₦airaland Forum

The Emir of Argungu in Kebbi state, Alhaji Samaila Mera, has said that Nigeria must pay greater attention to education than it pays to its mineral resources in order to develop as a nation.

He said this on Thursday while speaking at a press briefing jointly organised in Abuja by the Sultanate Foundation for Peace and Development, UNICEF, and the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC.

The monarch noted that the number of out-of-school children across the country has risen above 13.2 million in the last few years.

He attributed the surge to the increase in the number of internally displaced persons in several parts of the country.

Mera warned that the country would face deeper developmental problems in the future than it is experiencing now if efforts were not made by all to address the barriers to educational success of school-aged children.

Alhaji Mera identified socio-cultural and economic barriers as key challenges that must be addressed to increase school enrolment among children.

“For the nation to develop, it is education first and not the mineral resources that we have.

“The ability of most parents to provide school fees, books and uniforms for the children is low,” he said.

The monarch also lamented the dearth of quality teachers and critical infrastructure in remote villages where most of the out-of-school children are being raised.

He said: “Of course, there is the lack of proper teaching materials, teachers, and infrastructure also.

“Some parents end up deducing that the child may not learn anything but may end up wasting time. So, it would be best for he is out-of-school to engage on a trade that he could take up as a means of livelihood later in life.

“Most of the teachers we have were trained in big cities but a lot of schools are in remote areas without electricity and pipe-borne water supply. The kinds of accommodation available in these areas are below what anyone who has gone to school would want to live in. This has contributed to most schools in the villages having few or no teachers at all.”

He, therefore, called on the government to address these issues.

“I want to call upon our political leaders to look to the education sector with greater seriousness. Only strong actions in the sector can help us develop as a nation,” he said.

The monarch assured Nigerians that the traditional institutions in the country which, he observed, are currently led by individuals of high education would help address the unhealthy suspicions against western education prevalent in some communities in the Northern part of the country.

He urged parents and caregivers to contribute to national development by ensuring that every child was given the right access to education.

He said: “We, as traditional leaders, will advocate to our various state governors to address the issue of quality teachers. The prestige the teaching profession used to have in Northern Nigeria has completely eroded. The teacher needs to be provided with good accommodation.

“I am a product of Western education. I went to school in Nigeria and the UK but it hasn’t changed me same with most traditional leaders in the country.

“We, the traditional leaders, are role models that can talk to people about some of the sociocultural beliefs they may hold against education. We would use ourselves as evidence to address these negative suspicions.

“We can mobilise the people and create demand for education but the supply of services aspect has to march the demand for education.”

In his remarks, Geoffrey Njoku, UNICEF Nigeria’s Communication Specialist pointed out that low budgetary allocation to education was a bane to the sector at all levels.

He also said education statistics for states in Northern Nigeria were worse than those in other states due to negative attitudes towards formal schooling.

However, Njoku added that plans have been concluded to bring key traditional rulers, decision-makers, religious leaders and legislators together in a conference to brainstorm on the challenges and obstacles to getting children accessing education in Northern Nigeria

On the low budgetary allocation to education, he said: “A trend analysis of budgetary allocation for education at the national level shows that between 2010 and 2018, the highest education budget allocation received was in 2014, with 10 per cent total budget.

“In 2017 and 2018, education received less than eight per cent. At the state level, the situation is mixed. In 2017, some states budgeted as low as low as eight per cent, while others allocate as high as 33 per cent of the state budget on education. However, the actual release of funds tends to be lower than the amount budgeted.

On his part, a representative of UBEC headquarters, Bello Kadara stressed the need for traditional institutions in Northern Nigeria to support the mass sensitisation campaign at all levels to increase demand for access and quality learning.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/what-nigeria-must-do-to-develop-emir-of.html

The Senator representing Zamfara Central in the National Assembly, Kabir Marafa has accused the state governor, Abdulaziz Yari of being responsible for the violence in the governorship primary.

Abubakar Faki, chairman of the election committee, had cancelled the primary election after many were reportedly injured during the exercise while election materials were allegedly snatched by the state government officials.

Reacting to the cancellation, Marafa said Yari, “set the state on fire” in a bid to subvert the people’s will.

Marafa stated that shortly after the distribution of election materials, agents of aspirants raised the alarm that the available ballot papers were not up to 10 per cent of the registered party members in their wards.

The lawmaker said it was agreed that option A4 would be adopted after Adams Oshiomhole, national chairman of the APC, spoke with all the aspirants.

In a statement he personally signed, Marafa said, “Yari set the state on fire just to perfect his plot to upturn the people’s will and impose on them stooges with the sole aim of continuing with his misrule through proxies after May 29, 2019.

“The chairman called, chief Adams Oshiomhole spoke individually with all the aspirants, in the end all the aspirants agreed that the ballot papers should be set aside and direct method of people queuing behind the candidate of their choice be adopted.

“It is pertinent to mention here that governor’s candidate lost in all the wards where elections held. I was leading in all the wards.

“Hours after the cancellation desperate governor Yari went on air to announce that election will continue today (Thursday) without even condoling and sympathizing with the families of the deceased and the injured persons.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/apc-guber-primary-how-gov-yari-set.html

Nigerian music sensation, Davido is set to feature on Quavo’s solo album, Quavo Huncho alongside Drake, 21 Savage, Cardi B and many other top American singers.

This was hinted on Monday night, October 1st, when Migos member, Quavo unveiled some of the names of artists expected to feature on his upcoming album which was initially scheduled for release in September.

The album is expected to parade members of his Migos assemble in Offset and Takeoff, in addition to the likes of Davido, Drake, Cardi B, 21 Savage, Travis Scott, Kid Cudi and more.

