World Photo Of The Day: Vladimir Putin & Bashar al-Assad meet in Moscow

Vladimir Putin: Mr President,

Let me wish you a warm welcome to Moscow. Despite the dramatic situation in your country, you have responded to our request and come here to Russia, and we thank you for this.

We took the decision upon your request to provide effective aid to the Syrian people in fighting the international terrorists who have unleashed a genuine war against Syria. The Syrian people has been practically alone in putting up resistance and fighting these international terrorists for several years now, and has suffered great losses. Lately though, there have been some major positive results in this fight.

The attempts by international terrorists to bring whole swathes of territory in the Middle East under their control and destabilise the situation in the region raise legitimate concerns in many countries around the world. This is a matter of concern for Russia too, given that sadly, people from the former Soviet Union, around 4,000 people at least, have taken up arms and are fighting on Syrian territory against the government forces. Of course, we cannot let these people gain combat experience and go through ideological indoctrination and then return to Russia.

On the question of a settlement in Syria, our position is that positive results in military operations will lay the base for then working out a long-term settlement based on a political process that involves all political forces, ethnic and religious groups. Ultimately, it is the Syrian people alone who must have the deciding voice here.

Syria is Russia’s friend and we are ready to make our contribution not only to the military operations and the fight against terrorism, but also to the political process. We would do this, of course, in close contact with the other global powers and with the countries in the region that want to see a peaceful settlement to this conflict.

Once again, I wish you welcome, Mr President.

President of Syria Bashar al-Assad (retranslated): Thank you very much, Mr President.

First of all, I want to express our tremendous gratitude to the Russian leadership and people for the help they are providing Syria. Thank you for supporting Syria’s unity and independence. Most important of all is that this is being done within the framework of international law.

I must say that the political steps the Russian Federation has been taking since the start of the crisis made it possible to prevent events in Syria from taking an even more tragic turn. If it were not for your actions and decisions, the terrorism that is spreading through the region now would have made even greater gains and spread to even wider territories. You have confirmed your course of action by joining in the military operations as part of a common front in the fight against terrorism.

Of course, we all know that any military action must be followed by political steps. Of course, our common goal is to bring about the vision the Syrian people have of their own country’s future.

We must be particularly aware that military strikes against the terrorists are essential above all because we must fight terrorism, and also because terrorism is a real obstacle on the road to reaching a political settlement. Of course, the entire nation wants to take part in deciding the country’s fate, and not just the government.

I want to thank the Russian people once more for the help you are giving Syria and express the hope that we will vanquish terrorism and continue working together to rebuild our country economically and politically and ensure peaceful life for everyone.

<…>

source: http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/50533

#Assad, #Putin, #Russia, #Syria

Amaechi Is The Lion Of Africa – Dele Momodu

The Publisher of the Ovation magazine, Dele Momodu, has taken to social media to canvass support for the former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, describing him as the lion of Africa.

Momodu’s social media campaigns intensified on Tuesday morning as concern over the fate of the ex-governor’s ministerial slot continues to grow.  Momodu had earlier urged President Mohammadu Buhari to disregard Amaechi’s critics and “protect him with his last strength.”

Senator Ben Murray-Bruce Blasts Bloggers And Online News Sites

Senator Ben Murray Bruce, had something bitter for bloggers and media sites recently when he advised the President to be wary of news sites that have become a thorn in the flesh of governments at most levels. In his advice regarding the media regarding the media he blamed politicians who were greedy for leaking lies and half truths about themselves just to see the other outdone.

Ghana Agrees To Pay N33.8bn Gas Debt Owed Nigeria By Feb. 2016

The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Ibe Kachikwu (right), with President John Mahama (left) of Ghana at the meeting leading to the agreement on payment plan for gas supply debt by the Volta River Authority of Ghana. The Federal Government has reached an agreement with Ghana on the modalities to settle the outstanding N33.8bn owed by Ghana’s Volta River Authority (VRA) on gas it received from a Nigerian company, N-Gaz, for power generation.

