An official said the case involves people who moved to Colorado from Texas specifically to grow marijuana that would be illegally exported
•Officers searched about 30 properties during the raids, which spanned from the Denver area south to Colorado Springs
•Authorities described the case as the latest example of drug traffickers seeking safe haven in the state's flourishing marijuana industry
•That's in order to ship the drug out of state, where it can sell for more than double what it would in Colorado
Police and federal agents arrested more than 40 people and seized piles of pot plants and elaborate growing equipment Thursday during raids of homes and warehouses throughout the Denver area, part of a multi-state investigation into the illegal distribution of marijuana outside Colorado.
Authorities described the case as the latest example of drug traffickers seeking safe haven in the state's flourishing marijuana industry in order to ship the drug out of state, where it can sell for more than double what it would in Colorado. Several raids in recent weeks have taken aim at out-of-state drug rings, including a sweep last month that focused on unlicensed pot grows of varying sizes.
The yearlong investigation that led to Thursday's raids began after residents living near the grows complained about the smell of weed, a law enforcement official with knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press. The official wasn't authorized to comment on the ongoing investigation and did so on the condition of anonymity.
dailymail
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SALUTARY IMPACT (HOSPITALITY AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT)CALL +33605867728
Saturday, 16 April 2016
Friday, 15 April 2016
Just married at 13: Inside the child marriages that are on the rise in rural China after nation abandons one-child rule
13-year-old Jie married 18-year-old husband Wen three days after they met, got pregnant and dropped out of school
•Photographer Muyi Xiao documented cases of southern China's teen brides and grooms who still live at home
•Legal age of marriage in China is 20 for women and 22 for men, but families ignore it and register the wedding later
•Creating generation of 'lost children' left behind with grandparents when couple move away to cities to find work
Jie was barely a teenager when she got married just three days after meeting her 18-year-old husband Wen.
They met at a Spring festival while the 13-year-old was visiting Wen's family when her husband-to-be insisted she stay and become his wife.
Unaware of birth control, the teen wife was soon pregnant and dropped out of school - a fate similar to an increasing number of child brides in rural China.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3540754/Just-married-13-Inside-child-marriages-rise-rural-China-nation-abandons-one-child-rule.html
•Photographer Muyi Xiao documented cases of southern China's teen brides and grooms who still live at home
•Legal age of marriage in China is 20 for women and 22 for men, but families ignore it and register the wedding later
•Creating generation of 'lost children' left behind with grandparents when couple move away to cities to find work
Jie was barely a teenager when she got married just three days after meeting her 18-year-old husband Wen.
They met at a Spring festival while the 13-year-old was visiting Wen's family when her husband-to-be insisted she stay and become his wife.
Unaware of birth control, the teen wife was soon pregnant and dropped out of school - a fate similar to an increasing number of child brides in rural China.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3540754/Just-married-13-Inside-child-marriages-rise-rural-China-nation-abandons-one-child-rule.html
Thursday, 14 April 2016
Buhari Visit China: The Implications
The implication of Buhari's trip to China. As confirmed to me by expert Chief F.K Balogun.. He said when you don't have alternative you are hooked but when you have more than one you have many alternatives. Before Nigeria foreign reserve was in Pounds and later when economy of USA is okay they make our foreign reserve in dollars. When you allow a fool to speak he may speak his or her mind.
From the real point of the whole thing, I was told that Chinese Is taking over. Note! There is no human being who is an authority on any issue. At this point we must forward.
1. Buhari is trying to diversify in a way that whatever happened to dollar will not affect Yuan.
2. Buhari is doing everything possible to take Nigeria away from the doldrums of monopoly of currency
3. Buhari want to clearly starts his diversification.
At this point we must understand the focus of this government though there might be mistakes we must focus on progress.
Note again.. At times you find yourself in the midst of discussion that you have nothing to contribute but when you listen to expert you gain from them.
What is the implication of making Nigeria the clearing house in Africa?
The major currency presently are Pounds, Dollar, Yuan, Euro.... as at today is Pounds and Yuan
If China decides to sign MOU with Nigeria shows they have agenda which in the next 10years might boomerang but let the game continues
So at this point if American refuses to buy our oil China will patronize Nigeria.
Written by Samuel Adesida
From the real point of the whole thing, I was told that Chinese Is taking over. Note! There is no human being who is an authority on any issue. At this point we must forward.
1. Buhari is trying to diversify in a way that whatever happened to dollar will not affect Yuan.
2. Buhari is doing everything possible to take Nigeria away from the doldrums of monopoly of currency
3. Buhari want to clearly starts his diversification.
At this point we must understand the focus of this government though there might be mistakes we must focus on progress.
Note again.. At times you find yourself in the midst of discussion that you have nothing to contribute but when you listen to expert you gain from them.
What is the implication of making Nigeria the clearing house in Africa?
The major currency presently are Pounds, Dollar, Yuan, Euro.... as at today is Pounds and Yuan
If China decides to sign MOU with Nigeria shows they have agenda which in the next 10years might boomerang but let the game continues
So at this point if American refuses to buy our oil China will patronize Nigeria.
Written by Samuel Adesida
Mahmood Ahmadu honoured with a Nigerian Economic Development Award
Years of total dedication to work and developing technology in Africa paid off for businessman, Mahmood Ahmadu on the 5th of April in faraway London when he was honoured with an award.
Mahmood Ahmadu received the Nigerian Economic Development Award in recognition of his efforts and success in developing one of Africa’s leading technology companies and successfully operating his business in over 17 international locations across 10 different time zones.
The award was presented at the just concluded international conference of the International Strategic Alliance Committee (ISAC) held on the 4th and 5th of April 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre in Westminster, London.
The special conference titled the Nigerian Mining & Agriculture Investment Summit, attracted high level local and international investors and business people interested in the hugely untapped opportunity in Nigeria’s Mining and Agriculture sector which is attracting much interest at the moment as the country seeks to diversify from her traditional dependency on Oil.
At the conclusion of the very well attended conference, ISAC hosted a glittering Gala Dinner to celebrate and honour some outstanding individuals for their contribution to national development amongst them was entrepreneur and businessman Mahmood Ahmadu.
Ahmadu’s Nigerian Economic Development Award was presented by the Israeli deputy Ambassador to the UK, Mr EitanNa’eh.
In receiving the award, Mahmood Ahmadu who was all smiles thanked the organizers of the conference for recognizing him and honoring him with the award.
For more information on this award, you may visit: http://americanlivenews.com/2016/04/mahmood-ahmadu-honoured-with-a-nigerian-economic/
Mahmood Ahmadu received the Nigerian Economic Development Award in recognition of his efforts and success in developing one of Africa’s leading technology companies and successfully operating his business in over 17 international locations across 10 different time zones.
The award was presented at the just concluded international conference of the International Strategic Alliance Committee (ISAC) held on the 4th and 5th of April 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre in Westminster, London.
The special conference titled the Nigerian Mining & Agriculture Investment Summit, attracted high level local and international investors and business people interested in the hugely untapped opportunity in Nigeria’s Mining and Agriculture sector which is attracting much interest at the moment as the country seeks to diversify from her traditional dependency on Oil.
At the conclusion of the very well attended conference, ISAC hosted a glittering Gala Dinner to celebrate and honour some outstanding individuals for their contribution to national development amongst them was entrepreneur and businessman Mahmood Ahmadu.
Ahmadu’s Nigerian Economic Development Award was presented by the Israeli deputy Ambassador to the UK, Mr EitanNa’eh.
In receiving the award, Mahmood Ahmadu who was all smiles thanked the organizers of the conference for recognizing him and honoring him with the award.
For more information on this award, you may visit: http://americanlivenews.com/2016/04/mahmood-ahmadu-honoured-with-a-nigerian-economic/
Research: How To Manage Your Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
The only things we can control in life are our thoughts, feelings and behaviors. If we can manage those, we can achieve our goals and gain success in life.
To have this level of control, we need to learn about the science-based patterns behind our emotions and thoughts, and how to manage them. If we know how our minds work, we can be intentional about influencing our thinking and feeling patterns. We can evaluate reality more clearly, make better decisions and improve our ability to achieve our goals. Thus, we gain greater agency and the quality of living intentionally.
How do our minds work? Intuitively, our mind feels like a cohesive whole. We perceive ourselves as intentional and rational thinkers. Yet, cognitive science research shows that in reality, the intentional part of our mind is similar to a little rider on top of a huge elephant of emotions and intuitions.
Read more from the link below
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/intentional-insights/201604/how-manage-your-thoughts-feelings-and-behaviors
To have this level of control, we need to learn about the science-based patterns behind our emotions and thoughts, and how to manage them. If we know how our minds work, we can be intentional about influencing our thinking and feeling patterns. We can evaluate reality more clearly, make better decisions and improve our ability to achieve our goals. Thus, we gain greater agency and the quality of living intentionally.
How do our minds work? Intuitively, our mind feels like a cohesive whole. We perceive ourselves as intentional and rational thinkers. Yet, cognitive science research shows that in reality, the intentional part of our mind is similar to a little rider on top of a huge elephant of emotions and intuitions.
Read more from the link below
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/intentional-insights/201604/how-manage-your-thoughts-feelings-and-behaviors
Research: How To Manage Your Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
The only things we can control in life are our thoughts, feelings and behaviors. If we can manage those, we can achieve our goals and gain success in life.
To have this level of control, we need to learn about the science-based patterns behind our emotions and thoughts, and how to manage them. If we know how our minds work, we can be intentional about influencing our thinking and feeling patterns. We can evaluate reality more clearly, make better decisions and improve our ability to achieve our goals. Thus, we gain greater agency and the quality of living intentionally.
How do our minds work? Intuitively, our mind feels like a cohesive whole. We perceive ourselves as intentional and rational thinkers. Yet, cognitive science research shows that in reality, the intentional part of our mind is similar to a little rider on top of a huge elephant of emotions and intuitions.
Read more from the link below
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/intentional-insights/201604/how-manage-your-thoughts-feelings-and-behaviors
To have this level of control, we need to learn about the science-based patterns behind our emotions and thoughts, and how to manage them. If we know how our minds work, we can be intentional about influencing our thinking and feeling patterns. We can evaluate reality more clearly, make better decisions and improve our ability to achieve our goals. Thus, we gain greater agency and the quality of living intentionally.
How do our minds work? Intuitively, our mind feels like a cohesive whole. We perceive ourselves as intentional and rational thinkers. Yet, cognitive science research shows that in reality, the intentional part of our mind is similar to a little rider on top of a huge elephant of emotions and intuitions.
Read more from the link below
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/intentional-insights/201604/how-manage-your-thoughts-feelings-and-behaviors
We spend $1.8bn to import fuel every quarter — NNPC
Nigeria National Petroleum Cooperation, NNPC, has revealed that an average of $1.8 billion is spent on quarterly basis on the importation of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as fuel, into the country. This was as the corporation also apologized to Nigerians for the lingering scarcity of the product across the country. In a joint briefing at the presidential villa, Abuja, yesterday, four officials of NNPC in the persons of the Group General Managing, GGM, Public Affairs, Mr. Garba Deen Mohammed, and the Group Executive Directors, GED, Mr Bello Rabiu, (Upstream) Henry Obih (Downstream) and Anibor Kragha (Refineries), assured that long queues at the gas stations would disappear in days.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/spend-1-8bn-import-fuel-every-quarter-nnpc/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/spend-1-8bn-import-fuel-every-quarter-nnpc/
Wednesday, 13 April 2016
Details Of An Empirical Review about CR7
An Empirical Review about CR7
Gerald Pique-"Ronaldo is really complete,he knows how to score,assist,shoot freekicks,penalties.He can do everything,He's one of the most toughest players I have ever faced"
Maradona"Portugal needs to build a statue for Ronaldo"
Maradona"Defenders are more afraid of Ronaldo than Messi"
Arsene Wenger"I think Ronaldo has now overtaken Messi"
Barca Legend"We have 3 Ronaldo's in Barca"
Jose Mourinho. "To me Ronaldo has proved himself in 3 different leagues. He is the best"-He's the most complete player i have ever seen"
Roberto Bargio "Many people know that Ronaldo is the best in the world but they are afraid to say it." -
Drogba "The best player i have ever played with is the best player in the world Cristiano Ronaldo." -
Emmanuel Adebayo "Comparing Ronaldo and Messi is like comparing an Alien with a human. Ronaldo doesnt have blood." -
Pepe "You doubt that Ronaldo is the best, then look at his last 5 seasons statistics. They are second to none." -
Football commentator Peter D "I fear noone in the track..... Maybe if Ferrari Ronaldo comes in the track i may tremble." -
Usaine Bolt "People say i was precise but boy or boy Ronaldo is perfect." - Paul Scholes "My role model is Cr7, he is the best ever player the world has ever seen." -
Bale "The next time you compare Ronaldo with another player, take a nap." -
Rafael Nadal "If you are the best player in the world you may be excused for being arogant." -
Galacticos: Perez "Cristiano Ronaldo does not have blood. Let him leave bloody United" -
Lady Gaga "Ronaldo is the best player in the world but we are tired, i just want Neur to win Ballon dor." -
Thomas Mueller "People want to call me little Messi. But i think i will be better than him. Call me little Cr7 instead." -
Mario Gozte "When you play with Ronaldo in your team, you are alredy 1-0 up. He is the best in his generation." -
Zinedine Zidane "Give me Cr7 and ten players. I will lift the Uefa Champions league." -
Capello "I love skills. Football is not about running and scoring goals. Ronaldo is a football package. Every single part of his body can play soccer. I admire him personaly." -
Austin Okocha "If i had played for a long time alongside Ronaldo 7, i would have scored a century at Manchester United. Ronaldo makes a strikers role look so easy. The greatest ever" -
Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen. "Messi will never score goals like these. Ronaldo is unbelivable." -
Sir Alex Fegerson "In our national team we are lacking a Ronaldo. An Angel." -
Marcelo "If you have Cristiano what more do you want? Maybe bars to celebrate wins ." -
Klopp "Messi and Ronaldo are equal but Ronaldo can score from anywhere." -
Diego Maradona "Messi or Ronaldo? I think Ronaldo is more important than Messi." -
Pele "Ronaldo can score with either of his feet, his head and now he is scoring with the goal at his back. I bet he can score on wheelchair." -
Giggs "I never saw Pele play or even Maradonna. Ronaldo is the best i have seen." -
Luca Toni "Who said Ronaldo plays like me. Its a honour to be compared with the best player in the world" -
Luis Figo "One day i will tell my son, 'once upon a time there was Cristiano Ronaldo'. Its a fairy tale." -
Iker Cassilas "Cr7 is a monster, not a human. It will be a dream come true to play with him if he sign for Madrid." -
Neymar "Who’s better, Messi or Ronaldo? Ronaldo is out of this world. Thats my own sentiment." -that was when Neymar was in Santos.
Wesley Sneider "The best player i have ever played against has to be Ronaldo. You cannot afford to take you eyes off him." -
Benitez "The difference is Messi uses his height in a football match. Ronaldo uses skills." -
Valentino Rossi "Dont expect me to fill Ronaldo shoes. Nobody can fill them." -
Chicharito "I will keep voting for Ronaldo because he is the best in the field of play." -
Luka Modric "I saw Maradonna and Pele play. Ronaldo is at another level" -
England legend Bobby "Ronaldo Ronaldo Ronaldo. Football seems easy when he plays it." -
David Seaman "I wore the number 7 jersey and i will be proud. The number represent the best player in this generation" -
Raul "I would pay a fortune to watch Cr7 play. He is the best" -
Mendieta "Ronaldo is in a world of his own." -
Gerrard "Do i play like Ronaldo? Nobody does" -
Romario "With Ronaldo in your team. You become the best midfielder automatically" -
Yaya Toure " Pure talent.... Ronaldo is the best."
Sports Writer Abram "You cant coach what Cr7 does with the ball. Its magic." -
Viera "I will give excuses to fight Ronaldo. He is the best sportsman" -
Mike Tyson "Don't say a thing about Cr7, just enjoy him." -
Luke Bright .... Hala Madrid Hala CR30
I love this guy- best ever the world has seen.
