the Federal Government to represent the nation’s six geo-political zones.

The list further shows that state governments and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, would nominate a total of 109 delegates to represent the nation’s Senatorial Districts. Each state in the federation would be expected to nominate three delegates while the FCT would be represented by one delegate.

The list provides that ethnic nationalities in the country, alongside socio-political and cultural groups will produce a total of 90 delegates which shall comprised 15 per geo-political zone. Nominations for delegates in this category must reflect the ethnic and religious diversity of the various geo-political zones.

The comprehensive list
The comprehensive list is as follows: Retired military and security personnel:
Military – six delegates: one from each geo-political zone; Police- six delegates, one from each zone; State Security Service and Nigerian Intelligence Agency NIA, six, one from each zone.

A total of 13 traditional rulers in all shall be delegates at the confab. Every zone shall send two traditional rulers, while one would come from FCT. Retired civil servants would nominate six delegates from the six zones.

The Nigeria Labour Movement shall be represented by a total of 24 delegates which shall comprise 12 each from the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Unions Congress, TUC.

The Organised Private Sector would be represented by eight delegates who are to be nominated by NECA, MAN, NACCIMA and NESG. Each of them shall nominate two delegates.

Nigerian youths shall also be represented by 18 delegates at the confab: Six of them shall come from the six zones; six from NANS representing the six zones while another six “ outstanding youths and role models” would represent the six zones.

Women groups in the country would be represented by a total of 24 delegates. Among the groups that would nominate delegates are NCWS-12; Market Women associations- six, reflecting the six zones. Other women groups that would send two delegates each are NAWOJ, FIDA and WINBIZ.

Political parties in the country which have members in the National Assembly would also be represented by two delegates each; they include PDP, APC, Labour Party, APGA and Accord Party.

The two major religions in the country that is Christianity and Islam are to be represented by six delegates each, while civil society groups are to be represented by 24 delegates who are expected to reflect the nation’s federal character.

Nigerians in diaspora would not be left out as eight of them would also participate in the confab as delegates. The eight delegates are to represent Nigerians in the Americas-two, Europe-two, Asia and the Middle-East, two and Africa-two.

People living with disabilities would nominate six delegates to the confab, one from each zone.
The media would also be represented by NPAN, NUJ, NGE and BON which were allotted two slots each.
Professional bodies in the country would also send 13 delegates. They include NBA, NSE and CIB. Others include NMA, NIM, NIA, ICAN, ANAN, NIPR, AAPN, NIESV and Nigeria Environmental Society. They are all expected to send one delegate each.

The various academies in the country would send a total of five delegates. They include: Academies of Science, Engineering and Education. Others are academies of letters and social sciences. Each of them would send one delegate.

Former political office holders would also be accommodated at the confab. Former governors in the country would send six delegates- from the six zones. This also applies to former Senators, former members of the House of Representatives and Association of former Speakers. Former chairmen of local government areas would also send six delegates reflecting the six zones. They would be nominated by ALGON.

It would be recalled that President Goodluck Jonathan had during his Independence Day broadcast last October, informed Nigerians that he had set up a Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue with the following composition: Senator Dr. Femi Okurounmu-Chairman; Dr. Akilu Sani Indabawa -Secretary and

Senator Khairat Abdulrazaq-Gwadabe as member.
Others included: Senator Timothy Adudu; Professor Olufunke Adeboye; Professor George A. Obiozor and Professor Ben Nwabueze, SAN, NNOM.

Also appointed into the committee were Dr. Abubakar Siddique Mohammed; Malam Bukhari Bello, MFR, mni; Mr. Tony I. Uranta; Col. Tony Nyiam (Rtd); Alhaji Dauda Birmah, OFR and Dr. Mrs. Mairo Ahmed Amshi, MFR.

In his remarks while inaugurating the Committee on October 7, 2013, President Jonathan had said it comprised of ‘Nigerians with wide experiences from various disciplines. He also described the formation of the Committee as ‘a child of necessity.’ He stated that the foundational principle that drove the composition of the Committee was to work towards convening a national conversation.