We’ll Crush Pro-biafra Protesters In Rivers —governor Wike Warns

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers has descended hard on protesters who disrupted social and economic activities in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Tuesday under the platform of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, warning against such insidious actions again by anybody or group in the state. Wike who was peeved by the protest by members of the IPOB in Port Harcourt, warned that such demonstrations will no longer be tolerated by his administration. Insisting on the indivisibility of Nigeria, which he swore to protect, the governor said the actions of the IPOB members are capable of causing chaos in the state.

Tribunal Affirms Gaidam’s Victory In Yobe Governorship Poll

The Yobe State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has upheld the victory of Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of the All Progressives Congress in the April 11 governorship election in Yobe State. The Peoples Democratic Party has challenged the election of the APC candidate, alleging massive irregularities in the poll that brought in Gaidam for a second term in office.

NAFDAC Closes Illegal Chinese Factory Producing Mosquito Coil In Kano

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sealed up a Chinese company involved in the production of unregistered mosquito coils in Kano.
The coils are sold to the public under the brand name: “Wavetide: Plant Fiber Mosquito Coil” and are sold in most of the markets in the state.
Pharmacist Ake Ayodele Paul, NAFDAC’s Chief Regulation Officer, told reporters in Kano on Wednesday that the company was initially sealed on 28th of September, 2015, adding that its management had since declined to register the product with NAFDAC despite an invitation for them to regularize the production.
Ayodele, who heads the Enforcement and Investigation Unit of NAFDAC, said that NAFDAC has no way of knowing whether the chemicals used by the firm is harmful or not since the product has not been registered.

KWASU Students Fabricate Anti-terror Weapon

Three students of the Department of Aerospace Engineering of the Kwara State University, Malete, have fabricated prototype equipment, which if developed, could be used to wage war against Boko Haram insurgents.

The prototype equipment are rocket, quadcopter unmanned aerial vehicle and fixed wing unmanned aerial vehicle, fabricated by Abdulwasiu Ahmed, Abdulkadir Habeebellah and Abdulrauf Sarafadeen..
Ahmed, in an interview with journalists on the sidelines of the university’s 5thundergraduate research day on Wednesday, said the rocket and the fixed wing unmanned aerial vehicle could be used for bombing and other military operations.

He stated that the quadcopter UAV could be used for aerial photography, surveillance, event recordings and examination.

Tribunal Orders Re-run In Akwa Ibom Gov. Election

The Akwa Ibom State governorship tribunal has ordered for a rerun of the governorship election in the state. The Tribunal ordered Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct re-run election in 18 local government areas of the state. There are 31 LGs in Akwa Ibom. Giving its verdict on Wednesday, the Tribunal said it was satisfied that there were discrepancies during the governorship election held on April 11. The Tribunal further asked the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct the re-run elections. DETAIL SOON

SGF, Babachir Under Fire Over ‘provocative’ Remark

Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

Indications emerged Wednesday that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir David Lawal, has come under fire from Presidency over a provocative claim he made during a thanksgiving service in Abuja last Saturday.

Lawal, who assembled top party and Christian leaders for a thanksgiving service in Abuja had paid glowing tribute to the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu and the former Acting National Chairman, Bisi Akande, as being responsible for his nomination to Buhari for appointment as the SGF.

Pastor Suleiman-Johnson Causes Stampede In Cameroon,1 Dead, 20 Injured (Photos)

One person has been confirmed dead while others were injured during a stampede that occurred at a crusade by Nigerian pastor, Suleiman Johnson which held at the Reunification Stadium in Bepanda, Douala in Cameroon yesterday October 20th. According to reports, the roof of the stadium caved in immediately after the crusade ended which caused panic. People began rushing and pushing themselves. Those who were injured are receiving medical attention in various hospitals.

If You Lose The Election, Accept Defeat – Jonathan Tells Tanzanian Politicians

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is currently leading a delegation of Commonwealth election observers to Tanzania, has urged those vying for that country’s presidential election to promptly accept the outcome should they be defeated in the October 25 election. “If you lose, accept defeat,” he admonished them, warning that any attempt to reject the will of the people will only lead to chaos and affect the peace and unity of Tanzania.

