Obasanjo said that God could not fix Nigeria except Nigerians invite God into their lives collectively and individually.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday has said that God could not fix Nigeria except Nigerians invite God into their lives collectively and individually.

“We have a lot of things wrong with this country if all Nigerians are sincere.

“Nigeria can be fixed by God but we have to invite Him into our lives. What we have to do about this country is in our hands.

“Gods grace abounds when we do not abuse it,” he said.

Obasanjo made this remark during the 2017 Camp Meeting Concert by Apostolic Faith Church Choir and Orchestral at the Camp Ground Igbesa in Ogun.

He also said that Christians should be prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as the end of the world is near.

He said that as a person, he would like to make to heaven  so as to sing with the angels.

“You have to be fully prepared for the second coming of our Lord, there is no compromise.

“I have a friend who will always say that when we get to heaven that we will be exhausted praising God and it will be like a prison and will be very boring.

“But what I have seen this afternoon by the choir, I will want to go to heaven and join the hosts to sing.

“If this is an example of what praising God in heaven will be, then I want to be part of it. If what I have seen here is an indication of how heaven will be, I will like go to heaven.

“Jesus Christ came to the world to show us the way to salvation and eternal life. We have a good heritage and we have everything to be proud of,” he said.

The District Superintendent, Apostolic Faith, West Africa, Rev. Adebayo Adeniran,  said that only tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and harmonious living amongst Nigerians, irrespective of religious and political differences,  could lead to meaningful development.

He said that all hands must be on deck to build again a virile nation, where love and harmony, forgiveness and peace, equity and prosperity would reign supreme.

“Our country’s shoulders will be raised high among the comity of nations. All Nigerians, irrespective of religion, should pray for the resurrection of what our nation has lost.

“Nigerians should remain patient in the face of political and religious intolerance, insecurity and economic hardships. God will make us triumph over all of them,” he said.

He also urged Christians to pray for the country’s leaders to lead the citizens to the fear of God.

“We should pray for a fresh outpouring of Holy Spirit on our leaders so that they can lead us alright .We must not trade the unity of our nation.

“Therefore, as a nation, those who have responsibility for our nation should ensure there is true Federation; they must establish trust among the leaders and the led, they must work for the unity of our country, ” he added.

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Police uncover another ritualists' den, recover human parts in Lagos[PHOTOS]

Security operatives have discovered a ritualists' den in Ikeja area of Lagos.

It was gathered that human parts concealed in some sachets were found at the hideout located at Ile-Zik, around Ikeja along.

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One of the suspected kidnappers arrested by security operatives

 (The Cable)

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A huge crowd at the scene beheld the decayed human parts found there

 (The Cable)

According to The Cable, three suspects have been arrested, while a sharp knife was found on one of the suspects said to have been posing as a mad man.

The suspects are said to be undergoing interrogation at Isokoko police station

No fewer than eight police patrol vans are currently at the location, with a huge crowd flooding the place, causing major traffic.

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One of the suspected kidnappers who disguised as a madman surrounded by security operatives and passersby.

 (The Cable)

This comes two days after a den was allegedly uncovered on the Ijaiye axis of the same expressway.

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Niger Delta Agitators has called on Northerners and Yorubas living in the Niger Delta to leave the region before October 1, 2017.

A militant group known as the Niger Delta Agitators has called on Northerners and Yorubas living in the Niger Delta to leave the region before October 1, 2017.

The militants also announced that they will resume attacks on crude-oil facilities in the oil rich region.

The group also condemned the recent meeting between some elders from the Niger-Delta and Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, describing it as a plan to deceive the people.

According to Daily Post, the militants issued a statement saying: “After hours of careful deliberations, we unanimously resolved as follows: To commence operation zero oil in the Niger Delta from September 10, 2017, as a preparation for the actualisation of Niger Delta Republic.

“We totally condemn the recent meeting between PANDEF and the Acting President; we see it as another plot to deceive the Niger Delta people. First and foremost, the meeting was marred by the inordinate greed of the PANDEF as they did not involve the representatives of the agitating groups and youth leaders.

“We wish to let the Acting President know that those he met have no capacity and cannot solve the current crisis in the Niger Delta; therefore they cannot represent the militants or speak for the Niger Delta people.

“The Federal Government should hand over all oil blocks owned by the northerners/Yoruba to Niger Delta indigenes. All oil companies operating in such oil blocks/wells should vacate by October 1st, 2017.