Source: RUGIPOALUMNIGROUP
Gerald Pique-"Ronaldo is really complete,he knows how to score,assist,shoot freekicks,penalties.He can do everything,He's one of the most toughest players I have ever faced"
Maradona"Portugal needs to build a statue for Ronaldo"
Maradona"Defenders are more afraid of Ronaldo than Messi"
Arsene Wenger"I think Ronaldo has now overtaken Messi"
Barca Legend"We have 3 Ronaldo's in Barca"
Jose Mourinho. "To me Ronaldo has proved himself in 3 different leagues. He is the best"-He's the most complete player i have ever seen"
Roberto Bargio "Many people know that Ronaldo is the best in the world but they are afraid to say it." -
Drogba "The best player i have ever played with is the best player in the world Cristiano Ronaldo." -
Emmanuel Adebayo "Comparing Ronaldo and Messi is like comparing an Alien with a human. Ronaldo doesnt have blood." -
Pepe "You doubt that Ronaldo is the best, then look at his last 5 seasons statistics. They are second to none." -
Football commentator Peter D "I fear noone in the track..... Maybe if Ferrari Ronaldo comes in the track i may tremble." -
Usaine Bolt "People say i was precise but boy or boy Ronaldo is perfect." - Paul Scholes "My role model is Cr7, he is the best ever player the world has ever seen." -
Bale "The next time you compare Ronaldo with another player, take a nap." -
Rafael Nadal "If you are the best player in the world you may be excused for being arogant." -
Galacticos: Perez "Cristiano Ronaldo does not have blood. Let him leave bloody United" -
Lady Gaga "Ronaldo is the best player in the world but we are tired, i just want Neur to win Ballon dor." -
Thomas Mueller "People want to call me little Messi. But i think i will be better than him. Call me little Cr7 instead." -
Mario Gozte "When you play with Ronaldo in your team, you are alredy 1-0 up. He is the best in his generation." -
Zinedine Zidane "Give me Cr7 and ten players. I will lift the Uefa Champions league." -
Capello "I love skills. Football is not about running and scoring goals. Ronaldo is a football package. Every single part of his body can play soccer. I admire him personaly." -
Austin Okocha "If i had played for a long time alongside Ronaldo 7, i would have scored a century at Manchester United. Ronaldo makes a strikers role look so easy. The greatest ever" -
Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen. "Messi will never score goals like these. Ronaldo is unbelivable." -
Sir Alex Fegerson "In our national team we are lacking a Ronaldo. An Angel." -
Marcelo "If you have Cristiano what more do you want? Maybe bars to celebrate wins ." -
Klopp "Messi and Ronaldo are equal but Ronaldo can score from anywhere." -
Diego Maradona "Messi or Ronaldo? I think Ronaldo is more important than Messi." -
Pele "Ronaldo can score with either of his feet, his head and now he is scoring with the goal at his back. I bet he can score on wheelchair." -
Giggs "I never saw Pele play or even Maradonna. Ronaldo is the best i have seen." -
Luca Toni "Who said Ronaldo plays like me. Its a honour to be compared with the best player in the world" -
Luis Figo "One day i will tell my son, 'once upon a time there was Cristiano Ronaldo'. Its a fairy tale." -
Iker Cassilas "Cr7 is a monster, not a human. It will be a dream come true to play with him if he sign for Madrid." -
Neymar "Who’s better, Messi or Ronaldo? Ronaldo is out of this world. Thats my own sentiment." -that was when Neymar was in Santos.
Wesley Sneider "The best player i have ever played against has to be Ronaldo. You cannot afford to take you eyes off him." -
Benitez "The difference is Messi uses his height in a football match. Ronaldo uses skills." -
Valentino Rossi "Dont expect me to fill Ronaldo shoes. Nobody can fill them." -
Chicharito "I will keep voting for Ronaldo because he is the best in the field of play." -
Luka Modric "I saw Maradonna and Pele play. Ronaldo is at another level" -
England legend Bobby "Ronaldo Ronaldo Ronaldo. Football seems easy when he plays it." -
David Seaman "I wore the number 7 jersey and i will be proud. The number represent the best player in this generation" -
Raul "I would pay a fortune to watch Cr7 play. He is the best" -
Mendieta "Ronaldo is in a world of his own." -
Gerrard "Do i play like Ronaldo? Nobody does" -
Romario "With Ronaldo in your team. You become the best midfielder automatically" -
Yaya Toure " Pure talent.... Ronaldo is the best."
Sports Writer Abram "You cant coach what Cr7 does with the ball. Its magic." -
Viera "I will give excuses to fight Ronaldo. He is the best sportsman" -
Mike Tyson "Don't say a thing about Cr7, just enjoy him." -
Luke Bright .... Hala Madrid Hala CR30
I love this guy- best ever the world has seen.
Source: RUGIPOALUMNIGROUP
Delayed Monthly Allowance : Nysc Releases Press Statement
PAYMENT OF CORPS MEMBERS' OUTSTANDING ALLOWANCES
The Management of the National Youth Service Corps regrets the delay in the payment of March 2016 allowances of Corps members.
In view of this, Corps members and the public are hereby informed that Management is actively liaising with Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure that money is released for disbursement to Corps members through the usual Central Bank platform.
In the same vein, out-going 2015 Batch 'A' Streams 1 and 2 Corps members are reassured that their April allowance (2 months for Stream 2) will be duly paid as soon as fund is released from the Federal Ministry of Finance.
We hereby urge all Corps members to remain calm and go about their lawful duties peacefully.
SIGNED:
MANAGEMENT
Source: @nysc_ng
The Management of the National Youth Service Corps regrets the delay in the payment of March 2016 allowances of Corps members.
In view of this, Corps members and the public are hereby informed that Management is actively liaising with Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure that money is released for disbursement to Corps members through the usual Central Bank platform.
In the same vein, out-going 2015 Batch 'A' Streams 1 and 2 Corps members are reassured that their April allowance (2 months for Stream 2) will be duly paid as soon as fund is released from the Federal Ministry of Finance.
We hereby urge all Corps members to remain calm and go about their lawful duties peacefully.
SIGNED:
MANAGEMENT
Source: @nysc_ng
Good News as Davido Signs Endorsement Deal With Pepsi
Talented Davido is winning again!!!! He just signed a two-year endorsement deal with Pepsi!!
http://www.newshelm.com/2016/04/photos-davido-signs-two-year.html
http://www.newshelm.com/2016/04/photos-davido-signs-two-year.html
Tuesday, 12 April 2016
15 Men Who Want To Be Ondo State Governor In 2016
According to Kikelomo Iwajomo, Ahead of the October 2016 governorship election in Ondo State, stakeholders in People's Democratic Party(PDP) and the All Progressives Congress(APC) have begun to show interest in succeeding the incumbent governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. Dawn-To-Dusk News profiles those who are being tipped to join the race:
- Dr. Rotimi Adeola (Current Secretary to Ondo State Government)
- Mr. Eyitayo Jegede, SAN (Current Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice)
- Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN (Onetime guber aspirant)
- Senator (Prof.) Ajayi Boroffice (Current Senator representing Ondo North)
- Barr. Sola Ebiseni (Current Commissioner for Environment & Physical Planning)
- Hon. Kingsley Kuku (Ex-Special Adviser on Niger Delta to former president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan)
- Engr. Tunji Ariyomo (Ace businessman)
- Dr. Bamidele Dada (Current Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Matters)
- Mr. Tokunbo Modupe (CEO, TPT International)
- Hon. Batista Bello (Former Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly)
- Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye (Former Director-General of the National Sports Commission)
- Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi (Current Director-General of Directorate of Technical Aids Corps)
Nairaland
- Dr. Rotimi Adeola (Current Secretary to Ondo State Government)
- Mr. Eyitayo Jegede, SAN (Current Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice)
- Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN (Onetime guber aspirant)
- Senator (Prof.) Ajayi Boroffice (Current Senator representing Ondo North)
- Barr. Sola Ebiseni (Current Commissioner for Environment & Physical Planning)
- Hon. Kingsley Kuku (Ex-Special Adviser on Niger Delta to former president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan)
- Engr. Tunji Ariyomo (Ace businessman)
- Dr. Bamidele Dada (Current Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Matters)
- Mr. Tokunbo Modupe (CEO, TPT International)
- Hon. Batista Bello (Former Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly)
- Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye (Former Director-General of the National Sports Commission)
- Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi (Current Director-General of Directorate of Technical Aids Corps)
Nairaland
Monday, 11 April 2016
Adeosun sets out plan to restructure economy
THE Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has set out the government’s plan to reset Nigeria’s economy with structured borrowing, targeted investment and diversified growth. Speaking to some of the country’s most influential captains of industry, in Lagos at the Lagos Business School breakfast meeting, the inister told the audience: “We have inherited a set of conditions that requires us to refine how we collectively work towards ushering in a new era in Nigeria.” Minister of Finance, Kemi AdeosunMinister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun Pointing to the impact of falling global oil prices on the economy, Adeosun said: “In the past, we had the means but not the will. Now we have the will but we no longer have the money to invest. The safety blanket of oil has been ripped away, laying the poverty of Nigeria’s institutions bare. “We have spent too many years tinkering at the edges of our institutions, our infrastructure and our economy and that the mistakes and misjudgements of the last 40 years have set our clocks back by decades.”
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/adeosun-sets-plan-restructure-economy/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/adeosun-sets-plan-restructure-economy/
Sunday, 10 April 2016
Pendulum: Another desperate memo to President Buhari - by Dele Momodu
Your Excellency, Assalam Alaikum. It has been over six months since you graciously invited me to your office in Abuja. I must note once again that I was truly honoured and humbled by our one-on-one meeting. We spoke and interacted like two old buddies. What was more, I was all alone with you without a third party in the room. We spoke candidly and cracked jokes freely.
I remember presenting you with an advance copy of my forthcoming book and you even requested me to autograph it for you which I did with such pride and gratitude in me. We took loads of pictures before and after the meeting. I left you reassured in my belief that Nigeria is in safe hands.
Sir, a lot has happened since that meeting took place. In fact, so much water has passed under the bridge. Let me take you down memory lane a bit. You started contesting the Presidential election as far back as 2003. For three consecutive times, you lost and it seemed all hope had evaporated. In 2011, we were co-contestants.
I was driven to your house one night by Prince Lanre Tejuoso (now a Senator) who wanted me to tone down my criticism of you and opposition to your candidacy. I was totally disarmed by your humility and simplicity. You spoke softly and candidly. I felt you were too old to return to a post you left nearly 30 years ago but you were certain you still have so much in you to offer Nigeria.
The Jonathan government that won the election at that time was ushered in with so much hope and promise. After that election, you said that you would never seek elective office again. After three arduous attempts, you must have felt it was all a bloody waste of time seeking an opportunity to rebuild an irredeemable country that seemed determined to be plunged into the abyss by those you were convinced did not mean well for the country.
But the government that promised us fresh air soon lost its sail and floundered aimlessly. It wobbled and fumbled till it became obvious that something had to be done to avert a monumental catastrophe, the kind that you had foreseen. The situation became so bad that most of us were left with no choice but to see you as our only God-sent redeemer.
This was how the stone previously and repeatedly rejected by the builders suddenly transfigured into the much needed cornerstone. Your most caustic critics soon became your ardent fanatics. We were hypnotised and mesmerised by your new look.
You were repackaged as a reformed and born again democrat. We studiously ignored your military credentials and dictatorial proclivity. The young and old screamed your name from the rooftops. Many youths were ready to march for you and even die in the process.
The last time we witnessed such a phenomenon was in 1993 when Chief Moshood Abiola contested and won the June 12 Presidential election which was later annulled by your former colleagues in the army.
You and your political party enjoyed a whirlwind romance with Nigerians. The covenant was based on mutual trust and the hope that you had robust knowledge of Nigerian history as well as vast experience in governance. Your avowed integrity was the icing on the cake. We expected you to inspire us as a veritable example of honesty-personified. The election came and you won almost effortlessly. What mattered to us was for someone to liberate and remove us from the suffocating yoke of the PDP. You looked the perfect man to do it.
Of course, to whom much is given much is expected. The burden of proof and expectation hung around your neck like an albatross. Soon, it seemed Nigerians thought and assumed that they had voted for a magician and so expected miracles to happen instantaneously. Trouble started very early. You inherited a government with plummeting revenues as the crude oil which greased the economy had suffered a massive collapse in price thus emasculating our country’s fortune and reserves. In addition, just before you returned to power the outgoing government had twice devalued the Naira leaving you with a currency that was set for free fall. In short the Government that you assumed control of was one which was like a disaster waiting to happen.
Nigerians are generally impatient. We are action-packed and expect talismanic results. Unfortunately that has not happened and is not likely to happen soon no matter how hard you try. Sir, let me stop the introduction and go straight to the crux of the matter. While I do not want to sound like a doomsday prophet, I wish to alert you that there is fire on the mountain.
This is not a subtle or covert attempt to create any panic. As a war General, I’m certain you have enough liver to withstand shock. But what I wish to say without mincing words is that we are yielding grounds to the enemies. Hard core supporters of your campaign like me are being derided by those who feel you are not living up to expectations. I know your handlers are likely to dismiss this as crying wolf where there is none but please, don’t listen to them.
The situation is very critical and may even get out of hand if not carefully and delicately managed. You are going to be told the usual tales and rigmarole of how corruption is fighting back. Yes, perhaps corruption is fighting back truly but it is because you did not prepare adequately for the backlash. The style and manner of the war you are waging has not been novel. The approach has been a rehash of the Obasanjo era with Nuhu Ribadu in charge.
What would I have done differently if I were you? I would have traced and located the loot as much as possible before launching my attack. Surprise is one of the most effective weapons of war. And you are without doubt an accomplished General. It is only in Nigeria that investigators announce in advance who the next set of villains they are coming after will be. I would have gone to the courts to seek permission to freeze the looted funds.
Thereafter, I would have asked my operatives to show evidence of the identified perpetrators and located the looters and ask for their cooperation in gently signing the purloined money back to the State without hullabaloo. I will then exchange a grudging handshake and tell them to sin no more. Those who wish to be difficult would be treated like hardened criminals and the full weight of the law would descend powerfully on such recalcitrant fellows. I would have kept the promise you made prior to assumption of office of drawing the line after being sworn in on May 29 and punish any fresh acts of rascality and irresponsibility.
I will ensure there is a uniform treatment for all Nigerians, rich or poor, members of my party and others. I will avoid anything that would suggest I’m principally after my perceived enemies and opponents. I will not create tension and confusion within my own party and accept the verdict of the people in their collective wisdom or stupidity. A house divided against itself cannot stand, I read in the Holy Bible.
I would also make sure that as much as possible I would internalise the process and not wash the country’s dirty linen in public. Such tactics only tends to frighten away those who would assist us and make life unbearable for our citizens abroad. If we require assistance from other countries to repatriate our looted resources I would have engaged the leaders of those countries privately and sought their co-operation surreptitiously. I would have realised that even if they desired to assist my government they would be hampered by the rule of law enshrined in their respective jurisdictions and recourse would be required to the judicial process in those countries.
My silent approach to the recovery of the looted funds would also ensure that the expectations of the people of this country would not be unnecessarily heightened. The money Abacha pillaged is still being recovered in staccato and stuttering fashion almost 20 years after his death.
It is important for you to realise that corruption will fester and even explode when it is incubated in an economy approaching a comatose state as people seek to survive by all means possible.
I will therefore make the economy my utmost priority. Trust me Sir, as important as the war against corruption is wonderful, it pales into irrelevance and insignificance where hunger, deprivation, poverty, unemployment, poor education, ignorance, diseases, insecurity of lives and properties and other complications are concerned.
Many people are going to hail you for arresting the thieves but the same people will soon turn around to attack you when they can’t feel the effect of the war positively on their bodies and souls. In case you are shielded from reading the comments making the rounds, let me inform you Sir, that people are already saying they would rather have corruption back, out of the desperation and suffering they are going through. And these are not the so-called looters but the ordinary Nigerians.
Nothing illustrates this more poignantly than the video posted by Instablog9ja on Instagram and other social media platforms yesterday showing a man that looks like a taxi driver being interviewed. The man said he is so frustrated that he wants Nigeria to perish and all of us with it instantaneously. He wished that we all die simultaneously, at once and suddenly.
The clip has already gone viral globally. Therefore, if anyone tells you only the elites are grumbling, they are telling you a blatant lie, Sir.
The poor who were your best friends and biggest supporters appear totally confused, disillusioned and ostensibly tired of the endless excuses coming out of your Administrations spokespeople. I read somewhere that your foot-soldiers will soon embark on town hall meetings but I can assure you it won’t achieve anything. Why do you want to engage in campaign after election?
Some expert scammers would just collect money for these jamborees. Nigerians want positive change and not a cacophony of lies bandied at stage managed, hurriedly assembled meetings populated by sycophants and glory hunters. They are ready to sacrifice but not when they think things are going from bad to worse. There is so much to do but without an agile economy nothing tangible can be achieved. The economy itself cannot be fixed in an atmosphere of permanent strife.
One year will soon pass by next month and a second year shall begin. It is time to bite the bullet and take the economy head on. Forget about all distractions and concentrate on what really matters to the generality of our people. You will find out that once the economy is tamed all else will follow suit and the successes that you crave in your corruption crusade will start being manifested.
