iBasam

Mourinho: Messi makes winning easier

BASAM 0 sport 05:19:00

<p dir="ltr">Former Chelsea and Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has no doubt winning matches is easier with Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi in your team, but remains steadfast in his belief that the group takes precedence over the individual.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has won a staggering 26 trophies during his senior career with Barca, including four Champions League titles.<br>
  The Catalan giants are on course to reach the quarter-finals of the Europe’s premier club competition for the ninth<br>
straight season, heading into their last-16 second leg against Arsenal at Camp Nou on Wednesday with a 2-0 aggregate advantage.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mourinho believes Messi, who scored both goals in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, will likely prove the difference maker as Barca look to become the first side to successfully defend the Champions League trophy.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“First of all it’s about individual players. Just to give you an example, Messi won the Champions League with three<br>
different managers,” he said in an interview with BT Sport.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“I think it’s easier to win with him, than against him. I am a football manager. I know that sometimes people think that the individual is more important than the team.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“But when I feel that it is time for me to take a permanent holiday – I still think that the team is more important than<br>
anything.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“But the obvious reality is that there are some players who can make a difference.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mourinho has been without a club since he left Chelsea in December and hopes to return to work ahead of the 2016-17 season.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“Yes I was lucky enough to have good options since I left Chelsea in December – not just options but good options,” the Portuguese coach added.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“But I made a decision to wait calmly. The reality is that I want to work. July, mid-July, new pre-season starts and<br>
somewhere, I want to be there.”</p>
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Mourinho: Messi makes winning easier

Mourinho: Messi makes winning easier

Former Chelsea and Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has no doubt winning matches is easier with Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi in your team...

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Gender and Opportunity Bill, Nigeria Senate and Nigeria culture by kayode Abiodun

BASAM 0 articles 04:26:00

<p dir="ltr">Recently, the Nigerian Senate stopped the second reading of the Gender and opportunity Aka GOB. The GOB bill titled "Bill for an act to incorporate and enforce Certain provisions of the United Nations Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women " sponsored by Senator Biodun Olujimi of Ekiti South Senatoral district. The Senate president after discourse from different senators puts the Bill to vote and Nays have it. This sparked reaction from eminent Nigerians especially social media activist, the Misogynist and Feminist, the Nigeria Senate trended through out the day on twitter with each individual sharing his/her opinion on the said Bill. </p>
<p dir="ltr">An inward look at the proposed Bill depicts that the GOB bill seeks to promote equality, development and advancement of all persons in Nigeria, it also speaks on the women freedom of movement, female economic activity and girl access to education. It further point out concerns on equal rights for women in marriage, divorce and property /land ownership and inheritance.  The bill also seeks to appropriate measures against gender discrimination in political and public life and prohibitions of violence to women.</p>
<p dir="ltr">From the above paragraph, at glance, one can easily conclude that such a Bill will be panacea to Discrimination of women and abuse but a microscopic view of the GOB bill shows that the bill contravened some of our Religion and Cultural believes. Our Cultural belief is that Man is the head of Family and the woman would in turn support the man in his endeavors. Hence the popular saying  " Behind a Successful Man is a woman. The culture states the Man has the head and the woman has the neck. Even our holy books showed that women should be held in high esteem. The Bill is also a repetition/ segregation of some provisions of the 1999 constitution. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The above paragraph maybe confusing, so let's dissect the GOB bill point by point. <br>
The bill seeks to promote equality, development and advancement of all person in Nigeria: this is a repetition of chapter 4 S. 33 and 41 of the Nigerian Constitution. That is a basic human right irrespective of Gender.<br>
The bill also speaks on women freedom of Movement, female economic and girl right to education : Every person (irrespective of gender ) has  a fundamental right to freedom of movement and economic activity according to Chapter 4  section 34,36, ,40 and 41 of the 1999 constitution as amended.  As per the girl education, it shouldn't be categorized for the girl child alone. Education should be  a basic right of child irrespective of gender According to UNICEF 2012 summit. <br>
The Bill seeks Equal rights for women in Marriage, divorce, property land ownership and inheritance: No sane church, mosque or Registry would marry off people without the consent of the groom, the bride and their parents, so, where is the inequality in Marriage. Same way with Divorce, moreover, Any discontented person can seek for divorce and I was made to know that the Child of the parents seeking for the divorce would be asked to choose between the parent.  On property and land ownership, I don't think any of the land impedes any woman from acquiring landed properties. In fact, where I stay, Most landed properties are owned by women. We don't need a Bill for this. On inheritance, I think that should be a personal choice, no law or bill should how inheritance should be shared. <br>
Adoption of special temporary measures to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for the Majority of Nigerians : I think this makes sense. I do support this point. <br>
  Lastly, the bill seeks appropriate measures against Gender discrimination in political and public life and prohibition of violence to women: on Gender discrimination,  to buttress the point made by Deputy senate president that 70% of Nigerian lawyers are women and there are also a large percentage of female judges " I think the electoral act and electioneering provisions in the 1999 constitution didn't discriminate against any body so far the qualification are met. We have woman senator, deputy Governor, speakers of house of assembly in the past. On prohibition of Violence to women, I think it's good but isn't there a bill on domestic violence already in the National assembly? </p>
<p dir="ltr">        CONCLUSION<br>
After dissecting the bill, one could see that eve though GOB was proposed good intentions, but the bill wants to Categorize specifically for women A fundamental human rights meant for both gender. The Law is established as rule of law not segregated for any gender, so I advise the Ever Gallant Senator Abiodun Olujimi to go back to the drawing board and modify the bill entirely. I think what Nigeria need is to make a bill that protect Nigerian women from Domestic violence. The Nigerian women should also dream big and aim high. Nowadays, Most girls lack ephemeral ambition, there is need for reorientation to eradicate the inferiority Complex. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Also I want us to remember this popular saying that the greatest harm can come from best intention. Before I drop my pen, let me ask these question, <u>we</u> are clamoring for equal rights, should female law enforcement agents be allowed to go to war front? </p>
<p dir="ltr">Kayode Abiodun writes from his village in Ayegun Ibadan and can be containing on twitter @abiodunsays </p>
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Gender and Opportunity Bill, Nigeria Senate and Nigeria culture by kayode Abiodun

Gender and Opportunity Bill, Nigeria Senate and Nigeria culture by kayode Abiodun

Recently, the Nigerian Senate stopped the second reading of the Gender and opportunity Aka GOB. The GOB bill titled "Bill for an act to...

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Buddhist monk reveals talismanic forces behind Leicester’s Premier League title tilt

BASAM 0 sport 01:40:00

<p dir="ltr">While Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez have stolen the plaudits for Leicester City‘s incredible Premier League campaign this season, it appears that someone else deserves credit for their success.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A Thai Buddhist monk named Phra Prommangkalachan, has been present throughout the Foxes’ miraculous rise from the Championship to the top of the Premier League in the last three seasons.<br>
  Prommangkalachan has been a regular visitor to the King Power stadium over the last few years and he credits his blessing of the pitch and giving the players lucky charms for their excellent results this season.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He told AFP: “I hang some amulets on their necks and I gave them these fabric talismans. I’m not sure if they understood what I explained to them about it, but they knew that it would bring them luck.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Leicester have been owned by the King Power International Group since 2010, when they took over from former chairman Milan Mandaric.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The owners have played a major role in Leicester’s success through their financial backing, and the chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a devout Buddhist, is the man who first made the decision to bring the monks to the Midlands regularly, Phra revealed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He said: “He brought monks there to pray for auspiciousness and luck in the game, for the management team and the players. The team will be the number one in the Premier League this year for sure.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Superstitions are extremely common in football, but even so Leicester’s story is a pretty remarkable one and adds another layer of intrigue to their amazing campaign.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Whether the monk’s charms have actually had an effect is difficult to know, but Claudio Ranieri’s men certainly have performed like Premier League champions for most of the season, top-scoring with 53 goals and letting in just 31 at the other end.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source :<u>isoccerng</u></p>
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Buddhist monk reveals talismanic forces behind Leicester’s Premier League title tilt

Buddhist monk reveals talismanic forces behind Leicester’s Premier League title tilt

While Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez have stolen the plaudits for Leicester City‘s incredible Premier League campaign this season, it appears ...

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MSN demolish Arsenal to scale into UCL quarter-finals

BASAM 0 01:35:00

<p dir="ltr">Barcelona’s famed attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar were all on target Wednesday night as the Blaugranes dispatched Arsenal 3-1 to zoom into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on a 5-1 aggregate.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">The aggregate margin in favour of Luis Enrique’s team was 5-1 but Lionel Messi’s first-leg brace at Emirates Stadium did not discourage the Premier League side from playing with plenty of enthusiasm in Wednesday’s return.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">All three of Barca’s esteemed forward trio were on target this time around, with Neymar punishing slack defending after 18 minutes.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Mohamed Elneny and Alexis Sanchez wasted chances to equalise before the break but a splendid finish from the former allowed him to chalk up a maiden Arsenal goal on the grandest of stages six minutes into the second half.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">That superb effort gave Arsenal a glimmer of hope, with Arsene Wenger’s men requiring two more goals in a little under 40 minutes, but they were ultimately undone by the remainder of Barca’s fearsome three-pronged attack.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Suarez provided unforgettable fireworks and Messi added a late third to keep Barcelona on course to retain their European crown and leave Arsenal – out of the FA Cup and adrift in the Premier League title race – to reflect on a sixth successive last-16 exit.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Danny Welbeck scuffed an early chance wide via his standing foot and Arsenal were encouraged by an uncharacteristically untidy start from their hosts.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Mesut Ozil left Sergio Busquets on the seat of his shorts and advanced to send a shot whistling past Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s right-hand post.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Barcelona offered a glorious demonstration of their quality in the 17th minute when Neymar expertly picked out Messi with a raking pass.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Messi’s first touch was exquisite but Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina similarly pulled a save out of the top drawer.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Jeremy Mathieu was allowed a free header on the bounce from the resulting corner and a short and sharp spell of Barcelona pressure ended with the opening goal.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Hector Bellerin allowed Neymar to sprint through goal-side of him and the manner in which he collected Suarez’s pass and slotted home came with frustrating ease for Wenger.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">A heavy touch meant Elneny allowed a 38th-minute opening to pass him by and Sanchez headed a Bellerin cross wide when he should have punished his former employers.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">The industrious Alex Iwobi – a surprise starter – had an early second-half strike deflected into the side netting by Dani Alves before Arsenal pulled level on the night in wonderful fashion.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Sanchez cut a low pass from the left into Elneny’s path and the midfielder steered a crisp side-footed shot into the top-right corner.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Barca emerged from their latest slumber with a lightning combination between Neymar and Messi – the Brazilian’s backheel setting up his team-mate to force Ospina into a low save – although a timely recovery tackle from Javier Mascherano prevented Welbeck from ramping up the unexpected anxiety inside Camp Nou.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">But where Arsenal lacked precision to go with their enthusiasm, Suarez contributed decisively with his 43rd goal of the season – and arguably his best – in the 65th minute.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">Alves hung a cross towards the back post where Suarez contorted himself and sprung acrobatically to send a spectacular volley beyond a helpless Ospina.</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">His opposite number Ter Stegen made a double save from Sanchez and substitute Olivier Giroud, before Messi’s impudent dink underlined the gulf in penalty area class two minutes from time.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : <u>isoccerng</u></p>
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MSN demolish Arsenal to scale into UCL quarter-finals

MSN demolish Arsenal to scale into UCL quarter-finals

Barcelona’s famed attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar were all on target Wednesday night as the Blaugranes dispatched Ars...