Vanguard

Soldiers removed our posters, replaced them with PDP’s, APC claims

The APC said it has evidence of the action 

Soliders, in the late hours of Monday in Adamawa, removed posters of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and replaced them with those of Nigeria’s ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the opposition party has claimed.

The Interim National Vice Chairman of the APC for the North East Zone, Umar Duhu, told PREMIUM TIMES that soldiers of the 23rd armoured brigade carried out the action ahead of the visit of President Goodluck Jonathan to the state on Tuesday.

The APC had on Monday inaugurated the state’s interim committee. Mr. Duhu said prior to the event, the party had cause to put up is posters, billboards and fliers across all strategic locations in Yola, the Adamawa capital.

“However, later in the night; immediately after the curfew period has set in, we visibly saw military men with their guns hanging on their necks, busy removing our posters and replacing them with that of the PDP and President Jonathan 2015,” Mr. Duhu said.

Mr. Duhu said his party had evidence of the allegation describing it as “very unbecoming of the military that was supposed to be non-partisan”’

The APC leader advised the military to stay out of politics. He said the military should know that they are being paid with tax payers’ money to protect the integrity of Nigeria, and they are not supposed to be partisan.

We will resist impunity

Mr. Duhu also accused the ruling PDP of trying to intimidate the opposition using the military. He said the APC is ready to face the challenges.

“All this draconian method of ensuring that the president is returned by hook or crook ; we will make sure we resist it, even if it means we will lose our lives, we are ready to lose it to make sure that democracy in Nigeria survives. So we will not allow that,” he said.

He also restated the position expressed by the APC in the past that the PDP had decided to merge with security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

“All we are telling Nigerians is that we are determined to challenge them head on. If you look at all revolutions around the world, the military will continue to shoot the people until they get tired and also drop their guns and join the crowd.

“So we are ready to upturn the system we have today to ensure that probity and rule of law hold supreme in Nigeria and we are ready to do that even if it means we lose our lives in the process,” he said.

Jonathan shields corrupt elements

Mr. Duhu also accused President Jonathan of shielding corrupt elements in his government. He said there was massive corruption involved in the construction of the secondary school built by the Nigerian Air force, which Mr. Jonathan had gone to Adamawa to commission.

Mr. Duhu cited the reported incident of the harassment of journalists by Air force officers just to stop them from witnessing the event and reporting what they saw.

“What happened with the harassment of journalists during the president’s visit is unfortunate. The President said the CDS was appointed because he was prudent with resources, then why were they preventing journalists from taking inventory of the materials there.

“What the president said about the CDS is not correct and that is why people say he is shielding corruption. Anything Jonathan tells Nigerians about corruption is just lies; Nigerians should begin to say no to impunity. Impunity is what is keeping the PDP alive and we are not going to allow it to thrive in Nigeria,” he said.

There were reports that some journalists working for various media houses were stoned by Air force personnel at the venue of the project commissioning.

According to the Guardian Newspaper, the reporters were stoned out of the venue by men of the Air force on an order from an officer suspected to be the head of the school Mr. Jonathan visited to commission.

The paper said trouble started for the journalists at the venue when the Public Relations Officer of 75 Strike Force, Yola, Ishaku Abdullahi, a Flying Officer, asked journalists to wait in one of the classrooms for their accreditation.

It said later on an officer with a nametag A.A. Dogo, suspected to be the head of the school slated for commissioning, came and asked who directed the reporters to sit inside the classroom. But after an explanation from the chairman of the correspondents’ chapel, Umar Dankano, of the Peoples Daily Newspapers, the aggressive officer left without a word.

A few minutes after, another man dressed in a rough suit with a name tag SPA Emmanuel C. Anita, arrived and ordered the reporters who were waiting to be accredited to get out of the venue, saying that their presence was not needed. Before Mr. Dankano could offer some explanations, some men of the Air force started throwing stones at the reporters.