I pray you will hearken to my humble advice and concentrate your energy on resurrecting the economy instead of embarking on a war of attrition. You will be judged ultimately by the comfort you bring to your people and not the self-immolating pain you inflict on real and imaginary enemies.
May Allah grant you the wisdom of Nelson Mandela who chose the path of reconciliation and national rebirth above the tempting choice of prolonging the horror of racial segregation.
My warmest regards to you and yours always.
I remain yours sincerely.
http://thebossnewspapers.com/pendulum-another-desperate-memo-to-president-buhari/
I remember presenting you with an advance copy of my forthcoming book and you even requested me to autograph it for you which I did with such pride and gratitude in me. We took loads of pictures before and after the meeting. I left you reassured in my belief that Nigeria is in safe hands.
Sir, a lot has happened since that meeting took place. In fact, so much water has passed under the bridge. Let me take you down memory lane a bit. You started contesting the Presidential election as far back as 2003. For three consecutive times, you lost and it seemed all hope had evaporated. In 2011, we were co-contestants.
I was driven to your house one night by Prince Lanre Tejuoso (now a Senator) who wanted me to tone down my criticism of you and opposition to your candidacy. I was totally disarmed by your humility and simplicity. You spoke softly and candidly. I felt you were too old to return to a post you left nearly 30 years ago but you were certain you still have so much in you to offer Nigeria.
The Jonathan government that won the election at that time was ushered in with so much hope and promise. After that election, you said that you would never seek elective office again. After three arduous attempts, you must have felt it was all a bloody waste of time seeking an opportunity to rebuild an irredeemable country that seemed determined to be plunged into the abyss by those you were convinced did not mean well for the country.
But the government that promised us fresh air soon lost its sail and floundered aimlessly. It wobbled and fumbled till it became obvious that something had to be done to avert a monumental catastrophe, the kind that you had foreseen. The situation became so bad that most of us were left with no choice but to see you as our only God-sent redeemer.
This was how the stone previously and repeatedly rejected by the builders suddenly transfigured into the much needed cornerstone. Your most caustic critics soon became your ardent fanatics. We were hypnotised and mesmerised by your new look.
You were repackaged as a reformed and born again democrat. We studiously ignored your military credentials and dictatorial proclivity. The young and old screamed your name from the rooftops. Many youths were ready to march for you and even die in the process.
The last time we witnessed such a phenomenon was in 1993 when Chief Moshood Abiola contested and won the June 12 Presidential election which was later annulled by your former colleagues in the army.
You and your political party enjoyed a whirlwind romance with Nigerians. The covenant was based on mutual trust and the hope that you had robust knowledge of Nigerian history as well as vast experience in governance. Your avowed integrity was the icing on the cake. We expected you to inspire us as a veritable example of honesty-personified. The election came and you won almost effortlessly. What mattered to us was for someone to liberate and remove us from the suffocating yoke of the PDP. You looked the perfect man to do it.
Of course, to whom much is given much is expected. The burden of proof and expectation hung around your neck like an albatross. Soon, it seemed Nigerians thought and assumed that they had voted for a magician and so expected miracles to happen instantaneously. Trouble started very early. You inherited a government with plummeting revenues as the crude oil which greased the economy had suffered a massive collapse in price thus emasculating our country’s fortune and reserves. In addition, just before you returned to power the outgoing government had twice devalued the Naira leaving you with a currency that was set for free fall. In short the Government that you assumed control of was one which was like a disaster waiting to happen.
Nigerians are generally impatient. We are action-packed and expect talismanic results. Unfortunately that has not happened and is not likely to happen soon no matter how hard you try. Sir, let me stop the introduction and go straight to the crux of the matter. While I do not want to sound like a doomsday prophet, I wish to alert you that there is fire on the mountain.
This is not a subtle or covert attempt to create any panic. As a war General, I’m certain you have enough liver to withstand shock. But what I wish to say without mincing words is that we are yielding grounds to the enemies. Hard core supporters of your campaign like me are being derided by those who feel you are not living up to expectations. I know your handlers are likely to dismiss this as crying wolf where there is none but please, don’t listen to them.
The situation is very critical and may even get out of hand if not carefully and delicately managed. You are going to be told the usual tales and rigmarole of how corruption is fighting back. Yes, perhaps corruption is fighting back truly but it is because you did not prepare adequately for the backlash. The style and manner of the war you are waging has not been novel. The approach has been a rehash of the Obasanjo era with Nuhu Ribadu in charge.
What would I have done differently if I were you? I would have traced and located the loot as much as possible before launching my attack. Surprise is one of the most effective weapons of war. And you are without doubt an accomplished General. It is only in Nigeria that investigators announce in advance who the next set of villains they are coming after will be. I would have gone to the courts to seek permission to freeze the looted funds.
Thereafter, I would have asked my operatives to show evidence of the identified perpetrators and located the looters and ask for their cooperation in gently signing the purloined money back to the State without hullabaloo. I will then exchange a grudging handshake and tell them to sin no more. Those who wish to be difficult would be treated like hardened criminals and the full weight of the law would descend powerfully on such recalcitrant fellows. I would have kept the promise you made prior to assumption of office of drawing the line after being sworn in on May 29 and punish any fresh acts of rascality and irresponsibility.
I will ensure there is a uniform treatment for all Nigerians, rich or poor, members of my party and others. I will avoid anything that would suggest I’m principally after my perceived enemies and opponents. I will not create tension and confusion within my own party and accept the verdict of the people in their collective wisdom or stupidity. A house divided against itself cannot stand, I read in the Holy Bible.
I would also make sure that as much as possible I would internalise the process and not wash the country’s dirty linen in public. Such tactics only tends to frighten away those who would assist us and make life unbearable for our citizens abroad. If we require assistance from other countries to repatriate our looted resources I would have engaged the leaders of those countries privately and sought their co-operation surreptitiously. I would have realised that even if they desired to assist my government they would be hampered by the rule of law enshrined in their respective jurisdictions and recourse would be required to the judicial process in those countries.
My silent approach to the recovery of the looted funds would also ensure that the expectations of the people of this country would not be unnecessarily heightened. The money Abacha pillaged is still being recovered in staccato and stuttering fashion almost 20 years after his death.
It is important for you to realise that corruption will fester and even explode when it is incubated in an economy approaching a comatose state as people seek to survive by all means possible.
I will therefore make the economy my utmost priority. Trust me Sir, as important as the war against corruption is wonderful, it pales into irrelevance and insignificance where hunger, deprivation, poverty, unemployment, poor education, ignorance, diseases, insecurity of lives and properties and other complications are concerned.
Many people are going to hail you for arresting the thieves but the same people will soon turn around to attack you when they can’t feel the effect of the war positively on their bodies and souls. In case you are shielded from reading the comments making the rounds, let me inform you Sir, that people are already saying they would rather have corruption back, out of the desperation and suffering they are going through. And these are not the so-called looters but the ordinary Nigerians.
Nothing illustrates this more poignantly than the video posted by Instablog9ja on Instagram and other social media platforms yesterday showing a man that looks like a taxi driver being interviewed. The man said he is so frustrated that he wants Nigeria to perish and all of us with it instantaneously. He wished that we all die simultaneously, at once and suddenly.
The clip has already gone viral globally. Therefore, if anyone tells you only the elites are grumbling, they are telling you a blatant lie, Sir.
The poor who were your best friends and biggest supporters appear totally confused, disillusioned and ostensibly tired of the endless excuses coming out of your Administrations spokespeople. I read somewhere that your foot-soldiers will soon embark on town hall meetings but I can assure you it won’t achieve anything. Why do you want to engage in campaign after election?
Some expert scammers would just collect money for these jamborees. Nigerians want positive change and not a cacophony of lies bandied at stage managed, hurriedly assembled meetings populated by sycophants and glory hunters. They are ready to sacrifice but not when they think things are going from bad to worse. There is so much to do but without an agile economy nothing tangible can be achieved. The economy itself cannot be fixed in an atmosphere of permanent strife.
One year will soon pass by next month and a second year shall begin. It is time to bite the bullet and take the economy head on. Forget about all distractions and concentrate on what really matters to the generality of our people. You will find out that once the economy is tamed all else will follow suit and the successes that you crave in your corruption crusade will start being manifested.
I pray you will hearken to my humble advice and concentrate your energy on resurrecting the economy instead of embarking on a war of attrition. You will be judged ultimately by the comfort you bring to your people and not the self-immolating pain you inflict on real and imaginary enemies.
May Allah grant you the wisdom of Nelson Mandela who chose the path of reconciliation and national rebirth above the tempting choice of prolonging the horror of racial segregation.
My warmest regards to you and yours always.
I remain yours sincerely.
http://thebossnewspapers.com/pendulum-another-desperate-memo-to-president-buhari/
Leave Matter For Matthias By Reuben Abati
“I saw something yesterday. I thought it was a joke.”
“What happened?”
“Nigerians and their sense of humour; we always manage to squeeze laughter out of every situation, no matter how sad.”
“I don’t like the suspense. What is it?”
“I attended a wedding engagement ceremony.”
“And?”
“When the groom’s family was presenting gifts to the bride’s family, do you know what they did?”
“I am with you”
“They suddenly brought out two 50-litre jerry cans of fuel, which they presented to the bride’s father, with a declaration that they don’t want their in-law to go through any stress during this season of fuel scarcity”
“Correct in-laws!”
“We all burst into laughter. Even the bride’s father was almost sprawling on the floor with laughter. He quickly gave his daughter’s hand in marriage.”
“Trust Nigerians.”
“It turned out that the bridegroom’s father owns a petrol station. Talk of using what you have to get what you want.”
“Free fuel for life. No more fuel scarcity in that family. The bride chose well. In this type of country, you have to marry wisely.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. Must people choose husbands because of fuel, something that should be taken for granted?
“Dey there. This fuel crisis is so serious at least two universities have had to shut down and send the students home.”
“I read the statement by the University of Lagos authorities. The university had to be closed due to the collapse of municipal services. No fuel. No light, and the students had become riotous.”
“That must be the first time in the entire world that a university would have to close down because there is no fuel in the country. Terrible indictment.”
“Well, that’s Nigeria for you. But I expect the students to show understanding. It is not the fault of the university authorities.”
“Hardship is difficult to understand. Many of the students had to trek from the campus to their various homes.”
“They should not complain, please. It is called Trekking for Sai Baba. After the election last year, didn’t many of them trek for Sai Baba? They certainly didn’t know that was just a technical rehearsal and that serious trekking will soon come. Anybody wey no get fuel, make e trek.”
“I hear some people are even planning Occupy Nigeria protests.”
“Because of fuel scarcity?”
“Because a litre of fuel is now about N350 per litre.”
“They better don’t get themselves shot. Hen hen. If they think it is that kind of Occupy Nigeria that they tried with GEJ, let them go and try their luck this time around. You better tell that your stubborn brother not to go to Ojota to occupy anything oh, I don’t want to write a condolence message. What we need is not protests. That won’t bring fuel. What we need is a different kind of citizen action.”
“Which is?”
“The truth is that some people are sabotaging Nigerians. Independent marketers are hoarding fuel deliberately, so they can sell at a premium. And many of them are sadists. Even when they have fuel, have you not noticed that they usually sell from one pump? What stops them from selling from three or four pumps at the same time? But apparently, seeing a long queue, and people in agony makes some of them happy.”
“I even understand that some fuel station managers tell the pump attendants that they must deliver N50, 000 to them daily. That’s why when you buy fuel in many of these stations, the attendant tells you upfront that you will have to drop something.”
“And at the end, you don’t even get what you buy in full measure, because the meters have been tampered with.”
“Nigerians are their own problem. We like to inconvenience one another and yet we blame government all the time.”
“The people are the government. The ones in public office punish the people; those outside inflict pain on each other. We are all guilty as members of a large community of sadists.”
“So, have you started your fuel business? The NNPC Mega Station of jerry cans of fuel that you talked about.”
“I am still on it”
“You plan to start when fuel scarcity ends?”
“You think this thing will ever end? Look, do you know that it is actually a good business. I went to visit a friend the other day, and I told him I didn’t have fuel. He just made a phone call. Before I knew it, somebody brought fuel in two big jerry cans.”
“Home delivery?”
“Yes. People are now doing home delivery of fuel as if they are delivering Pizza. N500 per litre. Some people collude with fuel station managers. They store fuel in jerry cans and they do home delivery if you are willing to pay. I saw it with my two eyes.”
“By the time this fuel scarcity is over, some people will become billionaires. In my own case, when I was looking for fuel, my driver took me to a house where the gateman spoke to the landlord and they brought out fuel. It was as if I was in another world. A small-scale business has developed around this fuel scarcity crisis, and while you and I are wailing, some people are hailing the change that has come.”
“All the people profiting from the people’s agony should be reported, arrested and publicly shamed as saboteurs.”
“That doesn’t require citizen action.”
“But the people must report sharp practices at fuel stations, and the illegal conversion of private homes to fuel dumps!”
“Who should they report to?”
“The Police. The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).”
“To do what?”
“To check meters at fuel stations, to arrest marketers who are punishing the people and making government look bad. There is a Weights and Measures law in this country for Heaven’s sake.”
“Police. DPR. You will just create another layer of fraud. You’d be surprised the officials that should enforce the law, will be bribed with fuel and cash.”
“Then such officials should also be reported.”
“I beg. Leave that matter for Matthias. The last time I slept at a fuel station, I saw uniformed men asking for officer’s price.”
“Officer’s price, how?”
“Exactly what it says. Three guys came to the station. They flashed their identity cards or well, what looked like identity cards, and they said Oga sent them to buy fuel, and they wanted officer’s price.”
“Meaning?”
“Meaning they would not pay up to N200 or N350 per litre.”
“And the manager agreed?”
“Would he not agree? We were all there gawking as the officers loaded about twelve jerry cans into their vehicle and left the rest of us there.”
“And nobody protested?”
“Protest? Have you not heard about people who have been killed at fuel stations by officers?”
“The martyrs of fuel scarcity! I hope NNPC will remember to send condolence messages to the affected families.”
“Na NNPC kill them?”
“No be NNPC kill them?”
“Na NNPC pull the trigger? Small time now, you’d say NNPC also killed the man and his two children who stored fuel in their room and got engulfed in a fire accident.”
“No be NNPC kill them?”
“But what happened to the promised April 7?”
“Did I not tell you nothing will happen on April 7, and that it was wrong to put a date to the end of fuel scarcity.”
“Next month, then.”
“Or the month after.”
“Don’t be pessimistic.”
“Okay, until the right steps are taken.”
“Like succumbing to the blackmail of fuel importers?”
“No. Like throwing anybody who tries to sabotage Nigeria behind bars, be they pipeline vandals or greedy fuel importers looking for free cash, waivers and patronage.”
“I hear you. But for government to work, you must still allow some people small space to enjoy government.”
“Sorry. Nation-building is not about enjoying government. It is about service.”
“I hear you.”
“That’s why government officials have now been told that they cannot travel First Class.”
“I am not really sure anybody travels First Class in government.”
“Are you sure?”
“I think the highest level is business class.”
“Well, whatever. But really, the rule should be that every government official must travel Economy, if the ticket has to be paid for by government. Economy. And if you want to travel Upper Deck class, you pay from your pocket.”
“Economy?”
“Yes, economy.”
“That will amount to punishment. Even poor me, I don’t like economy. People yawn, snore, and open their mouths in your face, they talk too much, and some people in economy class are so crude, they actually fart and pollute the air.”
“But the plane will get to the same destination and everybody will come down and go their way.”
“We are talking comfort here.”
“If it is your money, no problem. But even when it is your money, I am always angry when I see people putting their children, babies that are under 10, in Business Class and First Class. Nigerians like to waste money. Some of those children will grow up and may never in their lives be able to travel so richly, so what happens to them?”
“You don’t have to curse other people’s children. One of the rules of capitalism is the freedom to make your money and spend it as you wish.”
“Some government officials spend government money to take their wives and children abroad and they put them in Business Class.”
“Such people should be sanctioned. But you know, everything failed long ago in the public sector.”
“I know. We all know.”
“And to save Nigeria is not an easy task.”
“I know. I know. But that does not mean some people should sleep on the job.”
“Like who and who?”
“All I know is that some Ministers are not just asleep, some of them are even snoring.”
“There is no budget yet”
“And that calls for snoring?”
“How?”
“Okay, name up to ten Ministers in Abuja.”
“Why should I know their names? Do they know me?”
“You see?”
“You know?”
“That’s right?”
“When you are given a job, you do it. You have to be seen to be doing the job. Going to Abuja to sleep and snore on the job? That is not service. That is disloyalty.”