Quavo’s solo album could potentially feature Drake, 21 Savage, Kid Cudi, Travis Scott, Lil Baby, Cardi B, Offset, Takeoff, Davido and Saweetie pic.twitter.com/v7Y97izOje

— HIP HOP FACTS (@DailyRapFacts) October 2, 2018

And just moments after HIP HOP FACTS made the update on their twitter timeline, Davido retweeted with an hush emoji.
Davido and various members of Migos have worked together in the past on songs like ‘Lamborghini’ with Sina Rambo and Offset, and ‘Versace’ alongside Nasty C.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/davido-to-feature-on-quavos-solo-album.html

Less than 24 hours to the rescheduled governorship primaries of the APC in Lagos State, Sen. Solomon Adeola (APC, Lagos West), has joined in declaring support for Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his bid to fly the party’s flag in the 2019 Lagos State governorship election.

Adeola’s position was contained in a statement by his media adviser, Chief Kayode Odunaro, on Monday.

“Let everyone who has ears know that I am for Babajide Sanwo-olu for governor.

“The criticism against Sanwo-olu is just a distraction.

“The leaders of the party have spoken and we have aligned ourselves with their decision,” Adeola, who is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, was quoted as saying.

The senator, according to the statement, held an emergency meeting with his supporters in his Ikeja office, saying his decision was informed by the overwhelming wishes of his constituents.

He said it was also in line with the wishes of leaders of the party in his senatorial district and Lagos State.

The senator said he is a beneficiary of the established leadership progression in the progressive fold of APC and he will always abide by the dictates of the party.

“As we approach the 2019 General Election we must carry all our members along.

“Whatever the party directs is what we are going to do and I am aligning myself with the wishes of my followers who have all bought into the idea and vision of fielding Sanwo-Olu as the candidate of APC in Lagos State come 2019,” he said.

Adeola urged all his followers and supporters to vote for Sanwo-Olu and the party’s position in all the other primaries as they become known going forward.

He said that it was clear that Lagos State remains solidly “on the side of our National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and in the forefront of the progressive fold of APC in Nigeria”.

The governorship primary of the party in Lagos, earlier fixed for Monday, has been shifted to Tuesday.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/apc-primary-lagos-senator-dumps-ambode.html

The General Overseer of the Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, has revealed that former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, will be contesting for presidency next year.

Bakare stated this while speaking at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Lagos on Monday.

“By the way, my sister, Oby is stepping into politics now, she is going to contest for the office of the president.

“I am waiting for October 7 to throw in my cap, so we can crash the entire system and begin to demand for a new Nigeria that we deserve,” Bakare said.

More to follow..

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/10/breaking-2019-pastor-tunde-bakare.html

Six persons have been confirmed dead after flood submerged communities in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo

Victor Emuankhagbon, Chairman of Esan South LG, made this disclosure when he received a delegation of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and officials of the Federal Ministry of Health at Ubiaja.

He said from the casualties, one of the bodies was yet to be recovered from the flooded area.

He said no fewer than 42 communities, 8,000 houses and 35,150 were affected by the flood.

The council boss, who also bemoaned the time of response by the concerned agencies, called for a change of attitude in the manner specific responsibilities were handled by those mandated to implement them.

He also called for effective measures against natural disaster such as flooding.

According to the chairman, “the time has come for those saddled with responsibilities that affect Nigerians to focus more on long term plans rather than short term solutions.

“We are reacting to the crisis in the same old ways by adopting quick fix, temporary approach, thereafter; we all go home and relax until it happens again.

“We do this over and over again. The truth is that the time has come for us to start planning ahead because if we fail to plan, we are planning to fail.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/six-confirmed-dead-as-flood-takes-over.html

Famous female rapper and drama queen, Cardi B has revealed that she has intentions to get new breast implants following her pregnancy

The mother of one who is known for her “ i don’t care” attitude said she’ll soon get ‘boobs renovation’ as her bosoms seems to be different following the birth of her child, Kulture.

The rapper definitely knows how to make her private choices public in the most adorable way, so it’s not surprising that the rapper has revealed that she’s getting a boob job.

Cardi shared a video of herself on the Gram where she complains about having to tape her breasts as her implants have gone out of shape following her pregnancy and the birth of her daughter, Kulture.

She captioned the video; “Kulture did me bad”.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/cardi-b-says-shes-getting-new-breast.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has told Nigerians in the diaspora that his administration has done well in the areas of security, economy and anti-corruption.

Buhari, who stated this during an interactive session with a select group of Nigerian professionals based in the United States and Canada, said his administration had delivered within the available resources.

The president explained that Boko Haram had been decimated, adding that it was most important for the country to be secured but regretted that the terrorist group was still targeting soft spots using girls for suicide bombings.

Buhari declared that “Boko Haram is not about religion but a pure terrorist group”, adding that “is why we are dealing with them”.

On corruption, he regretted that Nigeria made so much money from 1999 to 2014 when the price of crude oil per barrel was above 100 dollars while Nigeria produced around 1.2 million barrels per day.

“Calculate 2.2 million barrels times 100 dollars times 16 years; but everything went down the drain,” emphasising that “if Nigeria does not tame corruption, corruption will tame Nigeria”.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/what-apc-government-has-done-for.html

Renowned election observer, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has released its report on governorship rerun election in Osun State.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted supplementary election in four local government areas.

Idayat Hassan, CDD Director, in a statement made available to DAILY POST, lamented that the conduct of some key stakeholders clearly ran contrary to democratic norms and standards, as well as best practices in the conduct of credible elections.

It reads: “CDD observers reported several cases of denial of access to Polling Units to observers, and even voters. CDD field observers deployed to observe the process and ensure its credibility, especially in Orolu and Osogbo LGAs, were intimidated, threatened and in some cases arrested by security forces.

“Credible reports from our field observers showed that despite being duly accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), several of the observers and journalists were stopped from observing the process

“CDD observers reported palpable tension in Ifon, Orolu LGAs due to the high-handed conduct of the security agents who seemed bent to sway the vote the way of certain partisan interests.

