₦airaland Forum

General Overseer of the Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, has come under attack over his recent statement on President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

Bakare had in an interview on Wednesday, said Buhari did not appoint ministers for six months because there was no money from previous administration to pay them.

He also spoke on Buhari’s government achievements.

According to him, “We are no longer importing rice for three years that is an incredible achievement by Buhari’s governmfnt, seventeen local government occupied by Boko Haram no longer an issue.”

But reacting, former aide to ex president Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri countered the claims by Bakare concerning Buhari’s adminstration.

Omokri, on his Twitter page, pointed out flaws from Bakare’s speech, urging him to stop lying.

He wrote: “Pastor Tunde Bakare should stop LYING that Nigeria under Buhari no longer imports rice. According to the United States Department of Agriculture(USDA), rice imports have increased 60% under Buhari and we will be the world’s 2nd largest importer in 2019.

“Pastor Tunde Bakare should stop LYING that Buhari met an “empty treasury”. Jonathan handed over $2.07 billion in the Excess Crude Account, $29. 6 billion Foreign Reserve and $5.2 billion in NLNG dividends for the Buhari govt. Is that ‘empty treasury’?

“Pastor Tunde Bakare should stop LYING that Buhari has cleared Boko Haram from “seventeen local governments” in Borno. As Bakare was granting that interview, Baga, Doron-Baga, Kross Kawwa, Bunduran, Kekeno and Kukawa towns are under Boko Haram/ISWAP control.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/03/tunde-bakare-attack-statement-buhari-jonathan/

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, of sponsoring smear campaign against President Muhammadu Buhari.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, APC National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa-Onilu, alleged that the plot was hatched in collaboration with some foreigners in Dubai.

He maintained that the plot, aimed at dishing out fake news and spurious allegations against Buhari, his family members and other government officials, have failed to achieve the desired result.

He said: “Their Dubai-made strategy has collapsed like a pack of cards. The plan was to recreate the 2014/2015 scenario when APC pilloried them for their crimes, which woken the electorate to the reality of the disaster we were headed under the PDP government.

“PDP, led by their presidential candidate, Abubakar Atiku, paid huge sums of money to some foreign con men in Dubai who posed as strategists.

“They began to spurn daily fake news and make spurious and unsubstantiated allegations against our president, his family members, the vice president, the APC national chairman, notable government officials, and public institutions to deceive Nigerians,” he said.

He said their strategists did not tell them that such would not work when the allegations cannot be proven.

According to him, this is unlike in 2015 when the APC allegations were based on facts, which have been validated by revelations upon revelations of heist committed during the inglorious 16 years of PDP rule.

The publicity secretary added that the opposition’s disgraceful recourse to false alarm, as a campaign strategy this time is a wrong approach, as facts are sacred.

He stressed falsehood, no matter how fleet-footed, would be overtaken by the truth in no time.

Issa-Onilu said the reality has dawned on the fortune seekers in PDP that it is not possible to tag a label of corruption on President Buhari as a demarketing strategy.

He said it is also not possible to campaign based on issues of governance, as the achievements of this administration have shown, adding that it is obvious that the PDP has found itself in a fix.

“Many in the leadership of the main opposition party are finding it difficult to identify with a character like Atiku and many of the charlatans running the PDP campaign are unsellable.

“It is worthy of note that a few of the PDP leaders, with some residual credibility, are battling with their conscience as they are increasingly becoming uncomfortable with the level of immorality that underlines the PDP’s politics. Anyone with a modicum of decency cannot be proud of the odious reputation of PDP,” he alleged.

He further claimed that when this is added to the fact that the PDP campaign has failed to present any programme to Nigerians, it could be seen clearly why the party’s campaign has become a stillborn.

“Like a lion, PDP roared, but it didn’t last and has joyfully ended up as the bleating of a goat,” he added.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/02/apc-accuses-pdp-atiku-sponsoring-smear-campaign-buhari/

The Governor of Imo State, Chief Rochas Okorocha, has urged Nigerians to be positive about the new year.

Okorocha said year 2019 “will favour the country and her people more than 2018″.

He stated this in a New Year message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Samuel Onwuemeodo, on Tuesday.

Okorocha said, “No nation grows with the citizenry being negative about the progress of such a nation.”