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Joshua J. Omojuwa: An Open Letter To Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari

BASAM 0 07:37:00

<p dir="ltr">Dear Mr. President,</p>
<p dir="ltr">Kwana biyu Baba! The last time we met was that day I picked up the microphone and was telling you that if you failed to deliver the change, we’d change you like Goodluck Jonathan was deservingly changed. You remember Mr. President? You said, “I very much appreciate the subtle threat…I will either perform or I will be shown the way out,” and that you would do your best to deliver on the promises made during the campaign. On our part, we promised to always tell you as it is. This piece is part of keeping that promise.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Dear Mr. President, please do not pay heed to those who insist nothing is changing. The last time the NNPC opened up its books to the public, Facebook and Twitter had not been founded, PDP was set to rule Nigeria for another 60 years, and the word ‘tablet’ only meant drugs and not mini computers. Thanks to your government, the NNPC is beginning to look like it can work, a Prayer Contractor who got N2.2 billion from the Dasuki Wealth Fund has promised to refund it from the sales of his properties. Talking about properties, the prices of properties in Abuja are crashing and the cost of renting apartments especially in the posh areas of the city have considerably gone lower. A big time crony capitalist reportedly shutdown his foreign TV House in order to fund the return of over half a billion of his share of the Dasuki Fund. The Bank Verification Number regime has since cost about 40,000 federal ghost workers their jobs. That is bad for the job market of ghosts and their human masters but great for the Nigeria where ghosts earn fat salaries while bona fide citizens wallow in the biting poverty of joblessness.</p>
<p dir="ltr">We have since moved on from the days of over invoicing for imported fuel and invoicing for zero litre of imported fuel. With the Treasury Single Account, the Nigerian government has since cashed almost N3 trillion. In the past, this would have been money available to the banks to be borrowed by the government at ridiculous interests, now it is money readily available to the government. Boko Haram retain the capacity to hurt us at anytime but even your most irrational critics will admit you have done more to hurt their ability to destroy and maim than your predecessor did in his 5 ineffectual years. A lot has since changed Mr. President and we the citizens who are first about the interest of Nigeria know things aren’t exactly as they were under the half a decade of oil boom and the attendant impunity that ended last May. But this is only part of the story.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Sir, if the words above were easy to read, I crave your indulgence to read the following words a bit slower than the above. Criticisms against your work for you to do better are better than the praises for what has already been achieved. Against the reality you succeeded, some things have changed but the bottom line remains the same; Nigerians are still groaning under the weight of fuel scarcity, this seems like a permanent feature these days, power supply has arguably gotten worse or at least stayed the same. We can talk about the great things your administration has put in place since May 29, 2015 but ultimately, if those things haven’t changed the reality of life of the average Nigerian or look like they are about to change that reality, Nigerians have a reason to question the change.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It is important not to have these Nigerians mixed up with those hypocrites desperate to be seen as making common sense look like the Einstein-esque discovery of our days when common sense has indeed become commonplace.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr. President, your response to the killings by herdsmen in the middle-belt has been nothing to write home about. That is because there has been nothing to write by way of response from you. The herdsmen were in a report were said to be the world’s 4th deadliest terrorist group in the world but your government and you in particular appear to pretend like they are not doing all the killings they are doing. Agatu is only the latest in the bloodshed. Something needs to get done and you need to communicate more on such killings. This is what governments that value human life do.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Dear Mr. President, you once cried on national TV because you felt helpless and powerless about the sufferings of the Nigerian masses. If the majority of them continue to cry after finally trusting you with their mandate, the tears you shed on that day will be tears for yourself and the opportunity missed. You have good intentions but intentions alone cannot fry plantain just as they cannot run a country. You will not cut deals or have someone cut deals on your behalf. You will not clear several Abuja villages in order to have your own mega farm. You will not steal our money. But Mr. President, even if you do not do all these, you will only be judged based on what you should have done and did not do, what you did that you could have done better and what you did indeed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr. President, stop trying to command and control the economy on one side and looking to win investors over on another. They are two parallels line that don’t meet. The freest economies are also the most prosperous economies. Even China had to change its ways to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty. Even Russia let go of command and control to achieve telling economic progress.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The fight against corruption is hot and sizzling but it must go beyond those who stole cash. Take a former minister of finance who was nominated in her capacity as a minister to the board of a special University of Technology in Abuja. On her way out of office, she replaced names of members of the board with her cronies and sought to keep control of the board. This is a university set up with funds from the federal government yet had its board illegally changed just weeks to the end of the last administration. Abuse of office is corruption. Corruption is corruption.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr. President, please do not expect Sai Babaing in the course of doing your work, those still making such noise don’t mean well. You have your work cut out. It is one’s hope that the passing of the budget will ease the apparent pains of Nigerians. The past 9 months have been generally disappointing against the expectations of most Nigerians; this is the truth and nothing short of the truth. It is high time you stopped referencing your performance against the disaster that was the Jonathan administration. If we wanted to benchmark progress against that administration, we’d have returned them and simply asked them to do better. We genuinely wanted a paradigm shift and that simply means a clear departure from that unwholesome reality.</p>
<p dir="ltr">By all means Mr. President, you must never forget the faces of those Nigerians you met on your campaign trail. If you fail them, they’d have lost faith, not just in you but in their belief and hope that Nigeria can indeed be better. The reason is because you were expected to be the foundation of a much better Nigeria.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Wherever they are, you must call the best of our country to help deliver this change. Do not forget to weed out those who led us to where we are. Thinking in a democratic setting you can make the change happen alone is to not understand the fact democracy requires all the parts of the machine working to move forward. It is not political to appoint all those that need to be appointed or sack those that need to be sacked to get the wheel of change moving, it is a necessary beginning to delivering on your promise. There is no time sir, you were elected a year ago this month. This is not a note of impatience; it is a reminder of the ticking clock.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In the best interest of Nigeria,</p>
<p dir="ltr">Joshua J. Omojuwa</p>
<p dir="ltr">This piece was initially written for and published by the PUNCH <u>Newspapers</u></p>
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Joshua J. Omojuwa: An Open Letter To Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari

Joshua J. Omojuwa: An Open Letter To Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari

Dear Mr. President, Kwana biyu Baba! The last time we met was that day I picked up the microphone and was telling you that if you failed to...

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Benue Govt. Probes 2.4 Billion Naira Paid To Ghost Workers Annually

BASAM 0 07:27:00

<p dir="ltr">The Benue State government says it will probe the payment of 2.4 billion Naira to ghost workers in the state’s civil service.<br>
  Over 2,000 ghost workers are said to have been recorded on the payroll system of the state.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A bio-metric staff audit report showed that over 2.4 billion Naira was siphoned annually.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The government said it would prosecute those that had added the ghost workers in the payroll.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The State Governor, Samuel Ortom, and his Commissioner for Finance, David Olofu, on Wednesday, disclosed the development during the presentation of the final report of the Benue State Civil Service Bio-metric Data Screening Exercise.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Project Consultant, Prince Mkpang, while presenting his report to the Governor, said that over 2.4 billion Naira would be saved annually from the criminal diversion of funds to ghost workers, as a result of the air tight E-data base platform established.</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to Governor Ortom, the savings from the new and improved payroll system, would go a long way to reduce the financial burden on the  government.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The bio-metric exercise would effectively reduce the bloated staff strength from over 21,000 to 17,962 employees for accurate and reliable data going forward.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source :Channelstv </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YPLSkEIyPiHoTnZALfXkWWB62xiZEgMRJxo6CAJzQ9CiONtz7ml2FopY0qDQGwK8znj6XoI4bm1Gpu-lbe_hwI6jXH33x94JZ2xElDCR5Z8sQOfl5gb9V2CVfCxLd5_QLdb4kWPkjiXi/s1600/Benue-Ortom-APC-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YPLSkEIyPiHoTnZALfXkWWB62xiZEgMRJxo6CAJzQ9CiONtz7ml2FopY0qDQGwK8znj6XoI4bm1Gpu-lbe_hwI6jXH33x94JZ2xElDCR5Z8sQOfl5gb9V2CVfCxLd5_QLdb4kWPkjiXi/s640/Benue-Ortom-APC-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

Benue Govt. Probes 2.4 Billion Naira Paid To Ghost Workers Annually

Benue Govt. Probes 2.4 Billion Naira Paid To Ghost Workers Annually

The Benue State government says it will probe the payment of 2.4 billion Naira to ghost workers in the state’s civil service. Over 2,000 ...