“At Ajegunle Roundabout, which leads to Polling Unit 003 Ward 9 Gbogbo Primary School in Orolu LGA, security personnel mounted barricades to obstruct observers and deny them access to the polling unit.

“Observers who attempted to carry out their legitimate duties were arrested and taken to nearby police station. They were only released after being denied the opportunity to keep an eye on the process so as to guarantee its credibility.

“For instance, a CDD observer, Kemi Busari, was arrested by the police on the pretext that he took pictures around a polling unit.

“The police officer’s stance contradicts the statement of INEC, which made it clear that voters and participants were allowed to go with their phones to polling units but not to polling booths after ballot paper must have been issued to an accredited voter.

“This particular incident clearly demonstrates the fact that the law enforcement agents were not properly informed about or deliberately ignored the INEC directive, which banned the use of phones in the voting cubicle, not around the overall polling environment. In the face of the intimidation and unjust arrests, observers forced to leave the Polling Units.

“CDD also observed attempts by members of the security forces to prevent some voters who allegedly belong to opposition party from accessing PU012 Olode Ward 07 in Ife-south LG, even after showing their PVCs.

“Also, despite all efforts by INEC and civic group to ensure violence-free polls, some political actors mobilized thugs and hoodlums to intimidate voters, journalists and observers. Chang Mantu, a senior police officer involved in the coordination of security in the Osun election, explained in Osogbo that there was an attempt by some party men disguising as observers to gain access to Orolu in the early hours of Thursday.

“He said they were arrested by the police. According to him, they loaded in a bus and when they were screened, they were found to be members of a political party. He explained the development was the reason why there were restrictions into the area as it was difficult for security officials to know those who were genuine observers and journalists.

“Our observer also reported that election was disrupted in PU 17, Ward 5 Osogbo LGA as a result of sporadic shooting by some hoodlums.

“In terms of the sanctity of the vote, CDD observers reported over five attempts by impostors to vote with PVCs from other Wards at PU012 Olode Ward 07 in Ife-south LGA. Although these attempts were unsuccessful, they nonetheless reflect the kind of impunity, which undermines the credibility of the process.

“In the light of these anti-democratic acts, which have undermined the sanctity of the ballot therefore, we hold strongly the view that the rerun poll of Thursday, September 27, 2018 does not meet up with the minimum standards for free, fair and credible elections.

“It falls short of global best practices in democratic elections which Nigeria aspires towards. The acts of intimidation by security forces and the violence unleashed by party thugs are suggestive of an attempt to compromise the integrity the poll.

“Coming as the last off cycle election before the 2019 general election, the conduct of the security forces, politicians and their supporters are sources of concern to strengthening our democratic process.

“We recommend an urgent investigation of the roles and conduct of the security forces and political thugs in the Osun rerun with a view to sanctioning infractions and preventing a repeat during the 2019 polls.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/osun-rerun-cdd-gives-damning-verdict-on.html

Femi Fani-Kayode, former Minister of Aviation, on Sunday said the final result of the Osun State governorship election was the beginning of the funeral rites of Bola Tinubu, a National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The former Minister said Tinubu, alongside the outgoing governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola’s political reign will be defeated entirely at the rerun on Thursday, September 27.

Fani-Kayode wrote on his Twitter page: “The result of the Osun State election is the beginning of the political funeral rites of: Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Rauf Aregbesola and the APC.

“The final burial will be on Thursday 27th September 2018 when the @OfficialPDPNig’s Demola Adeleke reclaims his stolen mandate.”

Meanwhile, INEC announced that the rerun of the Osun governorship election, which it earlier declared “inconclusive”, will now hold on Thursday, September 27, 2018.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Ademola Adeleke led with a total votes of 254, 698 while Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress, APC, however polled a total of 254,345 to come second in the keenly contested election.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/osun-election-tinubu-aregbesola-apcs.html

A former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has given condition to support any aspirant that would emerge as the sole candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the presidential primary ahead of 2019.

Atiku said he would gladly support the candidate if only the party conducts credible, free and fair elections at the primaries

Atiku is one of the 13 president aspirants on the platform of the PDP.

He gave the condition when he paid a visit to the Tor Sankera, Chief Abu King Shuluwa, in his Makurdi residence, on Sunday.

There, the former Vice President also assured that he would easily resolve the Tiv/Fulani crisis if he becomes the President of this country.

Asked if he would support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer, Atiku said, “Well, I believe whoever emerges candidate of the party at the end of the day will also enjoy the support of others provided the party conducts credible, free and fair elections at the primaries”.

On how he intends to resove Tiv/Fulani crisis, he added, “It’s very easy because traditionally, over hundreds of years, the Fulani and the Tiv have coexisted peacefully.

“And I believe that what is happening of recent could be attributed to some kind of sponsored misunderstanding between them.

“As we have always done, anytime we have conflict between the Fulani and the Tiv, we have always sat down to resolve those misunderstandings and conflicts.

“And even as Zegemule U Tiv (Tiv title holder), in the past, I have spearheaded resolutions of such conflicts when I was in office as Vice President.

“So, it is normal for even brothers or people in the same family to have misunderstanding but the most important thing is their ability to resolve those misunderstanding or conflict,” Atiku stated.

Speaking, Chief Shuluwa posited that the Tiv people do not have any issue with the Fulani.

He, however, stressed that those herdsmen who were attacking and killing the Tiv people were not the Fulani who are of Nigeria.

“The Fulani that you see fighting the Tiv people are not the Fulani that we know and I have always said this.

“We don’t know where these crop of Fulani have come from. The Fulani who are indigenes of Nigeria can never fight a Tiv man.

“As time goes on, all our differences will be healed up. We will make sure that the Fulani that are non Nigerians don’t come into to this land.

“That one I can assure everybody. But we have nothing against the Fulani generally,” Shuluwa stressed.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/pdp-presidential-ticket-atiku-gives.html

Palpable fear reign supreme among residents of Benin City, the Edo State capital following recent upsurge in robbery, pick-pockets, breaking and entry that have taken over the city.