“All the multinational oil, gas, servicing and marine companies must relocate their operational base to the Niger Delta, sign a new memorandum of understanding with Niger Delta people which will include Niger Delta indigenes being paid same salaries with foreigners.

“We demand independence and the sovereign Republic of Niger Delta, all the companies, and businesses owned by the northerners/Yoruba in Niger Delta should be vacated before October 1, 2017.

“We call on all agitating groups to resume attacks/bombings on all oil/gas pipelines, especially the exporting lines across the Niger Delta region from September 10, 2017. This is to ensure zero oil/gas production before October 1, 2017."

The militants had earlier agreed to stop bombing pipelines, following Acting President Yemi Osinbajo’s peace meeting with stakeholders in oil producing states.

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Here are 12 luxury properties Nigeria's ex petroleum minister Diezani spent almost $500m on

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has traced at least N47.2Billion and $487.5Million in cash and property to former minister of petroleum resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke.

According to the EFCC, a “search of one of Mrs. Alison-Madueke’s palatial residences in Abuja turned up boxes of gold, silver and diamond jewelry, worth several million pounds sterling”.

Diezani's luxurious lifestyle, it appears, wasn’t limited to jewelry acquisition and state-of-the-art automobile.

Here’s a rundown of some of the palatial homes across Nigeria with Diezani’s name on them, according to the EFCC:

1. A Banana Island, Lagos property valued at $37.5M has been traced to Diezani.

playDiezani's Banana Island mansion (The Nation)

2. A block of six units serviced apartments at No. 135 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, has Diezani's name on it.

This house is located just a few metres away from the EFCC zonal operations hub in Lagos.

EFCC says “the apartment has a standby power generating set, sporting facilities, play ground and a water treatment plant. The property was bought at the rate of N800 Million (Eight Hundred Million Naira) on January 6, 2012".

3. No. 7 Thurnburn Street, Yaba has also been traced to Diezani.

EFCC says “the Thurnburn Street property consists of 21 mixed housing units of eight 4-bedroom apartments, two penthouse apartments of 3-bedrooms each and six 3-bedroom (all en-suite) terrace apartments".

playThurnburn home in Yaba belonging to Diezani (Premium Times)

4. Diezani also allegedly owns the property on Raymond Street, Yaba.

This  property is made up of two en-suite 2-bedroom apartments and one 4-bedroom apartment.

The Yaba properties were purchased by Diezani for N1Billion.

5. A twin four-bedroom duplex in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, belongs to Diezani.

The duplex is located on Plot 33, Block 112, Lekki Peninsula Residential Scheme Phase 1, Lekki, Lagos. It is valued at over N200 Million (Two Hundred Million Naira).

playIkoyi property allegedly belonging to Diezani (Premium Times)

6. The EFCC says it has traced a large expanse of land at Oniru, Lekki, Lagos to Nigeria’s former petroleum resources minister.

According to the EFCC,  the house is located in Oniru Chieftaincy Family Private Estate, Lekki Peninsula, Lagos.

It currently serves as a dumpsite and was bought on February 16, 2012, for N135 Million (One Hundred and Thirty- Five Million Naira).

7. Diezani owns a penthouse on the 11th Floor of Plot 8, Gerard Road Ikoyi, Lagos.

The penthouse is located on the Block B Wing of the building. It was bought for N12 Million (Twelve Million Naira) on December 20, 2011.

8. Diezani owns Plot 10, Frederick Chiluba Close in Asokoro district of Abuja.

The EFCC describes the property as “a tastefully built and furnished duplex. In the compound, there are also a Guest Chalet, Boy’s Quarters, an elegant swimming pool, fully equipped sports gym and a host of other amenities”.

playOne of Diezani's Abuja property (Al Jazeera)

This house was bought for N400 Million (Four Hundred Million Naira).

9. Diezani owns a mini estate at Mabushi, Abuja.

The estate which is located on Plot 1205, Cadastral Zone B06, Mabushi Gardens Estate, houses 13 three bedroom terrace houses, each with one bedroom en-suite maid’s quarters.

It was purchased on April 2, 2012 at the princely sum of N650 Million (Six Hundred and Fifty Million Naira).

10. The EFCC says  Diezani owns a property on Aso Drive, Maitama, Abuja.

Diezani reportedly acquired the 6-bedroom en-suite apartment made up of three large living rooms, two bedroom Guest Chalets, two bedroom Boys Quarters, two lock up garages and a car park on July 20, 2011 for N80 Million (Eighty Million Naira).

