₦airaland Forum

The Google Inc. and Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy (ISGPP) have flagged off a partnership over internet revolution in the world and Africa’s response to the development.

The partnership takes off with an international conference on internet policy and governance in Africa, which will hold at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, from Tuesday May 2, 2017.

With the theme: Strengthening Internet Policy through Theoretically Grounded Research, the three-day round table will examine the appropriate ways Africa should participate in the internet revolution with implication for economic diversification, access to technological infrastructure and finance, content, privacy and security as well as knowledge and capacity-building.

In a statement signed by the Executive Vice Chairman, ISGPP, Dr Tunji Olaopa, at the weekend, the conference, which is being jointly organised by both partners, is a multi-disciplinary research initiative aimed at providing a platform to address the research, publishing, teaching and policy development needs of Africa in the area of internet policy and governance with a view to enhancing African contributions in the global internet policy and governance discourse.

The roundtable is a scholarly interdisciplinary initiative that will bring together various researchers of African descent working in Africa and the Diaspora to identify and critically interrogate core issues about internet policy and governance in Africa.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/googleisgpp-round-table-holds-this-week_30.html

The presidency has explained the recent recruitment exercise by the Department of State Services (DSS).

In its latest recruitment, the North received a big share of the slots, while the South scrambled for the left-overs.


It was welcomed by criticisms as soon as it entered into public space, but the presidency has now defended it, saying it was done to fulfil Federal Character and balance past lopsided recruitments.

“In an organisation that is very sensitive and an important one for national cohesion and stability such as the Department of State Services, DSS, there is always the need to ensure balance in recruitment and manning. This is also true of institutions such as the Army, the Navy and Air force.

“Where such balancing in line with Federal Character is breached, the need arises from time to time, to find a way of redressing such inequity.


“The report in circulation by the Premium Times though true, was taken in isolation of the context it was done. An investigative medium such as that one should have done a better job of this.

“This is the true story of the recruitment, about a year-and-a-half ago in the DSS in which states that were short-changed in previous recruitments were awarded slots to enable them achieve a fair representation. This is what happened.

“It is important to emphasise that it is in the interest of peace, stability and the general well-being of the nation that all component units are fairly represented in organisations such as this. Where this comes short, efforts must be made to correct such lopsidedness as the DSS did between 2014 and 2016,” the statement read.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/presidency-defends-dss-recruitment.html

Hip hop singer, Iyanya has insisted he is not jealous of Tekno’s success and says he is not surprised at how his career has risen.

Tekno has signed onto the Triple MG record label, which Iyanya left to pitch his tent with Mavin Records.


When asked in an interview with Punch, if he is envious of Tekno’s success, Iyanya simply said: “I am so happy for Tekno and his success and I am not surprised.

“At a point, we were all together and this is a young guy that works very hard. He worked every night and when we woke up in the morning, he would still be working.

“So, I am not surprised that he has finally made it. I believe this is just the beginning and there are many more things to come his way. When he came to Triple MG, he sprayed his hair gold and anytime I wanted to call him, I referred to him as golden boy.


“I am very happy he is doing great things. How would I be envious of somebody that Ubi Franklin and I raised from our platform?

“We used our platform to promote him and I cannot be envious of him; there is no need for that. People would always try to say negative things but we are very fine.”
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/i-am-not-jealous-of-tekno-iyanya.html

The leader of the Indegeneous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has been granted bail in the sum of N300million with three sureties in like sum by an Abuja Federal High Court. Recall that Akelicious.com had earlier reported that the leader of the separatist group had been granted bail with stringent conditions. After Kanu was granted bail by Justice Binta Nyako, Biafra, supporters took to the streets in various parts of Nigerian to celebrate.

Now that the IPOB leader has been granted bail, Akelicious.com brings you some things that may likely happen.

1. Agitation for Republic of Biafra continues Do not be surprised if Biafra supporters take their agitation to a whole new level following the bail granted to their leader. They are already seeing the court’s verdict as a victory. The Biafra supporters have refused to give up their agitation for the sovereign state of the Republic of Biafra despite efforts by the federal government to curb their activities.