He said Nigerians should see light at the end of the tunnel over the nation’s politics, economy, unity and development.

Okorocha insisted that 2018 was not a bad year, when properly scrutinized.

The Governor said, “Nigerians must be grateful to God for His goodness in 2018, as well as pray that the current year will be far better than the previous year.”

He assured Imo people that his administration “will continue to work till the end of the tenure in May 2019.”

Okorocha also claimed that most of the things his government promised to do, have been done.

He added, “In 2018, the people of the state enjoyed unbridled peace and security. I want to assure you all that my administration shall not relent in these regards.”

The Governor then wished the people of state and Nigerians in general, a prosperous New Year.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2019/01/01/new-year-positive-2019-okorocha-tells-nigerians/

Manchester United midfielder, Paul Pogba has disclosed the difference between the club’s caretaker manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and former Red Devils boss, Jose Mourinho’s style of coaching at Old Trafford.

Solskjaer replaced Mourinho at United some weeks ago after the Portuguese gaffer was sacked by the club.

Pogba said Solskjaer has brought an attacking and offensive mentality to United and highlighted the different style of playing as the biggest difference to life under Mourinho.

The France international stated this following Man United’s 4-1 victory over Bournemouth on Sunday in the Premier League encounter.

Asked what had changed under Solskjaer, Pogba told Sky Sports: “We are Manchester United and we need to be at the top of the league, it is just a reaction of all of the players and everyone is enjoying themselves.

“It is different, we still won games with the old manager [Mourinho] but it is just a different style of playing, we are more offensive and we are creating more chances and that is how we want to play.”

“I always want to do more, but I want to play for the team and play simple.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/epl-pogba-states-difference-solskjaer-mourinhos-styles-coaching-man-united/

Succour has come the way of two Enugu communities following the completion of a bridge project in the area.

The bridge, along Ugwueme/Umuhu Road was undertaken as part of the constituency project of Hon. Toby Okechukwu representing Awgu/Oji River/Aninri Federal Constituency.

In a speech while commissioning the completed project, Okechukwu expressed joy that it would ameliorate the sufferings of the people.

While lauding the community for the support they were given to him and the entire Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government in the State, he assured that “we shall continue to initiate projects that touch positively on the life of the people.

“As elected representatives of the people, our utmost desire is to make the people happy by putting in place those projects that impact directly on their lives.

“This is exactly what we have done here, and our promise is that the remaining one bridge will also be constructed and this road asphalted.”

Earlier in a welcome remarks on behalf of the community by Pastor Precious Akachukwu, she thanked the lawmaker for the various assistance he had provided to the community in the past.

“This is not the first time he is coming to this community. He has always been here to do one thing or the other for us.

“Today’s visit is also quite a unique and eventful one because this project being commissioned today is very important to us.

“We are so glad for your quality representation and our assurance is that our community is for you and indeed the PDP. God will remember you the same way you remembered us,” she said.

In their separate remarks, the Traditional Ruler and the President-General of the community…hailed Hon. Okechukwu for the legacy project, pledging their unflinching support to him.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/enugu-communities-express-relief-connecting-bridge/

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State, has described media reports credited to a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr. Lucky Okperi, calling on the candidate of the PDP for the Isoko Federal Constituency, Mr. Leo Ogor to withdraw from the race as a demonstration of fear of electoral defeat that had gripped the opposition.

Isoko North PDP, in a statement by the Director, Media and Publicity of it’s Campaign Committee, Mr Nelson Egware said it “Read with laughter, the jittery and panic filled advice” by Okperi, a former member of the Delta House of Assembly.

He said, “The apparent contradictions contained in the statement explain clearly the extent of fear of electoral defeat that has gripped the opposition. “If not so, one wonders why a party that boasts of having the support of the entire Isoko people will not wait to trounce their opponent in the poll to confirm such popularity. Why the futile struggle and desperation to get the PDP candidate and clear favourite to step down?

“For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP wishes to inform Okperi, his co-travellers and political party, that Leo Ogor’s entrance into the race of the Isoko Federal seat was borne out of extensive consultation with a large spectrum of Isoko people in various segments of community, religious, socio-cultural and political leadership and a mandate clearly given to him by his political party.