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11. In Port Harcourt, the former minister owns Heritage Court Estate, located on Plot 2C, Omerelu Street, Diobu Government Residential Area, Phase 1 Extension, Port Harcourt.

The estate consists of 16 four bedroom terrace duplexes, equipped with--among other facilities--a massive standby power generating set.

Diezani reportedly shelled out N900 Million (Nine Hundred Million Naira) to acquire the property on May 30, 2012.

12. In Bayelsa State, Diezani acquired an apartment with two blocks of flats. This apartment comes with a maid’s quarters.

The house is located on Goodluck Jonathan Road, Yenagoa and sits on a large expanse of land.

Realtors spoken to by EFCC investigators say the apartment is valued at hundreds of millions of Naira.

The United State's Department of Justice Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative, is also seeking to recover $144M in assets from Diezani which it will then return to Nigeria.

US Assistant Attorney-General, Kenneth Blanco, said: “Corrupt foreign officials and business executives should make no mistake: if illicit funds are within the reach of the United States, we will seek to forfeit them and to return them to the victims from whom they were stolen.”

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Real Madrid beat Manchester United 2-1 to win UEFA Super Cup; Isco magic wins title for Real Madrid over Manchester United

A delightful goal by Isco proved the difference as Real Madrid survived a Manchester United fight back to win 2-1 and lift the UEFA Super Cup in the Macedonian capital of Skopje on Tuesday.Casemiro put the reigning European champions in front on 24 minutes on a steamy summer's night in the Balkans and Isco doubled their lead seven minutes into the second half after a one-two with Gareth Bale.

The gulf in class between Madrid -- for whom Cristiano Ronaldo appeared as a late substitute -- and Europa League winners United that Jose Mourinho had feared was all too evident and it looked like the Spaniards would go on to win by a wider margin.
But Romelu Lukaku pulled one back just past the hour, marking his competitive debut for United with a goal and sparking a big improvement from the Premier League club in the final stages.

It was to no avail, with Zinedine Zidane's side winning this trophy for the second year running and the fourth time overall. It is the eighth time in nine years that a Spanish club has won the Super Cup.

United boss Mourinho caused a stir on Monday when he claimed he would make a bid to take the Welshman to Old Trafford if he were not a starter at the Philip II Arena.
Despite the presence of £75 million ($97 million) signing Lukaku up front, with Paul Pogba behind, United gave the impression that they could do with some extra inspiration in the final third.


Having missed much of last season's run-in due to injury, Bale is fit again, but it was Casemiro who emerged as the unlikely main threat going forward for Real in the first half.
The Brazilian midfielder almost opened the scoring in the 16th minute, getting in front of Matteo Darmian to head a Toni Kroos corner against the bar from six yards.
And the breakthrough came just past the midway point in the first half as Dani Carvajal was afforded the time to flight a ball over Victor Lindelof -- another United debutant -- for Casemiro to stretch and volley past David de Gea.
De Gea, formerly a Madrid transfer target, then needed to intervene to save from a Karim Benzema snap-shot that followed a driving run into the area by Luka Modric, as Zidane's side were restricted to a one-goal lead at the break.
Mourinho sent on Marcus Rashford for Jesse Lingard at the start of the second half, yet it was at the other end that the chances kept coming.
De Gea repelled a Kroos piledriver but there was nothing he could do to stop Isco making it 2-0 in the 52nd minute.
Surrounded by red shirts just inside the area to the left, Isco escaped their attentions by playing a one-two with Bale before coolly finishing past De Gea.
Bale then struck the bar, and all this was going on without Ronaldo, who appeared from the bench to warm-up, raising hysteric cheers from the sizeable number of locals with sympathies for the Spanish side.
United had a mountain to climb and were not helped when Lukaku blazed over after Keylor Navas pushed a Pogba header out into his path.
Lukaku did not make the same mistake twice, converting the rebound when a Nemanja Matic drive was not convincingly dealt with by Navas, but the 'keeper redeemed himself with a vital late save to deny Rashford.
And Real, with Ronaldo on for the closing stages, held on.

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Ozubulu Massacre: How gunmen killed the father of their target over sour ‘deal’

A sour drug deal is reportedly the reason for the Ozubulu Massacre which according to police, left 8 dead and 18 injured.

