₦airaland Forum

VANGUARD NEWS


LEADERS and representatives of Ewu, Okparabe, Arhavwarien, and other Urhobo-ethnic nationalities in Delta State, under siege by soldiers carrying out cordon-and-search operations in their communities over the March 14 killings of 17 soldiers at Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area have sent a Save Our Soul, SOS, to the traditional rulers of Urhoboland to save them from further harassment.


The leaders, led by Chief Vincent Oduran, Chief Sam Oborumuyere, and Prince Solomon Diodemise, the Otota of Okparebe Kingdom, told the Ukoko r’ Ivie r’ Urhobo (Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, headed by the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1, that residents in many communities could no longer sleep with their eyes closed.

They pleaded with the monarchs to prevail on the government to allow the innocent and suffering people of Okuama return to their homeland.


The monarchs in a statement, entitled “Urhobo Monarchs Appeal to the Federal Government to All Innocent, Suffering Okuama People to Return Home,” said: “Representatives of Ewu, Okparabe and Arhavwarien Kingdoms of Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State came on a ‘Save Our Soul’ visit to the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers.

”Chairman of Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Emmanuel Ekemejewa Sideso Abe 1, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, supported by the Ovie of Agbara-Otor, Ovie of Oghara, Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom (exco members) received them at the palace of the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom.

”The representatives chronicled the sufferings, attacks, arson, and deaths of the people of Okuama and neighboring communities, saying they could no longer sleep with their eyes closed.

”They expressed concern that the Army declared the Ovie of Ewu Kingdom, HRM Clement Ikolo, wanted over the killings and that when he surrendered himself to the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, they handed him over the innocent king to the Nigerian Army.

”The traditional rulers in a communique, after listening to the pleas of the representatives by the chairman, HRM Sideso, and Secretary, HRM Richard Oghenevwogaga Ebelle Okorefe 1 the Ovie of Agbarha-Otor said: The Ukoko r’ Ivie Urhoblo (Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers) restated their call for setting up an independent investigative enquiry into the immediate and remote causes of the Okuama-military incident, as this is the only way the truth can be revealed to avoid future incidence.



© 2024 Vanguard Media Limited, Nigeria
mobile version

10 .Ireland
Percentage of Millionaires: 3.49%

Total Millionaires (2021): 176,000

Population (2021): 5.03 Million

Ireland is one of the richest countries in Europe. With 176,000 millionaires, Ireland ranks 15th among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

9. Taiwan
Percentage of Millionaires: 3.64%

Total Millionaires (2021): 869,000

Population (2021): 23.89 Million

Taiwan had an estimated population of 23.89 million in 2021 and total millionaires of around 869,000 in 2021. Taiwan ranks among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

8. France
Percentage of Millionaires: 4.13%

Total Millionaires (2021): 2.8 Million

Population (2021): 67.76 Million

France had a total population of around 67.76 million and 2.8 million millionaires in 2021.

7. United Kingdom
Percentage of Millionaires: 4.18%

Total Millionaires (2021): 2.8 Million

Population (2021): 67.02 Million

The United Kingdom is one of the countries with the most millionaires and billionaires in the world. In the United Kingdom, almost 4.18% of its population are millionaires, as of 2021. The United Kingdom ranks 12th among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

6. Norway
Percentage of Millionaires: 4.37%

Total Millionaires (2021): 236,000

Population (2021): 5.41 Million

Norway had a total population of around 5.41 million in 2021 and 4.37% of its population was millionaires. Norway had almost 236,000 millionaire individuals in 2021.

5.Singapore
Percentage of Millionaires: 5.48%

Total Millionaires (2021): 299,000

Population (2021): 5.45 Million

Singapore had 299,000 millionaires in 2021. Singapore ranks 10th among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

4.Sweden
Percentage of Millionaires: 5.86%

Total Millionaires (2021): 610,000

Population (2021): 10.41 Million

Sweden is one of the richest countries in Europe and had 610,000 millionaires in 2021. Sweden is one of the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

3.Canada
Percentage of Millionaires: 6.02%

Total Millionaires (2021): 2.3 Million

Population (2021): 38.23 Million

Canada is one of the largest economies in the world and had a population of 38.23 million in 2021. Canada had around 2.3 million millionaires in 2021.

2.Netherlands
Percentage of Millionaires: 6.27%

Total Millionaires (2021): 1.1 Million

Population (2021): 17.53 Million

The Netherlands ranks seventh among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world and had 1.1 million millionaires in 2021.

1. Denmark
Percentage of Millionaires: 6.57%

Total Millionaires (2021): 385,000

Population (2021): 5.86 Million

Denmark had around 385,000 millionaires in 2021 and a population of 5.86 million in 2021. 6.57% of the population of the country were millionaires in 2021. Denmark ranks sixth among the countries with the highest percentage of millionaires in the world.

VANGUARD NEWS


The legal team of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, led by Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, has appealed the ruling of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

In the court document filed before the Appeal Court, Kanu’s Special Counsel, Ejimakor and other members of the legal team faulted the ruling of Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Federal High Court of March 19, 2024.

According to the notice of appeal filed by Ejimakor with charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015, the legal team said the High Court Appeal Court that the lower court denied Kanu’s constitutional rights to a fair trial.

The document read, “TAKE NOTICE that the Appellant being dissatisfied with the Ruling of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division coram: B.F.M Nyako, J. delivered on the 19th March, 2024 doth hereby appeal to the Court of Appeal Abuja upon the grounds set out in Paragraph 3 below and will at the hearing of the appeal seek reliefs as set out in Paragraph 4 hereof from the Court of Appeal.

“AND the Appellant further states that the names and addresses of persons directly affected by this Appeal are as stated in paragraph 5 below.

The Learned trial Court erred in law when the Court assumed jurisdiction to proceed with the hearing of the criminal trial against the Appellant when the Appellant is glaringly denied the constitutional right to fair trial with particular reference to denial of adequate facilities to prepare for the defence of the criminal allegations against the Appellant and his right to counsel of his own choice, thereby occasioning a grave miscarriage of justice.”

The legal team specified the Particulars of the error, as:

“Fair hearing/trial bears the constitutional safeguards of ensuring that the Appellant is accorded the adequate facilities to prepare for the defence of the criminal allegations levelled against the Appellant.

“The denial of the Appellant the opportunity to interact and brief his counsel on what line of defences the Appellant tends to agitate in the trial court and rely on was adequately brought to the attention of the trial Court by Motion.

“The trial Court failed and neglected to make necessary orders that would protect the Appellant’s aforesaid rights but rather held that the Court cannot dictate how the Respondent carries out its work.