Some of the residents and victims told LEADERSHIP that the rampant rate people are been robbed especially commuters is worrisome.

They noted that the State Government and the Security agencies, seems helpless on how to tackle the challenges.

The respondents stressed that a situation where the people could no longer sleep with their two eyes closed or go out without fear of been attacked or robbed, pose a great danger to the state.

They particularly noted that the state of insecurity in the State, would have a negative effect on the efforts of the Government to woo investors to the State.

One of the respondents, Mr Elogie Clement, who was on Friday night robbed of N120,000, three mobile phones and other valuables, described the situation as pathetic.

Elogie said he was robbed at gun-point, along Plymouth road, onboard a taxi he took to Ekenwan road, at about 7pm

According to him, "I have heard tales of stories on robbery, especially in public transport lately but never took it serious until it happened to me.

"The sad thing was that whether you are alone in the vehicles or with others, these boys still do whatever they want to without any fear or being caught.

"I took a cap, all alone in the vehicle when the driver stopped at the busy Plymouth road, when all of a sudden, a guy appeared at the back and placed on gun at the back of my head. That was how they zoomed off and robbed me of everything I had".

It was in a similar manner that one Tina Osagie, in broad daylight, was robbed at gun-point in a commercial bus, between Ring Road and Mission Road.

Aside robbery in commercial vehicles, residents have been robbed of their monies at Automated Teller Machines (ATM), while many shops and homes have been burgled.

This challenges have taken it tool on night life in the city, as commercial businesses now close shops as early as 7pm, because of the fear being attacked.

The robbing of business premises is common in places such as, Airport Road and environs, Ekenwan Road, Sakponba road, Siloko road and environs, as well as Ugbowo axis of Benin.

It would be recalled that the issue of cult related killings have not also helped in the security challenges in the state.

No fewer than six lives, related to cultism, have been lost in the city, within the last few weeks.

These killings took placed around Upper Sakponba, Ogida, Siloko road and Ekenwan road areas of Benin.

The State Commissioner of Police, Babatunde Kokomo, while parading some arrested suspects at the command recently, attributed the killings to reprisal attack, and noted that police was working hard to arrest the menace.

While noting that several persons have been arrested in relation to cultism and armed robbery, he said the police have declared zero tolerance against crime.

Similarly, the Managing Director, Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA), Mr Denis Oloriegbe, pointed out that the reason for initiating number code for commercial buses and cabs, was to check against using it to commit crimes.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/nigeria-fear-grips-benin-residents-over.html

It was a night of glamour, beauty and style as the 31st Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria was crowned late last night at the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.The prestigious event was hosted by Ik Osakioduwa and Toke Makinwa. And legendary singer, Tuface Idibia thrilled the audience to some of his hit songs.


37 beauties contested for the coveted MBGN crown and a chance to represent Nigeria at the Miss World pageant.But at the end, only one beauty won the prestigious crown. And it was no other than the very elegant Miss Imo, Anita Ukah.


The show which was organized by Silverbird also saw Miss Benue emerge as Miss photogenic,Miss Nasarawa as Mgbn model, and Miss Rivers as Miss Amity. And the best traditional outfit, was worn by Miss Edo while Miss Plateau won best evening wear. First runner up, Miss Lagos, Aramide Oluwatobi Lopez would represent Nigeria at Miss Universe pageant while Miss Sokoto, Valentina Ogbonnaya becomes Miss Ecowas.


Anita Ukah, a graduated of Igbinedion University was crowned the winner of MBGN 2018. She is now the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2018. As the new MBGN queen, she will represent Nigeria at the Miss World 2018 pageantry scheduled for December 8 in Sanya, China.


Photos and videos


Toke and Ik, the host and hostess of the event


Miss MBGN 2017 and Ben Bruce


Watch the moment she was announced and crowned: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/photos-from-2018-most-beautiful-girl-in.html


See Miss MBGN 2018 Profile here: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/photos-from-2018-most-beautiful-girl-in.html

Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Heineken Lokpobiri, has declared that Bayelsa State was unsafe because Governor Seriake Dickson is corrupt.

The minister, in a rejoinder on Thursday signed by his spokesman, George Oji, said he was disappointed Dickson was denying the N800 billion indebtedness.

Dickson had in a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Daniel Alabrah, said the minister was peddling falsehood.

He stressed that the DMO, the authority on states and federal debt profile, put the debts of Bayelsa at N123 billion.

But Lokpobiri challenged the governor to explain how he spent the money, including $216 million external loans his administration allegedly incurred since 2012.

He asked the governor to render an account of how he also spent over N1.2 trillion the state got from the federation account in the period.

Lokpobiri said Dickson should equally explain the billions of naira allocated to councils, and internally generated revenue.

The statement said: “For the avoidance of doubt, the minister insists that the state is indebted to the tune of N800 billion (domestic) and $216 million (external)”.

The minister accused Dickson of borrowing N222 billion internally and $28 million externally in 2012 and threatened to publish amounts the governor borrowed every year from 2012 till date.

He described as lies claims by the governor that the state owed only N123 billion as domestic debts.

“The actual loan profile of Bayelsa State can readily be gleaned from the Debt Management Office (DMO), the official Federal Government outfit, which domiciles all loans for all levels of government in the country, which is open for the public to access on the website of DMO”, the statement said.

“The minister, who questioned the impact of the huge debts and accruals on the lives and wellbeing of the people of the state, draws a nexus between massive corruption and wastes by the governor and the astronomical rise of insecurity in the state.

“He insists as usual that the reason why Bayelsa State ranks very high as one of the most insecure states in the country is because of the pervading corruption and wastes that has become the hallmark of the Dickson administration.

“The minister maintains that had the governor deployed the loans and other financial accruals to the state to positive, wealth-creation and developmental projects, the social problems bedevilling the state today would have been minimally addressed and insecurity would also have been nearly non-existent.