“I have an idea. For a Minister to function, he or she needs to be empowered. Empowerment. Very important.”
“I beg. Leave matter for Matthias.”
“I think you just picked up that slang. Everything Matthias. That was how one Matthias spoke roughly at a fuel station and he earned a swollen face for his effrontery. You better watch your mouth.”
“Leave matter for Matthias. Let’s discuss something else.”
“What happened?”
“Nigerians and their sense of humour; we always manage to squeeze laughter out of every situation, no matter how sad.”
“I don’t like the suspense. What is it?”
“I attended a wedding engagement ceremony.”
“And?”
“When the groom’s family was presenting gifts to the bride’s family, do you know what they did?”
“I am with you”
“They suddenly brought out two 50-litre jerry cans of fuel, which they presented to the bride’s father, with a declaration that they don’t want their in-law to go through any stress during this season of fuel scarcity”
“Correct in-laws!”
“We all burst into laughter. Even the bride’s father was almost sprawling on the floor with laughter. He quickly gave his daughter’s hand in marriage.”
“Trust Nigerians.”
“It turned out that the bridegroom’s father owns a petrol station. Talk of using what you have to get what you want.”
“Free fuel for life. No more fuel scarcity in that family. The bride chose well. In this type of country, you have to marry wisely.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. Must people choose husbands because of fuel, something that should be taken for granted?
“Dey there. This fuel crisis is so serious at least two universities have had to shut down and send the students home.”
“I read the statement by the University of Lagos authorities. The university had to be closed due to the collapse of municipal services. No fuel. No light, and the students had become riotous.”
“That must be the first time in the entire world that a university would have to close down because there is no fuel in the country. Terrible indictment.”
“Well, that’s Nigeria for you. But I expect the students to show understanding. It is not the fault of the university authorities.”
“Hardship is difficult to understand. Many of the students had to trek from the campus to their various homes.”
“They should not complain, please. It is called Trekking for Sai Baba. After the election last year, didn’t many of them trek for Sai Baba? They certainly didn’t know that was just a technical rehearsal and that serious trekking will soon come. Anybody wey no get fuel, make e trek.”
“I hear some people are even planning Occupy Nigeria protests.”
“Because of fuel scarcity?”
“Because a litre of fuel is now about N350 per litre.”
“They better don’t get themselves shot. Hen hen. If they think it is that kind of Occupy Nigeria that they tried with GEJ, let them go and try their luck this time around. You better tell that your stubborn brother not to go to Ojota to occupy anything oh, I don’t want to write a condolence message. What we need is not protests. That won’t bring fuel. What we need is a different kind of citizen action.”
“Which is?”
“The truth is that some people are sabotaging Nigerians. Independent marketers are hoarding fuel deliberately, so they can sell at a premium. And many of them are sadists. Even when they have fuel, have you not noticed that they usually sell from one pump? What stops them from selling from three or four pumps at the same time? But apparently, seeing a long queue, and people in agony makes some of them happy.”
“I even understand that some fuel station managers tell the pump attendants that they must deliver N50, 000 to them daily. That’s why when you buy fuel in many of these stations, the attendant tells you upfront that you will have to drop something.”
“And at the end, you don’t even get what you buy in full measure, because the meters have been tampered with.”
“Nigerians are their own problem. We like to inconvenience one another and yet we blame government all the time.”
“The people are the government. The ones in public office punish the people; those outside inflict pain on each other. We are all guilty as members of a large community of sadists.”
“So, have you started your fuel business? The NNPC Mega Station of jerry cans of fuel that you talked about.”
“I am still on it”
“You plan to start when fuel scarcity ends?”
“You think this thing will ever end? Look, do you know that it is actually a good business. I went to visit a friend the other day, and I told him I didn’t have fuel. He just made a phone call. Before I knew it, somebody brought fuel in two big jerry cans.”
“Home delivery?”
“Yes. People are now doing home delivery of fuel as if they are delivering Pizza. N500 per litre. Some people collude with fuel station managers. They store fuel in jerry cans and they do home delivery if you are willing to pay. I saw it with my two eyes.”
“By the time this fuel scarcity is over, some people will become billionaires. In my own case, when I was looking for fuel, my driver took me to a house where the gateman spoke to the landlord and they brought out fuel. It was as if I was in another world. A small-scale business has developed around this fuel scarcity crisis, and while you and I are wailing, some people are hailing the change that has come.”
“All the people profiting from the people’s agony should be reported, arrested and publicly shamed as saboteurs.”
“That doesn’t require citizen action.”
“But the people must report sharp practices at fuel stations, and the illegal conversion of private homes to fuel dumps!”
“Who should they report to?”
“The Police. The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).”
“To do what?”
“To check meters at fuel stations, to arrest marketers who are punishing the people and making government look bad. There is a Weights and Measures law in this country for Heaven’s sake.”
“Police. DPR. You will just create another layer of fraud. You’d be surprised the officials that should enforce the law, will be bribed with fuel and cash.”
“Then such officials should also be reported.”
“I beg. Leave that matter for Matthias. The last time I slept at a fuel station, I saw uniformed men asking for officer’s price.”
“Officer’s price, how?”
“Exactly what it says. Three guys came to the station. They flashed their identity cards or well, what looked like identity cards, and they said Oga sent them to buy fuel, and they wanted officer’s price.”
“Meaning?”
“Meaning they would not pay up to N200 or N350 per litre.”
“And the manager agreed?”
“Would he not agree? We were all there gawking as the officers loaded about twelve jerry cans into their vehicle and left the rest of us there.”
“And nobody protested?”
“Protest? Have you not heard about people who have been killed at fuel stations by officers?”
“The martyrs of fuel scarcity! I hope NNPC will remember to send condolence messages to the affected families.”
“Na NNPC kill them?”
“No be NNPC kill them?”
“Na NNPC pull the trigger? Small time now, you’d say NNPC also killed the man and his two children who stored fuel in their room and got engulfed in a fire accident.”
“No be NNPC kill them?”
“But what happened to the promised April 7?”
“Did I not tell you nothing will happen on April 7, and that it was wrong to put a date to the end of fuel scarcity.”
“Next month, then.”
“Or the month after.”
“Don’t be pessimistic.”
“Okay, until the right steps are taken.”
“Like succumbing to the blackmail of fuel importers?”
“No. Like throwing anybody who tries to sabotage Nigeria behind bars, be they pipeline vandals or greedy fuel importers looking for free cash, waivers and patronage.”
“I hear you. But for government to work, you must still allow some people small space to enjoy government.”
“Sorry. Nation-building is not about enjoying government. It is about service.”
“I hear you.”
“That’s why government officials have now been told that they cannot travel First Class.”
“I am not really sure anybody travels First Class in government.”
“Are you sure?”
“I think the highest level is business class.”
“Well, whatever. But really, the rule should be that every government official must travel Economy, if the ticket has to be paid for by government. Economy. And if you want to travel Upper Deck class, you pay from your pocket.”
“Economy?”
“Yes, economy.”
“That will amount to punishment. Even poor me, I don’t like economy. People yawn, snore, and open their mouths in your face, they talk too much, and some people in economy class are so crude, they actually fart and pollute the air.”
“But the plane will get to the same destination and everybody will come down and go their way.”
“We are talking comfort here.”
“If it is your money, no problem. But even when it is your money, I am always angry when I see people putting their children, babies that are under 10, in Business Class and First Class. Nigerians like to waste money. Some of those children will grow up and may never in their lives be able to travel so richly, so what happens to them?”
“You don’t have to curse other people’s children. One of the rules of capitalism is the freedom to make your money and spend it as you wish.”
“Some government officials spend government money to take their wives and children abroad and they put them in Business Class.”
“Such people should be sanctioned. But you know, everything failed long ago in the public sector.”
“I know. We all know.”
“And to save Nigeria is not an easy task.”
“I know. I know. But that does not mean some people should sleep on the job.”
“Like who and who?”
“All I know is that some Ministers are not just asleep, some of them are even snoring.”
“There is no budget yet”
“And that calls for snoring?”
“How?”
“Okay, name up to ten Ministers in Abuja.”
“Why should I know their names? Do they know me?”
“You see?”
“You know?”
“That’s right?”
“When you are given a job, you do it. You have to be seen to be doing the job. Going to Abuja to sleep and snore on the job? That is not service. That is disloyalty.”
“I have an idea. For a Minister to function, he or she needs to be empowered. Empowerment. Very important.”
“I beg. Leave matter for Matthias.”
“I think you just picked up that slang. Everything Matthias. That was how one Matthias spoke roughly at a fuel station and he earned a swollen face for his effrontery. You better watch your mouth.”
“Leave matter for Matthias. Let’s discuss something else.”
Disgraced Footballer Adam Johnson says his conviction was a joke
Shamed paedophile football star Adam Johnson sent flirtatious text messages to a woman just days before he was jailed declaring his conviction 'a joke'.
The former England international was jailed last month for six years after being convicted of grooming and engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.
Following his conviction, Johnson was released on strict bail terms while the trial judge considered his sentence.
Read more through this link
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3532080/My-conviction-s-joke-hopefully-ll-play-Adam-Johnson-s-amazing-flirty-texts-sent-lover-just-days-jailed-child-sex-crimes.html
The former England international was jailed last month for six years after being convicted of grooming and engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.
Following his conviction, Johnson was released on strict bail terms while the trial judge considered his sentence.
Read more through this link
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3532080/My-conviction-s-joke-hopefully-ll-play-Adam-Johnson-s-amazing-flirty-texts-sent-lover-just-days-jailed-child-sex-crimes.html
Saturday, 9 April 2016
I’m not finished with my work for Nigeria – Jonathan
Dr Jonathan, who was represented by a former Minister of State for Works, Prince Dayo Adeyeye apologised for Jonathan’s inability to be present for the award.
Adeyeye said “he is unable to come and personally receive this award because as many of you may know, today is the burial of Dr Alamiyeseigha, the former governor of Baylesa State, who was at one time, his boss. Therefore, he sent his unreserved apology particularly to Uncle Sam and to the management of Vanguard newspapers.” Speaking further, he said: “He has asked to me also congratulate his fellow recipients particularly President Muhammadu Buhari and other recipients. President Ebele Goodluck Jonathan is a man of history and I believe that whatever we are celebrating now, is not the final verdict, we will leave that to history because all these emotional things that we display, when a man is in office or after leaving office, are better judged by history. I believe Jonathan will be given a better verdict by history. “He says I should tell everybody that he is not yet finished with his good works in Nigeria, he has left office but he is not tired and therefore, he said I should announce to this audience that very soon, he will be launching his foundation. That foundation will enable him render services, not only to the people of Nigeria but to humanity. His view concerning this award, to those who are his friends on Facebook, he has a message.” Reading Jonathan’s Facebook message, he said “I thank the editorial board of Vanguard newspapers for honoring me as their Personality of the Year 2015. I believe that the people of Nigeria are more deserving of the honour than me. I am thus dedicating this award to my country men and women, may God bless Nigeria.” National leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aiswaju Bola Tinubu, represented by Mr Dele Alake expressed gratitude for the award bestowed on him but expressed optimism that there is light at the end of the tunnel. His words: “first of all, I must express my gratitude to Vanguard for choosing to recognise him for this award. He has asked me to express apologies and extend all courtesies to those who deserved them, for his inability to be physical present here for circumstances beyond his control because he is not in Nigeria at the moment. He actually sent a message to me saying that he knew that he should be here as a member of the Vanguard family and as an associate of Uncle Sam himself, who is one of our icons in the journalism profession.” Alake, a former Commissioner for Information in Lagos State, said Tinubu saw the award as a challenge for him. Jonathan, a national hero–Amuka Chairman of Vanguard Media Limited, Mr. Sam Amuka commended President Jonathan for conceding the 2015 presidential election describing him a national hero. Amuka said “This is an interesting occasion. This award is special in the sense that it represents one singular action which has changed a man’s state. Whatever one may say of Dr Goodluck Jonathan, that moment during the elections, when he decided to call President Buhari and congratulate him conceding defeat, made him a national hero.” Recalling the tension that preceded the 2015 general elections, Amuka commended Jonathan for helping to avert crisis. He said: “Many of us would have forgotten the tension that this country was in during the elections, we have also forgotten the bitterness of the election but before the election itself, this country was almost in turmoil. A slight fight could have ignited fire and blood-letting but for many of us, it was divine intervention that caused President Goodluck Jonathan to do what he did and that is what we are recognizing here tonight for a man who deserves to be acknowledged by Nigerians as a national hero. That has made him a statesman.”
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/im-not-finished-work-nigeria-jonathan/
Adeyeye said “he is unable to come and personally receive this award because as many of you may know, today is the burial of Dr Alamiyeseigha, the former governor of Baylesa State, who was at one time, his boss. Therefore, he sent his unreserved apology particularly to Uncle Sam and to the management of Vanguard newspapers.” Speaking further, he said: “He has asked to me also congratulate his fellow recipients particularly President Muhammadu Buhari and other recipients. President Ebele Goodluck Jonathan is a man of history and I believe that whatever we are celebrating now, is not the final verdict, we will leave that to history because all these emotional things that we display, when a man is in office or after leaving office, are better judged by history. I believe Jonathan will be given a better verdict by history. “He says I should tell everybody that he is not yet finished with his good works in Nigeria, he has left office but he is not tired and therefore, he said I should announce to this audience that very soon, he will be launching his foundation. That foundation will enable him render services, not only to the people of Nigeria but to humanity. His view concerning this award, to those who are his friends on Facebook, he has a message.” Reading Jonathan’s Facebook message, he said “I thank the editorial board of Vanguard newspapers for honoring me as their Personality of the Year 2015. I believe that the people of Nigeria are more deserving of the honour than me. I am thus dedicating this award to my country men and women, may God bless Nigeria.” National leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aiswaju Bola Tinubu, represented by Mr Dele Alake expressed gratitude for the award bestowed on him but expressed optimism that there is light at the end of the tunnel. His words: “first of all, I must express my gratitude to Vanguard for choosing to recognise him for this award. He has asked me to express apologies and extend all courtesies to those who deserved them, for his inability to be physical present here for circumstances beyond his control because he is not in Nigeria at the moment. He actually sent a message to me saying that he knew that he should be here as a member of the Vanguard family and as an associate of Uncle Sam himself, who is one of our icons in the journalism profession.” Alake, a former Commissioner for Information in Lagos State, said Tinubu saw the award as a challenge for him. Jonathan, a national hero–Amuka Chairman of Vanguard Media Limited, Mr. Sam Amuka commended President Jonathan for conceding the 2015 presidential election describing him a national hero. Amuka said “This is an interesting occasion. This award is special in the sense that it represents one singular action which has changed a man’s state. Whatever one may say of Dr Goodluck Jonathan, that moment during the elections, when he decided to call President Buhari and congratulate him conceding defeat, made him a national hero.” Recalling the tension that preceded the 2015 general elections, Amuka commended Jonathan for helping to avert crisis. He said: “Many of us would have forgotten the tension that this country was in during the elections, we have also forgotten the bitterness of the election but before the election itself, this country was almost in turmoil. A slight fight could have ignited fire and blood-letting but for many of us, it was divine intervention that caused President Goodluck Jonathan to do what he did and that is what we are recognizing here tonight for a man who deserves to be acknowledged by Nigerians as a national hero. That has made him a statesman.”
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/im-not-finished-work-nigeria-jonathan/
Revealed : Shocking way Boko Haram trains kidnapped women and girls
In a New York Times article, a woman who escaped the clutches of Boko Haram gives a chilling account of how the terrorists train women and girls to become suicide bombers.
"Hold the bomb under your armpit to keep it steady", the women and girls were taught.Sever your enemy’s head from behind, to minimize struggling.“If you cut from the back of the neck, they die faster,” said Rahila Amos, a Nigerian grandmother describing the meticulous instruction she received from Boko Haram to become a suicide bomber. Of all the many horrors of Boko Haram’s rampage across West Africa — the attacks on mosques, churches and schools; the mass killings of civilians; the entire villages left in ashes after militants tear through — one of the most baffling has been its ability to turn captured women and girls into killers. Ms. Amos, 47, said the fighters had come to her village in the morning, firing weapons as they spilled out of cars and rounded up women and children.Not long afterward, Ms. Amos, a Christian, said she was forced to enroll in Boko Haram’s classes on its version of Islam, a first step on her way toward being taught the art of suicide bombing.After months of training, Ms. Amos said, she was finally able to escape her captors one day when they had assembled for evening preaching. She stayed behind, gathering two of her young children and a grandchild so they could make a run for the Cameroonian border.“I don’t want to take a bomb,” she said inside this refugee camp in Cameroon that stretches across a vast landscape dotted by tents and mud huts.