“With all sense of humility and responsibility, we wish to state with gratitude that Leo Ogor remains the surest choice of the majority of Isoko people given his outstanding and effective representation. It is our humble appeal to the opposition not to cause disaffection in Isoko nation or heat up the polity in the name of politics as the people always reserve the right to choose their representatives at all levels.

“Elections are not won on mere wishful thinking, name dropping and whipping of cheap sentiments. Electoral victories are rather products of issue based campaigns, visible track records of achievements, wide consultations and overwhelming support of the people. All of these with all amount of confidence are clearly in favour of Leo Ogor.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/31/apc-jittery-imminent-defeat-pdp/

The lawmaker representing Bayelsa East in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Ben Murray Bruce, has cried out that men of the Nigeria force were making frantic efforts to kill his colleague, Senator Dino Melaye

According to him, policemen were threatening to fire teargas into Melaye’s compound knowing he is asthmatic.

The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, had earlier explained that the police operatives currently in the residence of Senator Dino Melaye were to effect his arrest to answer to the case of attempted culpable homicide on the shooting of a Police Officer, Sgt Danjuma Saliu, attached to 37 Police Mobile Force (PMF) while on duty at a stop and search point along Aiyetoro Gbede, Mopa Road in Kogi State.

Melaye had also raised the alarm that the IGP was attempting to arrest and inject him to death.

Ben Bruce tweeted, “#HappeningRightNow! The @PoliceNG are currently at @dino_melaye’s residence and are threatening to fire tire gas into the building.

“And this is intentional. They know he is asthmatic and if these gases go into his house, they’d kill him. Enough is Enough!”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/30/2019-policemen-attempting-kill-dino-melaye-house-ben-bruce-raises-alarm/

The registration has kicked off for the season four of Queen of Emerald Nigeria 2019, a pageant platform to raise beauty queens who will lead campaign against cervical cancer among women in the country.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, the pageant Project Director, Uche Okafor, stated that entry for the 2019 season four edition, tagged “the Enterprise Edition” has opened for healthy, intelligent and decent Nigerian girls from 18 to 28 years who will contest for the prestigious Queen of Emerald Nigeria crown.

Okafor noted that the beauty queens will also help to bring out the best in young Nigerian women by building their self-confidence, personal development and increase their drive for success.

“Winner of the prestigious crown will receive an official car, N500, 000 funding for a business idea and go on an international vacation trip,” Okafor added.
Young women with humanitarian zeal are advised to register on to avail themselves of the opportunity.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/30/queen-emerald-nigeria-registration-kicks-off/

The Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has said that the 2018 Calabar Carnival will help tell Africa’s true story and also show that the continent has come of age.

The governor said that the continent is now at the epicentre of the world’s development and holds a lot of promise for the future of humanity.

Professor Ayade made this known in Calabar during the flag off of the 2018 calabar carnival which is at the peak of Christmas festivities in the state.

The governor, who was accompanied by his wife, Lynda, presidential candidate, Oby Ezekwesili, Senator Ita Giwa, as well as current Miss Africa, Congolese Dorcas Kasinde, said the continent must come together and find solutions to its challenges.

“We are here to tell the African story ourselves. Africans have a platform to use the opportunity of this dance and drama to tell the African story in a way that we know.

“Everything about Africa is taking a global stage and the platform offered by this event is to show that Africans have really matured”, he said.

Speaking on this years theme which is Africanism, the governor said “Africanism is saying that Africans believe in themselves and so Africans must cone together to find solutions to Africa’s problems.

“So, Africanism is saying think, act, conduct and carry yourself as an African. Africa is not colour, faces but the spirit of the heart, goodness of the heart, niceness of character, love for fellow human beings as well as providing a shoulder for your brother to lean on,” Ayade said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/29/gov-ayade-reveals-calabar-carnival-will-africa/

Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of Abia state and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has stated that for Abia to get it right, its people should reject Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and all the three Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators in the upcoming 2019 general elections.

Kalu convassed support for the APC governorship candidate in Abia State, Dr. Uche Ogah as the election approaches, pointing out that there was no doubt that Ogah has capacity to lead the people of the state to greatness.

The ex-governor, who stated this in an interview with journalists in his Igbere country home in Bende local government area of the state, on Friday, decried the dilapidated state of infrastructures in Abia, which he claimed were executed by his then government.