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Zenith Bank declares N105.66bn profit after tax

BASAM 0 06:53:00

<p dir="ltr">According to several business reports, Zenith International Bank Plc has declared a profit after tax of N105.66 billion for the financial year ended Dec. 31, 2015. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this is against the N99.46 billion recorded in 2014. The report is contained in the company’s audited result released by the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) on Tuesday in Lagos.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The profit represents an increase of 6.23 per cent or N6.21 billion when compared with the figure for 2014. Its profit before tax stood at N125.62 billion compared with N119.79 billion declared in the corresponding period of 2014.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The bank’s gross earnings rose to N432.56 billion from N403.343 reported in the preceding year, an increase of 7.24 per cent. Net Interest Income appreciated to N224.58 billion from N206.503 billion in the preceding year.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Further breakdown of the bank’s result indicated that total assets surged to N4.01 trillion from N3.755 trillion, while total liabilities stood at N3.41 trillion from N3.202 trillion in 2014. NAN reports that the board of directors proposed a final dividend of N1.55 per share to all its investors.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The bank had already paid an interim dividend of 25k in 2015.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6V3yz5JVCkNs5Hkzf95Gw9O-HayUnwgotnHYXXoRFCPEhJhz4Qx21G2sKVofcmoQH5WD5_E6vWvR2wE2TtxSoo19dqDzAx0CqDLZFLWF0xutN4mlH9T4LC5LFpwE0FDdCh07Jfzh8PNh/s1600/zenith-bank-9jastreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6V3yz5JVCkNs5Hkzf95Gw9O-HayUnwgotnHYXXoRFCPEhJhz4Qx21G2sKVofcmoQH5WD5_E6vWvR2wE2TtxSoo19dqDzAx0CqDLZFLWF0xutN4mlH9T4LC5LFpwE0FDdCh07Jfzh8PNh/s640/zenith-bank-9jastreet.jpg"> </a> </div>

Zenith Bank declares N105.66bn profit after tax

Zenith Bank declares N105.66bn profit after tax

According to several business reports, Zenith International Bank Plc has declared a profit after tax of N105.66 billion for the financial ye...

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Bomb Blast In Maiduguri Mosque Kills 22, Injures Several Others

BASAM 0 06:51:00

<p dir="ltr">Report reaching our news desks now says a suicide bomber attacked a mosque in Umarari Village, on the outskirts of Maiduguri, early this morning, killing at least 22 worshippers and leaving several others injured.<br>
  A Civilian-JTF official, Alhaji Danbatta, who confirmed the attack, said that at least 14 persons are dead and about 21 other persons were injured in the blast.<br>
“The bomb attack occurred this morning in Umarari village, just after Mulai Leprosy Hospital, outside Maiduguri, along the Biu-Maiduguri highway.<br>
He said,<br>
“It was a suicide attack: the bomber sneaked in while the worshippers were observing the morning congregational prayer.”<br>
  Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the Boko Haram terrorist group is largely suspected to be responsible.<br>
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, had said on Tuesday March 15, that he was confident that Boko Haram will be eliminated in Nigeria, as troops fighting insurgents in the northeast are doing so with utmost commitment and renewed.<br>
Speaking at the office of the Oyo State Governor during his one-day familiarization tour of the Two Division of Nigerian Army, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo in Ibadan, Tukur said the Nigerian army is committed to ending the fight against the insurgents soon, not minding that the fight may seem unending to many Nigerians who have had to cope with the consequences of the terrorist group.<br>
He assured;<br>
“Terrorism is a global phenomenon. It may seem unending but I want to assure you that here in Nigeria, we are working hard to ensure that the Boko Haram terrorists are completely eliminated. We still have some remnants of them but we are closing up and clearing them by the day.”<br>
More Details Later….</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uQsMvotzoKA/Vulk6sYC5NI/AAAAAAAAAHU/s1600/bomb-blast2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uQsMvotzoKA/Vulk6sYC5NI/AAAAAAAAAHU/s640/bomb-blast2.jpg"> </a> </div>

Bomb Blast In Maiduguri Mosque Kills 22, Injures Several Others

Bomb Blast In Maiduguri Mosque Kills 22, Injures Several Others

Report reaching our news desks now says a suicide bomber attacked a mosque in Umarari Village, on the outskirts of Maiduguri, early this mor...

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Ambode Orders Evacuation Of Lekki Gardens Occupants

BASAM 0 06:28:00

<p dir="ltr">The Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, who visited the site of the collapsed five-storey building which wasted the lives of 34 persons in the Lekki area of the state on Tuesday last week, has issued a directive for the evacuation of all occupants living in houses built by Lekki Gardens in order for an integrity test to be carried out on all the buildings to ascertain their safety.<br>
Speaking to journalists after he went on a tour of the collapsed building site, as well as other buildings owned by Lekki Gardens, the governor said the developer should shoulder the responsibility of the occupants’ relocation as government would not fold its hands until the buildings kill other people. He said,<br>
“The State Government will undertake a stability test on all other buildings constructed by the developer in the state, whether occupied or not, to ascertain their structural stability. The developer will pay the cost of the tests. Any building found to be defective would be demolished.<br>
  For those that pass the integrity test, the developer will pay a penalty for any over-development on the site. Further to the above, the State Government intends to carry out an audit of all structures in Lagos to ascertain those with planning approval or not and evaluate the physical development against the approved building plans. The details of this initiative are being finalized and you will be briefed in due course.<br>
“Let me reiterate that Lagos is open to business for those who must comply with the state’s laws and regulations in order to prosper. Our main concern is to continue to improve on the ease of doing business and uphold the rule of law at all times. Those who choose non-compliance and defiance will henceforth face the full weight of the law without fear or favour.”<br>
While he sympathized with those who lost their loved ones and those who sustained injuries in the process, Akinwunmi Ambode made it clear that it is the duty of any government to make sure that the lives and properties of its citizens were protected, adding that his administration was resolute to succeed in that duty.<br>
  Narrating the actions taken by his government since the incident happened, Ambode said they ordered the immediate isolation of the construction area and also stopped further work. He also organised an emergency rescue team which made sure that all the injured persons were taken to the state hospitals and also gave an order for the people who owned the crumbled building to hand themselves over to the police, which they did.<br>
He sternly warned,<br>
“In addition, some government officials have been relieved of their duties. I want to assure you that there will no longer be any sacred cows. If there is failure of duty, there will be sanctions.”<br>
The governor gave an assurance that the state government would do everything within its legal jurisdiction, to curtail the prodigality of developers who disobey its regulations and to bring back effectiveness and confidence in the control and supervision of the building processes.<br>
For the purpose of achieving this objective, the Lagos state government had instituted a committee led by Dr Moses Olubunmi Ajayi, a former President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners and Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Engineer Ore Fadayomi, President of the Nigerian Institute of Structural engineers; Mrs. Yetunde Ajayi, Retired Permanent Secretary; General Manager, Lagos State Planning Authority (LASSPA) and the Secretary of LASBCA as Secretary of the Committee.<br>
  The terms and references of the committee, which is required to submit its report in 4 weeks includes,<br>
To examine the Urban and Regional Planning Law of the state as it affects Lagos State Building Control Agency, and LASBCA and also to examine the operations of LASBCA and make recommendations for changes that would ensure effective service delivery.<br>
To recommend organizational re-structure and appropriate manpower for effective operation of LASBCA.<br>
To study the legal and operational issues affecting the functioning of the Materials Testing Laboratory and all other matters that will enhance the efficient functioning of the two organizations.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source :buzznigeria.com </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf25nbqb1QU1ogUcGtZxLoyWrPZaLde33liLtKVAHs6MbRAXGPrJIkU6aZyVV8jpsHoICSjjXQbnMdHo3xkImshYvLvZZv1kQTl6xIMjwGuETjKhsr2tDkdSbvq-ldzsX8vSBW4tg5puO/s1600/Akinwunmi-Ambode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf25nbqb1QU1ogUcGtZxLoyWrPZaLde33liLtKVAHs6MbRAXGPrJIkU6aZyVV8jpsHoICSjjXQbnMdHo3xkImshYvLvZZv1kQTl6xIMjwGuETjKhsr2tDkdSbvq-ldzsX8vSBW4tg5puO/s640/Akinwunmi-Ambode.jpg"> </a> </div>

Ambode Orders Evacuation Of Lekki Gardens Occupants

Ambode Orders Evacuation Of Lekki Gardens Occupants

The Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, who visited the site of the collapsed five-storey building which wasted the lives of 34 perso...

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One Million Forced Out Of School By Boko Haram War – UN

BASAM 0 05:20:00

<p dir="ltr">An estimated one million children have been forced out of school as a result of violent attacks by Boko Haram in northeastern Nigeria and its neighbouring countries, a new UNICEF report said on Tuesday.<br>
The ongoing violence has led to the closure of more than 2,000 schools in Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroon, the agency said. Hundreds of others have been attacked, looted or burned by Boko Haram, whose name roughly translates to “Western education is forbidden”.<br>
“The conflict has been a huge blow for education in the region, and violence has kept many children out of the classroom for more than a year, putting them at risk of dropping out of school altogether,” said Manuel Fontaine, UNICEF’s West and Central Africa regional director.<br>
Fontaine said the “staggering” figure of one million children out of school increased the risks of them being “abused, abducted and recruited by armed groups”. How sad.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : omojuwa.com. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVXEr5QRphTwE625kcHC5f87XQ9_76nHNQdLrsX5l135OtnblrJd8u9MsczY3R53TSVcjOx1rlhTmpXyD41ad1OR6BWuJvJy7qXhqYMXVzXB9pj1mDcLi9BlBZTL9OWq3FutQH0g3xe7h/s1600/sch-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVXEr5QRphTwE625kcHC5f87XQ9_76nHNQdLrsX5l135OtnblrJd8u9MsczY3R53TSVcjOx1rlhTmpXyD41ad1OR6BWuJvJy7qXhqYMXVzXB9pj1mDcLi9BlBZTL9OWq3FutQH0g3xe7h/s640/sch-1.jpg"> </a> </div>

One Million Forced Out Of School By Boko Haram War – UN

One Million Forced Out Of School By Boko Haram War – UN

An estimated one million children have been forced out of school as a result of violent attacks by Boko Haram in northeastern Nigeria and it...