APC To Appeal Tribunal’s Judgment On Akwa Ibom Governorship Poll

The All Progressives Congress on Wednesday said it would appeal against the judgment of the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Akwa Ibom. The Chairman of the party in the state, Amadu Atai, announced this to journalists in Uyo. Mr. Atai said the party was expecting outright cancellation of the governorship election since it nullified the elections in 18 out of the 31 local government areas.

“The tribunal has cancelled the governorship elections in 18 local government areas and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct elections in the affected areas.

...Saraki Offered Safe Landing If He Toes Party Line

With the trial of Senate President Bukola Saraki set to resume today at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), a fresh proposition has been placed before him that could pave the way for a soft landing if he will toe the party line.

In a backroom deal being brokered by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), among whom is the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogora, the Senate President is being offered a “political solution” to his trial for false declaration of assets at the tribunal.
Should he accept it, this may pave the way for the emergence of Senator Ahmad Lawan as the new Senate leader and Senator George Akume as his deputy.

We Have Shed Ourselves Of Godfatherism – PDP National Chairman

The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Tuesday declared that the era of godfatherism was over as it has resolved to return the PDP to the grass-roots ahead of the 2019 general elections. It therefore called on anyone eager to secure the party’s ticket to make him or herself popular among the people.

Speaking in Abuja while receiving members of a pressure group in the party – the PDP National Rebirth Group who paid a solidarity visit to the National Working Committee, NWC of the Party, the PDP acting National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, noted that the opposition party has learnt its lessons and was not ready to repeat the mistakes of the past.

I Remain Grateful To Gbenga Daniel – Tinubu Dismisses Rift Rumors

A national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has cleared the air on the alleged enmity between him and a former two-term Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.


Tinubu, who spoke through Mr. Wale Edun at the 25th anniversary celebration of Otunba Gbenga Daniels’ Kresta Laurel, said there is no truth in the stories that he has been fighting with Gbenga Daniel, adding that they are still good friends. Edun said: “I am here representing Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and my presence is to show that there is no friction between Asiwaju and Otunba Gbenga Daniel”

EXCLUSIVE: Inside The Code Of Conduct Bureau’s Investigative Report That Nailed Saraki

A verification report prepared by the Code of Conduct Bureau in July 2006 is key to the ongoing prosecution of the President of the Nigerian Senate, Bukola Saraki, for corruption and false declaration of assets, PREMIUM TIMES can authoritatively report today.
The report, which was a product of a detailed verification of the assets he declared when he assumed duties as governor of Kwara State in 2003, specifically accused him of giving the Bureau false information on the status of some of his properties in Lagos and Abuja.

Independence Day Bombing: Nigerian Govt. Asks Court To Chain Okah During Trial

The Nigerian Government on Tuesday asked Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court in Abuja, to put the alleged mastermind of the 2010 Independence Day bombing, Charles Okah, in chains. Mr. Okah, who is standing trial on charges of terrorism alongside Obi Nwabueze, had on October 6 attempted to jump out of the court located at the third floor of a five-storey building.
At the resumed hearing, the prosecution, Alex Iziyon, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, made an oral application requesting Mr. Okah to be chained to avoid a possible abortion of justice.

Code of Conduct tribunal adjourns Saraki's case to Nov 5th and 6th

The code of conduct tribunal has adjourned hearing on the false asset declaration case against Senate President Bukola Saraki to November 5th and 6th. Counsels to Saraki pleaded for adjournment to wait for the outcome of Court of Appeal ruling.

Man who killed 5 relatives with meat cleaver, including 4 children, gets 125 years

A man who pleaded guilty to the October 2013 murder of five relatives, including four children was sentenced to 125 years to life in prison on Tuesday October 20th. Mindong Chen, 27, butchered his cousin’s wife, Qiao Zhen Li, 37 and her four children aged 9, 7, 5 and 18 months with a meat cleaver during a frenzied attack at their home.