He stressed the need for the people of Abia state to vote wisely in the forthcoming election, urging them to look beyond money and vote in competent candidates.

The APC chieftain believes that his party’s, gubernatorial candidate (Ogah) would perform well if elected as governor, vowing that he and other like minds would resist any attempt by the PDP to manipulate the forthcoming election in the state.

“I want to call on my fellow Abians to bring genuine change in our state. Abia needs change. The change will start from the governorship position.

“In fact, the governor, all the Senators they ought to go. I mean, all of them, so that we will be able to rearranged this state the way I left it. I believe that Dr. Uche Sampson Ogah has all it takes to do it. If he is given chance, he will perform well.

“Again, I want to use this medium to tell Abians that they should not solely rely on money. If people have stolen money and they don’t use pay workers’ salaries, they don’t build roads, other infrastructure our people need. They should be able not to take the money from people who stole it. Still vote the right people.

“I’m one of the 36 governors who left 12 years ago and still continue challenging any Commissioner, any Chief of Staff, if I have stolen public funds. The answer is No. I never touched public funds. It was all spent on infrastructure,” he said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/28/abia-2019-kalu-urges-abia-people-vote-gov-ikpeazu-sen-abaribe-others/

There was palpable apprehension in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti capital, on Thursday as unknown gunmen shot and killed a man whose identity was yet to be ascertained as at press time.

An eyewitness, however, revealed that the victim was a motorist driving in his car before he was shot.

“The deceased was in the car and the vehicle conveying the gunmen had hit his car at the back.

“The deceased then alighted from the car to complain over the reckless driving not knowing they were armed robbers and the daredevil bandits opened fire on him killing him instantly,” he said.

According to him, the hoodlums after shooting the motorist, fled the scene at top speed.

The source said that the incident occurred at the busy Ajilosun area of the city.

“The incident, which created panic among the residents of the area, happened directly adjacent the popular Tosin Aluko Ado/ Ikere Ekiti Motor park at Ajilosun.

“The deceased was shot in the head and stomach by his assailants,’’ he said.

When the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) visited the scene, the man was still in the pool of his blood.

He was later evacuated by policemen from the Ologede Police station and taken to the morgue at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.

NAN reports that men of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, who had reported for work, fled the scene.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ekiti, DSP Caleb Ikechukwu, confirmed the incident.

The police spokesman said: “We have got the report about the killing and our men have swung into action.

”We are yet to know the identity of the deceased but investigation has begun into the killing,’’ he stated.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/28/panic-ekiti-gunmen-kill-man-broad-daylight/

Manchester United’s interim manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has admitted he has been impressed with Alexis Sanchez’s eagerness to return from injury and says the Chilean was in contention to feature in Manchester United’s clash against Bournemouth on Sunday.

Sanchez had missed both of Solskjaer’s games in charge so far, due to a hamstring problem but is now back in England, after returning to his homeland during his recovery period.

And the 30-year-old is already striving to win his place back in the team, after training on his day off on Christmas Day.

“Alexis is back, he flew in [from Chile].

“He’s had two days of good fitness work; hopefully he can join in training with the ball as soon as we get back in again.

“He is touch-and-go for Bournemouth but he will definitely be involved at Newcastle.

“I’ve not had time to sit down and speak with him in that [much] detail.

“We had a day off on Christmas Eve, on Christmas Day he was off but he was in training but he’s eager to get back on the pitch, he is a workaholic it seems like,” Solskjaer said after United’s 3-1 win over Huddersfield Town on Boxing Day.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/27/epl-solskjaer-said-alexis-sanchez-3-1-win-huddersfield/

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Wednesday, said he’s qualified to criticise President Muhammadu Buhari, having presided over the affairs of the country and shed blood for the unity of the nation.

He said this at the 2018 Ibogun Day celebration, which attracted notable indigenes of Ogun State on Wednesday.

Also in attendance were: Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, two gubernatorial candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Allied People’s Movement (APM), Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and Hon. Adekunle Akinlade, respectively.

Obasanjo said that Buhari would have not won in 2015 election if not for his support.

According to him, “I know Buhari and he too knows me. Till the day I die, Buhari will continue to address me as ‘sir.’ In 2015, if I didn’t support Buhari, he wouldn’t have won the election.