Ms. Amos, now among the 58,000 residents of the Minawao Refugee Camp, described a system of grooming potential bombers that involved food deprivation and promises of eternal life, tactics that cults have used for decades.She said that when Boko Haram stormed her hometown in 2014, her two brothers were shot dead. Her husband managed to flee with five of their children, but Ms. Amos did not make it out, and neither did two of their other young children and a grandchild. Boko Haram rounded them up with other women and children, putting them in a long ditch to contain them.They stayed there for days, eating one meal a day of a corn paste made from powder. Finally a fighter arrived and asked a fateful question: Do you want to follow Christ, or do you want to be a Muslim?The women all agreed to follow Islam, fearing they would be killed otherwise. Their training began.Ms. Amos described a six-tiered daily education track for the women that she called Primary One, Primary Two and so on. The first two levels were Quranic training. Primary Three was training in suicide bombing and beheading. “How to kill a person and how to bomb a house,” she said.“They told us if we came upon a group of 10 to 20 people to press this,” she said, speaking of a detonator.The instruction given in the upper levels of the training — Primary Four, Five and Six — was a closely guarded secret among the fighters. Ms. Amos said she never learned what took place there.Ms. Amos was lucky. Boko Haram fighters decided not to “marry” her, a euphemism for the rapes the group commits, because she already had a husband and children. She counted 14 women and four girls in her training classes who were not as fortunate.Throughout her months in captivity, Ms. Amos was fed one meal a day and lost weight, a fact confirmed by her nephew living in the Minawao camp, who stared at her scrawny frame and said, “She used to be a big woman.”Boko Haram incorporated the lack of food into the training, Ms. Amos said. Several months ago, she said, fighters rounded up the women and took them to an old factory to view a set of plump, well-fed girls who had plenty of food and water. Follow our ways, the fighters said, and you can have enough to eat, like these girls.The girls, some crying, told Ms. Amos they were from Chibok, the Nigerian village where Boko Haram had captured the schoolgirls. American State Department and military officials said they would investigate the statements from Ms. Amos about the girls.“They were very fat,” Ms. Amos said, compared with herself and the other women who were being held, “and they had lots of water.” The authorities in Cameroon and Nigeria said that many of the experiences detailed by Ms. Amos matched the accounts of other women and girls who have escaped Boko Haram, or who have been arrested before they could detonate bombs. Ms. Amos’s descriptions are also strikingly similar to details recounted by other freed women and girls, including depictions of the funeral rites performed before female bombers were sent on missions. In Cameroon, many of the recent bombings have been carried out by girls in their early teens, leaving officials and analysts to wonder whether the girls were aware they were carrying bombs. Yet some of the bombers in recent attacks in Nigeria have been found to wear their hair pulled back from the face — a hairstyle reserved for burial rites, a sign they were ready to die...
lailasblog...
"Hold the bomb under your armpit to keep it steady", the women and girls were taught.Sever your enemy’s head from behind, to minimize struggling.“If you cut from the back of the neck, they die faster,” said Rahila Amos, a Nigerian grandmother describing the meticulous instruction she received from Boko Haram to become a suicide bomber. Of all the many horrors of Boko Haram’s rampage across West Africa — the attacks on mosques, churches and schools; the mass killings of civilians; the entire villages left in ashes after militants tear through — one of the most baffling has been its ability to turn captured women and girls into killers. Ms. Amos, 47, said the fighters had come to her village in the morning, firing weapons as they spilled out of cars and rounded up women and children.Not long afterward, Ms. Amos, a Christian, said she was forced to enroll in Boko Haram’s classes on its version of Islam, a first step on her way toward being taught the art of suicide bombing.After months of training, Ms. Amos said, she was finally able to escape her captors one day when they had assembled for evening preaching. She stayed behind, gathering two of her young children and a grandchild so they could make a run for the Cameroonian border.“I don’t want to take a bomb,” she said inside this refugee camp in Cameroon that stretches across a vast landscape dotted by tents and mud huts.
Ms. Amos, now among the 58,000 residents of the Minawao Refugee Camp, described a system of grooming potential bombers that involved food deprivation and promises of eternal life, tactics that cults have used for decades.She said that when Boko Haram stormed her hometown in 2014, her two brothers were shot dead. Her husband managed to flee with five of their children, but Ms. Amos did not make it out, and neither did two of their other young children and a grandchild. Boko Haram rounded them up with other women and children, putting them in a long ditch to contain them.They stayed there for days, eating one meal a day of a corn paste made from powder. Finally a fighter arrived and asked a fateful question: Do you want to follow Christ, or do you want to be a Muslim?The women all agreed to follow Islam, fearing they would be killed otherwise. Their training began.Ms. Amos described a six-tiered daily education track for the women that she called Primary One, Primary Two and so on. The first two levels were Quranic training. Primary Three was training in suicide bombing and beheading. “How to kill a person and how to bomb a house,” she said.“They told us if we came upon a group of 10 to 20 people to press this,” she said, speaking of a detonator.The instruction given in the upper levels of the training — Primary Four, Five and Six — was a closely guarded secret among the fighters. Ms. Amos said she never learned what took place there.Ms. Amos was lucky. Boko Haram fighters decided not to “marry” her, a euphemism for the rapes the group commits, because she already had a husband and children. She counted 14 women and four girls in her training classes who were not as fortunate.Throughout her months in captivity, Ms. Amos was fed one meal a day and lost weight, a fact confirmed by her nephew living in the Minawao camp, who stared at her scrawny frame and said, “She used to be a big woman.”Boko Haram incorporated the lack of food into the training, Ms. Amos said. Several months ago, she said, fighters rounded up the women and took them to an old factory to view a set of plump, well-fed girls who had plenty of food and water. Follow our ways, the fighters said, and you can have enough to eat, like these girls.The girls, some crying, told Ms. Amos they were from Chibok, the Nigerian village where Boko Haram had captured the schoolgirls. American State Department and military officials said they would investigate the statements from Ms. Amos about the girls.“They were very fat,” Ms. Amos said, compared with herself and the other women who were being held, “and they had lots of water.” The authorities in Cameroon and Nigeria said that many of the experiences detailed by Ms. Amos matched the accounts of other women and girls who have escaped Boko Haram, or who have been arrested before they could detonate bombs. Ms. Amos’s descriptions are also strikingly similar to details recounted by other freed women and girls, including depictions of the funeral rites performed before female bombers were sent on missions. In Cameroon, many of the recent bombings have been carried out by girls in their early teens, leaving officials and analysts to wonder whether the girls were aware they were carrying bombs. Yet some of the bombers in recent attacks in Nigeria have been found to wear their hair pulled back from the face — a hairstyle reserved for burial rites, a sign they were ready to die...
lailasblog...
Friday, 8 April 2016
President Buhari heads to China to borrow $2bn
President Muhammadu Buhari will visit China on Sunday to sign a loan infrastructure projects deal worth about $2 billion and the low interest loan is to be deployed to finance the N3 trillion deficit in the budget. Though the exact figure for the loan is yet to be confirmed, the Presidency and Chinese foreign affairs ministry confirmed the visit. The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, who disclosed this in an interview with Reuters, said: “I can’t tell you how much until the day the loan will be signed. Both countries will also be signing some bilateral agreements to strengthen their relationship, that is all I can say for now.” In February, financial and government sources said the loan could be as high as $2 billion, but officials have not provided an update since then. The federal government had said it would raise about $5 billion abroad to cover part of its 2016 budget deficit which could be as high as N3 trillion.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/buhari-heads-to-china-to-borrow-2bn/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/buhari-heads-to-china-to-borrow-2bn/
Africa highlights: Nigeria fuel scarcity 'mayhem' warning, Rwanda genocide remembered
Rwandan genocide remembered 22 years on
Posted at 17:15 7 Apr
The hashtag #Kwibuka22 (meaning "Remembering" in the Kinyarwanda language) has been trending across East Africa today as Rwandans gathered to mark the 22nd anniversary of the genocide.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame was joined in the capital, Kigali, by the Tanzanian leader to light the flame of remembrance, which will burn for 100 days, the same length of time it took for 800,000 people to be killed in the violence.
Posted at 17:14 7 Apr
Nigeria's fuel scarcity has left many motorists frustrated with the hours they have to spend queuing up for a drop of the black gold.
BBC
But people are still not clear what's behind the problem this time.
The BBC's Nigeria reporter Martin Patience has been looking at the issue and says there are three main issues which have held up fuel imports:
1.Outstanding debts - The current government says it inherited massive fuel subsidy debts from the previous administration, and it took time to pay those off.
2.Currency crisis - There is a shortage of foreign exchange in the country making it harder to import fuel.
3.Fuel subsidy dispute - The government and the fuel sellers are arguing over whether the government should continue to subsidise fuel despite the fall in the oil price
http://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-africa-35783460
Thursday, 7 April 2016
It is Now Illegal To Pay For Sex In France
Prostitutes in France marched to the front National Assembly building in Paris, France to protest after a new law was passed that penalizes the patronage of prostitutes.The French parliament on Wednesday passed a law that now makes it illegal to pay for sex in France making them the 5th European country ( after Sweden, Norway, Iceland and the U.K) in the world to criminalize prostitution.
Under the new law, pimping and brothels remain illegal, while it is legal to offer your body for sale but illegal for someone to buy it.
Offenders may be fined up to €3,750 (about $4,300) and required to attend classes about the conditions of sex workers.
The law also establishes measures to help prostitutes find new work, and makes it easier for foreign sex workers to acquire temporary residency permits.
France’s Socialist government welcomed the new legislation. The bill’s architect
Maud Olivier told AFP: “This law is essential to ending the idea that it is normal to buy someone’s body.”
"The goal is to diminish [prostitution], protect prostitutes who want to quit, and change mentalities. We will succeed in changing the mentality, but new efforts are needed to raise awareness, to train police officers and magistrates.”
But some of France’s nearly 30,000 prostitutes did not share Olivier’s conviction. About 60 demonstrators, including sex workers, protested the new law outside the Parliament, some carrying a sign that read, “Don’t Liberate Me, I’ll Take Care of Myself!”
Under the new law, pimping and brothels remain illegal, while it is legal to offer your body for sale but illegal for someone to buy it.
Offenders may be fined up to €3,750 (about $4,300) and required to attend classes about the conditions of sex workers.
The law also establishes measures to help prostitutes find new work, and makes it easier for foreign sex workers to acquire temporary residency permits.
France’s Socialist government welcomed the new legislation. The bill’s architect
Maud Olivier told AFP: “This law is essential to ending the idea that it is normal to buy someone’s body.”
"The goal is to diminish [prostitution], protect prostitutes who want to quit, and change mentalities. We will succeed in changing the mentality, but new efforts are needed to raise awareness, to train police officers and magistrates.”
But some of France’s nearly 30,000 prostitutes did not share Olivier’s conviction. About 60 demonstrators, including sex workers, protested the new law outside the Parliament, some carrying a sign that read, “Don’t Liberate Me, I’ll Take Care of Myself!”
uavailability of forex, pipeline vandalism, subsidy payments as reasons for fuel scarcity says Kachiwku
In a short video which he posted on his Facebook wall, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Ibe Kachikwu, explained why the fuel scarcity has persisted this long. According to him, unavailability of Forex, activities of pipeline vandals and the reduction in subsidy payment had adversely affected the importation of refined oil into Nigeria by many of the oil marketers
"First on resumption in August, we had a very major problem in our hand because subsidies of N500-N600 billion hadn't been paid for over a one year period of time. and so those who were importing had began to very quietly reduce the level of importation that they had and although I struggled very hard and got the Assembly approval and the President's approval to pay a good portion of that subsidy sometime in November, by then it was too late because although they got the money, they didn't have access to foreign exchange and so the critical reason why we have this supply gap today is that although NNPC has its own 445,000 barrels allocation of crude which is meant to meet 50% of your the country's delivery, the Individuals who should provide the remaining 50% are not bringing any product"he said
He identified incessant pipeline vandalization as a major factor responsible for the short fall in fuel supply
"The second problem is pipeline vandlization. If you look at the statistics of this year versus last year, we have had almost two times the number of pipeline disruptions that we have had over the last 2-3 years."
According to Kachikwu, no matter the transformation agenda of the government, issues of fuel scarcity have the tendency to bring down the polity and cause mayhem
"I have had to box my way to the CBN to get a bit of Foreign exchange because we provide a bulk of this foreign exchange and we should have a bit of it to help stabilize the situation because fuel queue, do not make any mistake about it, it doesn't matter what we achieve in our transformation agenda, is the single most difficult item which if not solved can bring down the polity and can create a mayhem here"he said.
LIB
"First on resumption in August, we had a very major problem in our hand because subsidies of N500-N600 billion hadn't been paid for over a one year period of time. and so those who were importing had began to very quietly reduce the level of importation that they had and although I struggled very hard and got the Assembly approval and the President's approval to pay a good portion of that subsidy sometime in November, by then it was too late because although they got the money, they didn't have access to foreign exchange and so the critical reason why we have this supply gap today is that although NNPC has its own 445,000 barrels allocation of crude which is meant to meet 50% of your the country's delivery, the Individuals who should provide the remaining 50% are not bringing any product"he said
He identified incessant pipeline vandalization as a major factor responsible for the short fall in fuel supply
"The second problem is pipeline vandlization. If you look at the statistics of this year versus last year, we have had almost two times the number of pipeline disruptions that we have had over the last 2-3 years."
According to Kachikwu, no matter the transformation agenda of the government, issues of fuel scarcity have the tendency to bring down the polity and cause mayhem
"I have had to box my way to the CBN to get a bit of Foreign exchange because we provide a bulk of this foreign exchange and we should have a bit of it to help stabilize the situation because fuel queue, do not make any mistake about it, it doesn't matter what we achieve in our transformation agenda, is the single most difficult item which if not solved can bring down the polity and can create a mayhem here"he said.
LIB
Kudos To Nigeria Army As Troops rescue 11, 595 hostages from Boko Haram dens
THE Nigerian Army said yesterday that no fewer than 11, 595 civilians held at various enclaves by Boko Haram had been rescued. This came as troops intensified efforts to clear and mop up all insurgent activities in the North East. ArmyArmy The army said the rescue operations were carried out within the past six weeks, noting that women and young children who had been caught in the Boko Haram crossfire regained their freedom and settled temporarily in camps for internally displaced persons, IDPs. “In continuation of the clearance and mopping up operations of the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists in various parts of the North East geo-political region, troops have rescued no fewer than 11,595 persons held hostage by the terrorists within the last one month,” the army said in a statement signed by the Acting a Director of Army Public Relations, Sani Usman, yesterday.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/troops-rescue-11-595-hostages-boko-haram-dens/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/troops-rescue-11-595-hostages-boko-haram-dens/
Wednesday, 6 April 2016
First Casualty As Iceland's Prime Minister resigns over Panama papers offshore funds scandal
According to AP, The Prime Minister of Iceland, Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson, has resigned, becoming the first high profile casualty of the Panama Papers scandal.
After the news broke, Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson who was granting an interview to a journalist stormed out of the interview over the weekend , amid claims he used secret offshore firm Mossack Fonseca to hide millions of dollars as Iceland's economy collapsed.
Monday night, about 24,000 people gathered outside the parliament building demanding his resignation.
Mr Gunnlaugsson has resigned as Prime Minister, but says he will stay on as leader of the Progressive Party.
LIB
After the news broke, Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson who was granting an interview to a journalist stormed out of the interview over the weekend , amid claims he used secret offshore firm Mossack Fonseca to hide millions of dollars as Iceland's economy collapsed.
Monday night, about 24,000 people gathered outside the parliament building demanding his resignation.
Mr Gunnlaugsson has resigned as Prime Minister, but says he will stay on as leader of the Progressive Party.
LIB
Bye Bye to fuel scarcity as Ifeanyi Ubah’s Capital Oil commences 24-Hour Loading
According to a message sent out by Capital Oil and Gas to their customers and Nigerians, they aim at ending the fuel queues in a couple of days and have commenced 24-hour loading.
See the text below.
“
This is to inform our valued customers and the general public that NNPC has brought enough fuel cargoes into the country. Consequently, Capital Oil has commenced massive 24hours loading in a bid to meet NNPC’s target of eliminating fuel queues nationwide within the next few days. We also wish to discourage Nigerians from panic buying and hoarding while calling on everyone to stop patronizing the activities of black marketers. Support NNPC! Please share”
bellanaija
See the text below.