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I’ll Be Merciless In Pursuing Looters, Says Buhari

BASAM 0 05:09:00

<p dir="ltr">President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday vowed that his administration would not show mercy to any person in its ongoing anti-corruption war.<br>
He said his administration would pursue the anti-graft war relentlessly until Nigerians began to see how the nation’s elite conspired to run the country down.<br>
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, the President spoke during an interactive session he had in Malabo with Nigerians resident in Equatorial Guinea.<br>
Buhari assured the Nigerians that he would not entertain any fear in his quest to rid the nation of corruption by bringing those who compromised their positions to book.<br>
“We will be merciless and relentless in pursuing all those who abused public trust. Nigerians will see how some of the elite conspired to run the nation down,” the President said.<br>
He also condemned recent political violence in Rivers State, saying the killing of people over political differences was primitive, barbaric and unacceptable.<br>
He promised to deal decisively with those responsible for the development.<br>
“We will deal decisively with all sponsors of violence. I have given the security services clear directives in this regard.<br>
“We will show that violence in any form will no longer be tolerated before, during or after elections,” he stated.<br>
Buhari promised that the Independent National Electoral Commission would be encouraged to explore the possibility of Nigerians abroad participating in the 2019 general elections by casting their votes wherever they might reside.<br>
He noted that some African countries had started allowing their citizens, resident abroad, to vote in national elections and Nigeria could not afford not to join them.<br>
He identified with the desire of Nigerians in the Diaspora to vote in national elections, pledging that he would do all within his powers to fulfil that desire.<br>
“I want all Nigerians to know that I respect them and their right to choose their leaders,” he said.<br>
The President disclosed that establishing a new national airline was not currently on the Federal Government’s list of priorities.<br>
He said his administration’s main area of focus was reducing the level of poverty.<br>
Buhari said developing the infrastructure needed to boost production in all sectors of the economy and creating more jobs for young Nigerians, as well as other actions that would directly enhance the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians would continue to be prioritised by his administration.<br>
He was responding to complaints by members of the Nigerian community about the absence of direct flights between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : omojuwa.com </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldIc8_4K5uNqKZh9G8AytRLFVIQ0S_IrjdrH1hhKqAFbTszW_LHAUUVRjjc1UxQOXKXa17f3yIQCTBZuETjLeOdul-_p8Oo39zHAM4a7WeZBDchLT6iOZRAQI5-IQHanz_PVaBc-N2oFj/s1600/IMG_20160314_135211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldIc8_4K5uNqKZh9G8AytRLFVIQ0S_IrjdrH1hhKqAFbTszW_LHAUUVRjjc1UxQOXKXa17f3yIQCTBZuETjLeOdul-_p8Oo39zHAM4a7WeZBDchLT6iOZRAQI5-IQHanz_PVaBc-N2oFj/s640/IMG_20160314_135211.jpg"> </a> </div>

I’ll Be Merciless In Pursuing Looters, Says Buhari

I’ll Be Merciless In Pursuing Looters, Says Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday vowed that his administration would not show mercy to any person in its ongoing anti-corruption war. ...

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Oronsaye Pleads Not Guilty To Charges

BASAM 0 news 04:37:00

<p dir="ltr">former Head of Service in Nigeria has pleaded not guilty to a two count-charge of fraud and criminal conversation of 900 million Naira.<br>
  Mr Steve Oronsaye is alleged to have committed the crime while he held sway as Chairman of Presidential Committee on Financial Action Task Force.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Having taken his plea on Tuesday, the Econometric ic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) asked for a later date to commence the trial.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The counsel to Mr Orasanye, however, rejected the application and asked the court to commence with the trial immediately.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The counsel to the EFCC then asked for a stand-down of the case to give the Commission time to prepare and return back to court.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The case is expected to begin in the next one hour.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The EFCC, on March 8, invited the former Head of Service for questioning over allegations of corruption and obtaining money by false pretence.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr Oronsaye was called in from his Abuja residence almost eight months after a Federal High Court ordered his release.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He was granted bail on self-recognition by a Federal High Court in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital in July 2015.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr Oronsaye, who was charged along with two others, was asked to deposit his travel documents with the court to fully secure his bail.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQpGlASmWurAii_CQEftmaCUbUUHu5UfbHHc1v4eT_CObceQLCP1PSt7d3wU-SsiMK0ODFtecteVNie-1I2bQwA3aO7SFbDgGAu_n7zDFxv7xbkiasJCi4ZlN3FffGZTzFuML7Cn2X8RC/s1600/Mr.-Stephen-Oronsaye-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQpGlASmWurAii_CQEftmaCUbUUHu5UfbHHc1v4eT_CObceQLCP1PSt7d3wU-SsiMK0ODFtecteVNie-1I2bQwA3aO7SFbDgGAu_n7zDFxv7xbkiasJCi4ZlN3FffGZTzFuML7Cn2X8RC/s640/Mr.-Stephen-Oronsaye-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

Oronsaye Pleads Not Guilty To Charges

Oronsaye Pleads Not Guilty To Charges

former Head of Service in Nigeria has pleaded not guilty to a two count-charge of fraud and criminal conversation of 900 million Naira. M...

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APC Has Perfected Plans To Rig Rivers Legislative Rerun Elections – PDP

BASAM 0 23:50:00

<p dir="ltr">The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State has raised alarm over alleged perfected plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to rig the legislative rerun elections in the state.<br>
 In a statement signed by the Media Adviser to the State Party Chariman, Jerry Needam, the party claimed to have uncovered a list of adhoc staff and returning officers of INEC for the polls, who are card carrying members of the APC, deployed to write predetermined result and exchange documents to favour the APC.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“APC has brought in a printing press from Lagos to print both sensitive and non-sensitive INEC materials which some APC members have been assigned to and will be lodged in some hotels in Lagos and Owerri”, the statement said.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The statement called on the police and the international community to intervene, asking INEC not to use the present list of adhoc staff.</p>
<p dir="ltr">However, the APC in a swift reaction denied the allegations.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, told journalists that his party will resist any attempt to rig the election by the PDP and will not support rigging.<br></p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmLsn2V7Tn31TClnTEPUVjUXnNMJ_S_DTDqr8HnRLiJY9dqOyE6c4_JCWD9dJtZAsocbuub7uldwnOV0icBWle2-qhGv1rY-RpLNMj4o_Y3c0W5k35mDKHB3IKt0v1G81iG3eGnBMefTT/s1600/pdp-apc-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmLsn2V7Tn31TClnTEPUVjUXnNMJ_S_DTDqr8HnRLiJY9dqOyE6c4_JCWD9dJtZAsocbuub7uldwnOV0icBWle2-qhGv1rY-RpLNMj4o_Y3c0W5k35mDKHB3IKt0v1G81iG3eGnBMefTT/s640/pdp-apc-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

APC Has Perfected Plans To Rig Rivers Legislative Rerun Elections – PDP

APC Has Perfected Plans To Rig Rivers Legislative Rerun Elections – PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State has raised alarm over alleged perfected plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to r...

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Rivers Rerun: APC Holds Rally In Gokana LGA

BASAM 0 23:45:00

<p dir="ltr">The people of Rivers State have been urged to reciprocate Federal government’s commitment to the implementation of the UNEP report by voting in the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in Saturday’s senatorial rerun elections.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This appeal was made on Tuesday by the leader of the APC delegation to Rivers State and the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, during the grand finale of the Rivers State rerun elections rally in Gokana Local Government Area.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr Amaechi, while canvassing for massive support for the APC candidate also disclosed that one billion dollars has been released by the federal government for the clean-up of Ogoni land.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress’ candidate in the senatorial re-run polls, Mr Andrew Uchendu, has pledged to improve socio-economic infrastructure in Etche Local Government Area.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He said this at an earlier held town hall meeting which had in attendance the former Rivers State Governor, Mr Chibuike Amaechi.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Minister also assured eligible voters that adequate security has been provided by the federal government during the polls.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKRE2sqMrlDJg-8f5Yz3gxKViPCUF_jgRPOZHFQz4JHJ9lvJOJqiCjoGk1LD6PHy5SHln19S5QDYB2ZXIYYGZiWgyAuSFEwNNd0xK-mDlobOj7FO9kyD3tgJFYCu_59kdFo8GPqoK7cGe/s1600/Amaechi-APC-Rally-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKRE2sqMrlDJg-8f5Yz3gxKViPCUF_jgRPOZHFQz4JHJ9lvJOJqiCjoGk1LD6PHy5SHln19S5QDYB2ZXIYYGZiWgyAuSFEwNNd0xK-mDlobOj7FO9kyD3tgJFYCu_59kdFo8GPqoK7cGe/s640/Amaechi-APC-Rally-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

Rivers Rerun: APC Holds Rally In Gokana LGA

Rivers Rerun: APC Holds Rally In Gokana LGA

The people of Rivers State have been urged to reciprocate Federal government’s commitment to the implementation of the UNEP report by voting...

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APC Tells FG To Declare State Of Emergency In Rivers State

BASAM 0 23:28:00

<p dir="ltr">The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Federal Government under the control of President Mohammadu Buhari to immediately declare a state of emergency in Rivers State following a new wave of attacks on innocent citizens in the State. <br>
The spokesman for the APC in Ondo State, Omo'ba Abayomi Adesanya, who made the call in a statement issued to journalists in Akure, said the rate at which innocent people are being killed and burnt alive in the name of politics in Rivers State is saddening and barbaric.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr. Abdesanya explained in the statement obtained by SaharaReporters that the call was necessary in a bid to forestall the breakdown of law and order following the extrajudicial killings of innocent citizens in Rivers State.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He alleged that some provocative statements credited to Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State were capable of causing confusion and disrupting the systemic and political functioning of the State.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"To prevent things from escalating and degenerating into a banana republic where anything goes, we passionately called on President Muhammadu Buhari to use the constitutional powers vested in him as President and Grand Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (GCFR) to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State for normalcy to return,” said Mr. Adesanya. </p>
<p dir="ltr">He continued, “As it stands now in Rivers State, it is obvious that the governor, Nyesom Wike, has lost control of the State. As the Chief Security Officer, his primary mandate is to secure the lives and properties of the people and government in the State. He has failed in his responsibility.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">The spokesman maintained that the case in Rivers State is not related to insurgency, but a sociopolitical unrest orchestrated by the people saddled with the responsibility of securing lives.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source :saharareporters</p>

APC Tells FG To Declare State Of Emergency In Rivers State

APC Tells FG To Declare State Of Emergency In Rivers State

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Federal Government under the control of President Mohammadu Buhari to immediately decl...