“I have what it takes to correct him. Nigeria should not be in the position we are today. Nigeria can be better. God has given us all that we need.

“I am qualified to speak against Buhari. One, I have done it before. Two, I have shed my blood for this country. Even my biological son has shed his blood. Why can’t I speak about what is best for this country? I am doubly qualified to do that.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/26/news-ive-shed-blood-nigeria-till-die-buhari-will-address-sir-obasanjo/

MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA —

Nigeria's military says 14 military and police personnel have been killed in an ambush by Boko Haram extremists.

An army statement says the security forces were on escort duty when they were attacked on Monday just outside Damaturu town in Yobe state in the north of the country.

The statement signed by army spokesman Col. Onyema Nwachukwu says efforts to pursue and ``eliminate'' the Boko Haram extremists are ongoing.

Nigeria's military has been fighting Boko Haram's Islamic insurgency for nearly a decade. The continued threat is a major issue for President Muhammadu Buhari as he seeks a second term in February's election.

After a recent series of deadly attacks on Nigeria's military, Buhari and others have warned that the extremists have begun using drones to as part of a resurgence.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/26/nigeria-14-military-police-killed-boko-haram-ambush/

Liverpool manger, Jurgen Klopp has sent an emotional Christmas message of thanks to Liverpool supporters for their great support over the course of a memorable 2018.

He also promised the Reds fans that he will do everything possible in his power to make sure that the Anfield club have a wonderful 2019 in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

“This is my fourth Christmas as the manager of this incredible football club and although I am not the kind of guy to allow myself to look backwards, I think it is fair to say we have had an incredible ride in 2018 with some real highs and a couple of disappointments,” Klopp was quoted by Metro UK as saying.

“That’s what gives me the confidence and belief there is more to come from these boys in 2019, that there is more to come from this journey we are all involved in.

“We can – and should – all be proud of what the team have done so far this season, but this is only the beginning and there is still such a long way to go, both this season and in terms of what this group of players can achieve.

“The best thing about these boys, and what has helped us have such a good start to the season, is they do not listen to the noise; they are 100 per cent every single day in training and every single matchday. We know when we say ‘one game at a time’ some people might consider it football talk, but that really is the way for us. It is the philosophy that has got us to where we are currently.

“We cannot promise anything for 2019 except we – the players, my staff, the people who work at the club and me – will do everything we can to try to make it a special year.”

Liverpool are currently on top of the Premier League table with 48 points from 17 games, four points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.

Klopp’s men will tackle Newcastle United on Boxing Day at home in the Premier League fixture.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/25/epl-klopp-sends-strong-christmas-message-liverpool-supporters-reveals-whatll-happen-2019/

The United States, US, Ambassador to Nigeria, Stuart Symington, has advised Nigerians to vote candidates based on records and not promises in 2019.

In a Christmas message to Nigerians yesterday, Symington stated that Nigerians have their future in their hands.

Symington said that no foreign power could solve the problems facing the country.

He pointed out that all solutions to Nigeria’s problems could only come from within and not from foreigners.

“As you go into 2019 you will be facing a new round of elections. What you do in those elections would be crucial not just for you but for all of us. And as you get ready, I ask you to think of three things.

“First, charge your potential leaders with this notion: Say not just what you say you will do for the country but what have you already done.

“Second, it is incredibly important that you recognise that in a democracy, it is you who gets to make the decision,” Symington said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/25/christmas-us-tells-nigerians-candidates-vote-2019-elections/

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on Nigerians to only vote for candidates with credibility and integrity in 2019.

Buhari gave the call at the annual Maukibi celebration (a gathering by the followers of Qadiriyya sect) in Kano over the weekend.

Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa, the President also said Nigerians have a crucial role to play in the fight against corruption and bad governance by electing credible candidates at all levels.

He stated that his administration has done a lot in correcting the wrongs of the previous administrations and would do more if given another mandate in 2019.

The President said: “Although this is not a political gathering, but kindly allow me to intimate you on our policy thrust and our commitment to make this country great.

“We are indebted to serve you diligently and make our country grow in prosperity for a better living and you too should help us in this regard by making sure that only credible people get elected.”

Buhari stated that corruption was the major problem to Nigeria’s growth.