“Once again, the minister advises the governor to settle in and face the task of providing leadership and good governance, which is the statutory obligation he owes the people of Bayelsa State.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/why-bayelsa-is-unsafe-under-dickson.html

Five students of Isolo Senior Secondary School have been suspended by their principal for putting on hijab to school, on Wednesday, in Lagos.

According to , the principal, Mrs. J O Sadare, had on Friday announced that students should not wear hijab to school.

After the announcement on Friday, some of the students wore the hijab to school and were given a letter to come with their parents on Tuesday.

When the students got to the school with their parents, the principal walked them out of her office after their insistence that their daughters must put on the hijab.

Narrating the incident, Amir (President) of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria in Lagos State, Alhaji Saheed Ashafa, described the incident as disappointing in a press statement.

He said: “The entire drama started on Friday in the school when the Principal announced to the students that no one is allowed to wear hijab in the school. Surprisingly for her, some of the students still wore the hijab to school on Monday. She gave the students letters to invite their parents to school. In the letter, she threatened that the students will not be allowed into the school without their parents.

“When she shared the letter, majority of the students fidgeted and agreed to stop wearing the hijab. She collected the letters and let go of those ones, but about five of them refused to return the letter. When we were contacted, we asked the parents to honour the Principal’s invitation.

“They went there with our (MSSN) representatives but were embarrassed by the Principal who gave them the option of either their children’s education or religion. She eventually walked them out of her office after they insisted that their daughters must put on the hijab.

“The parents subsequently proceeded to the Education District in charge of the school and they were assured that something would be done. With the hope that her (the Principal) superiors should have spoken with her to realise that what she was doing was wrong with the sub-ssisting Appeal Court judgement, the students went to school on Wednesday (today) and were still prevented from entering the school.

“These are Senior Secondary School Two and Three students who need to study hard for their examinations. When we got to the school this morning, we saw some of the students copying notes for lessons they have missed on Monday and Tuesday while the others were teaching themselves old lessons inside a tricycle on the street. This is disastrous for us. While there colleagues were in the classrooms learning, they were on the street just for being Muslims.”

As we speak, the assistant head girl, who is one of the students who refused to put off her hijab has been removed and replaced.

Ashafa explained that the Lagos State Government has continuously disobeyed the Court of Appeal ruling granting the use of hijab in schools.

He said: “We wish to inform the general public that we have been very peaceful on this matter. Even when some of the principals harassed our members, we go there to engage them amicably. We will not allow this to stay. This Principal must be sanctioned, removed and the students must return to school immediately.

“As a law-abiding student-based organisation, we approached the Court of law on the usage of hijab by students. At the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja on October 17, 2014, Justice Modupe Onyeabo banned the use of hijab in public primary and secondary schools in Lagos State.

“But we headed to the Court of Appeal. A five-man special appellate court panel, presided by Justice A.B. Gumel, on July 21, 2016, overruled the October 17, 2014 judgment of Justice Modupe Onyeabo of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, which banned the use of hijab in public primary and secondary schools in Lagos State. While striking down Justice’s Onyeabo’s verdict, the Justice Gumel panel held that the ban on hijab was discriminatory against Muslim pupils in the state.

“Dissatisfied with the decision of the appellate court, the Lagos State Government approached the Supreme Court after failing to secure a Stay of Execution, but no judgment has been delivered yet. In law, where there is no other contrary judgement, the subsisting judgement remains valid.

“Thus, the ongoing harassment of our members is not only unconstitutional, an infringement, but also a contempt. Again, we repeat that this will never be allowed to stay. We will give this lawless, anti-democratic and anti-masses government what it wants and likes to witness.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/5-students-suspended-for-wearing-hijab.html

Singing sensation, Wizkid has just announced that he is set to perform at the One Africa Music Fest Dubai coming up on the 16th of November 2018.

While sharing the information via his Instagram page stated that he is going to ensure 5 of his fans get a sponsored special weekend with him to the show.

He has promised to share the details of how to be one the five lucky fans soon.

His word:

One Africa Dubai! This one special! 5 Wizkid fans get to fly with me for a special weeknd! All sponsored by da Mob! cc @pauloo2104 !! Info soon ?? #OneAfricaMusicFest #Starboy

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/wizkid-promises-5-fans-special-weekend.html

Former Sokoto State Governor and Presidential aspirant under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, on Monday maintained that restructuring remains the only option to tackle the myriad of challenges confronting the nation.

He promised to give priority to the restructuring of the country if elected the President of the country in 2019.

Bafarawa stated this in Akure, Ondo state capital, during his visit to the leadership of pan Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere.

He maintained that restructuring was the only way forward in Nigeria’s quest for unity and development.

Bafarawa said, “I am not just supporting restructuring, I am going to implement it.

“Nigerians should see whoever is talking about restructuring as talking about developing this country. They are talking of development and not personal interest of any individual or group.

“We have held various conferences which have been kept aside and already the work has been done, by the time I emerge as the President of this country, within the first two or three months, we will set up a committee to review the recommendations and then start the implementation.

“We are going to work with the National Assembly and the judiciary to look into the recommendation of past conferences, with a view to restructure our nation and to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/2019-what-bafarawa-discussed-with.html

Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha has appointed a new Secretary to the Government.

Chief Mark Uchendu has emerged as the new SSG, replacing Sir George Eche who resigned some days ago.

The governor also appointed Messrs Kenneth Chid Ejiogu as Chief of Staff Government House, Chukwuemeka Valentine Duru, Principal Secretary to the Governor, and Mr. Victor Nwanaforo Onyechere, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations.

Okorocha also appointed Mrs. Ijeoma Igboanusi as Deputy Chief of Staff, Domestic operations.