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FG To Generate Over N4 Billion Savings On Annual Travel Costs

BASAM 0 23:04:00

<p dir="ltr">The Federal Ministry of Finance has disclosed that discussions with local and international airlines to secure discounts for travel by government officials are yielding positive results.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to Minister of Finance, Mr Festus Akanbi, on Tuesday.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The statement added that “a review of Government overhead expenditure for the period 2012 to 2014 showed that travel was the largest single expenditure item.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“A cumulative total of N248 billion, equivalent to about 18% of total overhead expenditure, was spent on travel during the period.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“This translates to N83 billion per annum. At a conservative discount of 5% on ticket prices, the estimated savings per annum is approximately N4 billion”, it said.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Ministry explained that given the large amount spent on travel, and consequently the significant potential for savings, “it is imperative that the Efficiency Unit prioritises travel as a key focus area for cost cutting and generation of savings.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“To this end the Efficiency Unit has engaged in negotiation discussions with local and international airlines for discounts commensurate with the large number of ticket purchases made by Government annually. The savings generated will increase funding available to the government for capital investment”.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Ministry reiterated its commitment to cut costs and promote fiscal prudence and acknowledged the willingness of Arik Air to provide discounts on tickets purchased by the Government.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In addition to reducing government spend on travel, the Efficiency Unit has made proposals to the appropriate government authorities for the introduction of guidelines that will reduce the need for travel by localising the activities that necessitate travel, where feasible, and encouraging the use of ICT.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Other overhead expenditure items including insurance, advertising and fuel, where the government’s bargaining power can be leveraged are also being reviewed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It further noted that administrative controls are being strengthened through the issuance of circulars detailing appropriate guidelines and the implementation of measures to enforce compliance.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv</p>
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FG To Generate Over N4 Billion Savings On Annual Travel Costs

FG To Generate Over N4 Billion Savings On Annual Travel Costs

The Federal Ministry of Finance has disclosed that discussions with local and international airlines to secure discounts for travel by gover...

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President Buhari Gets Equatorial Guinea’s Highest National Honour

BASAM 0 05:16:00

<p dir="ltr">President Muhammadu Buhari has been conferred with the highest national honour of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea.<br>
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, the President was conferred with the national honour in Malabo on Monday for his personal integrity, exemplary leadership style and courage to fight terrorism in order to ensure peace and safety in Africa.<br>
The honour of “Gran Collar De La Orden De La Independencia” translated “Grand Collar of the Order of the Independence” was said to have been conferred on Buhari by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea at the Presidential Palace.<br>
At the investiture ceremony,  Buhari reportedly said the recognition was for the people of Nigeria who had worked tirelessly to sustain peace in the country and across other neighbouring countries in Africa.<br>
“On behalf of my country, Nigeria, and the people, I will like to express profound gratitude for the honour given to me and my people. The reality of the situation now is that there had never been a time in history for greater neighbourliness, for security and economic stability than now,” he said.<br>
The President said the challenges faced by African countries  had a common thread, and must be collectively appraised and jointly tackled by all the African countries.<br>
Buhari assured the people that Nigeria would always support efforts of ensuring socio-political and economic stability of its neighbours and the entire African continent.<br>
Earlier in his remarks,  Mbasogo said it was an honour for his country to confer the Highest National Honour on  Buhari on his first visit to the country.<br>
“We are here to recognise the son of the soil. On this occasion, we deem it fit and appropriate to decorate the son of Africa for the great work he is doing in Africa, which includes tackling a great menace to the continent, Boko Haram, ” he said.<br>
The President pledged his country’s support to Nigeria in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source – Punchng.com</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggco4140HnRiJIuRiitOkR04Tp48i9l_Dce4D2TOsITZROfSN_xx-OnS2LprRmMoABHT7aAcGfbW7NPpY54oDfH_yZFBK7McMct1Nxc83MP9WIM15jmguGY7E4Bdl4k2MWHLjWI70GHF1J/s1600/IMG_20160315_131540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggco4140HnRiJIuRiitOkR04Tp48i9l_Dce4D2TOsITZROfSN_xx-OnS2LprRmMoABHT7aAcGfbW7NPpY54oDfH_yZFBK7McMct1Nxc83MP9WIM15jmguGY7E4Bdl4k2MWHLjWI70GHF1J/s640/IMG_20160315_131540.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoncQPRRqBBhrun6mGhghyCbOkgxBMBl2t5ufWBEQYndsBwvPZPv6ZM_kbNgtIWN_XHTeIwR222BgnqGjQKIsDpzGlZ4zxTIZRvFScdaYXOvP7iLKu2aSWAVPeqLoOoBHLnYWZAP7VBKQ/s1600/IMG_20160315_131533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoncQPRRqBBhrun6mGhghyCbOkgxBMBl2t5ufWBEQYndsBwvPZPv6ZM_kbNgtIWN_XHTeIwR222BgnqGjQKIsDpzGlZ4zxTIZRvFScdaYXOvP7iLKu2aSWAVPeqLoOoBHLnYWZAP7VBKQ/s640/IMG_20160315_131533.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOzqyO0nAf_H2Ppd8CdLb8CrJwoRhVKGWHOpMdqKgNfU1y6x5_xyFS0a2YkFgZTLmMGu-3T5k6CVDQrMsFDBJrg52U3pftvDXOKoWBUEJ0GCtIEo3yHQtxf6IhxenU8EO_p15XI5-xD68/s1600/IMG_20160315_131536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOzqyO0nAf_H2Ppd8CdLb8CrJwoRhVKGWHOpMdqKgNfU1y6x5_xyFS0a2YkFgZTLmMGu-3T5k6CVDQrMsFDBJrg52U3pftvDXOKoWBUEJ0GCtIEo3yHQtxf6IhxenU8EO_p15XI5-xD68/s640/IMG_20160315_131536.jpg"> </a> </div>

President Buhari Gets Equatorial Guinea’s Highest National Honour

President Buhari Gets Equatorial Guinea’s Highest National Honour

President Muhammadu Buhari has been conferred with the highest national honour of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. According to a stateme...

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Sports Minister, Oliseh To Appear Before House Committee On Sports

BASAM 0 sport 03:34:00

<p dir="ltr">Minister for Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung and Former Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, are expected to appear before the House of Representatives’ Committee on Sports, in Abuja on Thursday, to answer questions over Oliseh’s unexpected resignation.<br>
The ex-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund midfielder, is expected to explain his decision to quit the job, with just a month to the crucial AFCON qualifiers against Egypt.<br>
A sports ministry official confirms that the Sports Minister insisted Oliseh be part of the Sports Committee’s hearing on Thursday, and has been invited to give his own side of his resignation story.<br>
The Sports Minister ordered Oliseh not to be sacked when Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), President Amaju Pinnick presented a recommendation of the technical committee that the coach be fired.<br>
The NFF have maintained this briefing is a major distraction as the Super Eagles are preparing for must-win AFCON qualifiers against Egypt.<br>
  Last month, Sunday Oliseh quit as the Super Eagles Head coach, just over seven months after he was appointed.<br>
Sunday Oliseh claimed his resignation was due to contract violations, lack of support, unpaid wages, benefits to my players, assistant coaches and himself personally.<br>
He complained of several breaches to his contract with the NFF, such as he being owed four months’ salary and no accommodation provisions received in Abuja which he had been promised.<br>
He also reportedly had challenges managing the players. An altercation between the coach and the team’s former captain and the country’s most capped goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama, was said to have led to the goalie’s premature resignation from the team last October.<br>
Oliseh was appointed as coach in July 2015, replacing sacked Stephen Keshi, but the relationship between him and the NFF went awry after Nigeria failed to go past the group stage of the recent African Nations Championship in Rwanda.<br>
The NFF has since replaced Oliseh with Samson Siasia as the new Super Eagles coach. He is assisted by Nigeria U20 coach Emmanuel Amuneke, Salisu Yusuf  and Alloy Agu ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Egypt.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : buzznigeria.com </p>
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Sports Minister, Oliseh To Appear Before House Committee On Sports

Sports Minister, Oliseh To Appear Before House Committee On Sports

Minister for Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung and Former Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, are expected to appear before the Ho...