He, however, assured that with the efforts of his administration, the country has taken the path of development and that could be consolidated if Nigerians renewed their mandate to the administration.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/24/2019-elect-candidates-integrity-buhari-begs-nigerians/

Chelsea defender, Antonio Rudiger has blamed himself and his teammates after their 1-0 loss to Leicester City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The German defender also ruled Chelsea out of the Premier League title race.

The defender called his teammates’ mentality “stupid.”
A single goal from Jamie Vardy gave Leicester City their first win at Stamford Bridge in 18 years.
Maurizio Sarri’s men also fell 11 points behind Premier League leaders, Liverpool.

Speaking after the final whistle, a clearly angry Rudiger ranted that the Blues can no longer think about the title.
He also revealed that the squad is lacking mental strength, calling the situation “stupid.”

Rudiger told Sky Sports, “It’s a disaster. We don’t talk about the title any more.
“If we can’t win these games, we can’t compete. We only talk now about top four.
“Maybe it’s a lack of mentality. Stupid.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/23/epl-rudiger-reveals-caused-chelseas-1-0-loss-leicester-calls-teammates-stupid/

President of the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON), Dr. Ona Ekhomu has given an insight into how former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh was killed.

He also urged the Directorate of Air Provost of the Nigerian Air Force to lead investigation of the murder.

Badeh was shot dead by unknown gunmen, at Tudu-Uku, along Gigata- Keffi road, while returning from his farm last Tuesday.

Ekhomu, in a statement on Saturday, said “the fact that ACM Badeh was a former head of the Air Force Community means that the commitment of Air Provost detectives will be greater in the hunt for the perpetrators.

“The Directorate of Air Provost should emulate the dogged determination and investigative skill which the Nigerian Army displayed in unravelling the assassination of Major General Idris Alkali (retd) in Plateau State.”

On how the assassins carried out the hit, the security expert said: “They executed an ambush on the general and his security detail. The goal of this close-quarter combat tactic was to overwhelm a superior force and leave the crime scene before reinforcements arrived.

“Ambush is one of the oldest but lethal tactic of warfare. In Gen. Badeh’s attack, the targeted violence resulted in an assassination, a kidnap and several casualties.

“They were obviously on a mission to kill the General. So it wasn’t bandits who were operating on that notorious stretch of the highway.

“The killers must have learned that the general frequented his farm, they must have monitored him to know the routes and times he travelled to Keffi, the composition of his protective detail.

“Given the amount of surveillance conducted by the killers, there must be observable evidence out there that can be used to nab them and bring them to book.

“This murder mystery must be resolved and the family must get closure,” Ekhomu added.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/23/alex-badeh-ex-cds-ambushed-killed-security-expert-ekhomu/

The senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial Zone, Senator Victor Umeh, on Saturday threatened to expose Senator Uche Ekwunife, who represented the zone before she was removed by the court.

Umeh, who is already 10 moths in the senate, said his predecessor, Ekwunife who was sacked from the national assembly by the court in December 2015, had drawn the constituency allowance for the zone in 2016, despite not being in the national assembly.

The senator, who revealed this during the disbursement of 31 tricycles attracted by him to the youths of Anambra Cntral said it was unfortunate that some one elected to represent the people, could engage in such show of shame.

He said, “If some people say what I am saying is a lie, then they should challenge me, and if they do, they will end up in prison. As I speak to you, I have not received a penny from the national assembly as constituency fund since I went there, what I have been doing is with my own money.

“Rather, your former senator used her influence as a member of the APC to stop the 2017 constituency funds for the zone. I am still tracking that fund to be sure it has not yet been stolen, but once I am sure that the money is still intact, I will tell you people.

“If the money has been stolen, I will tell you people, and it will be the beginning of sending some people to prison. I am there on your behalf, and you can be rest assured that whatever is due you, K will not steal it, but bring it home.

The senator said that the sharp practices which corrupt lawmakers indulge in was the reason he almost lost the 31 tricycles, meant for the zone, which was valued at N32million.

“When I got to the senate, I started asking questions, and I was told that these empowerment tools have been shared to other senators. I approached them and was able to get your own.

“The government agency responsible for the distribution of the tricycles told me that the way it is done was to pay the senator half of the worth of the tricycles and he keeps them, but when he told me so, I simply told him that I was Victor Umeh and not just any other senator, and would not compromise the future of members of my constituency.