“The trial Court has the powers to order the Respondent (being the detaining authority) to cease and desist from interfering with Appellant’s constitutional/fair hearing right to adequate facilities to prepare defence and his right to counsel of his choice; and where it is impossible to do so or where the Respondent persists, the trial court has the power to order an alternative custodial arrangement or non-custodial arrangement for the Appellant.

“Denial of the Appellant’s right to adequate facilities to prepare defence as enshrined in Section 36 (6) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 is a jurisdictional issues in the absence of which the trial Court cannot assume or proceed with the jurisdiction over the case unless and until such facilities are accorded to the Appellant.”

The document read further, “The Learned Trial Judge erred in law when the Court held that “I cannot make orders directing a security agency on how to do their work. I can only direct that whatever is within the law must be allowed to the Defendant. Counsel cannot direct the court or give condition to the court on how to conduct its business. The Defendant is entitled to a counsel of his choice and should be given the facility to conduct interview with his counsel within the confines of the law” and in the process occasioned grave miscarriage of justice against the Appellant.”

It went further, “The Appellant by a Notice of Preliminary Objection filed on the 19/2/2024 prayed the trial Court to find and hold that trial in the case cannot proceed except:

“The Respondent stopped the unconstitutional acts of forcibly seizing and photocopying confidential legal documents brought to the Appellant by the Appellant’s lawyers meant for the Appellant’s defence of the charges against the Appellant;

“The Respondent stopped refusing and preventing the Appellant’s Counsel from taking notes of details of confidential discussions/consultation during visitations to the Appellant.

“Stopped eavesdropping on the Appellant’s confidential consultation/conversations with the Appellant’s counsel which discussion is aimed at preparing the Appellant for his defence.

“In support of the Application, the Appellant relied on Paragraphs 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the Affidavit in support and which was Exhibited and filed with the Motion Paper.

“In the Respondent’s counter affidavit of 23/2/2024, the Respondent tacitly admitted in Paragraphs 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27 thereof that the Respondent denied counsel to the Appellant the right to take notes; denied them the rights to transmit messages and information to the Appellant; secretly took pictures of counsel and the Appellant’s interviews and recorded briefings between the Appellant’s lawyers and the Appellant, scanned documents meant for the Appellant from the Appellant’s team of lawyers and even refused to allow lawyers to the Appellant deliver letters to the Appellant.

“The action of the Respondent in the instant case is a flagrant violation of the Appellant’s right to counsel of his own choice as stipulated in Section 36 (6) (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“Having realized that the allegations made by the Appellant were admitted by the Respondent, the trial Court ought to restrain itself from proceeding with or attempting to hear the case without the Appellant being afforded the adequate facilities and choice of counsel to prepare his defence.

“An order for the Respondent to allow the Appellant freedom to consult with his lawyers in the preparation of the Appellant’s defence does not translate to directing the Respondent on how to do their work or the Appellant dictating to the Court how the case is to be conducted.

“The decision of the trial Court that the Defendant is entitled to a counsel of his choice and should be given the facility to conduct interview with his counsel within the confines of the law is ambiguous and a license to the Respondent to deny the Appellant the Constitutional rights to adequate facilities to prepare for his defence and right to counsel, given that the Respondent in their counter affidavit had alleged that what they do to the Appellant and his legal team are “within the confines of the law”.

“The Learned Trial Judge erred in law when the Court ordered for accelerated hearing of the case given the facts of the case showing that the Respondent had consistently refused to afford the Appellant the right to adequate facility to prepare for the defence of the charges levelled against the Appellant and his right to counsel, and thereby occasioned miscarriage of justice against the Appellant and in favour of the Respondent.”

The lawyers stated the particulars of error, as “The trial Court cannot order accelerated hearing of a criminal charge where it is brought to the attention of the Court that the Appellant is denied the adequate facilities to prepare his defence and his right to counsel.

“The order for accelerated hearing of the case in face of the constitutional breaches of fair hearing/trial rights of the Appellant is a credence to the Respondent to proceed on the unconstitutional denial of the Appellant his right to adequate facilities to prepare for his defence and his right to counsel of his choice.

“In the present case where Sections 36 (6) (b) and (c) of the Constitution are violated by the Respondent against the Appellant, the trial Court lacks the jurisdiction to hear and or proceed with the hearing of the case.”

In the document, Kanu’s legal team in reliefs sought from the Supreme Court of Nigeria, stated the following:

“To allow the appeal, set aside the decision/ruling, the subject of this appeal; and in particular: For the trial court to decline jurisdiction to proceed with the hearing of the case unless and until the Appellant is granted his right to fair hearing under Section 36(6)(6)(b) and (c) of the Constitution; or in the alternative for the trial court to order an alternative custodial or non-custodial arrangement free of interference with Appellant’s said constitutional right to fair hearing.

“Set aside the order for accelerated hearing of the case in the circumstances of the case where the Appellant is not allowed facilities to prepare for the defence of the charges against him and denied his right to counsel.

“Staying the proceedings pending when the Respondent affords the Appellant the constitutional safeguards of being afforded adequate facilities to prepare for his defence and his unfettered right to counsel.

“An Order of the Honorable Court of Appeal granting the Appellant such further relief or reliefs as this Honorable court may deem fit to make in the circumstances of this Appeal.
© 2024 Vanguard Media Limited, Nigeria

One true friend is worth more than a thousand fakes.

Be like an iceberg. Don’t reveal all of yourself. Save your hidden beauty and splendor only to a few who are willing to dive deeper with you.

Everyone wants to eat but not everyone is willing to hunt.

Everything is good but not everything is worth it.

It doesn’t matter whether you are a black person or a white person. We are all people of color.

Do not seek to be successful. Seek to be valuable.

Don’t judge ME by my Past. I don’t live there anymore.

People may not always tell you openly how they feel about you, but they will always show you in deeds.

Life is all about which lens we use to see things.

Every single day you make a choice about life. Think before you act.

At first they’ll ask you WHY you’re doing it. But later they’ll ask you HOW you did it.

Life is a reflection of the six different tastes of food. Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Pungent, Astringent. The seventh one has not yet been discovered.

It is okay for a child to play with the mother’s breasts, but quite dangerous to play with the father’s testicles.

Some people want things to happen. Some people make things happen. And some people wonder, “Why the hell do things happen?”

Before healing others, heal yourself.

Always try to do things in chronological order; it's easier for your feeble brain to comprehend and less confusing.

He who dies with the most toys is, nonetheless, still dead.

A guilty conscience needs no accuser.

If you have something to tell me, tell me. I didn’t ask for explanations.

Ignorance has a cure called Education.

Craziness has its medication. But there is no cure for stupidity.

Addiction doesn't kill the addict. It kills the conscience.

The first thing in the human personality that dissolves in alcohol is dignity.

Many people have gone further than they thought possible because someone else thought they could.