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VP Osinbajo’s Office Lied About India Trip

BASAM 0 02:29:00

<p dir="ltr">Two sources at the Presidency have told SaharaReporters that a spirited statement by Laolu Akande, the spokesman for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to the effect that the VP had not made a final decision to travel to New Delhi India was a false claim to cover up an embarrassing protocol gaffe that would have seen both President Muhammadu Buhari and the VP outside of Nigeria at the same time. Had the country’s two top citizens been absent, embattled Senate President Bukola Saraki would have assumed the posture of acting President.<br>
  Mr. Akande’s statement sought to refute a report by SaharaReporters that a blunder by the protocol department at the Presidency had compelled Mr. Osinbajo to abort his trip to New Delhi where he was billed to represent Nigeria at an important international event in order to avert an embarrassing situation where Mr. Saraki could temporarily be at the helm of Nigeria’s affairs. </p>
<p dir="ltr">After the denial by the VP’s spokesman, an investigation by SaharaReporters revealed that the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF)in Abuja had confirmed that Mr. Osinbajo was billed to fly to India on a presidential Jet Gulfstream G550 with call sign NGR-002. The jet was scheduled to take the VP and 12 other officials to India. In fact, an advance team of 12 had already departed Nigeria, led by a protocol officer.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In addition, SaharaReporters ascertained that the plane was scheduled to depart Abuja at 0030hrs on March 13, 2016. Besides, the flight had already obtained diplomatic over-flight permits to fly through the airspace of at least seven countries-Chad, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Pakistan and India-before it was abruptly canceled.</p>
<p dir="ltr">One of our sources added that the cancellation of the flight was relayed to the pilots who were on standby as well as the PAF ground crew via telephone call from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). The Presidential Air Fleet used to be under the control of the State Chief of Protocol. </p>
<p dir="ltr">However, on coming to office, President Buhari moved it to the office of the NSA while the Department of State Security continues to handle his land transportation needs.<br>
 <br>
Shortly after SaharaReporters revealed the gaffe, Mr. Akande admitted that Nigeria was going to be represented by a minister in India, but claimed that a final determination had not been made for the VP to travel to India. </p>
<p dir="ltr">However, a source at the Presidency insisted that Mr. Akande’s claim was “totally false,” adding that it was “aimed at covering up the incompetence of the protocol staff at the Presidency.” </p>
<p dir="ltr">The event, the first of its kind, which was dubbed “CII- EXIM Bank Conclave on India-Africa Project Partnership” was to take place in New Delhi, India with Nigeria as a major partner. A delegate list obtained by SaharaReporters shows that the Nigeria delegation led by the VP had confirmed final participation as of March 9th 2016. The VP would have been accompanied by three ministers, namely :  Okechukwu Enelamah, Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment,  Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Minister of Solid Minerals and the Minister of Health, Professor Issac Adewole.  <br>
 <br>
The source reaffirmed that the desire not to allow Mr. Saraki to become the most senior political office holder in Nigeria while the President and VP were traveling was “an important political consideration” in canceling the VP’s trip to India. <br>
The Nigerian government lost over $250,000 to VP Osinbajo’s trip cancellation</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : saharareporters.com </p>
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VP Osinbajo’s Office Lied About India Trip

VP Osinbajo’s Office Lied About India Trip

Two sources at the Presidency have told SaharaReporters that a spirited statement by Laolu Akande, the spokesman for Vice President Yemi Osi...

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Donald Trump Calls African Leaders “Thieves”

BASAM 0 01:54:00

<p dir="ltr">Who’s fault is it that an American ‘wannabee’ President as Donald Trump would boldly talk down on African presidents? His or the continent’s? The 69-year old Republican candidate for President of the United States 2016, is known for his loud mouth, however, he has spoken some facts which are not far from the truth about Nigerian leadership and that of Kenya, although he said them without adding a touch of diplomacy to it.<br>
During one of his unedited speeches, Donald Trump said leaders of African countries steal money from the country’s purse and invest them in foreign countries for their personal gain. He then cited Nigeria and Kenya as practical examples. Donald also thinks that some of these African countries lack civilization and leadership skills, and in his opinion, deserve to be recolonized, maybe this time by him.<br>
  “Look at African countries like Nigeria or Kenya for instance, those people are stealing from their own government and go to invest the money in foreign countries. From the government to the opposition, they only qualify to be used as a case study whenever bad examples are required.<br>
How do you trust even those who have run away to hide here in the United States, hiding behind education? I hear they abuse me in their blogs but I don’t care because even the internet they are using is ours and we can decide to switch it off from this side. These are people who import everything including matchsticks.<br>
In my opinion, most of these African countries (like Nigeria) ought to be recolonized again for another 100 years because they know nothing about leadership and self-governance.”<br>
  The world has heard more than enough from this determined wannabee president of the United States, who finds pleasure bad-mouthing everyone except himself. He has rained several abusive words on his opponent from the Democratic nomination, Hilary Clinton, calling her all sorts of names, while President Barrack Obama has had a trailer load full of Donald’s disrespectful and indicting statements.<br>
If he can do all that to his president, who stands as a template for him, calling African  leaders thieves is not the least expected of him. After 56 years of independence, Nigerian leaders still can’t boast of providing basic amenities such as power supply, water, home-refined petroleum products, good roads, rail, etc, yet the country is among the highest producer of crude oil in Africa. Leaders have become selfish and would rather gather self-wealth than build the country. African leaders do not need more rubbishing from Donald Trump before they give up on the idea of accumulating wealth for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : Ajumoke <u>Nwaeze</u></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kZks3BsUDDKJ4d1e57hYdO2hZLbV_VUvUJMvG0Q5jK_tuCYVkZh1K5x5FZR8thPQ9i3RI2sREEBk-_ol9fnlJRfWKWKo3sM7CTfLNFW22n0a6HuAVLz7bd5wfsSb3V0H6FJQB9pVyQO7/s1600/IMG_20160315_094707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kZks3BsUDDKJ4d1e57hYdO2hZLbV_VUvUJMvG0Q5jK_tuCYVkZh1K5x5FZR8thPQ9i3RI2sREEBk-_ol9fnlJRfWKWKo3sM7CTfLNFW22n0a6HuAVLz7bd5wfsSb3V0H6FJQB9pVyQO7/s640/IMG_20160315_094707.jpg"> </a> </div>

Donald Trump Calls African Leaders “Thieves”

Donald Trump Calls African Leaders “Thieves”

Who’s fault is it that an American ‘wannabee’ President as Donald Trump would boldly talk down on African presidents? His or the continent’s...

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Diezani’s NNPC failed to remit $16billion, reveals auditor-general

BASAM 0 15:10:00

<p dir="ltr">The NNPC withheld 3.2 trillion naira ($16 billion) in revenues from the federal government in 2014, the auditor-general said on Monday, the same year that Emir Sanusi Lamido, then the central bank governor was suspended after making a similar assessment.<br>
Constitutionally, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) must hand over all oil revenue – which makes up about 70 percent of total income – and money is then paid back based on a budget approved by parliament.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Samuel Ukura, who presented his findings in a report to lawmakers at the National Assembly, said other government ministries and agencies had also failed to remit funds, taking the total not passed on to 3.3 trillion naira for 2014.</p>
<p dir="ltr">No one at the NNPC could immediately be reached to comment or provide details of the amount remitted that year. According to the latest figures on OPEC’s website, Nigeria’s oil exports are worth about $77 billion a year.<br>
  Development in Nigeria, Africa’s biggest oil producer and largest economy, has been stunted by decades of corruption and mismanagement. President Muhammadu Buhari took office last year on an anti-corruption ticket.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Ukura’s report stated that it was based on an “examination of NNPC mandates to CBN (Central Bank of Nigeria) on Domestic Crude Oil Sales and Reconciliation Statement of Technical Sub-committee of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting held in January 2014”.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“Amount not remitted to FAAC was N3,234,577,666,791.35,” the auditor-general said in his report.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 2014, the then central bank governor, Lamido Sanusi, was suspended after accusing the NNPC of failing to pay $20 billion into government accounts between January 2012 and July 2013.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Source : <u>thenewsnigeria.com</u></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wAPiLVBn_D7s7hY-Bkr3svrP3_nmYF1N6blOxrE3pGCV2zJzZRXaNrkXDz-TD2I1Dq-FN2QdZ4DeCAc1zchwCht1pqjdTqTps3dn69GwENFE-wy3bm7iKUUjovEqVLMnxIJ0zl3QcGk7/s1600/Lamido-Sanusi-992x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wAPiLVBn_D7s7hY-Bkr3svrP3_nmYF1N6blOxrE3pGCV2zJzZRXaNrkXDz-TD2I1Dq-FN2QdZ4DeCAc1zchwCht1pqjdTqTps3dn69GwENFE-wy3bm7iKUUjovEqVLMnxIJ0zl3QcGk7/s640/Lamido-Sanusi-992x1024.jpg"> </a> </div>

Diezani’s NNPC failed to remit $16billion, reveals auditor-general

Diezani’s NNPC failed to remit $16billion, reveals auditor-general

The NNPC withheld 3.2 trillion naira ($16 billion) in revenues from the federal government in 2014, the auditor-general said on Monday, the ...

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BREAKING NEWS: INEC has rescheduled the FCT Area Council Elections

BASAM 0 11:52:00

BREAKING NEWS: INEC has rescheduled the FCT Area Council Elections

BREAKING NEWS: INEC has rescheduled the FCT Area Council Elections

Independent National Electoral Commission has rescheduled the FCT Area Council Elections earlier scheduled for March 19, 2016 to now hold on...

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Apostle Suleiman To El Rufai: “Revoke Anti-Religion Bill Or Die!”

BASAM 0 news 06:12:00

<p dir="ltr">Apostle Johnson Suleiman has joined Christians, across Kaduna state, who have continued to kick against Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s Religious Regulation Bill, voicing their opposition to the executive bill before the state House of Assembly, allegedly designed to restrict all forms of religious preaching in the state.<br>
One of such critics of Gov El-Rufai’s religious bill is Apostle Johnson Suleiman, the Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries (OFM), headquatered in Auchi, Edo State and President of Celebration TV.<br>
Apostle Johnson Suleiman has in a video being circulated on social media warned the governor to “Revoke his law or die!”<br>
Suleiman attacks El Rufai, saying he has no right to regulate the activities of religious leaders when he has not regulated the activities of traditionalist in the state, adding that before he, El Rufai, became governor, they were men of God and that they will still remain men of God when he leaves office.<br>
In Apostle Suleiman’s words;<br>
“I want to warn the governor of Kaduna state. Many times I have read in the papers how he abused Jesus and Christians came after him. He said that they are joking that nothing can happen. I am talking to you, Kaduna Governor.<br>
“Listen, I am not against sanitizing a state but you say people should get licence for preaching; it is not applicable in Nigeria. Even a herbalist does not get a license for practicing herbalism.<br>
“When you say license for preaching, then you are standing against the constitution that says freedom of worship. I have no problem, we can test powers now. There are certain laws that cannot happen in this country.<br>
“Not when Nigeria is under God. If need be, over this matter, heaven will intervene. I am saying this specifically to the executive governor of Kaduna, revoke this law or die!”<br>
he said.<br>
Christians who have kicked against the Religious Regulation Bill, argue that it is at variance with Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution which presupposes that every Nigerian has a right or freedom of thought, conscience and religion and a right to change religion.<br>
  The Religious Regulation Bill, designed to replace the Religious Regulation Edict of 1984, is geared towards regulating Christianity and Islam as it seeks to create an inter-faith Ministerial Committee to be appointed by the  governor and exercise control over Jama’atu Nasril Islam, JNI, and the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN.<br>
It empowers the JNI and CAN to keep records of churches and mosques including data of preachers.<br>
With this bill, the ministerial committee shall issue licenses to religious bodies and without such licenses, you cannot preach.<br>
It highlights that no external preacher can preach in Kaduna without a permit.<br>
The committee has the power to refuse to issue licenses, though no criteria is given as to what will qualify one to have a license issued to him or for one to be denied a license.<br>
The bill is intended to stop the playing or circulating of “all cassettes, CDs, flash drives or any other communication gadgets containing religious recordings from accredited preachers other than inside one’s house, porch, Church, Mosques and other designated place of worship.<br>
It also seeks to ban sales or playing of any cassette containing “religious recordings in which abusive language is used against any person or religious organisation or religious leaders (past or present).<br>
The bill, if pasted into law, will prohibit sales of religious books, usage of abusive and derogatory terms in describing any religion.<br>
The bill proposed that any person found guilty of preaching without a valid licence and other offences under the law shall be liable to two years in prison or pay a fine of N200, 000.<br></p>
<p dir="ltr">Post by  Iheoma Hendy on  14 Mar <u>2016</u></p>
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Apostle Suleiman To El Rufai: “Revoke Anti-Religion Bill Or Die!”