“He first told me he would settle me with N18million, but I told him I was not interested, and he added another N1million, saying it was a practice among most lawmakers, but he was surprised when I rejected his offer.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/22/umeh-threatens-expose-ekwunife-alleged-diversion-constituency-fund/

The Senator representing Kaduna Central district at the National Assembly, Shehu Sani, has revealed why the President Muhammadu Buhari administration should be praised.

The lawmaker also told the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, not to expect praises after abandoning almost every project it started during its reign.

According to the lawmaker, praises should go to those who completed the projects and not those that started and abandoned them.

The lawmaker, however, berated the President Buhari government for being unable to stop the killings and kidnapping going on in Zamfara State.

He said in this regard, it would be difficult to convince the people that this administration has not failed woefully.

He tweeted, “The previous Governments should not be expecting medals and applause for leaving behind a litany and legacy of uncompleted and abandoned projects, overrun with grasses and used as public toilet. In a marathon, the trophy always goes to those that breast the tape.”

He added, “The Killings and kidnappings in parts of Zamfara and Birnin Gwari in Kaduna state continue unabated, at a time when the states and FG are rolling out their achievements.

“For the victims and their families and those who share their pains, the Governments have failed woefully.”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/22/2019-shehu-sani-rates-buharis-govt/

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set January 10 date for the commencement of the sales of the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) form.

The sales of form, according to the examination body, will take place within six weeks while the examination will hold in March.

Speaking at a stakholders’ forum currently ongoing at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Isiaq Oloyede, thanked the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for releasing its timetable on time, saying doing so has helped the examination body to plan the conduct of its examination in the new year.

Oloyede, who read out the new rules ahead of the examination to the owners and operators of the computer-based centres, saying a total of 718 CBT centres have been registered to take part in the examination.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/21/2019-utme-jamb-commence-sales-form-january-10/

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor has said that those who engage in vote buying in the 2019 general elections are committing sin, and need to atone for their sins through confession.

The Catholic Bishop stated this during an interaction with journalists on Thursday evening to convey his Christmas message, saying that next year would be a critical decision-making year for the country and must be taken very seriously.

He said, “Vote buying is a sin, and those who do that must go for confession. It is a sin, sin in quote, I say in quote because you may say it is not among the 10 commandments by God. So I put it in a context so I can take responsibility for what I said.

“Even the one who received money to vote is also a sinner, and must go for confession, because if you did not demand, the politician will not give.”

The bishop also cautioned Nigerians to celebrate the birth of Christ (Christmas) in modesty, saying that the problems associated with the yuletide have always been because people tend to achieve what they could not in 11 month, in the month of December.

“The period of Christmas is a time for modesty and celebration of the life of Christ which he lived for us. Live moderately and remember that there will be next year, and that struggle and the challenges of life will continue,” he said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/20/2019-elections-giving-collecting-bribe-vote-sin-catholic-bishop/

Former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ahmed Mu’azu on Wednesday met behind closed doors with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

Muazu however declined to speak with State House Correspondents after the over two hours closed-door meeting with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the presidential Villa, Abuja

The meeting is coming amidst speculations that the former PDP national chairman is on his way to joining forces fully with the All Progressive Congress APC, following reports that his is being wooed by the party ahead of 2019 general elections.

BusinessDay recall that Vice President Osinbajo had last weekend attended the wedding of Muazu’s daughter in Bauchi.

Businessday sources said his visit was not unconnected with plans to formalize his movement to the APC as well as to thank the Vice President for gracing his daughter’s wedding.

The wedding was also attended by former Vice President and presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2019 general election Atiku Abubakar, traditional rulers, political and business associates of the former PDP chairman as well as other important personalities from across the country.

Muazu, it will be recalled also piloted the affairs of the former President Goodluck Jonathan’s failed re-election campaigns in 2015 and soon after, issues emerged of hi alleged betrayal of Jonathan, an accusation, his vehemently denied.

All efforts by the State House Correspondents to know why he was at the Presidential Villa, at this time failed as he politely declined to speak on his visit

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/20/muazu-meets-osinbajo-keeps-mum/

Manchester United executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward has reportedly identified Juventus winger, Douglas Costa as the first player the club will sign following the sacking of manager, Jose Mourinho.