According to Vanguard, it was learned that trouble started for worshippers who were in church for the 6:00 am Mass, when at about 6:45 am, the gunmen rode into the church in a Lexus SUV, as one of them entered the church and shot at close range an elderly man, later identified as Pa Ikegwuonu, while others remained in the vehicle outside.

An eyewitness told Vanguard that after killing the old man, the gunman opened fire on other worshippers, as those who tried to flee were cut down by the gunmen outside the church.



Pa Ikegwuonu is the father of Chief Aloysius Ikegwuonu, a businessman from Amakwa, who built and donated the church to Nnewi Diocese, while his wife was shot in her right arm and still on admission at the teaching hospital.

It was gathered that the gunmen were looking for his son, Aloysius, who was said to have returned to the village on Saturday and left later in the day. According to a source, the gunmen had thought he was in the church and had wanted to deal decisively with him over a yet-to-be ascertained business deal.

A survivor, Mr. Stephen Ohamadike, told Vanguard at the church premises that the gunmen entered the church around 6.45am as they were about to begin prayer of the faithful. He said:

“Those of us who were to say the prayers of the faithful had just assembled at the altar and I had Number 2 which meant that I was to say the prayer for Nigeria. Suddenly, I saw someone who was putting on a cap shooting indiscriminately inside the church.
“There was pandemonium and in the midst of the confusion, I just lay down on the floor. The officiating priest and the Mass servers quickly left the altar and the Mass came to an abrupt end.
“I counted 11 dead people and many were wounded. I used the vehicle belonging to Pa Ikegwuonu to take him and his wife and others to Evans Hospital where the doctors advised us to go to the teaching hospital. I used the car to convey many other people to the hospital before I came back to Amakwa.”
Several other parishioners, who sustained bullet wounds were being treated at the hospital, with over 50 medical doctors from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH, and other private hospitals around Nnewi battling to save their lives at the Emergency Unit of the hospital.

A Twitter user @isinmiri also shared a story, about what really went down, that resulted to this unfortunate massacre. Follow the thread:

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Saraki condoles with victims, says the perpetrators would be brought to justice

Nigeria Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has expressed deep sadness over the massacre that occurred at St. Philip’s Catholic Church, Anambra State early Sunday morning.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki stated that the killing of worshippers represents the purest kind of evil, and the security services must not stop until the perpetrators are brought to justice.


“Today, my heart goes out to Nigeria’s Christian community, Governor Willy Obiano, the people of Anambra State, and the families of the victims and the survivors of this terrible massacre,” the Senate President said, “This brutal act of attacking innocent and unsuspecting worshippers represents the purest kind of evil.

“Our security forces must not stop until everyone involved in the orchestration and execution of today’s massacre in St. Philip’s Catholic Church, Anambra are brought to book by the strong arm of justice.

“The Senate will continue to offer any form of necessary assistance in this endeavor, because today, all of us, as Nigerians have been attacked by this senseless act committed by evil people”, Saraki stated.

He further urged security agencies in the country to step up their intelligence gathering activities so as to prevent activities of criminals and also unravel any crime committed against Nigerians by undesirable elements in the society.


In the same vein, the governor of Anambra State, Mr. Willy Obiano has vowed that the perpetrator would be fished out for justice.

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JAMB to determine cut off mark for admission on August 22

The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, will hold a policy committee meeting on August 21 and 22 to determine cut off points for admission into various courses in Nigerian tertiary institutions for 2017.

Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, on Sunday said he had given the Board approval to hold the policy committee meeting on 2017 admission.


He said the meeting will kick-start the 2017 admission exercise.

The policy committee will announce the cut off points at the end of the meeting.

“All stakeholders including vice-chancellors of universities, rectors of polytechnics and mono-technics and provosts of colleges of education would be in attendance,” he said in a statement.

JAMB disclosed that it has sent to all institutions a soft copy of printout of candidates who chose them.


“This year, the Board has sent candidates who scored 100 and above in their JAMB to the institutions in its flexible admission policy for institutions to determine the suitability of the candidates in compliance with all laid down rules and regulations as determined by the proprietors of the institutions and approved by Senate of the various schools.

“The Board will ensure that criteria set by Senate are strictly adhered to by the institutions’ admission officers and no shifting of goal posts in the middle of the admission exercise.

“This is to guarantee fairness and equity to all candidates.”

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Police reveal reason gunman carried out shooting at Catholic Church in Ozubulu

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that a gunmen attacked St. Philip Catholic Church, Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area on Sunday .