We Are Waiting For Buhari’s Cabinet, New Policies – US

United States, US Government has said it is waiting for President Muhammadu Buhari to inaugurate his cabinet and introduce policies that would drive Nigeria in the next four years.
Meantime, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has commended the efforts of the US government in ensuring peaceful democratic transition in the last general elections in Nigeria.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwistle disclosed this when he led some foreign investors on a courtesy visit to the Lagos House, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

Man defrauds his in-law of over N9.1M

The Lagos State police have arraigned a 38-year-old man, Olumide Ogunbolude, for allegedly defrauding his in-law, Taiwo Elegbede, of N9, 105,000 which was meant for the purchase of a Range Rover. It was learnt that Mrs Elegbede introduced her husband to Ogunbolude as a dealer, when her Husband wanted to buy a car in 2013. According to Punch Metro, The suspect was reportedly paid an initial sum of $39,500, before being given an additional N1.6m. However after over a year later, the suspect has neither produced the car, nor refunded the money.

Police killed Lekki Free Trade zone boss Disu- Community members

Leaders of Okunraye community, one of the villages hosting the Lekki Free Trade Zone, in the Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State told a Lagos State High Court in Igbosere on Tuesday that the police were responsible for the killing of the Managing Director of the free trade zone, Alhaji Tajudeen Disu
This claim was in an affidavit in support of a Fundamental rights suit filed before a Lagos High Court against the Police, Directorate of State Security (DSS) and Dangote group.

GEJ advises Tanzanians on peaceful, transparent elections

Former President Jonathan, who is the chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) to Tanzania arrived the country yesterday and during a press conference, advised the country's National Electoral Commission and political parties to ensure a peaceful and transparent election..
The success of these elections depends on every stakeholder playing their part in a peaceful, inclusive and transparent manner. The Commonwealth has every confidence in the people of Tanzania to achieve that. During our time in Tanzania, we will seek to assess the pre-election environment, polling day activities and the post-election period, against the backdrop of Tanzania’s national legislation, regional and international commitments.

Journalists barred from covering Saraki's Code of Conduct trial today

Journalists have been barred from covering the resumed hearing of the 13-count charge false asset declaration case against Senate President Bukola Saraki happening today October 21st. Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Danladi Umar, gave instructions to security personnel at the court to ensure that no camera is allowed into the court. Saraki is expected to be present at the hearing which is to commence by 10am. 

Buhari replaces Head of Service, Kifasi with Winifred Oyo-Ita

President Buhari has replaced the immediate past Head of Service, with Winifred Oyo-Ita. Oyo-Ita, a native of Cross River, is currently the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology. She is 51 years old and a trained chartered accountant.

EFCC Never Arrested Me,Says Akpabio

ABUJA – FORMER governor of Akwa Ibom State and senator representing Akwa Ibom North West, Godswill Akpabio,yesterday,explained that his visit last week to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission was voluntary.
Akpabio, who is representing his constituency, on the platform of the Opposition Peoples Democratic Party,PDP,however, said he was earlier invited by the commission,but said the invitation was a long time ago.
Speaking with newsmen, in Abuja, the Senate Minority Leader said: “I was invited by the EFCC but that was a long time ago, just before my accident and I said okay, that when I am fit, I Will go to see them to respond to the allegation that they said a young lawyer wrote against me.”

Stop Marrying Teenage Girls, BBOG Spokesperson Tells Nigerian Leaders

Nigerian leaders have been tasked to stop marrying teenage girls, far younger than themselves if the nation must actualize its dream of protecting the girl child.
Aisha Yesufu, a representative of the Bring Back Our Girls group, made the charge at a two-day national conference on the social protection of the girl child, in Abuja.
She noted that it was pointless for leaders to pose as protectors of the girl child if their action tells the opposite.

President Buhari Names INEC Chairman, Five Commissioners

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday named Prof. Mahmood Yakubu as the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The appointment was consequently approved at the first meeting of the Council of State presided over by Buhari.

Five new national commissioners were also named for the commission.

The national commissioners are Mrs. Amina Zakari (North-West); Dr. Anthonia Okoosi-Simbine (North Central); Alhaji Baba Shettima Arfo (North-East); Dr. Mohammed Mustafa Lecky (South-South) and Mr. Soyebi Adedeji Solomon (South-West).

The South-East is said to still have a sitting national commissioner.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State briefed State House correspondents at the end of the meeting.

Details later…

Punch.