Mr. Bonaventure Akwiwu, Mr. Sunny Chiadi. Mrs. Esther Egburuche. Mr. Patrick Nze, Lady Chinyere Uwandu, Mr. Kelechi Azike, Mrs. Edna Okorie, Engr. Chika Ezeji were also appointed as commissioner-designates.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sam Onwuemeodo,

Okorocha noted that the new appointees will be sworn-in on Monday, while the names of the commissioners will be forwarded to the State House of Assembly.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/okorocha-appoints-new-ssg-commissioners.html

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has revealed how he remained a loyalist to his political party even when he did not get any board appointment for seven years.

Osinbajo said he was without any other appointment after serving as the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice in Lagos State in 2003.

This was contained in a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice-President, Laolu Akande on Thursday.

According to Akande, Osinbajo said this during a meeting with young aspirants under the All Progressives Congress at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

“I believe that, in party politics, we must go beyond positions, whether elective or appointed, but we must be committed to something, the principles and beliefs of those who are the forebears of that party,” he said.

The Vice President was the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice under the Alliance for Democracy, AD, under the government Bola Tinubu in the state.

Osinbajo said since he left office as the AG of Lagos State, he remained a member of the party without even getting a board appointment.

He said, “I strongly believe that the future of our party depends on people who are committed to seeing that we build a party that is based on ideals that you and I think are important.

“As a young person, I belonged to several pressure groups. I graduated at the age of 21. And when I graduated, I began to participate in various pressure groups, human rights organisations, and anti-corruption, civil society groups of every kind.

“When political parties started forming, we could not aspire, but we remained involved. My first involvement in government was when I was appointed as Attorney General in Lagos State.

“For seven years — after serving as Lagos Attorney-General — I was part of the party, I did not have a board appointment or anything, but I kept working for the party.

“I kept working for the party as a lawyer. Most of those cases we were not paid a dime. But we went from place to place. Sometimes, we didn’t even have a place to stay when we went to court the next morning.

“So, there is a measure of paying the price, it depends on how serious or committed we are to some of the things we say we are committed to.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/what-my-party-did-to-me-osinbajo.html

The drama has become even messier after Nina responded to Bobrisky’s shade

Since the fair skinned beauty is about returning the gadget Bobrisky gave her, the latter has asked her to return all the expenses he’d made when he was advocating for her during the BBNaija game show.

He calls her ungrateful as he says he doesn’t need anything from her…

Check out what he wrote here;

Hey Nina or wat is your name? I never wanted to address anything about you on my page because have noticed how ungrateful u are but is fine. Don’t forget I’m an ambassador, I know wat our hair look like. Dis is your second attempt putting up our hair up for sale as ur hairline on ur page. I bought that hair for u wen u newly come out from the house so as to change the braids u brought out of d house. Now I’m called many names from your so called fans. Dis same people are the goats who said u are DUMB that u cannot win big brother that I should go and sit down somewhere, where were u and dis fools talking wen the lady handing ur page and i walked from university of Lagos to Yaba tech to create an awareness for u? Oh then u were busy kissing and fucking miracle then Abi, you are all mad. U are telling me u haven’t use the phone that u can still return it I hope they told u how much I spend on u while u were inside the house, you can as well send them back too I swear I will gladly collect it because is my money bobody father gave me. My dear I don’t fucking need ur penny or any phone from u. The fact still remains u are an ungrateful soul. And wat got me pissed is that u still have the gut to put up our hair for sale as ur hair. Pls I made it clear to people I’m done with u and I don’t want to have anything to with u anymore. I’m free to decide who i wanna talk to and who I don’t wanna talk too. So Bleep ur fans coming at me to say shit!!!! I’m fully ready for any motherfucker who come say shit to to me. Let them spend one quarter a million (700,000) in T-shirt and recharge cards to help someone they don’t know before and the person show ungrateful act and let see if they wanna move close to the person again. Rubbish

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/nina-return-human-hair-and-700k-i-spent.html

Kendall Jenner looked stunning at the Longchamp 70th anniversary party at Opera Garnier in Paris on Tuesday evening.

Thesupermodel dared to bare in a gorgeous sheer gown, flashing her high-waisted black underwear beneath the lacy material.

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/kendall-jenner-goes-braless-in-sheer.html

Scary looking Militants from the southern senatorial district of Ondo state are presently manning the gate of the Governor’s Office in Alagbaka Akure, Nigerian Cable News Online can confirm.

An impaccable source from the governor’s office informed Nigerian Cable News Online that the militant groups were earlier invited by the governor. Trouble however started when some of them were denied enterance at the main gate.

Some of them were noticed threatening to disarm the security men who were mobilized for the purpose of the meeting.

Nigeriancablenewsonline.com reported how the militants had earlier visit the governor’s office with protest over the alleged neglect from government after they submitted their arms in the last amnesty program organized by the state government.

Details later…

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/breaking-heavy-security-in-akure-as.html

National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has warned corps members that would participate in the 2019 elections to discharge their electoral duties with diligence and respect the electoral laws.

The Director-General, Brigadier General Suleiman Kazaure gave the warning at the weekend while addressing the corps members deployed to Delta, Edo and Bayelsa States for the 2018 Batch “B” Stream Two service year.

He said that the scheme would not shield any corps member found culpable in the violation of the electoral laws.

Kazaure, however, reiterated NYSC’s readiness to provide adequate protection for corps members during the elections; saying “the NYSC Scheme has partnered all security agencies in the country towards ensuring maximum protection for all Corps Members before, during and after the elections.”

He further urged the corps members to embrace determination, hard work and sincerity of purpose which he described as hallmark of success in life.

“Do your best and make sure you leave lasting positive legacies in your host communities,” he added.

Delta State Coordinator, Mr Ayodele Omotade in his Orientation Camp brief to the DG said the Camp Officials have been working harmoniously while the Corps Members have also been incorporated into various camp committees.

He commended Delta State Government for donating a 300KVA transformer and also for linking the Camp to the urban water station in Issele-Uku to combat water scarcity in camp.