Apostle Suleiman To El Rufai: “Revoke Anti-Religion Bill Or Die!”

Apostle Johnson Suleiman has joined Christians, across Kaduna state, who have continued to kick against Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s Religious ...

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Buhari Travels Again! This Time To Equatorial Guinea

BASAM 0 news 06:05:00

<p dir="ltr">This morning, President Muhammadu Buhari has made yet another trip out of Nigeria, this time to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.<br>
This trip was made for the purpose of a scheduled discussion with President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on further measures to protect the people and resources of the Niger Delta and the Gulf of Guinea. It is also in line with the continuation of the Nigerian Federal Government’s efforts to achieve greater security of lives, resources and investments in all parts of country and its sub-region. <br>
  Meanwhile, Nigerians are beginning to loose count of the number of times President Buhari has traveled out of the country since he assumed office. Although, most of the trips are to the benefit of the country, some of them can be avoided or delegated to the vice president, in order to buy more time for Mr President to concentrate on resolving the demanding issues of Nigeria.<br>
However, Buhari is expected to conclude and sign an agreement between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, for the establishment of a combined maritime policing and security patrol committee, during this trip. President Buhari and his host, President Mbasogo, are also expected to discuss and agree on other collaborative measures that will help fight crimes such as piracy, crude oil theft, attacks on oil rigs, arms smuggling and human trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea.<br>
Both leaders will also deliberate on the rescheduling of the joint summit of the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) on additional cooperative measures to curb terrorism and violent extremism in Western and Central region of Africa.<br>
Equatorial Guinea was meant to host this summit last year but it was postponed because of Nigeria’s 2015 general elections. In accordance with the main focus and agenda of the trip, President Buhari will be accompanied by the Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali, the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, and other senior security officials. As scheduled, President Buhari will return to Abuja on Tuesday. Nigerians wish him a safe trip to and fro Malabo and a successful and fruitful meeting also.</p>
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Buhari Travels Again! This Time To Equatorial Guinea

Buhari Travels Again! This Time To Equatorial Guinea

This morning, President Muhammadu Buhari has made yet another trip out of Nigeria, this time to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. This trip was ma...

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I am no longer part of Christ Embassy – Anita Oyakhilome

BASAM 0 news 22:37:00

<p dir="ltr">Anita Ebhodaghe, previously Anita Oyakhilome, irritated wife of the originator of Christ Embassy Church, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, has affirmed that she is no more a part of, or included in, Christ Embassy, otherwise called, Believers LoveWorld INC.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It would be reviewed that Anita was a year ago, included in a muddled separation with her spouse, Chris, after she asserted he was included in unlawful undertakings with female individuals from the congregation.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A laconic proclamation composed and marked by her legal advisors, Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors, expresses that "Anita might want to affirm that she is no more included in or a portion of Christ Embassy AKA Believers LoveWorld INC.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"We have been asked for by Anita Oyakhilome to affirm that on the eighth February 2016 an announcement supreme was professed in the High Court of Justice Principal Registry of the Family Division dissolving her marriage to Christian Onehirokpeana Oyakhilome," the announcement included.</p>
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I am no longer part of Christ Embassy – Anita Oyakhilome

I am no longer part of Christ Embassy – Anita Oyakhilome

Anita Ebhodaghe, previously Anita Oyakhilome, irritated wife of the originator of Christ Embassy Church, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, has affirm...

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How Saraki Turned Emir Of Ilorin Into A ‘Houseboy

BASAM 0 news 14:07:00

<p dir="ltr">Increasingly, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, is becoming a tool in the hands of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, SaharaReporters sources in Kwara State say.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Senate President, who is facing prosecution for alleged false declaration of assets and possible loss of his exalted position, is using a variety of weapons to fight his political battles, and the most prominent of his battle axes are the Emir and State Governor Abdulfattah Ahmed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A recent victim of the onslaught is Alhaji Ibrahim Oniye, Makaman Ilorin, who was suspended by Governor Ahmed as Chairman of Kwara State Parent-Teachers Association.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The suspension of Oniye, who was also barred by the Emir from stepping into his palace, did not come as a shock to many people in the state.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">The man, although blind, is a reputed straight talker, who is not afraid to speak the truth to those in authority.  His fearless nature was said to be one of the attributes that endeared him to the late Emir Aliyu Abdulkadir, the 10th Emir of Ilorin, who appointed him the first Makaman of the Ilorin Emirate in 1993. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Our sources say what got Oniye into trouble was his decision to tell Alhaji Sulu-Gambari that more people in Kwara are angry with Saraki and are actually cursing him.  Oniye was said to have told the Emir that those cursing Saraki are mainly the poor, who see the Senate President as one who has taken what belongs to them and continues to do so through Governor Ahmed, who is seen as a stooge.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Alhaji Oniye was said to have made this observation known to the Emir at a meeting called by the latter to find out why huge financial outlays on prayers by Saraki failed to stop the Supreme Court from halting the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) from going ahead with the Senate President’s prosecution.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In attendance at the meeting were prominent Muslim clerics and Ilorin title holders, who preferred to deodorize the real situation until Oniye spoke and told the meeting about the anger of Kwarans with Saraki.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The treatment of Oniye by the palace and the governor has sparked disquiet in the state and invited scrutiny of the Emir.</p>
<p dir="ltr">SaharaReporters sources said that as word leaked that Alhaji Oniye had been suspended and that his PTA chairmanship would be taken away, the political establishment in Ilorin reversed the decision. By the time SaharaReporters reached Alhaji Oniye, it was apparent he had ready-made answers.  Carefully picking his words, he denied he had not been suspended and blamed the news on those that might be jealous of his many titles and prestigious position within the Ilorin Emirate.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He also said he was never removed as the PTA chairman at the state level.  He stressed that as he had never been “queried or indicted” for any malfeasance, he couldn’t have been removed. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Asked if he had spoken up for teachers whose salaries had remained unpaid in the state, he waxed philosophical saying he is the “father of all” and then asked rhetorically if there are no unpaid teachers in Osun, Bauchi, Kano and other places.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When SaharaReporters pressed Alhaji Oniye regarding the Saraki trial in Abuja, he gave interesting answers.  First, he said it was his duty not to allow the image of Ilorin to be dragged in the mud by the trial since Saraki was Ilorin’s son, and later, that he would advise people not to jubilate over Saraki’s predicament unless he is pronounced guilty by the tribunal. When our reporter read this portion of his statement to him he asked that it be taken out completely saying he had no comment on Saraki because he doesn’t want to be dragged into politics.</p>
<p dir="ltr">SaharaReporters then asked Alhaji Oniye about the reason he worshipped at a local Mosque last Friday as opposed to the Central Mosque where he has always worshipped. On this question he was slightly upset, saying it was stupid of anyone to read meaning into that, claiming that since the Emir went to Ira for the anniversary of the Oba of Ira without taking him along, he was not under any obligation to worship at the Central Mosque. </p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr">The Emir is currently viewed as simply carrying out the wishes of Saraki and nothing else. Sources in Ilorin said issues in the emirate hardly get the Emir’s attention unless they have the potential to enhance Saraki’s fortunes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Also sucked into the Saraki scheme is the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) led by Alhaji Abdulhameed Adi. The IEDPU showed its true character when it went to present a Qur'an and Alkayba to Saraki in the Senate shortly after his indictment.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The union, at the prompting of the Senate President, scrapped its Ilorin branch, which comprised younger, better-educated and radical members. The branch had been opposed to Saraki’s stranglehold on the affairs of the state.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Members of the branch decided to go to court, a move that was leaked to the Emir, who called them to a meeting. On arrival at the palace, the Emir informed them that the most important issue was how to ensure that Saraki does not lose the Senate Presidency. He followed that up with an order that they should return to their homes and pray for Saraki.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Those at the meeting expressed shock at how the Emir had begun conflating Ilorin well-being with Saraki’s.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The bigger shock was witnessed last week when Saraki visited Ilorin. The Emir left the palace and followed Saraki to his residence, telling those obviously surprised by his abominable conduct that he was escorting his 'son' home.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Currently, it is said that the Emir rarely attends meetings of Northern Emirs. He is said to be fully occupied running errands for Saraki, leaving many displeased with the way the Emir conducts himself in the community.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Many, however, link the Emir’s servile conduct to a rumored prophecy that the 11th Emir would be deposed. The current is the 11th Emir and he is said to believe that it is the Saraki family that can stop the predicted deposition. </p>
<p dir="ltr">In the meantime, sources say copious sums of money are being spent on marabouts and traditional diviners to ensure that Saraki escapes justice.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Many marabouts are said to have been sent on trips to Saudi Arabia to pray for him. Locally, some others were contracted to say special prayers on Sobi Hill in Ilorin. They were said to have been told to come down and immediately slaughter a camel. They, however, met a dead camel when they came down from the hill, which was viewed as an indication that the prayers said had no effect.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Traditional diviners are said to have been hired for Saraki by the Emir of Okuta, in Baruten Local Government Area. Saraki is said to have promised to elevate the traditional ruler to the status of a First Class Emir. Three weeks ago, three diviners were brought in from the neighboring Republic of Benin.</p>
<p dir="ltr">All these activities are being funded with state resources, which are controlled by Saraki, with Governor Ahmed said to be no more than a mannequin.  Through state resources, judicial officials, security operatives, media practitioners and politicians are being bribed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The unsurprising consequence is that the state is unable to pay its workers or meet basic <u>obligations</u></p>
<p dir="ltr">Source: saharareporters.com </p>
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How Saraki Turned Emir Of Ilorin Into A ‘Houseboy

How Saraki Turned Emir Of Ilorin Into A ‘Houseboy

Increasingly, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, is becoming a tool in the hands of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, S...