The future is always beginning now.

Those who live in the past limit their future.

We fall in love not because we’ve found the perfect person, but because we have learned to see an imperfect person perfectly.

You have to fight for whom you truly love, and love whom you’re fighting for.

You have no control over whom your heart chooses to love, so just relax and enjoy the ride.

A coward dies a thousand deaths before the brave dies once.

Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.

Top 10 billionaires in Africa


Rank Name Net worth Country Industry Global rank

1 Aliko Dangote $13.4 billion Nigeria Cement, Sugar 144th

2 Johann Rupert & Family $12.2 billion South Africa Luxury goods 162nd

3 Nicky Oppenheimer & Family $9.5 billion South Africa Diamonds 249th

4 Nassef Sawiris $8.8 billion Egypt Construction and investments 287th

5 Nathan Kirsh $7.2 billion Eswatini (Swaziland) Retail, real estate 373rd

6 Mike Adenuga $6.7 billion Nigeria Telecom, oil 409th

7 Abdulsamad Rabiu $5.2 billion Nigeria Cement, Sugar 581st

8 Naguib Sawiris $3.8 billion Egypt Telecom 835th

9 Mohamed Mansour $3.3 billion Egypt Diversified 991st

10 Koos Bekker $2.6 billion South Africa Media, investments 1256th


© 2024 africa.businessinsider.com

The Nigerian government is reportedly working with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) with the goal of extraditing a Binance executive that escaped from custody in the country in the ongoing row between the Crypto exchange platform and Nigerian authorities.

According to Decrypt, Nigeria’s Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is “partnering” with INTERPOL, the FBI and the British and Kenyan governments to secure Anjarwalla arrest and extradition.

Nadeem Anjarwalla escaped from detention in Nigeria where him and another Binance colleague were been held by Nigerian authorities on suspicion of Binance engaging in Money laundering schemes in the country.

An unnamed source stressed that the extradition of Nadeem is aimed at bringing him back to the country to face a Nigerian court where they will be charged with money laundering.

Another government source described Nadeem as a fugitive who escaped lawful custody and would be arraigned on Thursday this week alongside his colleague Tigran Gambaryan, the exchange’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance.



No charges were initially brought on the two Binance executives during their initial 14 days detention before it was extended after a court order.

Nadeem Anjarwalla was able to escape custody on March 22 after guards took him to a nearby mosque for Ramadan prayers.

The executive, who holds dual British and Kenyan citizenship, had surrendered his British passport but is believed to have used his Kenyan passport to board a “Middle East airliner.”

The Binance executives are due to be tried by the Federal High court in Abuja on Thursday with Nadeem Anjarwalla to be tried in absentia.

The EFCC on March 28th charged Binance Holdings Limited, Anjarwalla and Gambaryan with money laundering to the tune of $35,400,000. They also asked to get information on the exchange’s top 100 users.
Tigran Gambaryan, the remaining Binance executive has sued the Nigerian government for violating his fundamental human right claiming the seizure of his passport is against the country’s constitution.
The Binance executives were detained on February 28 after they were invited to the country as part of the effort by Nigerian authorities to address the free fall of its local currency against the dollar.

Nigeria plans to almost triple energy prices within weeks, people in the presidency with knowledge of the matter said, in a bid to attract new investment and slash about $2.3 billion spent to cap tariffs.

Power companies will be allowed to raise prices to 200 naira ($0.15) per kilowatt-hour from 68 naira for urban consumers this month, according to people who asked not to be identified because they aren’t authorized to speak on the matter. These customers represent 15% of the population that the government says consume 40% of the nation’s electricity, the people said.


Help©2024 Bloomberg L.P. All Rights Reserved.

Members of the Traditional Council of Chiefs, Ewu-Urhobo in Delta State, have called for the immediate release of the detained monarch of Ewu Kingdom, Clement Ikolo.

They said the monarch was not connected to the communal crisis that led to the recent killing of 17 military personnel in the Okuama community in the Ughelli Local Government Area of the state.

“His Majesty is in no way associated with the ongoing feud between Okoloba and Okuama communities, let alone the tragic killing of military personnel,” a statement from the council dated March 30 and made available to PUNCH Online on Tuesday read.

Ikolo is one of the eight persons declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection to the killing.


Immediately after the publication, he turned himself in to the Delta State Police Command.

The council expressed shock about the arrest while stating that the monarch had been working to resolve the crisis that led to the tragedy since his ascension.


“Our monarch, His Royal Majesty Ovie Clement Oghenerukevwe lkolo, the Urhukpe 1, is a peace-loving man who has diligently sought to reconcile the factions within our kingdom since his ascension to the throne four months ago.

“He has not set foot in Okuama community, nor has he visited Ewu, the headquarters of our kingdom, to engage in his royal duties,” the statement added.

While condoling with the military and the families of the slain officers, they prayed that the perpetrators would be brought to book.


Contact: theeditor@punchng.com

SaharaReporters had on Monday reported that the students were said to have been kidnapped by a group of unknown gunmen on Friday along the Evwreni axis of the East-West road in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Delta State Police Command has said its operatives have rescued nine students who were abducted along the East-West Road in Ughelli, Delta State.

SaharaReporters had on Monday reported that the students were said to have been kidnapped by a group of unknown gunmen on Friday along the Evwreni axis of the East-West road in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

This was confirmed by the State Police Command Spokesman, Edafe Bright via his X page on Monday night, saying the force had deployed its personnel to go after the gunmen to ensure all the students were rescued unharmed.

"Gunmen have abducted 10 students travelling along the Evwreni axis of the East-West road in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. The Command is aware of this ugly incident, and we are doing all it takes to ensure that they are rescued unhurt,” Edafe had written.

It was learnt that the students were returning from their school in Cross River State when they were accosted by the gunmen on Friday.

They were all kidnapped except their driver who escaped unhurt.

However, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Edafe Bright, in an update on Tuesday morning said the victims had regained their freedom.

“All nine of the victims have regained their freedom please," Edafe noted.

Sparrk007:
Fake news please ignore the idiot, I dey ughelli and we never heard that kind news

something that bright edafe confirmed, you must be living in a hole

Fox News
☰


Authorities in a Tennessee community are investigating after a trailer full of Bibles was intentionally set on fire in front of a church on Easter Sunday.

Around 6 a.m. on Sunday, the Mount Juliet Police Department and Fire Department swiftly responded to a trailer fire located in an intersection that was blocking the entrance of the Global Vision Church.

The church's pastor, Greg Locke, said in a statement posted on Facebook, that the church's security cameras were able to capture a man reportedly dropping off the trailer before setting it ablaze.


"There was a lady that had driven through the night to get to our church, and she was in the parking lot and was able to get the police officers here quickly, but it was quite the scene to wake up to on my first morning back from Israel," Pastor Locke wrote.