“
This is to inform our valued customers and the general public that NNPC has brought enough fuel cargoes into the country. Consequently, Capital Oil has commenced massive 24hours loading in a bid to meet NNPC’s target of eliminating fuel queues nationwide within the next few days. We also wish to discourage Nigerians from panic buying and hoarding while calling on everyone to stop patronizing the activities of black marketers. Support NNPC! Please share”
bellanaija
Drama as Aluko says reconciliation with Fayose was staged-managed
The drama characterising the politics of Ekiti State continued on Tuesday, as a former secretary of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, Dr. Temitope Aluko, denied reconciling with the state governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose.
According to Aluko, whi was shown in a video with Fayose on Monday allegedly to have settled their differences, said the alleged reconciliation was staged managed and an organised propaganda to stain his image and malign his integrity.
Aluko stated this in Lagos on Tuesday, whike addressing newsmen, adding that the purported reconciliation with Fayose was a script aimed at misinforming Nigerians.
According to the former PDP scribe, “One fact remains clear, there is nowhere that I, Temitope Aluko, refuted anything I have earlier said before Nigerians and the whole world about the manipulations that characterised the 2014 Governorship election in Ekiti State.
Read more through the link below
http://www.ripples.com.ng/drama-as-aluko-says-reconciliation-with-fayose-was-staged-managed/
According to Aluko, whi was shown in a video with Fayose on Monday allegedly to have settled their differences, said the alleged reconciliation was staged managed and an organised propaganda to stain his image and malign his integrity.
Aluko stated this in Lagos on Tuesday, whike addressing newsmen, adding that the purported reconciliation with Fayose was a script aimed at misinforming Nigerians.
According to the former PDP scribe, “One fact remains clear, there is nowhere that I, Temitope Aluko, refuted anything I have earlier said before Nigerians and the whole world about the manipulations that characterised the 2014 Governorship election in Ekiti State.
Read more through the link below
http://www.ripples.com.ng/drama-as-aluko-says-reconciliation-with-fayose-was-staged-managed/
Tuesday, 5 April 2016
Panama Papers: Mossack Fonseca 'helped firms subject to sanctions'
The Panama legal firm at the heart of a massive data leak kept clients who were subject to international sanctions, documents show.
Mossack Fonseca worked with 33 individuals or companies who have been placed under sanctions by the US Treasury, including companies based in Iran, Zimbabwe and North Korea.
One had links to North Korea's nuclear weapons programme.
The information comes from the leak of 11m of the company's internal files.
Mossack Fonseca registers companies as offshore entities operated under its own name. This meant the identities of the real owners were hard to trace because they were kept out of public documents.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-35959604
Mossack Fonseca worked with 33 individuals or companies who have been placed under sanctions by the US Treasury, including companies based in Iran, Zimbabwe and North Korea.
One had links to North Korea's nuclear weapons programme.
The information comes from the leak of 11m of the company's internal files.
Mossack Fonseca registers companies as offshore entities operated under its own name. This meant the identities of the real owners were hard to trace because they were kept out of public documents.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-35959604
Between Ayo Fayose and Yours Truly (Part 1)- by Femi Fani-Kayode
People often say that my friend and brother Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti state and I are giving the Buhari government a run for their money more than any other duo in the country.
Though he and I come from very different backgrounds and our approach and styles, when confronting issues, are very different they say that we are both deeply committed to our cause, we are both contentious and that we both have the courage of our convictions.
They also say we are both ready to pick up the gauntlet, champion the cause of our party and people and stand our ground when confronted by our adversaries or provoked into any fight.
There is no doubt about the fact that both Fayose and I are similar in some ways. We both draw immense strength from our respective christian testimonies and the power of our faith. We also both have a similar world-view and we both have a fair idea about who the real troublers of our nation, our faith and our people are.
We are both what we are because of what we have been subjected to by the system and the powers that be over the years and because of what we have both suffered and been through in the hands of those we once reverred, worked with and trusted. We are also both praying men who have loved ones and family that are strong in the faith and that pray hard and well.
I agree with the assesment of those that often compare us but there is a small caveat: I regard Fayose as being a populist- a rugged, grassroots leader of the suffering masses and a radical politician whilst I see myself more as a man of letters, a historian, a deep-thinker and a politically-active but cloistered intellectual.
Permit me to make a rather crude analogy and to indulge in a graphic and disturbing metaphor. In our long-drawn and protracted political battle and struggle for power he uses a thick and blunt cudgel to fight our enemies and batter them to death whilst I use a thin and sharp rapier with which I slowly carve them up, slice them to pieces and bleed them into eternity.
He crushes their bones with rage and brutal efficiency whilst I clinically cut them up with ruthless precision. Both methods are equally effective and both achieve their objectives.
Yet whatever our differences may be in terms of style, choice of weapon, method of battle, substance and approach they say that we have both courageously stood up to the Buhari government and that we have both defiantly spoken our minds about what is going on in our country today. Consequently they have described us both as ''lions and warriors''.
This is a very kind of them though, in all fairness, I believe that writers and columnists like Mr. Yinka Odumakin, Professor Femi Aribisala and Mr. Jude Ndukwe, politicians like Governor Seriake Dickson, Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Dr. Sulaiman Olanrewaju Abubakar (the former Minister of National Planning), bloggers like Mr. Deji Adeyanju and Mrs. Aziza Uko, journalists like Mr. Shaka Momodu and Mr. Yemi Adebowale and countless others fall into that "lion" category as well. They have also displayed immense courage. It is not just Ayo Fayose and yours truly.
Some of our friends have also pointed out that all that we said about President Buhari and the APC during the Presidential campaign last year has proved to be prophetic. All these kind words and this rather generous assessment and categorization of both Fayose and I is very encouraging and I appreciate them.
Unlike in other nations where vocal opposition is encouraged and regarded as an essential part of democracy and an effective way of keeping those in power on their toes, when one sticks ones neck out for their country and people and is loud in their opposition to government in this part of the world it is a thankless, unappreciated, lonely and dangerous road.
And sadly, more often than not, one is mocked, shunned, despised, hated, misunderstood, persecuted, maligned, insulted and misrepresented for taking it.
This is especially so when one is dealing with a callous and ruthless government, like we have in our country today. We are being led by a group of people who have a hidden agenda, who hate their perceived enemies and detractors, who are inherently incompetent and who are manifestly unjust.
We are burdened with a government who cannot abide criticism, who are scared of their own shadow, who have no decency or honor and who have failed in all their ways.
We are saddled with a leadership who have offended God and man, who have ruined our nation, who have impoverished our people, who are bereft of ideas and who are hell bent on intimidating the opposition and silencing the voice of truth.
I am touched by the words of those that are encouraging those of us that have chosen to take that road of vocal and virile opposition and this is especially so because I have tremendous respect and affection for Ayo Fayose and I consider him to be one of our brightest rising stars in the south west.
His name is Peter, like the Rock in the Holy Bible, and he cannot be shaken. He is a strong man of faith, a trusted and loyal friend and I am proud to be mentioned in the same breath as him.
Yet it is not me that says, writes and does these things that people find so amazing and courageous but rather He that is in me. It is a gift from God and that gift is known as the Holy Spirit.
He gives us foresight, insight, sensitivity, a word for the season and the ability to endure any form of persecution and hardship and still stand strong.
He gives us the ability to cultivate a firm resolve, to think things through clearly, to wait on Him and to have patience.
He also gives us immense courage, especially when under fire. As a matter of fact the more the fire burns, the more the courage rages. This is what is generally referred to as "Christian fury" and it is a deep and inexplicable mystery.
I am sure that I can speak for Fayose on that too because the same applies to him. It is not he that says and does the things that he says and does but the Holy Spirit of the Living God that is in him.
My brother Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo state, the Iroko of the Western Region, has the same gift even though he is a little more restrained, tempered and gentle.
He is also a devout and practicing Christian and his sense of maturity, wisdom and civility does not make him any less effective. A consummate and experienced politician and leader: he is truly formidable in all his ways.
If any discerning politician sits with Mimiko for ten minutes or more he will know that the Holy Spirit flows through him like water flows through an estuary or a stream.
He is a profoundly good man: a man of power and strength but he couples it with deep compassion and a sense of equity, decency and fairness that is rarely seen in our shores.
Back to Ayo Fayose and yours truly. In all our adventures there is one difference between the Governor of Ekiti state and I which many fail to appreciate. Under our laws, because he is a serving Governor, he has immunity from arrest and prosecution but I do not.
He has the people of Ekiti state solidly behind him to applaud and support his every word and move but I do not. He has the machinery and power of a whole state government and a State House of Assembly to fight for him but I do not.
He has the friendship and support of all his fellow PDP Governors and the party leadership but I do not. Unlike him my defence is purely spiritual yet that is more than enough to guarantee my safety and well-being. That is more than enough to comfort me and give me strength and victory.
I do not have all the physical and constitutional protection that he has and I don't need it. I only have God yet He is more than enough for me. I only have my faith yet that faith continues to move mountains for me.
I only have the Lord's sure word and promise yet that sure word and promise is worth more than a thousand armies and all the gold, silver and power in the world because it never fails. I only have His love, His grace, His blessing and His mercy yet it never falters. I am bold, confident and strong because the Lord is with me.
One thing I should add is this- if Ayo Fayose were not Governor of Ekiti state nothing would change and he would still be the lion that he is. It is not the office that makes the man but the man that makes the office. If he were not Governor he would still be as virulent and courageous in his attacks against injustice and this unjust government as he is today. That is what makes the difference between him and others. He is Ayo Fayose and, like Peter the Rock, nothing moves him. (TO BE CONTINUED).
Though he and I come from very different backgrounds and our approach and styles, when confronting issues, are very different they say that we are both deeply committed to our cause, we are both contentious and that we both have the courage of our convictions.
They also say we are both ready to pick up the gauntlet, champion the cause of our party and people and stand our ground when confronted by our adversaries or provoked into any fight.
There is no doubt about the fact that both Fayose and I are similar in some ways. We both draw immense strength from our respective christian testimonies and the power of our faith. We also both have a similar world-view and we both have a fair idea about who the real troublers of our nation, our faith and our people are.
We are both what we are because of what we have been subjected to by the system and the powers that be over the years and because of what we have both suffered and been through in the hands of those we once reverred, worked with and trusted. We are also both praying men who have loved ones and family that are strong in the faith and that pray hard and well.
I agree with the assesment of those that often compare us but there is a small caveat: I regard Fayose as being a populist- a rugged, grassroots leader of the suffering masses and a radical politician whilst I see myself more as a man of letters, a historian, a deep-thinker and a politically-active but cloistered intellectual.
Permit me to make a rather crude analogy and to indulge in a graphic and disturbing metaphor. In our long-drawn and protracted political battle and struggle for power he uses a thick and blunt cudgel to fight our enemies and batter them to death whilst I use a thin and sharp rapier with which I slowly carve them up, slice them to pieces and bleed them into eternity.
He crushes their bones with rage and brutal efficiency whilst I clinically cut them up with ruthless precision. Both methods are equally effective and both achieve their objectives.
Yet whatever our differences may be in terms of style, choice of weapon, method of battle, substance and approach they say that we have both courageously stood up to the Buhari government and that we have both defiantly spoken our minds about what is going on in our country today. Consequently they have described us both as ''lions and warriors''.
This is a very kind of them though, in all fairness, I believe that writers and columnists like Mr. Yinka Odumakin, Professor Femi Aribisala and Mr. Jude Ndukwe, politicians like Governor Seriake Dickson, Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Dr. Sulaiman Olanrewaju Abubakar (the former Minister of National Planning), bloggers like Mr. Deji Adeyanju and Mrs. Aziza Uko, journalists like Mr. Shaka Momodu and Mr. Yemi Adebowale and countless others fall into that "lion" category as well. They have also displayed immense courage. It is not just Ayo Fayose and yours truly.
Some of our friends have also pointed out that all that we said about President Buhari and the APC during the Presidential campaign last year has proved to be prophetic. All these kind words and this rather generous assessment and categorization of both Fayose and I is very encouraging and I appreciate them.
Unlike in other nations where vocal opposition is encouraged and regarded as an essential part of democracy and an effective way of keeping those in power on their toes, when one sticks ones neck out for their country and people and is loud in their opposition to government in this part of the world it is a thankless, unappreciated, lonely and dangerous road.
And sadly, more often than not, one is mocked, shunned, despised, hated, misunderstood, persecuted, maligned, insulted and misrepresented for taking it.
This is especially so when one is dealing with a callous and ruthless government, like we have in our country today. We are being led by a group of people who have a hidden agenda, who hate their perceived enemies and detractors, who are inherently incompetent and who are manifestly unjust.
We are burdened with a government who cannot abide criticism, who are scared of their own shadow, who have no decency or honor and who have failed in all their ways.
We are saddled with a leadership who have offended God and man, who have ruined our nation, who have impoverished our people, who are bereft of ideas and who are hell bent on intimidating the opposition and silencing the voice of truth.
I am touched by the words of those that are encouraging those of us that have chosen to take that road of vocal and virile opposition and this is especially so because I have tremendous respect and affection for Ayo Fayose and I consider him to be one of our brightest rising stars in the south west.
His name is Peter, like the Rock in the Holy Bible, and he cannot be shaken. He is a strong man of faith, a trusted and loyal friend and I am proud to be mentioned in the same breath as him.
Yet it is not me that says, writes and does these things that people find so amazing and courageous but rather He that is in me. It is a gift from God and that gift is known as the Holy Spirit.
He gives us foresight, insight, sensitivity, a word for the season and the ability to endure any form of persecution and hardship and still stand strong.
He gives us the ability to cultivate a firm resolve, to think things through clearly, to wait on Him and to have patience.
He also gives us immense courage, especially when under fire. As a matter of fact the more the fire burns, the more the courage rages. This is what is generally referred to as "Christian fury" and it is a deep and inexplicable mystery.
I am sure that I can speak for Fayose on that too because the same applies to him. It is not he that says and does the things that he says and does but the Holy Spirit of the Living God that is in him.
My brother Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo state, the Iroko of the Western Region, has the same gift even though he is a little more restrained, tempered and gentle.
He is also a devout and practicing Christian and his sense of maturity, wisdom and civility does not make him any less effective. A consummate and experienced politician and leader: he is truly formidable in all his ways.
If any discerning politician sits with Mimiko for ten minutes or more he will know that the Holy Spirit flows through him like water flows through an estuary or a stream.
He is a profoundly good man: a man of power and strength but he couples it with deep compassion and a sense of equity, decency and fairness that is rarely seen in our shores.
Back to Ayo Fayose and yours truly. In all our adventures there is one difference between the Governor of Ekiti state and I which many fail to appreciate. Under our laws, because he is a serving Governor, he has immunity from arrest and prosecution but I do not.
He has the people of Ekiti state solidly behind him to applaud and support his every word and move but I do not. He has the machinery and power of a whole state government and a State House of Assembly to fight for him but I do not.
He has the friendship and support of all his fellow PDP Governors and the party leadership but I do not. Unlike him my defence is purely spiritual yet that is more than enough to guarantee my safety and well-being. That is more than enough to comfort me and give me strength and victory.
I do not have all the physical and constitutional protection that he has and I don't need it. I only have God yet He is more than enough for me. I only have my faith yet that faith continues to move mountains for me.
I only have the Lord's sure word and promise yet that sure word and promise is worth more than a thousand armies and all the gold, silver and power in the world because it never fails. I only have His love, His grace, His blessing and His mercy yet it never falters. I am bold, confident and strong because the Lord is with me.
One thing I should add is this- if Ayo Fayose were not Governor of Ekiti state nothing would change and he would still be the lion that he is. It is not the office that makes the man but the man that makes the office. If he were not Governor he would still be as virulent and courageous in his attacks against injustice and this unjust government as he is today. That is what makes the difference between him and others. He is Ayo Fayose and, like Peter the Rock, nothing moves him. (TO BE CONTINUED).
Monday, 4 April 2016
PDP responsible for fuel scarcity, says Tinubu
The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has asked Nigerians to hold the Peoples Democratic Party responsible for the ongoing fuel scarcity across the country.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Saturday, Tinubu said the PDP destroyed Nigeria during its 16-year rule.
The APC chieftain said the PDP refused to pursue what was necessary for the growth and development of the country.
He said, “We want to stay focused and redirect Nigeria. We want to reverse the decay of 16 years. We are hearing comments from the PDP left and right. We are saying we want to clear the mess they created. For 16 good years, the PDP destroyed the country. We should not be lamenting over petrol queues today if they had seen what was necessary and done what was necessary for this country.
“We can’t be emotional and live in self-denial. They should have done the Awolowo Road and the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway. If they put priority on our railroad, if they put priority on electricity generation and distribution, we will not be in this mess today.”
http://www.punchng.com/pdp-responsible-for-fuel-scarcity-says-tinubu/
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Saturday, Tinubu said the PDP destroyed Nigeria during its 16-year rule.