It took the intervention of some military officers from the 23 Amoured Brigade, Yola, to rescue the journalists out of the venue

PREMIUM TIMES tried unsuccessfully to speak to the spokesperson of the 23rd Brigade, Nuhu Jafaru, throughout Wednesday. Several calls to his cell phone failed to connect, and he also did not respond to an SMS sent to him.

Soldiers removed our posters, replaced them with PDP’s, APC claims

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The APC said it has evidence of the action 

Soliders, in the late hours of Monday in Adamawa, removed posters of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and replaced them with those of Nigeria’s ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the opposition party has claimed.

The Interim National Vice Chairman of the APC for the North East Zone, Umar Duhu, told PREMIUM TIMES that soldiers of the 23rd armoured brigade carried out the action ahead of the visit of President Goodluck Jonathan to the state on Tuesday.

The APC had on Monday inaugurated the state’s interim committee. Mr. Duhu said prior to the event, the party had cause to put up is posters, billboards and fliers across all strategic locations in Yola, the Adamawa capital.

“However, later in the night; immediately after the curfew period has set in, we visibly saw military men with their guns hanging on their necks, busy removing our posters and replacing them with that of the PDP and President Jonathan 2015,” Mr. Duhu said.

Mr. Duhu said his party had evidence of the allegation describing it as “very unbecoming of the military that was supposed to be non-partisan”’

The APC leader advised the military to stay out of politics. He said the military should know that they are being paid with tax payers’ money to protect the integrity of Nigeria, and they are not supposed to be partisan.

We will resist impunity

Mr. Duhu also accused the ruling PDP of trying to intimidate the opposition using the military. He said the APC is ready to face the challenges.

“All this draconian method of ensuring that the president is returned by hook or crook ; we will make sure we resist it, even if it means we will lose our lives, we are ready to lose it to make sure that democracy in Nigeria survives. So we will not allow that,” he said.

He also restated the position expressed by the APC in the past that the PDP had decided to merge with security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

“All we are telling Nigerians is that we are determined to challenge them head on. If you look at all revolutions around the world, the military will continue to shoot the people until they get tired and also drop their guns and join the crowd.

“So we are ready to upturn the system we have today to ensure that probity and rule of law hold supreme in Nigeria and we are ready to do that even if it means we lose our lives in the process,” he said.

Jonathan shields corrupt elements

Mr. Duhu also accused President Jonathan of shielding corrupt elements in his government. He said there was massive corruption involved in the construction of the secondary school built by the Nigerian Air force, which Mr. Jonathan had gone to Adamawa to commission.

Mr. Duhu cited the reported incident of the harassment of journalists by Air force officers just to stop them from witnessing the event and reporting what they saw.

“What happened with the harassment of journalists during the president’s visit is unfortunate. The President said the CDS was appointed because he was prudent with resources, then why were they preventing journalists from taking inventory of the materials there.

“What the president said about the CDS is not correct and that is why people say he is shielding corruption. Anything Jonathan tells Nigerians about corruption is just lies; Nigerians should begin to say no to impunity. Impunity is what is keeping the PDP alive and we are not going to allow it to thrive in Nigeria,” he said.

There were reports that some journalists working for various media houses were stoned by Air force personnel at the venue of the project commissioning.

According to the Guardian Newspaper, the reporters were stoned out of the venue by men of the Air force on an order from an officer suspected to be the head of the school Mr. Jonathan visited to commission.

The paper said trouble started for the journalists at the venue when the Public Relations Officer of 75 Strike Force, Yola, Ishaku Abdullahi, a Flying Officer, asked journalists to wait in one of the classrooms for their accreditation.

It said later on an officer with a nametag A.A. Dogo, suspected to be the head of the school slated for commissioning, came and asked who directed the reporters to sit inside the classroom. But after an explanation from the chairman of the correspondents’ chapel, Umar Dankano, of the Peoples Daily Newspapers, the aggressive officer left without a word.