#Buhari

I'll Never Disrespect Saraki, Says Rotimi Amaechi

Rotimi Amaechi, ex-governor of Rivers state and ministerial candidate, says he holds Senate President Bukola Saraki in high regard and would never affront him.

Amaechi, who said there was an intentional endeavor to make ill will in the middle of him and Saraki, depicted as untrue, reports that he protested over the postponement of his screening.

“There was a report that Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi was incensed over the deferment of his screening last week and stormed Saraki’s house to register his protest. It is absolutely not true,” David Iyofor, Amaechi’s spokesman, said in a statement.
“There is a deliberate and carefully calibrated attempt to characterise Amaechi with a very bad and demeaning mannerism.
“We must clarify that Amaechi did not visit and was not at the residence of the Senate President on Thursday of last week.
“Since he did not go to the residence of the Senate President on Thursday of last week, there is absolutely no way what the newspaper sources claimed to have transpired, happened.

“We must emphasise that former governor Amaechi holds the office of the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in very high esteem and will never disrespect or act in any way that would put the office in disrepute.
“However, in this case, the incident reported never occurred either on Thursday or any other day.
“While we understand the constraints and pressures journalists face in doing their jobs, we would advise them to be thorough and double-check or even triple-check their sources of information.
“There seems to exist an axis of fifth columnists, masquerading as ‘sources’ to journalists, but fabricate events, incidences and stories that never happened to malign and destroy the character and reputation of others, while fomenting acrimony and bad blood in the polity.”

#Amaechi

Federal Government Begins Trial Of Ex-Imo Governor, Ohakim, Over Money Laundering

The Federal Government, on Tuesday, commenced the prosecution of a former governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, on charges bordering on money laundering when he held sway as the state governor.

The Federal Government, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Tuesday, began Okakim’s trial before Justice Adeniyi Ademola of a Federal High Court in Abuja by calling its first witness.

Ohakim, who was Imo State governor between 2007 and 2011, is facing three counts of money laundering, arising from his alleged purchase of a house at Asokoro District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with cash payment of dollar equivalent of N270 million in November 2008.

The first prosecution witness, Mr. Dauda Ishaya, a Senior Detective Superintendent with the EFCC, appeared before Justice Ademola when the matter came up, giving his report of investigation on the charges against the former governor.

Dauda, who was led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Mr. Festus Keyamo, accused Ohakim of initially lying to be a tenant in the property until he was confronted with the statements of those who were involved in the purchase of the property at 60, Kwame Nkrumah Street, Plot No 1098, Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro District, Abuja.

He said: “Intelligence report revealed that there was no bank transfer on purchase for that property – that was against the provisions of the Money Laundering Act.

“We took the accused person to the said property and we returned to the office. He was questioned on the same property and he said he was just a tenant in that property.

“He said he rented the house from a company called Tweenex Consciates through the Managing Director of the company called Abu Sule.”

The witness said Sule was invited by the EFCC but denied ownership of the property but went on to tell ‘the real story of what transpired.’

The case was adjourned till November 12 and 13 for continuation of trial.

Tribune.

#Local

3 Ways Sports Tourism can Boost Nigeria's Hospitality Industry

Travelling for sports events is an opportunity that Nigerians are yet to leverage on despite playing host to several tournaments over the years.

Some notable games include the 1973 and 2003-Lagos-All African Games, African Nations Cup, 1980 & 2000, Under 17 championships, 2009 and throngs of other sports events which have had little or no impact on the hospitality industry.

Considering the returns from sports tourism in other climes, Nigeria has a monumental advantage in exploring and exploiting sports tourism to boost her hospitality industry.

For example, Brazil which hosted the 2014 World Cup added 7.5 billion Brazilian Real (BRL) to the economy with tourism being a key contributor, an estimated 1 million foreigners visited the country and 95% of them said they will love to return for holidays.

The attributed reasons for this include Brazil’s scenic beaches, vibrant musical culture and its vast amazon rainforest according to the Wall Street Journal. Meanwhile for previous world cups, South Africa welcomed 310,000 tourists and Germany accommodated 2 million.