The APC chieftain said the PDP refused to pursue what was necessary for the growth and development of the country.
He said, “We want to stay focused and redirect Nigeria. We want to reverse the decay of 16 years. We are hearing comments from the PDP left and right. We are saying we want to clear the mess they created. For 16 good years, the PDP destroyed the country. We should not be lamenting over petrol queues today if they had seen what was necessary and done what was necessary for this country.
“We can’t be emotional and live in self-denial. They should have done the Awolowo Road and the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway. If they put priority on our railroad, if they put priority on electricity generation and distribution, we will not be in this mess today.”
http://www.punchng.com/pdp-responsible-for-fuel-scarcity-says-tinubu/
Reuben Abati :A Country In Search Of A Miracle
Abati is out again with another interesting piece. Enjoy as you read along.
“You look tired”
“Ha, my brother. Thanks for being observant. I have been trekking.”
“Trekking?”
“I went to buy fuel at that fuel station by the Estate gate. I had to abandon the car there. On my way back home, I could not find okada or any other form of transportation.”
"No wonder you are sweating.”
“All the tricyclists and the okada people claim they have no fuel.”
“It is good for you big men to have a taste of what poor people go through. This fuel scarcity is an effective leveler. It is no respecter of persons.”
“I can’t wait for April 7 to come.”
“What’s special about April 7?”
“That’s the day we are told this scarcity will end, and there will be no more scarcity of petroleum products.”
“You mean a government official actually made such a promise?”
“Yes”
“Then, that official still has a lot to learn. In this kind of matter, you must never give a deadline because you never know. Nigerians will record the date, pretend to be optimistic and wait for you. If you don’t deliver on the said date, you will be branded an incompetent liar!”
“Really?”
“Trust me. Never set a deadline. Never say things such as we will put an end to the Boko Haram menace by June ending. We will deliver 10, 000 MW of electricity by December, and there will be fuel across the country by so-so-and-so date?”
“But I think April 7 is a sure date”
“I like your optimism. You mean by April 7, the pipeline vandals would have stopped stealing?”
“Some concerned Nigerians, particularly Pastors, I understand have been helping the Federal Government to appeal to vandals. They have been telling the vandals that it is not a good thing to steal petrol that belongs to all of us.”
“You want to stop oil theft and pipeline vandalism by preaching? Does anyone know who the vandals are?”
“You know we are a religious nation. When everything fails, we preach. I won’t be surprised to hear that any pipeline vandal who repents will be recommended for a National Honour!”
“In that case, what are you still doing here? You too should become a pipeline vandal, repent and get honoured. Or you don’t want a national honour?”
“Actually, I’d rather ask the vandals to give me fuel from their private depots, so I won’t have to face the stress of looking for fuel.”
“But I thought we were depending on the importation of refined petroleum products. Where are the major marketers?”
“They are there, but they say they can’t help because market forces are now obeying command-and-control, centralized orders which are not good for business.”
“I know. I know. The climate has changed. There is no more free money to share in the name of subsidy. Let the marketers continue to grumble. You know, sometimes I actually feel that if the NNPC can quickly get its acts together and Nigerians can endure a little, this may actually be our opportunity to free Nigerians from the threat of oil marketers.”
“What threat? The marketers are doing business. If the refineries work and fuel supply across the country is well managed, we should not be in this situation. If you frustrate the marketers, whose crime is that they feed off state inefficiency, and you have no alternative in place, this is what you get. The issue is also one of ideological confusion between capitalism and socialism.”
“It is a shame that at a time the international price of crude oil is dropping, Nigerians are having to pay an arm and a leg to get fuel. Right now, a litre of fuel is about N250”.
“It’s more. That is if you get it to buy.”
“Wait a moment. You are panting. What’s that wheezing sound? You may need to see a doctor.”
“I can’t remember when last I trekked.”
“Fuel scarcity is good for you then?”
“How can this suffering be good for anybody? Do you know how many families are now treating heat rash? Not to talk of hundreds of Nigerians who have died looking for fuel?”
“Just see a doctor. If you trek for about 1,000 metres and you are now looking like you want to pass out, then for you fuel scarcity is a major help. If you didn’t have to look for fuel, you’d be dying slowly and you may never know. I think every big man should in fact go look for fuel and trek a little, and listen to the people on the street. Good exercise.”
“You must be joking”
“Well, as it is, it is the poor who are benefitting from the crisis. Many lower class Nigerians now trek to work. They can’t afford the high cost of transportation, so they just hit the road with their feet.”
“You must be kidding me”.
“Two days ago, I saw a long stretch of trekkers, returning from work, moving from Victoria Island to the Mainland, looking like they have accepted their fate.”
“Too much trekking can kill.”
“Looks like that former Minister who once recommended that Nigerians should use the bicycle is about to be vindicated at last. The bicycle will be our best bet under the circumstances.”
“Stop being funny. Families will use the bicycle to take children to school? Or Madam will go to the market riding a bicycle?”
“Nigerians must learn to embrace change. Our problem is that we don’t always see the good sides of everything. Are you aware that this fuel scarcity crisis has created many jobs?”
“You mean it has resulted in many job losses. With the rise in the cost of goods and services, many companies have had to lay off staff. If you spend half of your profit on generating electricity and buying fuel at cut-throat rates, you’d have sooner or later to cut costs. The first casualties are the workers. Even big companies can no longer pay salaries. Small and medium scale enterprises are folding up.”
“In your estate?”
“What do you mean in my estate?”
“Because you see in this life, when some people are crying, some people are smiling. All those boys selling black market fuel in jerry cans by the roadside, I hear they are praying that there should always be fuel scarcity. Many of them are now multi-millionaires.”
“Profiting from other people’s agony. Is that your understanding of how a proper economy works?”
“I am an optimist. Those boys selling fuel are very happy. If there is regular supply of fuel tomorrow, they wont’ be happy.”
“Please stop this cynicism.”
“Cynicism? Look, if this thing continues beyond April 7, don’t be surprised if you see me by the roadside also hawking fuel in jerry cans. I will add some swag to my own; organize the jerry cans nicely and put up a visible sign-board with the inscription: NNPC Mega Station! I have been making enquiries.”
“Your mates are aspiring to own fuel stations, become major marketers, or even own oil fields, your ambition is to sell fuel in jerry cans.”
“Some of those boys selling fuel in jerry cans are university graduates. I did my research. You do yours.”
“You are exaggerating”
“No, I am not. You mean you have not seen Ph.D holders in this country who are working as drivers or running pepper soup joints or selling pure water? You better change your mentality. My friend, try and change.”
“It is not that bad, please.”
“Okay. Are you aware that many graduates are ready to join the Nigeria Police as constables? And they will be glad to be posted to checkpoints where they can check vehicle particulars, and the pockets of motorists.”
“Pockets?”
“Yes. Why do you think there has been such a massive rush for jobs in the Nigeria Police. The Police recently placed an advert asking for applications. The two websites for online application crashed within 4 hours.”
“Wonderful.”
“They are looking for just 10, 000 new recruits. They received more than 8, 000 applications within one hour. If the portals did not crash, there would have been over a million applications.”
“Na wa o”
“Na wa ya o. We really need a miracle to happen.”
“No fuel. No electricity. No rainfall, either, as if God is holding on to the rains. Everywhere is so hot. I hardly sleep at night.”
“I still think you should see the doctor. And luckily for you, you may not have to pay the hospital.”
“How do you mean?”
“The Minister of Health has just directed all teaching hospitals and government-owned hospitals to treat patients free of charge.”
“Indigent patients or every patient?”
“We are all indigent, my friend.”
“But I don’t know why you take the Minister serious. You and I know he is just talking. No hospital will listen to him. And by the way, is he in a position to give such directives to state-owned hospitals? Even the ones owned by the Federal Government, do they have enough funds to embark on free healthcare? Government officials just must talk.”
“You can’t say that until you find out.”
“No. I don’t need to find out. I know.”
“Just take care of your health. I don’t want it said that you slumped while looking for fuel.”
“I’ll be fine”.
“Nigeria too will be fine. You remember that baby girl who was shown looking malnourished, and emaciated four months ago. Adacheka. And the boy now called Hope who was found in Akwa Ibom, left for dead, emaciated and sickly, in January. When I see the pictures of both children and how they have been saved, I think of our country, Nigeria. Miracles still happen.”
“I don’t believe in miracles any more.”
“Why not? Nigeria will soon start operating on nuclear energy level.”
“Really? People look for miracles when they are desperate or losing hope. In football, for example, Nigerians are looking for miracles right now. The Super Eagles have disappointed the nation. Indigenous coaches have failed us. From Stephen Keshi, to Austin Eguavoen, Samson Siasia and Sunday Oliseh, no hits, back to back, all na failure.”
“You don’t become a successful coach and manager just because you once captained a team. You need technical skills. You need the right people.”
“That-is-the-point!”
“You look tired”
“Ha, my brother. Thanks for being observant. I have been trekking.”
“Trekking?”
“I went to buy fuel at that fuel station by the Estate gate. I had to abandon the car there. On my way back home, I could not find okada or any other form of transportation.”
"No wonder you are sweating.”
“All the tricyclists and the okada people claim they have no fuel.”
“It is good for you big men to have a taste of what poor people go through. This fuel scarcity is an effective leveler. It is no respecter of persons.”
“I can’t wait for April 7 to come.”
“What’s special about April 7?”
“That’s the day we are told this scarcity will end, and there will be no more scarcity of petroleum products.”
“You mean a government official actually made such a promise?”
“Yes”
“Then, that official still has a lot to learn. In this kind of matter, you must never give a deadline because you never know. Nigerians will record the date, pretend to be optimistic and wait for you. If you don’t deliver on the said date, you will be branded an incompetent liar!”
“Really?”
“Trust me. Never set a deadline. Never say things such as we will put an end to the Boko Haram menace by June ending. We will deliver 10, 000 MW of electricity by December, and there will be fuel across the country by so-so-and-so date?”
“But I think April 7 is a sure date”
“I like your optimism. You mean by April 7, the pipeline vandals would have stopped stealing?”
“Some concerned Nigerians, particularly Pastors, I understand have been helping the Federal Government to appeal to vandals. They have been telling the vandals that it is not a good thing to steal petrol that belongs to all of us.”
“You want to stop oil theft and pipeline vandalism by preaching? Does anyone know who the vandals are?”
“You know we are a religious nation. When everything fails, we preach. I won’t be surprised to hear that any pipeline vandal who repents will be recommended for a National Honour!”
“In that case, what are you still doing here? You too should become a pipeline vandal, repent and get honoured. Or you don’t want a national honour?”
“Actually, I’d rather ask the vandals to give me fuel from their private depots, so I won’t have to face the stress of looking for fuel.”
“But I thought we were depending on the importation of refined petroleum products. Where are the major marketers?”
“They are there, but they say they can’t help because market forces are now obeying command-and-control, centralized orders which are not good for business.”
“I know. I know. The climate has changed. There is no more free money to share in the name of subsidy. Let the marketers continue to grumble. You know, sometimes I actually feel that if the NNPC can quickly get its acts together and Nigerians can endure a little, this may actually be our opportunity to free Nigerians from the threat of oil marketers.”
“What threat? The marketers are doing business. If the refineries work and fuel supply across the country is well managed, we should not be in this situation. If you frustrate the marketers, whose crime is that they feed off state inefficiency, and you have no alternative in place, this is what you get. The issue is also one of ideological confusion between capitalism and socialism.”
“It is a shame that at a time the international price of crude oil is dropping, Nigerians are having to pay an arm and a leg to get fuel. Right now, a litre of fuel is about N250”.
“It’s more. That is if you get it to buy.”
“Wait a moment. You are panting. What’s that wheezing sound? You may need to see a doctor.”
“I can’t remember when last I trekked.”
“Fuel scarcity is good for you then?”
“How can this suffering be good for anybody? Do you know how many families are now treating heat rash? Not to talk of hundreds of Nigerians who have died looking for fuel?”
“Just see a doctor. If you trek for about 1,000 metres and you are now looking like you want to pass out, then for you fuel scarcity is a major help. If you didn’t have to look for fuel, you’d be dying slowly and you may never know. I think every big man should in fact go look for fuel and trek a little, and listen to the people on the street. Good exercise.”
“You must be joking”
“Well, as it is, it is the poor who are benefitting from the crisis. Many lower class Nigerians now trek to work. They can’t afford the high cost of transportation, so they just hit the road with their feet.”
“You must be kidding me”.
“Two days ago, I saw a long stretch of trekkers, returning from work, moving from Victoria Island to the Mainland, looking like they have accepted their fate.”
“Too much trekking can kill.”
“Looks like that former Minister who once recommended that Nigerians should use the bicycle is about to be vindicated at last. The bicycle will be our best bet under the circumstances.”
“Stop being funny. Families will use the bicycle to take children to school? Or Madam will go to the market riding a bicycle?”
“Nigerians must learn to embrace change. Our problem is that we don’t always see the good sides of everything. Are you aware that this fuel scarcity crisis has created many jobs?”
“You mean it has resulted in many job losses. With the rise in the cost of goods and services, many companies have had to lay off staff. If you spend half of your profit on generating electricity and buying fuel at cut-throat rates, you’d have sooner or later to cut costs. The first casualties are the workers. Even big companies can no longer pay salaries. Small and medium scale enterprises are folding up.”
“In your estate?”
“What do you mean in my estate?”
“Because you see in this life, when some people are crying, some people are smiling. All those boys selling black market fuel in jerry cans by the roadside, I hear they are praying that there should always be fuel scarcity. Many of them are now multi-millionaires.”
“Profiting from other people’s agony. Is that your understanding of how a proper economy works?”
“I am an optimist. Those boys selling fuel are very happy. If there is regular supply of fuel tomorrow, they wont’ be happy.”
“Please stop this cynicism.”
“Cynicism? Look, if this thing continues beyond April 7, don’t be surprised if you see me by the roadside also hawking fuel in jerry cans. I will add some swag to my own; organize the jerry cans nicely and put up a visible sign-board with the inscription: NNPC Mega Station! I have been making enquiries.”
“Your mates are aspiring to own fuel stations, become major marketers, or even own oil fields, your ambition is to sell fuel in jerry cans.”
“Some of those boys selling fuel in jerry cans are university graduates. I did my research. You do yours.”
“You are exaggerating”
“No, I am not. You mean you have not seen Ph.D holders in this country who are working as drivers or running pepper soup joints or selling pure water? You better change your mentality. My friend, try and change.”
“It is not that bad, please.”
“Okay. Are you aware that many graduates are ready to join the Nigeria Police as constables? And they will be glad to be posted to checkpoints where they can check vehicle particulars, and the pockets of motorists.”
“Pockets?”
“Yes. Why do you think there has been such a massive rush for jobs in the Nigeria Police. The Police recently placed an advert asking for applications. The two websites for online application crashed within 4 hours.”
“Wonderful.”
“They are looking for just 10, 000 new recruits. They received more than 8, 000 applications within one hour. If the portals did not crash, there would have been over a million applications.”
“Na wa o”
“Na wa ya o. We really need a miracle to happen.”
“No fuel. No electricity. No rainfall, either, as if God is holding on to the rains. Everywhere is so hot. I hardly sleep at night.”
“I still think you should see the doctor. And luckily for you, you may not have to pay the hospital.”
“How do you mean?”
“The Minister of Health has just directed all teaching hospitals and government-owned hospitals to treat patients free of charge.”
“Indigent patients or every patient?”
“We are all indigent, my friend.”
“But I don’t know why you take the Minister serious. You and I know he is just talking. No hospital will listen to him. And by the way, is he in a position to give such directives to state-owned hospitals? Even the ones owned by the Federal Government, do they have enough funds to embark on free healthcare? Government officials just must talk.”
“You can’t say that until you find out.”
“No. I don’t need to find out. I know.”
“Just take care of your health. I don’t want it said that you slumped while looking for fuel.”
“I’ll be fine”.
“Nigeria too will be fine. You remember that baby girl who was shown looking malnourished, and emaciated four months ago. Adacheka. And the boy now called Hope who was found in Akwa Ibom, left for dead, emaciated and sickly, in January. When I see the pictures of both children and how they have been saved, I think of our country, Nigeria. Miracles still happen.”
“I don’t believe in miracles any more.”
“Why not? Nigeria will soon start operating on nuclear energy level.”
“Really? People look for miracles when they are desperate or losing hope. In football, for example, Nigerians are looking for miracles right now. The Super Eagles have disappointed the nation. Indigenous coaches have failed us. From Stephen Keshi, to Austin Eguavoen, Samson Siasia and Sunday Oliseh, no hits, back to back, all na failure.”
“You don’t become a successful coach and manager just because you once captained a team. You need technical skills. You need the right people.”