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Simon Kolawole: After wasting Nigeria for 16 years, the PDP is in no position to brand Buhari a failure

BASAM 0 articles 05:25:00

<p dir="ltr">If I may quickly say this, I was not really a fan of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari until I read his interview in TheNEWS magazine some time in 1994 — nine years after he was overthrown in a coup by General Ibrahim Babangida. Questioned on the things he got wrong as military head of state, Buhari replied candidly (and I paraphrase): “We made mistakes, but they were genuine mistakes… we were in a hurry to change Nigeria.” That instantly won me over. His perceived highhandedness was not for personal profit; it was in desperation to reform Nigerians. In one sentence, I saw honesty, I saw patriotism and I saw authenticity. I became his disciple from a distance.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I started dreaming of a Buhari presidency precisely in 1998. I can’t remember everything now, but I was then the Features Editor of THISDAY. Mr. Victor Ifijeh, then the Editor, drew my attention to a public lecture on leadership by Buhari and asked me to write a “Man in the News” feature on him for the Friday Review section. After going through Buhari’s speech, whose details I cannot now recollect (which means I’m finally getting old), I convinced myself that this was the kind of leader Nigeria badly needed. I started praying that one day, Buhari would lead Nigeria again. The inimitable Gen. Sani Abacha was the head of state then.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I would later get close to Buhari. I sized him up at close quarters and made my conclusions. One, he is very passionate about the progress of Nigeria. He believes that the country can be far better than this. Two, he believes the major problem obstructing our progress is leadership deficiency. In an interview I had with him in March 2001, he complained about the growing lawlessness in the land under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s leadership, concluding: “Instead of the dog wagging the tail, it is the tail that is wagging the dog.” Three, he told me in May 2009 that Nigeria had been ruled by “leaders without conscience”, and that was why we had not developed “despite all our resources”.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I saw in Buhari a leader who would not spend his days in office feathering his nest. I saw a leader who would not condone stealing of public funds. I saw in him a strong personality who would take a decision and stand by it, not being tossed by every wind of doctrine. However, unlike most of the modern-day Buhari fans, I was very much aware of his limitations. I knew he would be highly constrained by his worldview. I worried about his economic philosophy. I also worried about his likely choice of core team members. Above all, I knew his handling of the Nigerian situation as a military man was not replicable in a democracy. I was quite realistic.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In truth, I was not expecting magic in the event of him becoming president. I did not expect him to change Nigeria and Nigerians in four years, much less in 10 months. It so happened that in 2015, after three failed attempts, Buhari became the choice presidential candidate. The anti-Jonathan movement found a ready symbol of change in Buhari. They quickly created him in the image they wanted: a flawless magician, the ultimate messiah. I was very worried for Buhari at some point. For instance, on January 25, 2015 — more than two months before he won the election — I did foresee trouble in an article with the title: “Buhari and the Burden of Expectations.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">I wrote: “To be honest, I don’t know whether to rejoice or sympathise with Gen. Muhammadu Buhari anytime I read all the sweet comments about him on social media — especially on Twitter. I don’t know any presidential candidate who has been so idolised in recent times — which is an excellent accolade any politician will gladly take. On the one hand, it is good for him. He will not be complaining at all. No politician will complain about such good fortune, especially with only a few weeks to an election. On the other hand, my God! The expectations are sky-high. Incredible. From what I am reading, Buhari is expected to perform nothing short of magic in Aso Rock…”</p>
<p dir="ltr">I am, therefore, not surprised by the increasing murmurings and grumblings against Buhari in less than 10 months. A country perpetually reliant on fuel imports, littered with bad roads and sick hospitals, living in darkness, churning out illiterates as graduates — let’s face it: the turn-around maintenance of Nigeria will take longer than 10 months. I’ve always told my friends no president can transform Nigeria in four years or even eight years. The most important thing, I keep emphasising, is to have patriotic and competent leadership taking us in the right direction. That way, we would know that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory ahead.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Having said that, however, I am really getting worried about Buhari’s second coming. Yes, he has confronted Boko Haram decisively. Although the jury is still out, at least the soldiers are no longer running away to Cameroon on “tactical manoeuvre” or complaining about embezzled allowances. For once, there is sustained seriousness in the war on terror. Yes, Buhari has laid down the marker in his anti-graft war, even if it is not all-encompassing. At least, there is some activity on that front. We could use a more comprehensive strategy that includes moral suasion as well as institutional and administrative reforms, in addition to enforcement. Something is happening all the same.</p>
<p dir="ltr">But I worry about Buhari’s speed and economic philosophy. I admit that he met enormous challenges on ground. Only a magician would have killed all the cockroaches, mosquitoes and rats within 10 months. The PDP brigade, still hurting from their humiliation in the general election, are trying to force the issue, trying to brand Buhari as a failure already — yet their party had 16 whole years to address power shortage, dependence on fuel imports, infrastructural decay, comatose healthcare and stunted education. They wasted a golden opportunity. They are certainly not in a good position to describe Buhari as a failure before his first anniversary in office.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Nevertheless, I am very disturbed that Buhari does not yet have an economic direction. Neither is there an anchor. There is no clarity. What we are getting are mixed messages, bits and pieces here and there. I am hearing sweet statements and poetic promises, a lot of rhymes and alliterations, from APC leaders and ministers. There is no proper articulation so that we can have an idea of where we are headed. There are so many dots that are not connecting. I have this impression everybody is just doing their own thing without any overarching strategy to connect these dots. I can’t see coherence. I can’t see a roadmap. I can’t see what to hold on to.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Agreed, Buhari is not an economist. But you don’t have to be an economist to lead a nation to prosperity. All you need is a damn good economic team worth its onions. The team must have an anchor. We are neck-deep in an economic crisis and this requires emergency reaction. Even though Buhari is a strong character who stands by what he believes in, there must also be some flexibility. Economic crises are better tackled with a combination of antidotes. It is good that Buhari is a patriot and an honest man. It is good that Buhari means well. But meaning well does not solve these problems. He must also do well. The economy is in limbo, let’s be honest about it.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mr. President, it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee. We need to see your development blueprint. We want to understand your policies, programmes and strategies. We want to see the goals and the goalposts. Your party says one thing today, you say another tomorrow. That you met a mess on ground is the same reason the majority of voters chose you. If they wanted the mess to continue, they would have maintained the status quo. And while we cannot expect you to clear the mess in 10 months, we need a mental picture of where you are taking us. I have no doubt that you can turn out to be the best Nigerian president ever, but where is the beef?</p>
<p dir="ltr">AND FOUR OTHER THINGS…</p>
<p dir="ltr">BUHARI AND MTN</p>
<p dir="ltr">On Tuesday, when President Muhammadu Buhari accused MTN of “aiding” the killing of 10,000 Nigerians by Boko Haram, I shuddered a bit. The president shouldn’t be making such public statements, I told myself. MTN clearly erred by failing to register 5.1 million subscribers and many of us have condemned the telecoms giant, but such a weighty allegation coming from the president is unnecessary — in my opinion. It is good that there finally seems to be a headway in the resolution of the issue, and I hope a good lesson has been learnt by all concerned, from operators to regulators. Valuable.</p>
<p dir="ltr">NNPC CONFUSION</p>
<p dir="ltr">Kindly give me a call if you understand what Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, minister of state for petroleum resources, is up to. When he became NNPC GMD last year, he reduced the directorates to four, saying we needed a “trim” organisation. Now that he is minister, he has increased them to seven “fat” units. He calls them “independent” units, meaning they are… erm… independent. Yet he says this is not “unbundling”. Independent but not unbundled? Independent? And I understand NNPC is fast becoming family business. At this rate, Diezani Alison-Madueke, former petroleum minister, may end up as a saint in record time. Nigeria!</p>
<p dir="ltr">SEAT BELTS</p>
<p dir="ltr">One lesson to be learnt from Sunday’s tragic accident that claimed the lives of James Ocholi, minister of state for labour, his wife and son, is that using seat belts is advisable no matter where you sit. Generally, only those on the front seats use belts. There is also the issue of overspeeding. Without excessive speeding, many accidents would not be fatal. Vehicles are easier to control within reasonable speeding, although our lawmakers are fighting to prevent the introduction of speed limiters by FRSC. Ocholi was such a lovely and lively man. My heartfelt condolences to his young family. Heart-rending.</p>
<p dir="ltr">MILES APART</p>
<p dir="ltr">Nigeria’s fault lines are easily magnified, as we saw yet again in the Mile 12 market crisis in Lagos. We were told a pregnant Yoruba woman was knocked down by a “Hausa” (probably not Hausa but a northerner or even Chadian) motorcyclist. In a normal society, the first thing is to get emergency treatment for the victim, not to ask of the culprit’s ethnicity. (It could well have been a Yoruba or Ibibio motorcyclist!) You then take the offender to the police for the law to take its course. But it ended up as Hausa vs Yoruba. Such a primitive pattern. Senseless</p>
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Simon Kolawole: After wasting Nigeria for 16 years, the PDP is in no position to brand Buhari a failure

If I may quickly say this, I was not really a fan of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari until I read his interview in TheNEWS magazine some time in 1994 ...

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