The Wilson County Sheriff's Office also issued a statement saying they believe the fire was set intentionally.


Hundreds took to social media to show their support for the church, that was able to proceed without having any Easter services interrupted.

"The evil out there is frightening. So thankful no one was harmed or damage done to the church. May our Lord touch the heart of the person who did this," one user wrote.


Fire crews at scene of trailer fire
Wilson County officials believe that the trailer was intentionally dropped off in the middle of the intersection and intentionally set on fire. (Pastor Greg Locke)

"Gods got the next move. Jesus is alive and doing mighty things. Prayers for that man and also for the church. Onward Christain Soldiers," another user wrote.

"Wow... the enemy is stirred and knows his time is limited. We shall not be shaken!" one comment read.

The Wilson County Sheriff's Office said it is not known at this time if the fire was aimed at the church or not.


Police block of scene of trailer fire
The church's security cameras were able to catch a suspect leaving the trailer and setting it ablaze. (Pastor Greg Locke)

"To uphold the integrity of the ongoing investigation, other specific details cannot be provided at this time. However, we assure the community that further updates will be shared at the appropriate juncture," the sheriff's office stated.

No injuries have been reported following the incident, officials said.

Spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, has revealed that efforts are ongoing to ensure that students kidnapped on Monday in Ugheli Delta state were rescued unharmed.
Confirming the development in a post via his official X account, Edafe disclosed that the command was “aware of this ugly incident, and we are doing all it takes to ensure that they are rescued unhurt.”

Naija News has earlier reported that a group of gunmen believed to be Fulani herdsmen abducted an unidentified group of students in Delta State.

Reports revealed that the students were travelling along the East-West in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta state, where the assailants attacked and whisked them away to an unknown location.

According to Vanguard, the students were taken in a Sienna vehicle on Friday while returning from Calabar at the Evwreni axis of the East-West Road.

A security source who confirmed the incident to journalists mentioned that the Sienna carrying the students from Calabar in Cross River State was seized on Friday night at the Evwreni axis, with the kidnappers demanding a ransom of N10 million.

This incident comes after the kidnapping of 8 individuals on February 24 along Ughelli-Patani road, Ughelli North, as they were returning from Benin City to Yenagoa.

It was reported that officers from the Ughelli A’ division visited the crime scene, but it remains unclear whether the remaining three individuals were rescued or released at a later time.


Naija News

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.


2 Samuel 16:21-22
And Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Go in to your father’s concubines, whom he has left to keep the house; and all Israel will hear that you are abhorred by your father. Then the hands of all who are with you will be strong.” So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the top of the house, and Absalom went in to his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel.

Ecclesiastes 8:11
Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.

Hebrews 10:26-30
For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries. Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The LORD will judge His people."

Genesis 4:13
And Cain said to the LORD, “My punishment is greater than I can bear!

2 Samuel 12:9-14
Why have you despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in His sight? You have killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword; you have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the people of Ammon. Now therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised Me, and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.' Thus says the LORD: 'Behold, I will raise up adversity against you from your own house; and I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun. For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel, before the sun.'" So David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." And Nathan said to David, "The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die. However, because by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also who is born to you shall surely die."

Proverbs 6:27
Can a man take fire to his bosom,
And his clothes not be burned?


Isaiah 59:2
But your iniquities have separated you from your God;
And your sins have hidden His face from you,
So that He will not hear.


Luke 12:47-48
And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.

The umbrella body of Ijaw youths, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, has sounded a note of warning to Simon Ekpa and his group of Biafra agitators to steer clear of the Niger Delta, saying that the Ijaw people are not part of Biafra and will never be.
The IYC made the assertion in response to an online video on X (Twitter) by Simon Ekpa, a Biafran crusader in exile claiming that Ijaws are part of Biafran state.

In a statement on Friday by the national spokesman for IYC, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, the foremost Ijaw group said the Ijaw people would not tolerate any other reckless comment about their people and territories belonging to the Biafra.

Princewill said: “The attention of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has been drawn to a strange video by one Simon Ekpa, who is from the eastern part of Nigeria, now masquerading as the leader of Biafra in exile. “In the said video posted on X, he tried to establish Ijaw territories as part of his imaginary Biafra state.

“In the said video, Ekpa expressed the point that Nigerian soldiers attacked his Biafra people and Biafra republic. He was simply referring to the Okuama attack in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on March 14, 2024 wherein 17 soldiers were killed and the subsequent onslaught carried out by the military on Igbomotoru and Peremabiri, Ijaw communities in Bayelsa State.

“The fundamental claim the renegade Biafra nationalist is making is that both Okuama community in Delta and Igbomotoru in Bayelsa state are part of his purported Biafran State. He thus threatened to unleash mayhem on Nigerian soldiers to avenge the death of civilians who had lost their lives in the military onslaught.”

However, the IYC spokesman said the Council was already dealing with a lot of issues regarding the attack on the soldiers and the subsequent invasion of Ijaw communities by the military, resulting in the loss of many lives.

He noted that the Ijaw people had never at any point in time been part of Biafra and can never be part of Biafra.

Princewill reiterated: “The attack on the soldiers has been condemned and it remains condemned just as the IYC has also charged the military to go after only the criminals and not killing of innocent people which we have also condemned in Igbomotoru and Peremabiri.

“For the purpose of clarity, the IYC is putting the records straight that the Ijaw struggle for a better living condition in Nigeria is older than the so-called Biafra agitation.

Ijaws not part of Biafra, IYC warns Simon Ekpa
“Our late Ijaw hero and foremost nationalist, late Major Isaac Adaka Boro, who is regarded as a champion of minority rights movement in Nigeria, declared the ‘Niger Delta Republic’ on February 23, 1966 a year before late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu who was the then Governor of the Eastern Region declared the Biafra Republic on May 30, 1967.

“As Ijaw people, we are Nigerians, original occupants, and dwellers of the Niger Delta region. We reiterate that no part of Niger Delta belongs to their so-called imaginary Biafra.

“The struggle of the Ijaw people is majorly in resource control and not a secessionist movement. We have our own struggles, and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) also has their own separate struggle. The Ijaws are not part of their Biafran struggle and ideology.”

He said while the IYC was not opposed to the IPOB agitation, the Ijaws remain law-abiding people in the Nigerian State.

Princewill warned that going forward, the Ijaws would not tolerate watching Biafrans laying claims to their territories.

The spokesman insisted: “We are Ijaw people. We are Nigerians in the Niger Delta. We don’t have any ties or whatever with the Biafran people and their agitation.

“Finally, the IYC is using this medium to inform the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian military that all the areas mentioned are not part of Biafra and can never be part of Biafra. IYC will not allow any purported attack on the military in our territories.”