Police claims 8 worshippers were killed, while 18 others were injured, a figure that has remained contentious.


Mr Garba Umar, the State Commissioner of Police, said the remains of the dead had been deposited at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, while the injured have been taken to hospital.

Umar also said investigations showed that the attack was executed by a native.

“From our findings, it is very clear that the person who carried the attack must be an indigene of the area.

“We gathered that worshippers for 6 o’clock Sunday mass at St. Philip Ozobulu were in the service when a gunman dressed in black attire covering his face with a cap entered the church and moved straight to a particular direction and opened fire.


“The man after shooting at his targeted victims still went on a shooting spree, killing and wounding other worshippers,” he said.

The Police Commissioner also stated that they have information, that the attack was a result of a quarrel between two natives of Ozubulu residing overseas.

“Such conduct shows the people behind the act do not fear God,” he added.

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Three dead, 50 injured in luxurious bus accident on Auchi-Okene road

Three people( a male and two females) died in an auto accident on the Auchi-Okene axis of the Benin-Lokoja road on Saturday morning.

The spokesman of the Federal Road Safety Commission, Mr. Bisi Kazeem, confirmed the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.


Kazeem said that 50 others, including a child, were injured and had been taken to the hospital for treatment.

He said a white Mercedes Benz Chisco Paradiso luxurious bus conveying 82 passengers was involved in the lone accident.

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London 2017: Justin Gatlin beats Usain Bolt in his final race

Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt, has lost his final race, finishing third in the 100m of this year’s World Championships in London.

Bolt, who wasn’t the fastest qualifier and hasn’t been the fastest man in the world this year for the first time in nearly a decade, was seeking his 12th world title.

He, however ,finished with a time of 9.95secs, losing to Justin Gatlin who took gold in 9.92secs. Christian Coleman clinched silver with 9.94secs.

Bolt came out of the blocks well, but Gatlin who was under the radar, stormed through to win it, as boos rang out.

It completes a bizarre career circle for Gatlin, who first became the men’s 100m world champion in 2005.

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Over 50 worshipers killed as gunmen attack worshipers in Anambra church‎ [VIDEO]

There is tension in Anambra State following reported death of over 50 worshipers as gunmen launched early morning attack during a Sunday service.

The attack occurred at ‎St. Philip’s Catholic Church, Ugwu Oye in Ozubulu, Anambra State.


News of the reported attack, which is being shared in various platforms read:

“Black Sunday!!
Many feared killed at an Early morning Catholic mass shooting by Unknown Gun men who stormed a church at Ozubulu in Ekwusigo LGA of Anambra State .

Over 20 deaths recorded already according report .

While I sympathize with all the affected families , I wish to submit that this is a time for we to unite against any form of barbarism against our people !


This is not a time for blame games ,but a time for great people created by great God to stand up and secure our people .

Security agency must do everything to arrest the perpetuators of Ozubulu Massacre for them to face the law .

No excuse should make anyone to move into a Church of God and start shooting innocent worshipers !

Our generation must not be intimidated by the agents of darkness !!!
Information is still sketchy on the attack as of the time of filling this report.

Latest information indicated that the gunmen were hunting for a drug baron, traced him to his house but were told he had gone to church.

EMMYDRUZGIST gathered that on getting to the church, he had left and out of anger, probably, they rained bullets on worshippers in the church.

“About 47 persons were reported killed and many wounded”, another source hinted.

More to come

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Popular bishop rapes 20-year-old church member in the bush

The founder and General Overseer of Radiant International Church, in Zambia, Bishop Cephas Mabo, has been arrested by the police in Kasama for allegedly raping a 20-year-old girl.

The bishop who was arrested Friday night was said to have raped the girl, who is one of his church members, in the bush where they had gone for fasting and prayer.


The victim was said to have attempted to commit suicide after the incident.

Dailymail Zimbia reports that Northern Province Police Commissioner, Rechard Mweene, while confirming the development to Radio Mano News last night, said “the incident happened around 15:00 hours on Wednesday in the mountains along the Kasama-Isoka road.”


The Commissioner of Police added that the 45-year-old Bishop who resides at Kasama’s Malama compound has since been detained in police custody and charged with rape.

He gave the victim’s name as Ethel Namukoko, a resident of Compensation compound in Kasama.


The CP disclosed further that “the victim sustained a painful vagina from the ordeal.”

He said that “Ms Namukoko attempted to commit suicide following the rape ordeal and is currently admitted at Kasama General Hospital.”