Recall that Mourinho was on Tuesday sacked by United following the club’s poor run of form this season.

According to The Sun, Woodward wants Costa to join the Old Trafford club when the transfer window opens in January.

Costa is considering his future in Juventus, after falling down the pecking order in Max Allegri’s squad.

The Brazilian joined the Serie A champions from Bundesliga giants, Bayern Munich in January.

The 28-year-old will hope to feature for Juventus when they tackle AS Roma on Saturday at home in the Serie A fixture.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/19/epl-ed-woodward-reveals-first-player-man-united-will-sign-mourinhos-sack/

The Ekiti State House of Assembly on Tuesday placed the 16 local government areas chairmen and their 177 councillors as well as other top political officials of the councils on indefinite suspension over alleged misappropriation of funds.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elected officials were inaugurated into offices on December 19, 2017 under the administration of former Governor Ayodele Fayose.

This resolution was reached at the assembly’s plenary session on Tuesday, where it was resolved that the auditor-general must begin forensic audit of all accounts to pave way for more actions by Governor Kayode Fayemi.

Addressing newsmen in Ado Ekiti on the resolve of the House, the Chairman House committee on Information and Leader of Government Business, Hon Gboyega Aribisogan, said the action was taken in line with Section 7 of the 1999 constitution and Section 82 of the Assembly’s Standing Order.

He revealed that the reports submitted by Public Accounts Committee saddled with the responsibility of probing the finances of the councils, in line with Section 82 of the 1999 constitution contained alleged infractions in form of misappropriation, diversion and contract inflation, which he said the House can’t overlook.

“We worked on the documents and we realized that the council bosses went on their way to use direct labour for projects that go beyond their approval limits making them conduit pipes to massively loot the third tier of government.

“The ineptitude, corruption, misappropriation , diversion and outright looting discovered in the reports saddened us that the third tier of government was badly managed by these local government elected officials. They showed that they were there to fend for themselves and not the people.

“Section 7 of the 1999 constitution stipulated that the House of Assembly shall make laws for the good governance and operations of the councils, including agencies not contained on the exclusive list.

“We hereby resolve that the chairmen of the 16 local government councils, their appointed officials and all councilors be placed on an indefinite suspension to pave way for a forensic audit of the accounts for their continued stay in office will obstruct the course of investigation.

“The suspended officials should hand over government properties in their possession to the Directors of Administration.

“We also resolved that appropriate sanctions will be meted out to any. erring elected or appointed and career officers that are found culpable in the misapplication, misappropriation and diversion of public funds,” he said.

He stated further: “We saw cases of over invoicing and contract inflation and there were evidence of how they awarded contracts were awarded to families and their cronies.

“We are not going to spare anyone, including the career officers. Whoever that is culpable will be sanctioned. But they have the liberty to go to court to challenge our action”.

Aribisoga dispelled the insinuation that a sum of N8 million bribe was offered to the House by the council bosses to stave off suspension, saying only the members of the committee carried out the oversight function.

“On the issue of whether they were coerced or pressured or persuaded to join APC does not concern the House. What we are after is ensuring that government monies are preserved and spent appropriately,” he said.

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/19/ekiti-assembly-suspends-local-councils-executives-indefinitely-alleged-fraud/

The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila has said that workers in the National Assembly currently on strike cannot shut down the legislature.

Gbajabiamilla said the strike cannot stop the National Assembly from sitting because it will amount to shutting down the country.

He made the declaration while addressing journalists at the White House lobby of the NASS on Tuesday.

The lawmaker, however, assured that the staffers’ grievances were being looked into.

He said, ”It’s not possible to shut down the legislature as the entire country would be shut down as there will be nobody to make the laws.

“Last night both legislative chambers’ leadership met on the issue of unpaid salaries though we operate separate accounts and we are on top of it.

“Our intervention is already yielding results and we hope to get results soon.”

On whether President Muhammadu Buhari will still present the budget, he said, ”This is an APC government, yes the president will present it tomorrow (Wednesday).”

http://mcebiscoo.com/2018/12/18/gbajabiamila-speaks-nass-workers-shutting-legislature-buhari-presenting-2019-budget/