A few minutes after, another man dressed in a rough suit with a name tag SPA Emmanuel C. Anita, arrived and ordered the reporters who were waiting to be accredited to get out of the venue, saying that their presence was not needed. Before Mr. Dankano could offer some explanations, some men of the Air force started throwing stones at the reporters.

It took the intervention of some military officers from the 23 Amoured Brigade, Yola, to rescue the journalists out of the venue

PREMIUM TIMES tried unsuccessfully to speak to the spokesperson of the 23rd Brigade, Nuhu Jafaru, throughout Wednesday. Several calls to his cell phone failed to connect, and he also did not respond to an SMS sent to him.

’70% of Nigerians lack quality healthcare

THE South East zonal coordinatorof National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, Mrs. Mrs. Ossi Gertrude Nma, yesterday disclosed that 70 percent of Nigerians lacked accessibility to quality and affordable healthcare delivery in the country.

Nma, who made this known during a courtesy visit to the wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs. Josephine Elechi, at Government House, Abakaliki, explained that the NHIS had developed the formal, informal sectors of Social Health Insurance Programme and vulnerable Group Social Health Insurance Programmes in order to ensure that every Nigerian was part of the health policy of the country.

She stated that the NHIS-MDG Maternal and Child Health Programme, when instituted in the state, would enhance the reduction of poverty and disease burden in rural areas where 70 percent of the country’s populace lived.

Nma, who appreciated Mrs. Elechi for her commitment to the reduction of Child and Maternal morbidity and mortality rate in the state, through the establishment of her pet project, Mother and
Childcare Initiative, MCCI, said the NHIS would always partner her office to ensure quality healthcare services for the people.

She said: “It is pertinent to note here that the NHIS commissioned a Community Health Insurance Programme at Afikpo on April 2, 2013.

The scheme has also undertaken to pay for all Children Under 5 (CU5) and pregnant mothers of all registered adult. This is also geared towards addressing the very poor indices in Maternal and Child Health.

”Ebonyi State is one of the states chosen by NHIS-MDG to address its maternal and child morbidity indices as part of our heath intervention projects.

“However, Ikwo local government area has been selected in the state as pilot scheme to address significantly the overburdened health situation among this vulnerable group.

”In a bid to actualize our commitment to reaching the rural dwellers, the NHIS established state offices in the 36 states of the country, including the FCT. Our goal is to reach the unreached, the vulnerable groups and the indigents in our society.”

Earlier, wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs. Elechi, who appreciated the impact of NHIS on the lives of citizens of the country, noted that the establishment of the National Fistula Centre in
Abakaliki had aided the reduction of maternal deaths across the 13 local government areas of the state and beyond.

She assured that her office would continue to partner health-related agencies, such as NHIS, towards the provision of qualitative and affordable healthcare services to the people of the state.

Vangaurd

’70% of Nigerians lack quality healthcare

Posted by Sylvester No comments

THE South East zonal coordinatorof National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, Mrs. Mrs. Ossi Gertrude Nma, yesterday disclosed that 70 percent of Nigerians lacked accessibility to quality and affordable healthcare delivery in the country.

Nma, who made this known during a courtesy visit to the wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs. Josephine Elechi, at Government House, Abakaliki, explained that the NHIS had developed the formal, informal sectors of Social Health Insurance Programme and vulnerable Group Social Health Insurance Programmes in order to ensure that every Nigerian was part of the health policy of the country.

She stated that the NHIS-MDG Maternal and Child Health Programme, when instituted in the state, would enhance the reduction of poverty and disease burden in rural areas where 70 percent of the country’s populace lived.

Nma, who appreciated Mrs. Elechi for her commitment to the reduction of Child and Maternal morbidity and mortality rate in the state, through the establishment of her pet project, Mother and
Childcare Initiative, MCCI, said the NHIS would always partner her office to ensure quality healthcare services for the people.

She said: “It is pertinent to note here that the NHIS commissioned a Community Health Insurance Programme at Afikpo on April 2, 2013.

The scheme has also undertaken to pay for all Children Under 5 (CU5) and pregnant mothers of all registered adult. This is also geared towards addressing the very poor indices in Maternal and Child Health.