The Nation Newspaper

Klass99:
Lol , Fyz quit being a clown you know exactly what he meant to say/write - three widows and not windows.

it has been corrected

The Nation Newspaper



The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has declared eight persons wanted in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers and officers in Okuama Community of Delta State.
Among those declared wanted is Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur; a woman, Mrs Igoli Ebi; Reuben Baru; Akata Malawa David and four other persons.


The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, announced this on Thursday at a briefing in Abuja.

He said said no bounty was placed on the wanted persons.

Dogs truly are man’s best friend, and anyone who’s come home to a wagging tail and bright eyes knows precisely why. Their loyalty and unwavering love bring light and comfort into our lives, making the choice of a furry companion a significant one.

Navigating through the sea of dog breeds to find your perfect match can be daunting. Thus, I’m here to guide you through the top 10 dog breeds renowned for their friendliness and affection, ready to shower you with love and cuddles.


Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever tops the list as one of the world’s most beloved dog breeds. Known for their friendly demeanor, intelligence, and energetic spirit, Labs are fantastic family pets. They’re especially great with children, showing patience and gentleness. A Labrador’s love for being around its family and participating in various activities makes it a joyful addition to any home.

Golden Retriever
Another heart-stealer is the Golden Retriever, admired for its stunning looks and gentle nature. These dogs are not only smart, making them excellent working dogs, but they’re also known for their patience with kids. Golden Retrievers crave human interaction and will become a loyal and loving member of your family.


Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
For those seeking a smaller, elegant companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel from England is a perfect choice. This breed wins hearts with its sweetness and affectionate nature towards its owners. Cavaliers are friendly and get along well with both humans and other pets, making them sociable companions for all kinds of families.

Beagle
Hailing from England, the Beagle is celebrated for its exceptional sense of smell and cheerful character. Beagles are affectionate, friendly, and great with kids and other pets. Though they are full of energy and require ample exercise, they love cuddling up with their family members, making them excellent companions for active households.


French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, with its unique appearance and playful demeanor, is a small dog breed originating from France. Frenchies are incredibly affectionate towards their families and get along splendidly with children and other pets. They are curious and love exploring with their families, though their unique physique requires careful attention to their health.

Boxer
Medium-sized and muscular, the Boxer is a German breed known for its protective nature. Boxers are affectionate, loyal, and generally get along well with children and other pets. They are energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy. As both a guardian and companion, the Boxer is a devoted family member.


English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel, recognized by its drooping ears and silky coat, is a medium-sized breed from England. Known for their affectionate and gentle nature, Cockers are great with kids and other pets. They are playful and enjoy activities with their families, although they do require regular grooming.

Bichon Frise
Originating from the Mediterranean region, the Bichon Frise is a small, curly-haired dog beloved for its playful temperament and kindness. Bichons are incredibly affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families, making them ideal for those seeking a loving and playful companion.


Newfoundland
The giant Newfoundland breed from Canada is known for its gentle and protective temperament. Newfoundlands are affectionate and devoted to their families, getting along well with children and other pets. They are intelligent and often used in water rescue missions. Their size and exercise needs should be considered, but they make excellent guardians and companions.

Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, the smallest dog breed in the world from Mexico, packs a lot of personality and courage into its tiny frame. Though they may be wary of strangers, Chihuahuas are extremely loyal to their families and protective of their owners. They are intelligent, energetic, and enjoy being active with their families, making them perfect for those looking for a small dog with a big heart.


Choosing a dog breed that’s known for its affection and friendliness can lead to a fulfilling companionship. Each of these breeds has unique qualities making them ideal companions under different circumstances and preferences. Remember, adopting a dog is a significant decision that should be tailored to your lifestyle and needs, ensuring a loving and loyal companion by your side.

TheCable


Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff (COAS), says three of the 10 widows of the army personnel killed in Okuama community in Delta state are pregnant.

On March 14, about 17 personnel of the Nigerian Army were killed while on a peacekeeping mission in the Delta community.

The federal and state government had vowed that perpetrators of the act would be arrested to face the wrath of the law.

The names of the deceased soldiers were A.H Ali, D.E Obi, S.D. Ashafa, U. Zakari, , Yahaya Saidu, Danbaba Yahaya, Kabir Bashir, Abdullahi Ibrahim, Bulus Haruna, Sole Opeyemi, Bello Anas, Alhaji Isah, Clement Francis, Abubakar Ali, Adamu Ibrahim, Hamman Peter, and Ibrahim Adamu.


Speaking on Wednesday during the burial ceremony of the late soldiers at the military cemetery in Abuja, Lagbaja said it was “highly demoralising” that the soldiers were killed by those they were equipped to protect.

The army chief added that it took over 72 hours of searching to recover the vital organs of some of the deceased soldiers.

He added that the Nigerian Army exercised “a lot of restraint” in the search for missing arms and body parts of the deceased soldiers.

“The Okuama killing has added to the care of the Nigerian Army and, by extension, the Nigerian state, 10 widows, three of whom are four, five, and eight months pregnant, 21 orphans, and many other dependents, which include parents,” Lagbaja said.

“While commiserating with the families of these gallant soldiers, I assure them that the Nigerian Army and the good people of this country will not leave them in the cold. We shall do all within our power to provide succour to the families.”

The army chief said the Nigerian Army will not be deterred by the incident in Delta in its mandate to defend the country.

The Eagle Online

Navy seizes 193 bags of Indian hemp from 24-year-old Ghanaian

The Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT handed over 193 bags of seized substance suspected to be Indian Hemp to the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency on Tuesday.

The Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Rafiu Oladejo, disclosed the arrest and seizure to newsmen.

He said a Naval patrol team seized the bags, weighing 38kg each, from a 24-year-old Ghanaian, Emmanuel Asamani, off Badagry Coast on March 16.

Oladejo said Asamani claimed not to know the destination to which he was ferrying the illicit drugs, but expressed optimism that the NDLEA would get to the root of it all during investigation.

He noted that there were inherent health dangers in the use of narcotics aside the fact that their use had led to increased crimes.

“Proceeds of sale of narcotics are often used to sponsor crimes in the maritime space and on land,” Oladejo said.

Receiving the contraband and the suspect, Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Marine Command, Paul Ahom, appreciated NNS BEECROFT for taking the lead in policing crime and drug trafficking in Nigeria’s waterways.

Ahom said: “The Navy is the leading agency in the interception of drugs among maritime law enforcement agencies in Nigeria

“We need to ascertain the source of the drug and identify the syndicate behind the ferrying of drugs from Ghana and Togo via the Republic of Benin to Nigeria.”

TheLastProphet:
A university where knowledge are manufactured should know better. Why not share this palliative department by department?