2. He may be rearrested after meeting bail conditions Recall that the former national security adviser Sambo Dasuki was rearrested in 2015 after he was released on bail. His rearrest took place shortly after his release from the Kuje Prison in Abuja. If he meets his bail conditions, Kanu may also suffer same fate.

3. He may likely flout his bail conditions Kanu is one man is committed to the struggle for a Biafra Republic and he may just flout his bail conditions which are very strict. He cannot grant any press interview, he will not be in a gathering of more than 10 persons and if he flouts these orders, his bail will be revoked.


4. Biafra supporters may protest against his bail conditions Some are already condemning the bail conditions set by the judge, saying it is unacceptable. His supporters may just decide to take to the streets to show their grievances against the bail conditions.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/things-that-may-happen-now-that-nnamdi.html

In a statement released by its spokesperson Powerful Emma, the IPOB, referring to a map said there is a divine force behind the group motive and its leader. “Look at this this ancient map of Biafra and marvel at the divine force behind Kanu and IPOB,” Emma said. Below are the eight mysterious highlights revealed by IPOB:

1. "Can you notice the beloved country Biafra was originally called BI-AFARA, yes you read it right and Nnamdi Kanu was born in AFARA his village in Ibeku Umuahia.

2. "Do you know where the Biafra war ended, the place OJUKWU took off from to Ivory Coast? Yes you have guessed it right, the same Nnamdi Kanu's village Afara."

3. "Do you know the location of the last Biafra capital and headquarters? Yes, you guessed it right, in the same Afara on the ancestral lands of Nnamdi Kanu's family Okpulo Isiokwe in Isiama Afara. Hope you are still following." 4. "Do you know Ojukwu's last broadcast was made from this same Afara and so was the last Radio Biafra broadcast of the war?" 5. "Do you know Nnamdi Kanu with his friend Dr. Chukwuma Egemba operated their management consultancy company in London called Alpha Phoenix Consulting Ltd? When KANU chose the name he didn't know what it meant. To him it was just a very good name for a soon to be trendy management consultancy firm in London."

6. "Unknown to Kanu and his friend, Alpha Phoenix means the rising of the mythical bird Phoenix that rose from the ashes of defeat to conquer. The same way Biafra has risen from the ashes today and is poised to gain her overdue freedom."
7. "Alpha is first in Greek alphabet i.e. 1 (One) and KANU is from Isiama which means first or number one kindred. Are you still following?"
8. "How can Uwazuruike the criminal, ever think that Nwa Chineke Nnamdi Kanu can ever be like him?"
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/ipob-lists-8-mysterious-things-about.html

Pro-Biafra agitator and leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu has been freed from Kuje prison after meeting his bail conditions on Friday, April 28. He was driven out of the detention facility by former transportation minister Osita Chidoka.

more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/former-minister-osita-chidoka-drives.html

Photo credit: https://mobile.twitter.com/osita_chidoka/status/858012179295068162

Idimu, Lagos State over the death of his neighbour, Iyke Godwin, whom he allegedly stabbed to death during a fight in their Ikotun residence.Godwin died in a hospital on Tuesday following the injury he sustained during the fight. The deceased was married with two kids. It was learnt that Idowu allegedly stabbed Godwin in his stomach and he bled profusely before he was rushed to the hospital.

According to a witness, Idowu came back late at night and was calling Godwin’s wife to open the gate for him. Godwin allegedly challenged Idowu and warned him not to call his pregnant wife again at that hour. This did not go down well with Idowu, who rebuked Godwin and in the process, fight ensued between them that night.

Confirming the incident, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Austines Akika, said the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Panti, Yaba for further investigation.