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Man sentenced to prison for stealing N1000 corn in Ondo state

An Akure Magistrate’s Court in Ondo State has convicted and sentenced a middle-aged man, identified as Busuyi Ajibola, to two months’ imprisonment for stealing maize worth N1, 000.

Ajibola was said to have committed the offence at Ago Ego on Idanre Road, Akure, the Ondo State capital on July 30, 2017.
The convict was arraigned on one-count of stealing.

He was described as a notorious thief that had carried out numerous ‘operations’ in Akure and its environs.

The police in charge of the matter, had earlier told the court that the offence committed by the convict was contrary to and punishable under Section 390 of the Criminal Code Cap 37. Vol.1 Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

Biafra ‘cabinet’: DSS to invite Soludo, Utomi, others for questioning

Ajibola pleaded guilty to the one-count when it was read to him.


His lawyer, Grace Obanigba, however, prayed the court to temper justice with mercy.

She pleaded that the convict was a family man and that the court should consider his wife and children.

In her ruling, the judge, Mrs. Oluwafunmi Edwin, said “on a closer look at the charge and the fact of the case, it was glaring that the convict committed the act deliberately, thus, he was found guilty.”

Mrs Edwin then ruled that Ajibola should be jailed for two months.

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If not for Buhari, Nigeria would have collapsed – Odigie-Oyegun

National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, has stated that had President Muhammadu Buhari not put in place various diversification efforts upon his assuming office in 2015, Nigeria would have collapsed.

He said the present administration was building a new economic model which will be sustainable, production-based and will diversify from oil to agriculture, solid minerals and other viable sectors.
Odigie-Oyegun said this at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja when he received political leaders from Delta Central Senatorial district, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

The decampees were led by Johnson Boro, former Commissioner in the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC).

Other decampees are: Immediate-past PDP Chairman, Ughelli South LGA, Francis Aguonigho; Sleek Oshare; Isaiah Kekeje; Mathew Kwode; Robert Ojo; Sunny Ogbududu; David Edonor; Comrade Saturday Nukueye and Charles Otaiye.

The APC National Chairman stated that with the globally decrease in the demand for oil, Nigeria’s economic mainstay, the need to diversify the Nigerian economy has become increasingly imperative.
He added that the efforts of the Buhari administration will be evident in a few years as the country will be counted as one of the industrial power houses in Africa.

Odigie-Oyegun said: “Economically, things are difficult, there is no question about it. But in spite of that people of your quality sat down and still want to join the boat, because you have seen the future and you know the future belong to a changed country. A country that produces, not only consumes.

“In the last sixteen years of previous administrations, we just consumed. Thank God this nation brought President Buhari at the point it was about to collapse and all we are doing today is putting the pieces back together again. It is a difficult experience and as a result of that our people are going through some hardship. But there is no question at all, that you can see the silver lining that is on the way.

“By the end of this year, we will be net exporters of rice, today we have started to export formally yam. Today we are about certain that all the grains in this country can be produce locally. These are all part of the building blocks towards the Nigeria that we foresee in another year or two. So, tremendous is progress is being made to reverse the road at which we were travelling, to build a new economy, an economy based on what we can produce. An economy based on agriculture, based on our solid minerals.
“It is clear today that oil is gone. Britain has declared that in 40 years vehicles that consume fossil fuel will be phased out. The United States of America and other countries of Europe have made similar declarations. So it is fortunate that President Buhari is today in office taking us painfully through the process of change such that this nation will be counted in another few years as one of the industrial power houses of the African continent.”.

While welcoming the new entrants to the APC, Odigie-Oyegun said one of the resolutions of the Party’s National Leadership was to bring the South-South back into the mainstream of Nigerian politics. The APC National Chairman described the zone as one of the “strongest pillar for unity” in the country.

“I cannot resist but speak like somebody from the South-South on this very special occasion even though I belong to the nation as APC National Chairman.

If not Buhari, Nigeria would have collapsed – Odigie-Oyegun

“The point about us is that we are not tribal. The South-South is perhaps the strongest pillar for unity in this nation. The reality about the South-South is because we believe in the unity and oneness of this nation so strongly, we are ready to work with anybody who stands for one nation and one Nigeria.

“Today, two years now we have a new regime of change. Unfortunately to a large extent, we missed the boat. We have only one state in the entire South-South, Edo State. It is our resolve here at national headquarters to bring the South-South back into the mainstream of Nigerian politics. Because at the greatest point of danger for this country, it was the South-Southerners that stood firm at risk to themselves, at risk to their lives that this nation must remain one,” the APC national Chairman said.