Out of the 2,184 Corps Members that registered in Camp, Delta has 1,207 comprising 652 males and 555 females. Edo registered 495 comprising 320 males and 175 females while Bayelsa registered 482 comprising 258 males and 224 females.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/2019-elections-nysc-warns-corps-members.html

Tiwa Savage dripping look for church today is sure to make heads turn as she slays in a Yoruba traditional wear

Though she did not match it with a head gear, the mother of one sure looked intimidating. Her fans have been left overwhelmed with the stunning looks as it is a rather unusual dress style for her

Sharing the photos and video, she revealed that she attended the church she grew up in today

Check out the Video; http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/tiwa-savage-dripping-look-for-church.html

See More Here: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/tiwa-savage-dripping-look-for-church.html

Famous drama queen and rapper, Cardi B has been left injured after trying to fight Nicki Minaj at New York Fashion Week Party

The battle for supremacy just got physical and even messier as Cardi B was forced to have a face off when Nicki Minaj and her team threatened Cardi’s child


On Friday night, the rappers got into an altercation at the Harper’s Bazaar party, a source confirms to PEOPLE. The bash was part of the festivities for New York Fashion Week.

Video of the incident was posted on social media and Cardi B can be seen making a lunge towards someone, though it is not entirely clear if its the “Barbie Dreams” rapper.
An insider tells PEOPLE that Cardi arrived at the event first.
After Nicki showed up, there was an “altercation” on the second-floor balcony during a Christina Aguilera performance.

Reacting to the drama on her Instagram page, Cardi b wrote;

As per the injury which appears to be a knot, Cardi’s team allege that she bumped her head on something in the middle of the fracas and if it were Nicki Minaj who hit her, it could have been a black eye instead

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/cardi-b-left-injured-after-trying-to.html

Big Brother Naija star, Bisola Aiyeola, has said that she owes her success in the entertainment industry to her own efforts and personal struggles, not the reality television show, as many Nigerians were wont to believe.

Bisola said this minutes after receiving a surprise award during last Saturday’s African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards held at the Eko Le Meridien Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Fielding questions from journalists on the sidelines of the event, Bisola, who received the Trailblazer’s Award in recognition of her impact in the developing African film and television space, said she had been on a journey to self realisation as an artiste since 2006.

She said, “I started out in the entertainment industry in 2006. In 2008, I was on MTN Project Fame West Africa music realty TV show. I have been an actress prior to Big Brother Naija. I wouldn’t say that BBN gave me all or the mileage that I am getting now. I am stressing it because a lot of people may think I woke up one day and just went for an audition.

“I attended the Big Brother Africa audition for over eight years before I finally made it into the BBN house. So, it has been a journey and I didn’t give up.

Speaking on the future of the Nigerian film industry, she noted that further growth could be possible through collaboration between the media and stakeholders in the industry.

She said, “The media and filmmakers should come together to work as one. Collaboration is the new competition. We shouldn’t see each other as competitors because it would help to bring in more funds and help us to deviate from the cliché that we are used to producing, which is mostly drama.

“There is so much money that can be made from the African movie industry. Animation is a good example of how we can tap into the potential of the industry. It is one sector that we haven’t exploited at all.”

Bisola dedicated her award to the memory of her late baby daddy, Malcom Olanrewaju who passed on a few days ago at the age of 37. “It’s been a sad week for me, but I’m also happy that I won this award. It’s not just for me; it is for my family and for people who have watched me grow, as well as those that have seen through my journey.

“Notwithstanding, it would have been beautiful if Malcolm was around to see me win this award. He knew about this journey that I embarked on some years ago.

I’m dedicating this award to him and everybody else in my life,” she said.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/i-dont-owe-my-success-to-bbn-bisola.html

A serving female corps member, with the name Stella Okwy is thanking God after she miraculously survived being crushed in an accident.

According to a post which she shared on her Facebook page, the drastic incident occurred on the 31st of August, 2018 and though others came out with one or two injuries, she came out unscathed.

Taking to Facebook, she wrote;

“It was like lightning, it was like a dream… I don’t know how it happened but I opened my eyes to see that it was an accident.. 31th of August 2018 u will never end my life…

Friends help me and thank God for saving my life.. Some encountered injury but when I mean nothing happened to me, premature death will never be our portion in Jesus name Amen”

See more photos below;

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/corps-member-unscathed-after-ghastly.html

A 25-year-old suspected member of the cult said he was lured into the group with promises that he would meet music star David Adeleke alias Davido.

Tobi Adegoke who said he was an upcoming music artist, said he believed meeting Davido would have helped his music career boom.

Adegoke was among 27 suspected cultists arrested from various parts of Lagos and paraded by Police Commissioner Imohimi Edgal on Wednesday.

He said:-

“I am an Aiye member. I have been in the cult for about two years. I was told that Davido was a member and if I joined, I will be able to meet him.

“It was the guy who initiated me that said so. He said he worked for Davido and that it will be easy access. But since I joined, I have not met Davido. They told me I’ll become a very popular musician but see where I am now.

“I am renouncing my membership of Aiye. I will never belong to any cult again. They should look at my face very well. They will never see me in their midst again.

“I lived at Oniru in Lekki. I used to be a domestic help. Since I joined, I have not done anything bad. I habe not killed anybody. I just wanted to be a famous musician.

Urging other aspiring musicians to be patient, Adegoke said he regretted being on the fast lane, adding that if he had remained steadfast, he would not have landed into trouble.

Another suspect, Biodun Alade, 22, said he joined his own group about four months ago, adding that the teardrop tattoo on his left eye was not a cult symbol.

However, several others denied being cultists, insisting they were arrested during random raids carried out by policemen in their neighbourhoods.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/i-joined-aiye-cult-to-meet-davido-when.html

Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, says politicians defecting from one party to another would not be shielded from prosecution by the anti-graft agency.

Speaking during a parley with editors in Lagos on Wednesday, Magu said there was no hiding place for such politicians in the fight against corruption by EFCC.