”Ebonyi State is one of the states chosen by NHIS-MDG to address its maternal and child morbidity indices as part of our heath intervention projects.

“However, Ikwo local government area has been selected in the state as pilot scheme to address significantly the overburdened health situation among this vulnerable group.

”In a bid to actualize our commitment to reaching the rural dwellers, the NHIS established state offices in the 36 states of the country, including the FCT. Our goal is to reach the unreached, the vulnerable groups and the indigents in our society.”

Earlier, wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs. Elechi, who appreciated the impact of NHIS on the lives of citizens of the country, noted that the establishment of the National Fistula Centre in
Abakaliki had aided the reduction of maternal deaths across the 13 local government areas of the state and beyond.

She assured that her office would continue to partner health-related agencies, such as NHIS, towards the provision of qualitative and affordable healthcare services to the people of the state.

Vangaurd

Scientists Snakes Can FLY Distances of Up to 100ft by Stretching Their Bodies

Snakes no longer need to board an aircraft as in the cult movie Snakes on a Plane to take to the skies – for scientists have shown that some of them can actually FLY.

Boffins observed the serpents stretching and flattening out their bodies, allowing them to “slither” through the air in an Asian rainforest.

By adopting an S-shape, some aerodynamic asps were even able to glide 100 feet from tall trees.

Study leader Dr Jake Socha, from Virginia Tech Wake Forest University in the US, said: “They look like they are swimming.

“They turn their whole body into one aerodynamic surface.”

Dr Socha’s team of researchers found that flying snakes flex their ribs to stretch and flatten out their bodies.

Looked at in cross section, they turn from a circle to an arched semi-circle.

“It looks like someone’s version of a UFO,” Dr Socha added.

Using a 3D printer, the scientists produced a rod with the same profile as a gliding snake’s body and placed it in a tank of flowing water.

Although water is much more dense than air, the experiment recreated the effect of air flowing over a snake’s body.

At most angles, the unusual body shape generated sufficient lift to keep the creature aloft.

However, the results published in The Journal of Experimental Biology do not fully account for the performance of flying snakes.

“If you make a rough estimate of the lift to drag ratio for the real animal, it appears to do better than what we got from this study,” said Dr Socha.

“So even though this shape produced more lift than we were expecting, it doesn’t get us the glide performance that snakes can attain, giving us a hint that there is something in what the animal is doing aerodynamically that is not captured by the cross-sectional shape alone.”

Scientists Snakes Can FLY Distances of Up to 100ft by Stretching Their Bodies

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Snakes no longer need to board an aircraft as in the cult movie Snakes on a Plane to take to the skies – for scientists have shown that some of them can actually FLY.

Boffins observed the serpents stretching and flattening out their bodies, allowing them to “slither” through the air in an Asian rainforest.

By adopting an S-shape, some aerodynamic asps were even able to glide 100 feet from tall trees.

Study leader Dr Jake Socha, from Virginia Tech Wake Forest University in the US, said: “They look like they are swimming.

“They turn their whole body into one aerodynamic surface.”

Dr Socha’s team of researchers found that flying snakes flex their ribs to stretch and flatten out their bodies.

Looked at in cross section, they turn from a circle to an arched semi-circle.

“It looks like someone’s version of a UFO,” Dr Socha added.

Using a 3D printer, the scientists produced a rod with the same profile as a gliding snake’s body and placed it in a tank of flowing water.

Although water is much more dense than air, the experiment recreated the effect of air flowing over a snake’s body.

At most angles, the unusual body shape generated sufficient lift to keep the creature aloft.

However, the results published in The Journal of Experimental Biology do not fully account for the performance of flying snakes.

“If you make a rough estimate of the lift to drag ratio for the real animal, it appears to do better than what we got from this study,” said Dr Socha.

“So even though this shape produced more lift than we were expecting, it doesn’t get us the glide performance that snakes can attain, giving us a hint that there is something in what the animal is doing aerodynamically that is not captured by the cross-sectional shape alone.”