He said with the new entrants from Delta Central, another solid block had been added to the APC’s aspiration to bring Delta State and indeed the South-South into the Progressives fold.

“I know how crucial central is in Delta state and with your entry into the Party, we have firmed up the central and can project from there to take Delta State and eventually take the entire South-South. Today we are adding one more solid block towards the unity, development and great of this country.

“I am aware there are scores of you, but because the ceremony is taking place at the National Secretariat, we had to limit the number of persons who could come, I know that at the appropriate time we will have a great big unity rally in Delta state where all those who have joined us in the recent past will be formally received and where we will also formally launch the movement for the recovery of Delta state,” the APC National Chairman said.

Speaking earlier, the APC National Vice Chairman (South-South), Prince Hilliard Eta said the defection of the PDP leaders from Delta Central to the APC was testimony of the paradigm shift being witnessed in the South-South.

Eta: “As you are aware, the other Party hitherto was in domination of our zone but because of the good work of this government, because of the leadership of this Party, there has been a paradigm shift. Our people are moving from the other party to the progressive family to actualise the development of the South-South, the Niger Delta and indeed Nigeria. It is in that line that we have distinguished sons of Delta State who have come to add value to our Party in Delta state, in the South-South region and in Nigeria.”

Chief Johnson Boro who led the decampees thanked the APC leadership, particularly the National Chairman for the reception. “We are extremely delighted with the reception you have accorded us today. We now believe that we are coming to a home where we will be accepted.“ He said.

Other APC National Working Committee (NWC) members at the meeting included: National Secretary, Hon. Mai Mala Buni; Deputy National Chairman (North), Sen. Lawal Shuaibu; Deputy National Chairman (South), Engr, Segun Oni and Deputy National Secretary, Hon. Tombari Giadom.

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Boko Haram: Borno NUJ donates 600 bags of cement for reconstruction of destroyed communities

As part of its 2017 Press Week activities, the Nigerian Union Journalist (NUJ), Borno state council has donated 600 bags of cement to Borno state government, being part of its contribution to the reconstruction, rehabilitation and resettlement of Boko Haram victims.
Presenting the one truck load of cement to Governor Kashim Shettima at the Government House, Maiduguri on Friday, the State Chairman of the NUJ, Alhaji Babasheik Haruna said the donation was part of NUJ’s contribution to the ongoing reconstruction process of towns and villages destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents in the state.
He said, “these cement was bought from the contribution of our members who contributed N5,000 to N20,000 from our meager salaries, just to see that we also contribute to the reconstruction of the destroyed communities.”
Receiving the donation, Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno state thanked the NUJ, Borno council, pointing out the gesture will go a long way in assisting the government in its reconstruction process.
The Governor said, “we really appreciate the gesture from the NUJ, as you contributed from your meager resource; it is not the quantum of the donation that matters, but the spirit behind it. I really consider theses gesture as one of the most cherished one, because many people have billions of Naira but could not donate anything to our people, but NUJ, despite its contribution in restoring peace in the state, deem it fit to donate to the government.

He said when the history of the post-insurgency is going to be written, the name of Borno NUJ would be written in Gold and called on the members of NUJ to continue to support the government in its reconstruction process by reporting their activities objectively.
Earlier, the NUJ Press week kick-started with courtesy call on Governor Shettima at the Government House, Maiduguri and later Jumaat prayer at the Maiduguri Central Mosques.

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How child soldiers raped, murdered, drank blood of victims

United Nation rights investigators have revealed how child soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo are killing, raping and drinking the blood of armless women and young girls.

The investigators suggests that the violations and abuses committed in the country may amount to crimes under international law.

The officers drew conclusions from report on interviews with 96 people who had fled to neighbouring Angola to escape the violence in Kamonia territory in Kasai.

The UN team said that between 12 March and 19 June some 251 people were the victims of extrajudicial and targeted killings.

The victims, according to the team, included 62 children, of which 30 were aged under eight.

The UN Mission in the DRC has identified at least 80 mass graves in the Kasais.

The team saw people who had been seriously injured or mutilated, including a seven-year-old boy who had his several fingers cut off and his face totally disfigured.