Meanwhile, 74 condemned prisoners in Kirikiri Maximum Prison are seeking mercy under the prerogative of mercy conferred on Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, under the constitution. Among them is Akolade Arowolo, who was sentenced to death for killing his wife, Titilayo Omozoje Arowolo.
Apart from the condemned prisoners, there were many others serving life sentences, who were also seeking the state’s mercy. This was disclosed on Tuesday when the committee set up by Ambode visited the prison on a fact-finding mission to have first-hand information of the inmates that are eligible for mercy and pardon.
The committee, which is chaired by Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo,‎ said over the years the government had come up with guidelines for prerogative of mercy, noting that the application sent by the inmates would be treated on merit.
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The committee would look at how heinous the crime committed was, how long he has spent in prison after conviction, whether he has truly repented and is remorseful and whether the society would accept that person. We don’t want to release the person who will go back to do evil.”
Arowolo, who was spotted wearing a sky blue T-shirt over a blue jeans trouser with a low haircut, delivered a remark on behalf of his fellow condemned inmates. Pleading for mercy, he said they are all remorseful and have learnt from their mistakes.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/man-allegedly-murders-neighbour.html

In its continual commitment to boost the Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector, Heritage Bank Plc, one of the sponsors of Big Brother Naija Season-2 reality TV show, yesterday, rewarded the five top finalists with financial investment support to enhance their entrepreneur drives.

A statement from the bank said that Efe, Bisola, TBoss, Debbie Rise and Marvis, who were the top five, met with the management on Wednesday, when the Managing Director of Heritage Bank Plc, Mr. Ifie Sekobo, advised each of the housemates on their aspirations on becoming budding entrepreneurs in creating, preserving and transferring wealth to Nigerians.

Sekibo, who disclosed the bank’s financial support to each of the five top finalists, said the bank was proud to be part of the reality show, as the involvement re-emphasises the wealth enshrined in Nigeria’s cultural heritage.


He stated that beyond Heritage Bank’s core banking activities, it has special interest in young talented Nigerians and as well recognises the value to sell Nigerian culture to the world.

Sekibo affirmed also that the bank’s involvement was centred on financially and socially emancipating them for the common good of the community.

“When the bank started this journey some weeks ago, people wondered how this will synergise with our banking values. The truth is that Heritage Bank is not all about banking, but the thing we value more is to communicate our rich heritage and culture to the world and we are happy with the sponsorship and relationship,” he said.

In her remarks, Bisola thanked Heritage Bank for its financial support and giving them the platform and opportunity to enlighten other viewers about Nigeria’s culture and the many challenges, both social and environmental, being faced across the country via the different creative presentations in the house.

Also, Efe, who beat 11 other housemates to cart away the coveted prize, having surmounted all the hurdles and polled a whopping 57.61 per cent of the overall votes, praised the bank for its numerous supports, especially organising and sponsoring the wedding task assigned to them.

The Big Brother Nigeria 2017 began in January. It had seen the eviction of nine housemates, Bally, Bassey, CocoIce, Gifty, Kemen, Miyonse, Soma, ThinTallTony and Uriel before the top five who graced the finale: Marvis, Debbie Rise, TBoss, Bisola and Efe.

Whilst, Bisola emerged the first runner up polled 18.54per cent of the vote.The show recorded over 26million votes, which stood out as one of the highest in Africa reality TV shows.

more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/heritage-bank-gives-bb-naija-5-top.html

President of the Nigerian Army Special Board of Enquiry, Major-General Ahmed Jubrin (Rtd), has disclosed that efforts are being made to stem the tide of human rights abuse by military personnels thereby restoring the confidence of the public in the institution.

Jubrin who said this while addressing journalists at Lagos House, Alausa, after a meeting with Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, noted that the Army was determined to address the issue of dehumanizing treatment.

He disclosed that the meeting with the governor was part of the strategic engagement of the board to carry along critical stakeholders on efforts being made by the Army to stem the tide.



He said: “This Board of Enquiry was set up by the Chief of Army Staff to investigate all cases of human rights violation levelled against personnel of Nigerian Army in their war against insurgents in the North East and in their internal security operation in the South East.