The schools management failed woefully.

Lumarstone:
Can someone summarize this novel please.

.

Lumarstone:
Can someone summarize this novel please.

why are you too lazy to read this short article.

VANGUARD NEWS


TWO students of the Nasarawa State University Keffi were trampled to death and dozen others injured when the sharing of palliatives provided by the government became deadly on Friday March 21, 2023. So, instead of palliatives what was served up death. In the event, bright futures were painfully and prematurely smothered because a sharing formula failed, and a stampede flared, the strongest flexing their muscle. In many ways, it was a metaphor for what Nigeria has become today—a survival of the fittest.


Students of the university had obviously got wind of the distribution and gathered to receive their portions. News of the palliative and proposed distribution had no doubt travelled from mouth-to-mouth like wildfire among the hungry students.


There were bags of rice, of course, whatever was left of what was given, given the propensity of those in power in Nigeria to help themselves first before leaving the scraps for the dogs milling around the foot of the table. There was a planned distribution point and a crowd of students was expected to gather. So, rationally some chaos should have been expected.

Because the university, like many others in Nigeria, is porous and prone to instances of insecurity and improper identification, the ‘students’ coming for the rice would have included a healthy handful of miscreants and street urchins from the university environment. Some more unruly students would have been expected to feature heavily too.

So, some disturbances would have expected given that many Nigerians have trouble with crowding and crowd control, not to talk of historically poor crowd etiquette.

Many Nigerians prefer a free-for-all than to stand in a queue and wait for anything. The many sharp corners cut around the country have confirmed to many Nigerians that it is only crumbs that come to those who wait.

According to reports, the students overpowered the security men at the gate and broke through the venue of the sharing, resulting in a stampede.

Those in charge of the distribution could have devised other equitable means rather than let students gather in a less-than-dignified manner and trample each other to death. It was certain that not everyone would get the rice. So, troublemakers likely took advantage of the situation to foment trouble. In the process, bright lights were cruelly put out, breaking the hearts of many families.

Palliatives have become a thing in Nigeria because the country is stuck in a rut of poverty and frustration where the only thing happening is that government policies routinely fail. Following the removal of the fuel subsidy and the resulting soaring costs of goods and services, palliatives were devised to paper over the cracks.


But corruption, which trails everything in Nigeria has trailed it too. Dissatisfaction has quickly followed. Early this year, primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory downed tools for more than a month. Their grouse was that while palliatives were given to their secondary school counterparts, they were shunned.

The conclusion from the heartbreaking tragedy in the Nasarawa State University Keffi is that Nigeria’s half-hearted measures at tackling hardship in the country is now breeding death. A window has also been opened into the incredible slug that school life has become for many students in Nigeria’s public universities.

Even before the prices of goods and services soared beyond reach, students in many universities were living from hand to mouth. Beyond having to buy the usual school stuff, there were also the astronomical costs of compulsorily buying textbooks authored by their lecturers, and submitting assignments. Now, there is death too, stalking them, right on their campuses where their minds are supposed to be illuminated for the next stages of their life journey.

The discontent that has been swirling through Nigeria since 1999 has been especially marked in the young, who include many Nigerian students. They swelled the ranks of the EndSARS protesters in 2020. During the last general election, as the Labour Party and Peter Obi, its infectiously popular candidate, made an unlikely push for the country’s highest office, many young people, including numberless Nigerian students, were central to the struggle to liberate their country.

As things have consistently failed to look up in the country, many young people with means have fled the country, preferring everywhere else but the place they call home. While the terrifying turn of events would worry everyone in power elsewhere, those here can afford to look away.


The corridors of power in Nigeria have a history of aloofness to the plight of Nigerian students. In 2022, while Nigerian undergraduates ground out eight months of an interminable industrial action by university lecturers, many members of the government saw nothing wrong in picking up nomination forms of political parties, with each valued at millions of Naira.

It is doubtful that the deaths in NSUK will cause any seismic changes in the course of events in the country. Beyond perfunctory and even hypocritical memorials and boring speeches, it is doubtful that serious attention will be given to the dead.

While Nigeria marks several more gravestones as stations in its improbably sorrowful journey, may the families draw what little comfort they can from the fact that their children died not as perpetrators of the crimes Nigeria has foisted on people, but while seeking food to keep body and soul together.

•Obiezu, a public affairs commentator, wrote via: keneobiezu@gmail.com

© 2024 Vanguard Media Limited, Nigeria

THE Ijaw National Congress (INC) has dismissed as fake and misleading, claims that Ijaw youths are planning coordinated attacks on military locations and facilities across the Niger Delta.


President of the INC, the parent Ijaw social cultural organisation, Prof Benjamin Okaba stated this on Sunday while reacting to an alleged intelligence report directing military formations in the region to be on high alert over the purported plan.

Describing the report as false and aimed at tarnishing the image of the Ijaw nation, Okaba said there was no such plan or any reason or justification that warrants contemplating such devilish plan by the Ijaw Youth Council, and any other organization in Ijaw land.

His words, “As the umbrella organisation of Ijaw people worldwide, our attention has been drawn to an orchestrated report aimed at pitching the Federal Government and military against the Ijaw nation.

“We have carried out diligent investigation and found out that the report is not only fake but a figment of the imagination of those who concocted and generated this delicate, devilish and unfortunate idea.

“The region needs peace, tranquility and development now more than ever and we are all united as Ijaw people in condemning the dastardly acts of the criminals who killed the officers and men of the Nigerian Army.

“We, however, wish to reiterate as in our earlier statements on this subject matter that the military should be more professional in fishing out the culprits. More damages should not be inflicted on the innocent indigenes and that justice be tampered with mercy to the extent of exempting the innocent citizens of the affected communities in their reprisal operations.

“We also wish to use this opportunity to warn and advice members of the political class within and outside the region that they should not take their desperate politics beyond the level of decency.


“The originators of this evil and very dangerous plot are the true enemies of the Ijaw nation.”

He, therefore called on all well meaning Nigerians and particularly the military authorities “to disregard this fake and unfounded rumour and treat it as such.”

© 2024 Vanguard Media Limited,

The NSA’s office urged Nigerians and the international community to share any information to assist law enforcement agencies in apprehending Mr Anjarwalla.

The office of the National Security Adviser said on Monday that security personnel who allowed Binance official Nadeem Anjarwalla’s escape have been arrested as it is working with Interpol to rearrest him.

“The personnel responsible for the custody of the suspect have been arrested, and a thorough investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances that led to his escape from lawful detention,” the NSA office spokesperson Zakari U. Mijinyawa said in a statement on Monday.

Mr Anjarwalla’s escape from custody comes as another episode since he and his colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, were arrested and kept in detention by the Nigerian government on February 26.