These figures simply reveal how massive the contribution of sports can multiply the growth of Nigeria’s hospitality industry and the economy. With this platform, states likeEkiti, Jos, and  Kwara, with tourism endowments will possibly achieve a certain degree of financial autonomy

To encourage the government to host international sports tourneys and ensure it takes advantage of it, Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares 3 ways sports tourism can boost the hospitality industry in Nigeria.

Development of tourist destination

The near dilapidated state of Nigeria’s tourism sites have headlined stakeholder’s meetings and tourism seminars. They have called on the government at both the Federal and state level to revamp these amazing sites which cut across Nigeria. With Nigeria hosting a sports events, monies will be budgeted to develop these destinations to attract tourists and the ripple effect will be felt in the hospitality sector.

Revenue Generator

The question Nigerians should ask is why nations battle, banter and clog one another to win bids so as to host international tourney despite the global economic crises?

Simple-the economic returns is massive. The Hospitality sector contributes a large chunk of the returns during a sports tourney. It follows that if the government develops these destinations, tourists will visit and be willing to part with their naira, dollars and pounds. Included in this is the production of souvenirs and other marketing cum promotional items leading to a geometric rise in hotel bookings and revenues.

Publicity

These sports tourneys are opportunities for hotels and hospitality companies to put their brand in the face of their target audience. They can produce jingles, commercials and other public relations tools which oftentimes go a long way in impacting perception and patronage.

Ogunfowoke Adeniyi

Travel/Technology Writer

Mobile: +2348090747241   Skype: Sleeksavvy

#Sport

Top 3 Awesome Ways to Avoid the Fastfood Trap

In a city like Lagos where everyone wakes up as early as 4 am, there is a high possibility to get addicted to fast food as people barely have time to prepare a proper meal.

Despite the affordability and convenience of fast-foods, the health hazards are enormous. Some of these hazards are high-fat content, reduced nutritional values, obesity and cardiovascular diseases.

As a traveller exploring different destinations, the allure of fast food is high and if you are not careful, paying a visit to these outlets will become  a habit.

Stop over at the grocery store

Cooking is fun and there are grocery stores littered all over major cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. You can easily drive into one of them to purchase any foodstuffs you want. With your pantry properly stocked with the right meals, you cut down the tendency to consume snacks outside your home.

The up-side to this is that it makes you  a better manager as you create and stick to cooking plans for your meals. This may be easier for married individuals rather than singles but making home-cooked meals a habit saves you money and keeps you healthy.

Plan your meal schedule

Planning your meal schedule for the week will go a long way in helping you avoid the fast food trap. Create a flexible routine and ensure you religiously stick to it. With this schedule, visiting the food shops will not feature on your daily agenda.

Patronize healthy online food stores

The internet has opened up quantum of online services for many Nigerians. Except you are addicted to fast foods, online food delivery companies are available to order proper foods. If you would rather have your meals prepared for you, then try ordering your food online from the long list of healthy options available. It is a good alternative to fast food.

Ogunfowoke Adeniyi

Travel/Technology Writer

Mobile: +2348090747241   Skype: Sleeksavvy

Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shares tips on how to avoid the fast food trap.

#NigerianFoods

Why Amaechi Was Not Included In Tuesday’s Ministerial Screening – Dino Melaye

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Information, Senator Dino Melaye has revealed why the erstwhile Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Chibuike Ameachi was omitted from the Tuesday ministerial screening.
It would be recalled that Dino had informed Nigerians on Monday that Amaechi will be among the ministerial nominees to be screened today by the upper chambers of the National Assembly.

APC Not Prepared To Rule Nigeria -Adebanjo

Chairman of a Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo said yesterday that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was not ready for power when it won the presidential election on March 28.
He said the party only planned to oust former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan from office.
Adebanjo said this during the public presentation of a book written by former minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran: Serving My Fatherland Volumes One and Two, in commemoration of his 70th birthday in Ibadan yesterday.

President Obama of Uncle Sam is the 21st century Roman Nero ?

There is no doubting the fact that President Obama of Uncle Sam is the 21st century Roman Nero. Over the years, his indifferent attitude in respect of the numerous war crimes he has committed across the globe has continued to marvel many. In relations to the order of Obama, several mass killings, involving children have been recorded in vulnerable countries under his administration. Bombing of children was and still pronounce in Libya, Syria, Iran, Iraq, to mention a few, under the charged of Obama!!!