“We are here to brief Governor Ambode on what effort the Army headquarters is making on the allegation making rounds in the media that the Army, in their operations, have committed gross violation of human rights and arising from that, the COAS set up this Board and the committee is made up of retired officers, activists from the legal sector and human rights groups, as well as some serving personnel.
“Our mission here is to brief the people and government of Lagos State on what the COAS is doing in his response to this allegation. I think from the composition of the Special Board of Enquiry, people can see that this time the Army headquarters is determined to get it right by getting a broader representation so that whatever the result of the enquiry is, will be known to the public.”
He added that the findings of the board would be made public at the end of interaction with all the necessary stakeholders and concerned actors.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/military-to-check-violation-of-human.html

Nigerian Prince”, a proposed movie on email scammers, has won a $1 million AT&T grant at the Tribeca Film Festival.

The movie, written and directed by Nigeria’s Biyi Bandele and Oscar Hernandez-Topete, was announced winner on April 20, at the film festival in New York.

According to media reports, AT&T will provide funding of up to $1 million for Bandele to create his movie.
Tribeca will also provide mentorship from seasoned industry professionals.
The telecommunications giant also plans to distribute the winning film across several of its video platforms.


Nigerian Prince is based on the notorious email scams from Nigerians.
It’s centred on a stubborn Nigerian-American teenager sent back to Nigeria against his will.
Things take another turn when he joins forces with an internet scammer in order to return to the United States.

Bandele is a Nigerian novelist, playwright and filmmaker.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/nigerian-movie-on-internet-scammers.html

The Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB has thanked the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for openly recognizing Biafra.

IPOB said it was grateful to Netanyahu for openly acknowledging the genocide committed against the people of Biafra by the Nigerian Government.


Biafra was a secessionist state in eastern Nigeria that existed from 30 May 1967 to January 1970.
The secession of the Biafran region was the primary cause of the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War.
The Israeli Prime Minister had during his speech on Holocaust Remembrance Day in Jerusalem, reportedly mentioned Biafra as a sad case in history where the world turned a blind eye to the orchestrated murder of millions of innocent civilians.

Reacting to Netanyahu’s comment, IPOB’s publicity secretary, Emmanuel Powerful said the development signals the best thing to come for the struggle.
He noted that without a doubt, “this represents one of the greatest achievements of IPOB worldwide under the command structure of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”
He said, “After nearly 50 years of blindfold diplomacy when Britain actively connived with Nigeria to blind the world to the horrors and atrocities committed by Gowon, Obasanjo, Buhari at al, the world is slowly waking up to their responsibility of accepting the fact that Britain sponsored the Gowon administration to commit mass murder against Biafrans and Igbos in particular.

“Yesterday, 23 April 2017, marks the first day the name Biafra has been mentioned in public by a major world leader.
“Mentioning Biafra in Jerusalem during his speech, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reinforced holocaust signified the our belief in the inevitability of the restoration of Biafra in the near future.”
He said, if Biafra eventually becomes a reality, it would partner with Israel.
Powerful added, “Biafra nation will be the greatest ally of Israeli because blood is and will always be thicker than water. We are aware that Israel will always love Biafra because they are waiting to see the emergence of a credible Biafran group and leadership, they will speak.
“It’s a gradual process, the whole world can no longer pretend not to be aware now of the genocide against the people of Biafra orchestrated by Britain and executed by the Nigerian Government of Yakubu Gowon.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/ipob-celebrates-as-israel-recognizes.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated his stand that until all Chibok girls abducted from their school three years back were rescued alive and handed over to their parents, the war against insurgency cannot be said to have begun.

The President spoke yesterday, through the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mansur Dan Ali, at the grand finale of the 53rd Anniversary Celebration of Nigerian Air Force (NAF), held at the flight line of the NAF base in Makurdi, Benue State.

He disclosed that his administration procured the newly acquired aircrafts to intensify the search for the girls with a view to rescuing them and reuniting them with their parents.


Welcoming the visitors, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar commended the Buhari administration for supporting NAF in realising its goals and promised to put an end to the Boko Haram insurgency, stressing, “I have made professionalism the major policy trust of my administration.”
Also, Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has said the lessons he learnt from Bangladesh National Defence while on course there had been very useful in the counter insurgency operations in the Northeast.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/buhari-says-war-against-insurgency.html

The second edition of fitness and wellness event- the Abuja Colour Blast – billed to create awareness for the public about autism will hold on April 29. The 5km walk through some of the major roads of Abuja is adopted by The Zamarr Institute (TZR) as a charity to lend support to autism awareness and education.