“Preliminary investigation shows that Mr Anjarwalla fled Nigeria using a smuggled passport,” the office said shortly after Premium Times’ report on his escape.

It added, “Security agencies are working with Interpol for an international arrest warrant on the suspect.”

The NSA’s office urged Nigerians and the international community to share any information to assist law enforcement agencies in apprehending Mr Anjarwalla.

According to Nigerian authorities, Mr Anjarwalla was scheduled to appear before the court again on April 4, 2024.

In a statement on Monday, Binance said it had been informed that Mr Anjarwalla was “no longer” in Nigeria’s detention and expressed concern over the safety of its employees.

The clampdown on Binance and other platforms comes as part of efforts by the Tinubu-led government to save the declining Nigerian naira, which traded for about N2000 to a dollar three weeks ago.

The naira now trades for N14,00 to a dollar, weeks after Binance officials were arrested and detained on claims that the platform aided currency speculators and sabotaged the Nigerian economy.

Peoples Gazette reported that the Tinubu-led government demanded that the cryptocurrency platform furnish it with a list of top Nigerian Binance users and their transaction details to release their officials held hostage.

Last week Monday, the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court ordered Binance Holdings Limited to provide the EFCC with comprehensive information on all persons from Nigeria trading on its platform.

Binance exited the Nigerian market and discontinued every naira-related transaction on its platform since Nigerian authorities clamped down on it.

© 2024 Peoples Gazette™ Limited.

Amid the ongoing development for the alliance during a US Election year, the Wester is monitoring the BRICS digital currency push amid its ongoing dollar decline. Indeed, the Financial Times reported the concern that the United States has held regarding Russia’s continued foray into the sector.

Russia has recently signed legislation that will increase its digital asset usage. Moreover, the BRICS economic alliance is currently developing a Blockchain-based payment system to support its native currency. According to reports, the West is observing the potential negative uses of this ongoing commitment and research.

Throughout the last year, the BRICS economic alliance has firmly embraced de-dollarization efforts. The decision came primarily as an answer to the Western sanctions placed on Russia in 2022. Subsequently, the alliance has sought to increase those efforts through the development of its very own native currency.

Now, the West is taking notice, as the US is reportedly monitoring the BRICS digital currency push. Specifically, the Financial Times has stated that the United States is concerned regarding Russia’s digital currency development during a US election year.

Russia has only increased its commitment to digital asset development over the last several months. Moreover, the United States has been consistently hesitant to integrate government-issued digital assets into its economy. In the ongoing monitoring, they now have their eyes fixed on the BRICS development in the sector.

The action is all the more interesting considering the rather vulnerable state of the US Dollar currently. Both the blockchain-based payment system and the BRICS alternative currency will expand the alliance’s de-dollarizaiton efforts. Those are seemingly sought to be curtailed through ongoing action in defiance of the digital currency push.


Watcher Guru
© Copyright 2024 Watcher.Guru

1) Comparison

Comparison leads to:

- Rushed goals

- Dissatisfaction with life

- Feelings of inadequacy

Comparison will remove the joy out of your life if you let it.

Try this:

Add a simple gratitude practice to your morning/evening routine.

2) Complaining

Complaining may seem harmless. But over time-it trains your brain to seek out the negative side of everything.

Try this:

Wear a rubber band on your wrist for a week. Every time you complain-snap it.

3) Comfort

The comfort zone is where dreams go to die. You don't need to jump off a cliff-but you do need to get yourself a little closer to the edge.

Try this:

Use the 85% Rule-learning is optimized when we get things right about 85% of the time.

4) Waiting for perfect TIME to start

There's someone out there who's way less qualified than you-living the life you want. Simply because they took action.

Try this:

Jeff Bezos' 70% Rule-take action when you have 70% of the information you wish you had.

5) Quitting

The only way to guarantee failure is to quit. Simply staying in the game long enough will put you ahead of most people.

Try this:

Commit to something .

6) Your phone

You knew it was coming Phone addiction is real, and dangerous.

Try this:

1. Turn your phone off 1 hour before bed

2. Don't turn it on for 1 hour after you wake up

Your life will transform before your eyes.

7) Procrastination

Pink Floyd said it best:

And then one day you find ten years have got behind you No one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun.

Scary right? Don't lose your life to procrastination.

If you got here, congrats! You're among the top 1% who complete what they begin

immortalcrown:
Naija don kpafuka.

he don tey

Security operatives, lawyers, activists, environmentalists, and other stakeholders of the Niger Delta have revealed that the actual stealing of the nation’s crude oil occurs at the various export terminals and flow stations in the country and not in the refining camps in the creeks.

Stakeholders, who rebuked former President Olusegun Obasanjo for alleged mischievousness on his claim that Nigeria had no record of its oil production, said Obasanjo had the opportunity to address the problem while in office, but he looked the other way.


They said the International Oil Companies, IOCs, officials of the Federal Government, and security agents masterminded the rip-off, beseeching the President, Bola Tinubu, to evolve a blueprint to fight oil thieves.


Programs Manager, Environmental Rights Action, ERA, Bayelsa Office, Mr. Alagoa Morris, said: ”It is most unfortunate that we are in a clime where advocacy in the interest of our society is treated with levity by those in the corridors of power. What the former President said is not new to some of us, especially as the Environmental Rights Action.”

“We had long advocated proper metering, particularly from the flow- stations, to record the volume of crude oil extracted from each oil field.

”Agreed that from the geological formation, what comes out from the oil wells are the three components of water, crude oil, and gas, it is at the flow stations that separation is made – gas flared (instead of being re-injected or channeled for other economic purposes); water sent back to the environment; and crude oil transported to Tank Farms for export.

“With proper metering, Nigeria should know the volume of crude oil leaving each flow station, and the quantity that finally gets to the tank farm. It can calculate loss to oil thieves or incidents of spills.

”This is the reason behind the advocacy, but unfortunately, the authorities have continued to give conflicting daily production.


”Of concern is the revelation that there is bigger oil thievery at the export terminals, where quantities or volume of crude oil exported are undervalued. This is because of the criminal collaboration between the oil companies, security agencies at export terminals, and officials of Federal Government regulatory agencies like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL. With such, to know the exact quantity or volume of crude the nation produces daily is impossible.

”About the crude oil thievery at the export terminals, a paper presented by a top naval officer during the climax of 2014 Bayelsa Security Week had it in black and white. He indicted the security agencies, oil companies, and federal government officials at export terminals.

”And, I will let you have the section of his presentation referring to this criminal collaboration at export terminals. Even from this perspective, one can conclude that it is very true that Nigeria does not have exact knowledge of her daily crude oil production…made so by corruption.”