Obama who is an high priest in the temple of White supremacy, have no qualms in expanding and at the same time worsening the crimes of George W. Bush. This delusional in fact extended the drone program to Yemen, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Mali, Libya, and Somalia. Tens of thousands of children died in the Somali from “Obama Drones Attack”. Obama’s apologists and the corporate media have done so well in parading one of the most despicable men of this century as a saint. Obama’s hypocritical talks all the time have revealed his own worst limitations!!!

Obama in his so called fight against mean violators of human rights, in his absurdity, have ignored the most tyrannical regimes in the Middle East; Israel and Saudi Arabia. Since war is a product of hate, oppressed nations in the globe will be within their god-given rights to defend their territories with all sense of responsibility by giving back the hate-tit for tat. It will forever be a wishful thinking to wait for the day that the International Criminal Court will trial these war mongers with crimes against humanity. Thus oppressed nations must seek for justice by forming alliance against a common foe!!!

~Ifágúnwà Tèmítópé-

#Obama

Constitution Review: How Adoke Scuttled Amendments –Ekweremadu

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu has revealed how former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, scuttled the last constitutional amendment process.

Adesina, Metuh Spat Over Anti-Graft War

National Publicity Secretary of the main opposition party, Olisa Metuh yesterday sustained his verbal spat with presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, when he accused him of being ignorant of politics and governance. Adesina quickly replied Metuh that he’s a broken record, which he (Adesina) has thrown away.

We Are Surprised How Boko Haram Is Able To Recruit Many Followers, Says FG

THE Federal Government is baffled that despite the warped nature of Boko Haram's ideology, the group is still able to recruit followers.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who expressed this concern in Abuja, on Tuesday, revealed that the Federal Government would therefore set up a crisis communication centre that would provide information countering violent extremist ideology, especially in the North-East.

He was speaking when he received the the United States Special Envoy on Counter Terrorism Communication, Rashad Hussain, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Photos: Man with the biggest feet in the world wants them cut off.

The man with the  biggest feet

26 year old Jeffrey Ortega wants his size 16 foot removed after it swelled because of a hereditary condition which leaves him in consistent agony and not able to walk. Jeffery, who relies on a wheelchair to move around, was conceived with Proteus Syndrome, an uncommon condition that causes bones, skin and tissue overgrowth. The condition has additionally influenced his hands, hips and legs.

Jeffrey is currently asking specialists to cut away his left foot to relieve pain and stop the development. His left foot is 17inches in circumference and 14inches long   while his right foot is 14.5 inches  circumference  and 12 inches long. See more photographs bellow.

#Health

Buhari Fighting Corruption Like Obasanjo – Adebanjo

Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has accused President Muhammadu Buhari of fighting corruption the same way former President Olusegun Obasanjo did.
Adebanjo told our correspondent during an interview that Obasanjo only fought corruption when he wanted to crush his political opponents.

He said Obasanjo used the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to harass all his political opponents under the guise of fighting corruption.

Nigerian Politicians Perceived As Rogues – Mimiko

The Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, has lamented the tag ascribed to Nigerian politicians, saying that while Nigerians see them as rogues and vagabond, there are intellectual politicians in the country who offered selfless service to their fatherland.

Mimiko spoke at the public presentation of a book, ‘Serving my fatherland,’ which was written by a former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on Monday.
Also present at the event were a former Senate President, Ken Nnamani; a former military governor of Oyo State, Gen. Oladayo Popoola; a former Ekiti State governor, Segun Oni, and many other dignitaries.

Don’t Cry For Bola Tinubu, By Femi Aribisala.

MANY monuments have been built in honour of the man Bola Tinubu. He is acclaimed as the political genius of our times who not only engineered the taming of the PDP juggernaut, he caged it and confined it to the backwaters of Otuoke. Since the APC defeat of the PDP in the presidential election, Tinubu the tactician has been feted, celebrated and praised to high heavens. But all these encomiums have proved to be highly exaggerated.