“That-is-the-point!”
Sunday, 3 April 2016
Exclusive: I did not sleep with your manager! Linda Ikeji fires back at Wizkid
Ghen Ghen.. This is the beginning....... Wizkid VS LindaIkeji.. Let me do a bit brief summary.. Linda Ikeji once posted about Wizkid baby mama which did not go down well with him.. Later within that week Wizkid takes a swipe at Linda on his twitter page that with her money she's still single.... Just few days ago, Linda Ikeji run an exclusive info that Wizkid has been given quick notice on his suppose bought house in Lekki which Linda Ikeji said it's a lie that Wizkid actually rented the house and he has started moving out. What now break the camels back was that Wizkid wrote on Linda Ikeji's IG page that "she is a bitch and her pu**y stinks that his manager bangs her in hotel room and that she likes she can hide at the back of her laptop that he will ask his 16 years old brother to beat Linda Ikeji. Anyway, Linda Ikeji has addressed the issue today and said she did not sleep with WizKid's manager and very soon she will soon marry. Smiles.. Let's stay close as more revelations keeps unfolding.
By Adefemi
By Adefemi
Iwobi outshines Ighalo as Watford go down
Nigeria youngster Alex Iwobi outshone fellow Super Eagles star Odion Ighalo after he scored in Arsenal 4-0 win to further endanger Watford’s survival hopes in the Premier League. Arsenal put on a show. They toyed with Watford. They humiliated them. They passed and they passed and they passed. They let Watford chase shadows and drove them to distraction. They played as if they were in the fun bit at the end of a training session. Which, in some ways, they are. At the centre of it all was Nigerian international, Alex Iwobi, whose appearance for Nigeria was limited after he recovered from food poisoning on international duty last week, struck after 38 minutes courtesy of an assist by Alexis Sanchez, who laid the ball into the path of the youngster who only had to slide home from inside the box.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/iwobi-outshines-ighalo-watford-go/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/04/iwobi-outshines-ighalo-watford-go/
Saturday, 2 April 2016
Must Read: A Crow lived in the Forest
Enjoy this piece I find it inspiring
A Crow lived in the Forest and was absolutely satisfied in life. But one day he saw a Swan... This Swan is so white and I am so black.. Crow thought. This Swan must be the happiest bird in the world. He expressed his thoughts to the Swan. "Actually," the Swan replied, "I was feeling that I was the happiest bird around until I saw a Parrot, which has two colours. I now think the Parrot is the happiest bird in creation." The Crow then approached the Parrot The Parrot explained, "I lived a very happy life— until I saw a Peacock. I have only two colours, but the Peacock has multiple colours." The Crow then visited a Peacock in the zoo and saw that hundreds of people had gathered to see him. After the people had left, The Crow approached the Peacock.. Dear Peacock, You are so beautiful. Every day thousands of people come to see you. When people see me, they immediately shove me away. I think you are the happiest bird on the planet. The Peacock replied, I always thought that I was the most beautiful and happy bird on the planet. But because of my beauty, I am entrapped in this zoo. I have examined the zoo very carefully, and I have realized that the Crow is the only bird not kept in a cage. So for the past few days I have been thinking that if I were a Crow, I could happily roam everywhere.
That's our problem too. We make unnecessary comparison with others and become sad. We don't value what God has given us. This all leads to the vicious cycle of unhappiness. Let's value the things God has given us. Learn the secret of being happy and discard the comparison which leads only to unhappiness. Learn to thank God for everything. Beauty is not a guarantee to marriage. Falling sick does not mean you are about to die. Getting rich is not the definition of prosperity. Building a nice house is not enjoying luxury. Sleeping on an expensive bed does not bring you sound sleep. Driving a new car is not a guarantee that you're going to arrive at your destination. Wearing the best clothes does not mean they look good on you. Having a family doctor does not guarantee permanent health. Being highly educated is not a sign of wisdom. Marrying from a rich home does not guarantee a happy marriage. Winning an argument does not mean that you are correct. Whatever is done without the merit of Heaven is fake or temporal. He who builds without God, is building for nothing; and he who watches over a city without God, watches in vain. Not everything is possible with men. Yet everything is possible with God. Stay blessed and be contented with what God has given to you!
Have a blessed weekend, dear beloved!!!
A Crow lived in the Forest and was absolutely satisfied in life. But one day he saw a Swan... This Swan is so white and I am so black.. Crow thought. This Swan must be the happiest bird in the world. He expressed his thoughts to the Swan. "Actually," the Swan replied, "I was feeling that I was the happiest bird around until I saw a Parrot, which has two colours. I now think the Parrot is the happiest bird in creation." The Crow then approached the Parrot The Parrot explained, "I lived a very happy life— until I saw a Peacock. I have only two colours, but the Peacock has multiple colours." The Crow then visited a Peacock in the zoo and saw that hundreds of people had gathered to see him. After the people had left, The Crow approached the Peacock.. Dear Peacock, You are so beautiful. Every day thousands of people come to see you. When people see me, they immediately shove me away. I think you are the happiest bird on the planet. The Peacock replied, I always thought that I was the most beautiful and happy bird on the planet. But because of my beauty, I am entrapped in this zoo. I have examined the zoo very carefully, and I have realized that the Crow is the only bird not kept in a cage. So for the past few days I have been thinking that if I were a Crow, I could happily roam everywhere.
That's our problem too. We make unnecessary comparison with others and become sad. We don't value what God has given us. This all leads to the vicious cycle of unhappiness. Let's value the things God has given us. Learn the secret of being happy and discard the comparison which leads only to unhappiness. Learn to thank God for everything. Beauty is not a guarantee to marriage. Falling sick does not mean you are about to die. Getting rich is not the definition of prosperity. Building a nice house is not enjoying luxury. Sleeping on an expensive bed does not bring you sound sleep. Driving a new car is not a guarantee that you're going to arrive at your destination. Wearing the best clothes does not mean they look good on you. Having a family doctor does not guarantee permanent health. Being highly educated is not a sign of wisdom. Marrying from a rich home does not guarantee a happy marriage. Winning an argument does not mean that you are correct. Whatever is done without the merit of Heaven is fake or temporal. He who builds without God, is building for nothing; and he who watches over a city without God, watches in vain. Not everything is possible with men. Yet everything is possible with God. Stay blessed and be contented with what God has given to you!
Have a blessed weekend, dear beloved!!!
Friday, 1 April 2016
HAPPY NEW MONTH TO YOU ALL
God has the best plans for us and as we focus on this new month, his mercies will never depart from us. To all my esteemed readers! THIS APRIL-You will not experience failure of health - Sickness will not syphon d gains of your struggles-Assurance of Divine Peace will escort you - HAPPY NEW MONTH
Thursday, 31 March 2016
Amazing! Given 18 months to live, read how this man cured his own life using
When humans are faced with death, their will to live is tested to the maximum. The scenario can be anything, an accident, an effort to hurt you or it may be anything, even a deadly disease.
David Hibbitt of Staffordshire, U.K was faced with the dreaded truth of doctors giving him just 18 months to live. Hibbitt suffered from bowel cancer and despite going through chemotherapy and radiation treatment, his health showed no signs of progress. In a desperate measure, Hibbitt decided to turn to an unconventional method in a hope to cure his cancer.
David Hibbitt’s ordeal
David Hibbitt is a 33 year old resident of Staffordshire, U.K, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in July 2012. He underwent all the possible treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation treatment and even surgery in order to try and cure his cancer. The doctors removed his large bowel in an attempt to stem the spread of cancer.
But even after such efforts, the doctors saw no improvement in David’s health. The doctors told him that the cancer was terminal and gave him 18 months to live. As a husband and father to a son, Hibbitt decided to try something alternative in order to save himself.
trendingpost
David Hibbitt of Staffordshire, U.K was faced with the dreaded truth of doctors giving him just 18 months to live. Hibbitt suffered from bowel cancer and despite going through chemotherapy and radiation treatment, his health showed no signs of progress. In a desperate measure, Hibbitt decided to turn to an unconventional method in a hope to cure his cancer.
David Hibbitt’s ordeal
David Hibbitt is a 33 year old resident of Staffordshire, U.K, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in July 2012. He underwent all the possible treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation treatment and even surgery in order to try and cure his cancer. The doctors removed his large bowel in an attempt to stem the spread of cancer.
But even after such efforts, the doctors saw no improvement in David’s health. The doctors told him that the cancer was terminal and gave him 18 months to live. As a husband and father to a son, Hibbitt decided to try something alternative in order to save himself.
trendingpost
It’s foreign coach or I quit Says Amanju Pinnick
Siasia returns to U-23 By Tony Ubani who was in Egypt President of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Melvin Amaju Pinnick has threatened to quit his position if Nigeria does not hire a foreign coach for the Super Eagles.PinnickPinnick A distraught Pinnick who watched the Eagles fail again to qualify for the 2017 African Cup of Nations coming up in Gabon promised to hire a foreign manager for the Eagles in two weeks time. ”There is nothing to worry about the payment of salary for the foreign manager. His wages is going to be taken care of by the private sector. We’ve concluded that and it will not cost Government anything”. Pinnick came under severe attacks from Nigerians the first time he muted the idea of a foreign coach after former Manager, Sunday Oliseh quit. The attack from prominent Nigerians and indigenous coaches was much that many condemned Pinnick for trying to distract interim coach Samson Siasia who needed encouragement as he prepared for the first match against the Pharaohs of Egypt. But after watching the Eagles succumb 1-0 to Egypt, a defeat that practically knocked off Nigeria from the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations even with a match to go, Pinnick said that there was no going back on the employment of foreign manager for the Eagles.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/foreign-coach-quit-pinnick/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/foreign-coach-quit-pinnick/
Donald Trump Backtracks On His Abortion Policy
Trump says punish women for illegal abortions, then back-tracks
Presidential candidate Donald Trump briefly called for "some form of punishment" for women who have abortions, if it became illegal.
His initial comments made during a town hall event with cable network MSNBC sparked a wave of criticism.
However, Mr Trump quickly reversed his position, saying only the person who performed the abortion should be punished.
But he maintained: "My position has not changed."
The front-runner supports a ban on abortions, with certain exceptions.
Abortion has been legal in the United States since 1973 after a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Only the high court or a constitutional amendment has the power to overturn Roe v Wade and make abortion illegal.
Once a Democrat, Mr Trump has been criticised for supporting abortion rights in the past.
bbc
Presidential candidate Donald Trump briefly called for "some form of punishment" for women who have abortions, if it became illegal.
His initial comments made during a town hall event with cable network MSNBC sparked a wave of criticism.
However, Mr Trump quickly reversed his position, saying only the person who performed the abortion should be punished.
But he maintained: "My position has not changed."
The front-runner supports a ban on abortions, with certain exceptions.
Abortion has been legal in the United States since 1973 after a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Only the high court or a constitutional amendment has the power to overturn Roe v Wade and make abortion illegal.
Once a Democrat, Mr Trump has been criticised for supporting abortion rights in the past.
bbc
Wednesday, 30 March 2016
EgyptAir hijack: Man held after using fake suicide belt
An Egyptian hijacker who forced a domestic flight to land in Cyprus used a fake suicide belt, officials said.
His motives remain unclear but the Cypriot president said the incident was not terrorism-related.
Footage released by Egypt's interior ministry shows the man passing through several security checks at Alexandria's Borg El Arab airport.
The drama ended with all passengers released unhurt at Larnaca airport and the man giving himself up.
Hijacker jokes divide social media
How the hijacking unfolded
Cypriot officials named the hijacker as Seif Eldin Mustafa and said he was "psychologically unstable".
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides said Mustafa had initially asked to speak with his Cypriot ex-wife, who police brought to the airport, before making a series of "incoherent" demands.
Police in Cairo were questioning Mustafa's relatives, AP news agency reported.
The Egyptair plane left Larnaca at 22:05 local time (19:05 GMT) bound for Cairo, its original destination.
Questions over security
Egypt's tourism ministry insisted all airport security measures had been "fully implemented" before Egyptair Flight MS181 began its flight earlier in the day.
CCTV footage released by the interior ministry shows Mustafa being frisked at two security checks and passing a slim bag through x-ray machines.
The BBC's Youssef Taha says Egypt has taken steps to improve airport security after Russian Metrojet Flight 9268 was blown up over Sinai last October.
They include an extra $1bn a year and a deal with British consultancy Control Risks to review procedures at Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh and Marsa Alam airports.
Despite this, our correspondent says checks remain inconsistent, with many VIPs and MPs refusing to be searched and airport and airline staff routinely bypassing full security screening.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35921579
His motives remain unclear but the Cypriot president said the incident was not terrorism-related.
Footage released by Egypt's interior ministry shows the man passing through several security checks at Alexandria's Borg El Arab airport.
The drama ended with all passengers released unhurt at Larnaca airport and the man giving himself up.
Hijacker jokes divide social media
How the hijacking unfolded
Cypriot officials named the hijacker as Seif Eldin Mustafa and said he was "psychologically unstable".
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides said Mustafa had initially asked to speak with his Cypriot ex-wife, who police brought to the airport, before making a series of "incoherent" demands.
Police in Cairo were questioning Mustafa's relatives, AP news agency reported.
The Egyptair plane left Larnaca at 22:05 local time (19:05 GMT) bound for Cairo, its original destination.
Questions over security
Egypt's tourism ministry insisted all airport security measures had been "fully implemented" before Egyptair Flight MS181 began its flight earlier in the day.
CCTV footage released by the interior ministry shows Mustafa being frisked at two security checks and passing a slim bag through x-ray machines.
The BBC's Youssef Taha says Egypt has taken steps to improve airport security after Russian Metrojet Flight 9268 was blown up over Sinai last October.
They include an extra $1bn a year and a deal with British consultancy Control Risks to review procedures at Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh and Marsa Alam airports.
Despite this, our correspondent says checks remain inconsistent, with many VIPs and MPs refusing to be searched and airport and airline staff routinely bypassing full security screening.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35921579
AFCON 2017: Again Super Eagles fail to qualify
NIGERIA will not appear in next year’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Gabon as the Super Eagles failed to produce the spark that could have earned them the ticket when they fell 0-1 to the Pharaohs of Egypt in Alexandria last night. It will be the second time in two years that the Super Eagles have failed to qualify for the Nations Cup.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/afcon-2017-eagles-crash-out/
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/afcon-2017-eagles-crash-out/
Tuesday, 29 March 2016
EgyptAir hijack: Jet lands at Larnaca airport
An EgyptAir airliner has been hijacked and forced to divert to Larnaca airport on the south coast of Cyprus.
Flight MS181, an Airbus A320 carrying 81 passengers from Alexandria to Cairo, was taken over by at least one hijacker.
A passenger who said he was wearing a suicide belt ordered the flight crew to divert to Cyprus, EgyptAir said.
Cypriot police said those in control of the aircraft had made no immediate demands after it landed.
Larnaca airport has been closed and scheduled flights diverted elsewhere.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35915139
Flight MS181, an Airbus A320 carrying 81 passengers from Alexandria to Cairo, was taken over by at least one hijacker.
A passenger who said he was wearing a suicide belt ordered the flight crew to divert to Cyprus, EgyptAir said.
Cypriot police said those in control of the aircraft had made no immediate demands after it landed.
Larnaca airport has been closed and scheduled flights diverted elsewhere.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35915139
Monday, 28 March 2016
FUEL CRISIS: Kachikwu splits APC
*He should resign — S-South APC *No, he has been prudent — S-East AP
THE ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, was literally divided, yesterday, over whether or not Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, should retain his prime position in the APC-led Federal Government on account of the worsening fuel scarcity and his comments that he is not a magician. While the National Vice Chairman of the APC, South South wants Kachikwu to resign immediately, the South-East chapter of the party thinks otherwise. This is coming as mixed reactions greeted APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s, blasting of Kachikwu, weekend, on the issue. ‘’Kachikwu’s flippancy was out of line. He was basically telling Nigerians that they should be lucky that they are getting the inadequate supply they now suffer,’’ Tinubu spat.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/fuel-crisis-kachikwu-divides-apc/
THE ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, was literally divided, yesterday, over whether or not Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, should retain his prime position in the APC-led Federal Government on account of the worsening fuel scarcity and his comments that he is not a magician. While the National Vice Chairman of the APC, South South wants Kachikwu to resign immediately, the South-East chapter of the party thinks otherwise. This is coming as mixed reactions greeted APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s, blasting of Kachikwu, weekend, on the issue. ‘’Kachikwu’s flippancy was out of line. He was basically telling Nigerians that they should be lucky that they are getting the inadequate supply they now suffer,’’ Tinubu spat.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/03/fuel-crisis-kachikwu-divides-apc/
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