Manifest of foreign vessels in their mother tongue – Ex-security operative
A former security operative corroborating the claim, said, “The nation’s crude oil production reeks with corruption, especially at the export terminals where vessels laden with crude oil are often undervalued.”

He fingered highly- -placed government officials, the NNPCL, and the security agencies of complicity in the thievery.


“The problem with our country is that we are always chasing shadows instead of doing the right thing. Corruption is entrenched in the nation’s oil industry, especially at the export terminals.

“In my time, sometimes, the manifest of the foreign vessels that came to load crude is in their mother tongue and you are at a loss as per the actual quantity they were billed to load. Because they have the backing of some ‘ogas’, there is little or nothing you can do. If you insist on doing the proper thing as a patriot, they post you out.”

Nigeria ripped off daily – Mudiga-Odje, NDDU facilitator
The Facilitator of the Niger Delta Democratic Union, NDDU, Dr. Akpo Mudiaga –Odje, said the group, and other concerned Nigerians, had called on the Federal Government and NNPCL “to tell Nigerians with arithmetic certainty the amount of crude oil we produce every day, every week, every month and every year, long ago.”

“To date, neither the Federal Government of Nigeria nor the NNPCL has been able to supply us with any such data.

”Indeed, without such reliable data, there becomes a holistic room for manipulation in the system.


”I recall that in 1984, the former Chief of Staff, Gen Tunde Idiagbon, usually as a commendable practice, publicly disclosed how many barrels of crude oil sold as well as income made from same to Nigerians every month.

“This is the act of transparency we urgently require from the Federal Government of Nigeria and the NNPCL to get first-hand information on this vexed issue.

“The nation is ripped off by the non-disclosure of the amount of crude oil produced daily and/or income accruing to the Federation Account from such sales.

“We, therefore, call on the NNPCL, especially, to procure the necessary equipment to enable it to ascertain the amount of crude oil we produce and export daily so that Nigerians can get a piece of first-hand information on the sale and management of their commonwealth.

”The most important priority now is for the NNPCL to immediately procure the required equipment to determine the quantity of crude oil we produce in this country every day, every week, every month, and every year.

“Once this is achieved with substantial certainty, the next is to secure the production, distribution, and exportation.

Why NNPCL cannot stop oil thieves – Igbini, oil industry stakeholder
An oil industry stakeholder and former labor leader, Mr. Emmanuel Igbini, however, stated pointedly that NNPCL could not tackle this problem, adding, “Because there have been various media reports, over the years, of arrests, investigations, and prosecutions of some of the top management staff of the NNPC for their alleged involvement in massive theft of crude oil and or their collusion with those petro-terrorists in these multinational oil companies.”

His words: “NNPCL, as it is composed today, is largely made up of people from the same NNPC, and worse is that they are now made almost unaccountable to Nigeria. Whatever the Board and Management choose to declare to Nigerians as the volume of crude produced and sold and net income derived from it, is what the nation accepts and works with. It is sad!”

What Tinubu should do
To solve the problem, I counsel President Tinubu to retain the Minister of Petroleum Resources. He will exercise his constitutional power to declare full-scale military war against those bent on undermining the national security, economy, peace, and order of our country.

“Our country is in this state of calamity because majorly the needed foreign revenues from the petroleum sector are being looted through massive stealing of the nation’s crude oil.

Why is OBJ telling us now – Akpan, activist
Executive Director, COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding in Akwa Ibom State, Saviour Akpan, told Saturday Vanguard: ”I do not think there is anybody qualified enough to debunk this than former President Olusegun Obasanjo, but the only problem I have is why he is telling us now? Why did you not say this during your reign in power or within the 16-year rule of the PDP as your party?

”It is unfortunate that our parents always like to give us credible information when they are close to the where we can no longer see them and ask questions. If what is alleged is the situation, what stops us as a country from probing and bringing the perpetrators to book?”


”Obasanjo, as former president and minister of petroleum, should be giving us a solution, and not involved in blame games. He was there and never accounted for the nation’s oil and gas, which the nation produced, and exported at that time.

”He should tell us why he failed to account for the oil in his time. He was there as minister and president and saw how serious the stealing of crude oil was. He was there as president and minister of petroleum and saw that there was no record of the sale of crude oil.

”Obasanjo saw it but refused to put measures in place to monitor oil companies, NNPC, the military, DSS, and Police on crude oil production. We know that the military and DSS collude with the syndicates to steal the nation’s oil.

“Old wine in a new bottle tastes the same. NNPC and its subsidiaries and their assets, including NPDC, now renamed NNPC E & P Limited should be divested and put a reliable institution to regulate the production and sale of crude oil.

“Military officers, DSS, and Police caught colluding should be sanctioned. What is the difference between NNPC and NNPCL? What is the difference between NUPRC and DPR? What is the difference between NAPIMS and NNPC Upstream Investment Services, NUIS?

“NNPCL and its subsidiaries and assets need to be disbanded and sold to private investors that can run oil businesses. The entire NNPCL and subsidiaries are rotten. 99.9 percent of their personnel live on bribes. So how do they account for the oil and gas?

Ambakaderimo, wondered at what point Obasanjo became aware that the total sum of oil Nigeria produces could not be accounted for. ”Oil theft did not start today; it has gotten to this crescendo because nothing tangible has been done to stem this very embarrassing menace. ”Who monitors what happens in the high seas and the crude oil loading terminals? These are the places where the bulk of the theft occurs”.

He said the committees have since identified the lack of coordinated strategy, and a plan of action as the reason oil theft was not abating.

“Going forward, the technologies to monitor our pipelines are there on the shelves crying to be acquired and deployed, but we have not shown the political will to do it because many of the people across the board today have been benefiting from the lapses, and complacency has set in.”


Vanguard News

© 2024 Vanguard Media Limited, Nigeria

TRIBUNE ONLINE earlier reported Defence Headquarters had declared that no fewer than 97 persons, including Ekpa, are wanted for terrorism allegations.

Reacting, the Finland-based lawyer and Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in exile, in a tweet through his official X handle, described the development as “enough wotowoto”

“(Laughs)… enough wotowoto. The Biafra government will release its own wanted list soon,” he wrote on his handle on Saturday.

😂😂😂😂😂enough woto woto
The Biafra government will release its own wanted list soon pic.twitter.com/YiV6qkttY3

— Simon Ekpa (@simon_ekpa) March 22, 2023

© 2023 Tribune Online

1. Doesn't drink or smoke

2. No tattoos

3. Not a feminist

4. Loves cooking

5. Loves her parents.

6. Dress modestly

7. Believes in God

8. Loves her parents

9. Keeps her house clean

10. Takes care of her appearance

11. Doesn't have a male best friend

12. Is submissive.

13. Loves children.