Call Igbos To Order, They Cannot Have Kings In Yorubaland – Afenifere Tells Governors, Obas

The Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) has approached governors and leader in the South-West not to recognise Igbo kings in their individual states and areas. An announcement by its Publicity Secretary, Kunle Famoriyo, said the idea of Igbo kings also called Eze Ndigbo in Yorubaland was not upheld by any standard law. The ARG was responding to a squabble between the Deji of Akure, Oba Kole Aladetoyinbo, and the Eze Ndigbo of Akure, Gregory Iloehike, in Ondo State, a week ago which prompted protests and the closure of business sectors.

 

ARG noted that “The evolution of this structure has forced us to consider it as an expansionist agenda as the structure is only rampant in Yorubaland

“In Akure, the ‘Eze’ believes he now has the power to confer people with chieftaincy titles that are traditional to Yoruba kingship systems. In Lagos State, there is an Eze Ndigbo of Lagos, as well as for each of the 57 councils. There are reports that we now even have Eze Ndigbo of some neighbourhoods in Lagos.

“What used to be were development unions and associations of Igbo people living in Yorubaland. Almost all Igbo communities with sizeable number of indigenes living in Yorubaland have a development union or association. These associations are welcome and supported, being organisations set up to discuss the welfare of their members.”

The ARG said the proliferation of the Eze Ndigbo could cause a huge problem in the near future, warning Igbo groups to stop testing the patience of the Yoruba.

Insisting that that a kingdom can never have two kings, ARG lamented “the manner this idea of ‘Eze Ndigbo’ sprouted and started spreading connotes territorial influence and even ownership.

“This practice has continued to stretch the tolerant nature of the Yoruba people to the limit and it appears the eventual aim of its perpetrators is to stretch this beautiful culture of Yoruba to the breaking point.

“This is something that Yoruba people living away from Yorubaland do not even think of, and we, therefore, see no reason why migrants living in Yorubaland should not know their boundaries.

“Consequently, the ARG calls on all Yoruba traditional rulers and the executive heads of government at state and local levels governors not to recognise all customary titles that are not backed by our customs, particularly those that they did not confer; and we enjoin those parading themselves as holders of such titles to drop them in the spirit of peaceful coexistence.”

Daily Post.

#Afenifere

Ministerial Screening: Amaechi Denies Storming Saraki’s Residence In Anger

Ministerial nominee and former Rivers State governor, Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has denied reports in a national daily (not LEADERSHIP) that he stormed the residence of the President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki in anger following the failure of the Senate to screen him last week.
The former governor, who is billed to appear before the Senate today, Tuesday, October 20, 2015, also denied reports in the same national daily that he raised his voice to express his frustration before leaving the residence without seeing the Senate President.

Radio Biafra Continues Broadcast Despite Kanu’s Arrest

Controversial Radio Biafra continued broadcasting on Monday despite the arrest of the director of the radio, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.
Kanu was purportedly arrested by the men of the Department of State Services on Saturday when he arrived Lagos from his base in London.
Ardent listeners to the radio told our correspondent that the Internet-based radio continued with its broadcast issuing ultimatum to the Federal Government to release its director within 48 hours or face a revolt.
However, attempt by our correspondent to download the Radio Biafra app from the Internet on Monday failed.

APC To Senate: Petitions Can’t Stop Amaechi, Others

Ex- governor: no rift with Saraki
Ethics panel clears Sokoto nominee
The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday threw its weight behind former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and other embattled ministerial nominees, saying they are above board.
The petitions against their nominations, the party said, could not stop their screening by the Senate.
According to APC National Secretary, Mallam Mai Malla Buni, the petitions do not amount to conviction.

Terrorism ll Soon Be History In Nigeria, Says Buratai

•Netherlands offers to help Army
President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday met with service chiefs on how to overcome weather and logistic challenges hampering the defeat of Boko Haram insurgents.
The government has declared its intentions to crush the sect by December.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Gabriel Abayomi Olonisakin and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Aliyu Ismaila, spoke with State House correspondents at the end of the closed-door meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The CDS said they had to brief the President on the security situation on ground after a 60-day review.