A woman whose arm had been chopped off by the child soldiers recounted how she managed to escape, hiding for several days in the forest before reaching the Angolan border and being airlifted to hospital.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, said, “Survivors have spoken of hearing the screams of people being burned alive, of seeing loved ones chased and cut down, of themselves fleeing in terror.

“Such bloodletting is all the more horrifying because we found indications that people are increasingly being targeted because of their ethnic group.

“Their accounts should serve as a grave warning to the Government of the DRC to act now to prevent such violence from tipping into wider ethnic cleansing.

“I call on the Government to take all necessary measures to fulfill its primary obligation to protect people from all ethnic backgrounds in the greater Kasai area.

Fighting began in the country in August 2016 between the Kamuina Nsapu militia and the Government.

The UN team reports that all incidents were executed by boys and girls of between seven and 13 years.

They said groups of girls called “Lamama” accompanied the militia, shaking their straw skirts and drinking victims’ blood as part of a magic ritual that was supposed to render the group invincible.

The official added, “This generalised belief, and resulting fear, by segments of the population in the Kasais may partly explain why a poorly armed militia, composed to a large extent of children, has been able to resist offensives by a national army for over a year.”

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Apostle Suleman: Police in search of Stephanie Otobo, the alleged lover of Apostle Suleman Johnson of the Omega Fire Ministries

Nigeria Police is now in an intensive search of one Wisdom Godstime, who is an accomplice of Stephanie Otobo, the alleged lover of Apostle Suleman Johnson of the Omega Fire Ministries, Auchi, Edo State.

This was part of a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, by the Communication Manager of Apostle Suleman, Phrank Shaibu.

According to the statement, “Based on a bench warrant issued by Court, Tinubu Chief Magistrate Court, Lagos, the police have been ordered to arrest Godstime and his surety to show cause why he should not be committed to prison or revoke the bail earlier granted him by the same court.

“The manhunt to arrest Godstime, who is the second defendant in a criminal trial, with charge number A/09A/17 emanated from the application made by the Prosecution Councel, Maruf Animashaun on July 20, 2017 before her Lordship, Chief Magistrate (Mrs) K. B Ayeye.

“The matter which was set for definite hearing saw on that day, the absence without any reason, of the second defendant, Godstime.

“The surety was not also in court to explain the reasons for the absence of the Second defendant

“Considering the application, the Chief Magistrate Mrs. Ayeye, gave the second defendant 48 hours to report to the court, otherwise a bench warrant of arrest would be issued against him.

“Having failed to appear before the court at the expiration of the Chief Magistrate’s ultimatum, a bench warrant was issued for his immediate arrest and that of his surety on Monday July 31, 2017.

“The police have since swung into action combing the nooks and crannies of the country in search of the accused and his surety.“Godstime, along with Otobo, attempted to extort One Million dollars, or an equivalent sum of N500,000,000 from Apostle Johnson Suleman, President and Founder of Omega Ministries with headquarters in Auchi, Edo State in March 2017 on allegation of an illicit affair that Otobo claimed the man of God had with her two years prior.“They were later arrested by detectives from the Nigeria Police, under the Inspector General of Police monitoring unit and charged to court for blackmail, conspiracy to extort money and threat to life at the Tinubu Magistrate.”

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Photos: Muslim Alfa State Caught With Human Parts In Kwara

The police in Kwara are on the trail of an Ilorin-based Islamic cleric who allegedly exhumed the corpse of his late friend for ritual purpose. The cleric, a resident of Eleran compound in Oloje area of Ilorin is said to be in his 30s.

He allegedly exhumed the remains of his childhood friend on Tuesday, seven days after his death. The community became aware of the development when the odour of the decomposing body took over the area. .

Members of the community then embarked on a search when the odour became unbearable. The search team later traced the odour to the apartment of the cleric. The door of the cleric’s house was forcefully broken and the search party discovered the decomposing corpse said to be that of one Sulaiman. .

The deceased, according to the source, had gone out with the cleric last Wednesday and had complained of stomach ache not long after they returned. He reportedly died in a hospital the following day being Thursday and was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic rites. .

The suspect, however, fled through a back door when he sensed that members of the community were tracing the source of the odour. The irate members of the community, however, beat up the father of the suspect before taking him to the Divisional Police Headquarters in the area.

They also demolished the building belonging to the family of the suspect. DSP Ajayi Okasanmi, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, confirmed the incident saying investigation was ongoing on the matter. .

Okasanmi also said some objects suspected to be human parts were recovered from the building before it was demolished by the irate members of the community

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