Responding to alleged interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Magu said that he had never received any instruction to stop any investigation.

“The fact that a politician jumps from one party to another will not stop EFCC investigation; we don’t stop investigation until it is concluded.

“It is only the courts that have the powers to decide on whether to exonerate or convict any indicted politician.

“I am not the type you’ll ask to stop any investigation”, Magu said.

The EFCC chairman said it had become fashionable for anyone being investigated for corruption by the Commission to scream political persecution.

“With the general elections fast approaching, the resistance has assumed even frightening dimension with political motives imputed to most of our activities,” he said.

According to Magu, the media owes Nigeria a duty not to allow the corrupt to deploy their ill-gotten riches to corner the machinery of government.

The EFCC chief, therefore, urged the media not to lend their platforms to helping the cause of the corrupt that were shedding crocodile tears.

“We must all do what is right for our country, which is ensuring that those who steal our common patrimony are brought to justice,” Magu said.

According to him, the EFCC had so far revealed only about 10 per cent of the monumental corruption perpetrated in the past and urged all security agencies to prioritize anti-graft fight.

“You have not seen anything yet, we have not even touched 10 per cent of corruption perpetrated in the past,” he said.

The EFCC boss said banks needed to strengthen internal control and urged the Central Bank to re-appraise regulatory and ethical conduct of banks in order to win the fight against corruption.

According to him, EFCC has signed memorandums of understanding with the United Arab Emirates and Mauritius in its efforts to recover looted assets.

He expressed concern at the state of seized assets which were rotting away at various locations across the country.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/magu-speaks-on-apc-stopping.html

Security officials in Yemen confirm that a boat carrying at least 150 African migrants has capsized off a southern province, killing at least 30 people including five women and children.

The officials said on Tuesday that the boat capsized on Sunday off the coast of Shabwa province. They say most of the passengers were Somali migrants.

The narrow waters between the Horn of Africa and Yemen have been a popular migration route despite Yemen’s ongoing conflict. Migrants try to make their way to oil-rich Gulf countries. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to brief the media.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/tragedy-30-african-migrants-including.html

The Police have arrested three suspected kidnappers of a four-year-old boy in Kano metropolis.

DSP Magaji Majiya, the Public Relations Officer of the Police Command in the state, disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Kano on Monday.

Majiya said the suspects were nabbed on Aug. 31, following a report from the father of the boy, one Mustapha Mohammed of Gwauron Dutse quarters in Kano city.

“Mohammed reported to the command that his four year old son, Al-Amin Mustapha, was missing but was later called via cell phone No. 08069777966 and the caller demanded from him a N100,000 ransom before they would release the boy,”he said.

Majiya said on receiving the report, detectives from Anti-kidnapping Squad were mandated by the Police Commissioner, Mr Rabi’u Yusuf, swung into action with a view to rescuing the victim unhurt and arresting perpetrators of the dastardly act.

“The suspects apprehended in connection with the crime are: Ibrahim Idris, 19 years of Gwauron Dutse quarters; Khalid Abdulrahman, 24, of Unguwar Dabai quarters and Ahmed Ibrahim Usman, 20 years of Aisami quarters,”he said.

He said the principal suspect, Idris Ibrahim, confessed to masterminding the operation and mentioned others as accomplices arrested in carrying out the heinous operation.

The Police Spokesman said as soon as investigation was completed, the suspects would be charged to court.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/police-arrest-3-suspected-kidnappers-in.html

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture

The Minister of Information and Culture Alhaji Lai Mohammed says Nigeria is getting global attention because of the incorruptible leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Minister stated this on Sunday when he appeared as guest on a Nigeria Television Authority programme, “Stepping Up”.

“What we have witnessed recently have shown beyond doubt that Nigeria is today an investors’ destination.

“Last week we received British Prime Minister, Theresa May. During the visit, se1`veral bilateral agreements were signed.

“Friday of same week, we received German Chancellor, Angela Merkel. Several bilateral agreements were also signed

“The global leaders are coming to Nigeria because this government is providing good leadership in the areas of security and infrastructure.

“The perception globally about the government is that it is providing an incorruptible leadership, a government that you can do business with, without fear.”

“In one year alone, we climbed 24 steps in the ladder of ease of doing business.

“These are all the things they have seen that are attracting them to cone to partner and invest”.

The minister said the three cardinal goals driving the administration’s success were, “focus, discipline and integrity”

“We did not invent the Treasury Single Account (TSA), but we are the administration that is disciplined enough to ensure that all proceeds of government go into the TSA.

“This has helped a lot. Before now, funds belonging to government were in thousands of bank accounts and the result was that we were paying a lot of bank charges on the accounts .

“Under the old system, the government could not have wholistic idea of how much fund it had, which hampered planning.

“Today, every penny of government is being paid into TSA. This has helped a lot,” he said.

The minister recalled that the administration at inception suffered massively from the drop in oil prices.

He said with discipline, focus and integrity, the administration was able to bring out the nation from recession.

Mohammed said he subscribed to the directive by the APC national executive committee that the process for selecting the party’s presidential candidate should be by direct primaries.

He said the direct primaries would allow all members of the party in all nooks and crannies of the country the right to choose their leader.

Mohammed noted that there had been a lot of hype on the gale of defection particularly as it concerned, his home state, Kwara.

“Yes, we lost some people who left with the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, like the state governor and 23 of the 24 members of House of Assembly.

“But the good news is that APC had gained massively. Many PDP members who could not stand in the same party with Saraki are defecting to APC.

“The most important thing is that the people of Kwara are very much with us and I am confident that come 2019, we will win massively in Kwara state,” he said.

On fake news phenomenon, the minister said it is a global epidemic that “is not abating at all and our own resolve to confront it is also not abating”

He reiterated the government resolve not to coerce or censor but to continue with advocacy and depend on the conscience of media practitioners.

Source: http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/09/nigeria-is-today-investors-destination.html