Prince Ulurcha of FitCity Club, said the non-competitive fitness and lifestyle festival will attract Abuja celebrities, families and students to a massive networking event.


The event entails run, walk, skate and bike. The route will begin at Millennium Park, Maitama, pass through Aguiyi-Ironsi Street, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent all the way to Ahmadu Bello Way and finish at Millennium Park. The participants will register their interest to select any of the three event packages. Over 200 participants featured at the maiden edition held last year.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/abuja-to-stage-walk-against-autism.html

Nollywood popular actor, Olumide Bakare, is dead. He died in the early hours of yesterday. According to media reports, Bakare, aged 65, who has been sick for more than a year was discharged from the University College Hospital (UCH) last year after he was allegedly diagnosed with a respiratory disorder problem.

The Ibadan-based actor and former NTA staff, fondly called Chief Koko on the heels of his role in a TV series, ‘Koko Close’ back in the days, had been battling ill-health since 2013, according to a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report.


Meanwhile, President, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Fred Amata, yesterday said the death of Bakare would not stop his legacy from living-on in the minds of people, through the theatre.

Amata told NAN in Lagos that thespians, even after death, were always remembered because of their contributions to the entertainment industry.

“It is sad that we have lost one of our veteran actors in the entertainment industry but we must give glory to God for He is the giver and taker of life. Although Bakare is dead, but he will continue to live on through his works and contributions to Nollywood, in the minds of his fans and friends,” he said.

Amata condoled with the family of the deceased and prayed that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

President, Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Ibeh, said, “I really do not know the deceased in person but from his works and contributions to the development of Nollywood, he would be greatly missed by his fans. I pray that God grants his family members the strength to bear the loss, at a time like this”.

Ibeh urged thespians in the country to continue to impact positively in the entertainment industry, saying that their good works would definitely outlive them.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/olumide-bakare-popular-nollywood-actor.html

Despite the suspension of the Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr David Babachir Lawal by President Muhammadu Buhari, the face-off between the Senate and the presidency, may still be far from over.
Sunday Sun has reliably gathered that the meeting which the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, was mandated to hold with Buhari on why the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, was yet to be relieved of his duties, may have failed to yield the needed results.
On Thursday, March 28, the Senate, mandated its President, Saraki, to meet with President Buhari to come up with ways of resolving the feud between it and the Executive Arm of Government.
The decision of the Senate followed its rejection of a list of Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), forwarded to it by the President. The lawmakers had contended that the names would not be confirmed until Buhari removes Magu as head of the anti-graft agency.
Since the resolution was passed by the Senate, Saraki has met with President Buhari on several occasions, where the issue was reportedly discussed. It was learnt that despite Saraki’s efforts to persuade Buhari on how to pacify angry lawmakers, the President apparently insisted on retaining Magu as EFCC boss.
Sunday Sun learnt that Saraki and principal officers of both chambers of the National Assembly, from the All Progressives Congress (APC), met with the president over the issue of Magu.
The meeting was held few days after the Senate arrived at the decision. Saraki, who has repeatedly tried to ensure that there is a cordial relationship between the National Assembly and the Presidency, is still exploring other options to ensure that the feud is resolved amicably.
While the Senate Rules Book is clear on the issue of re-submission of names of rejected appointees of President Buhari, pundits, drawing instances from previous experience, believe that Magu, for instance, can be re-nominated.
Order 131 of the Senate Rules states that “nominations neither confirmed nor rejected during the session or within 21 working days in the case of Ministerial nominees shall be returned by the Clerk to the National Assembly to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and shall not again be made to the Senate by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Since there are conflicting arguments, it was learnt that the Senate is mooting the idea of using a pseudo group or name to approach the Supreme Court to get an interpretation on whether or not Magu can continue to remain in office in an acting capacity, despite his rejection by the Red Chamber.
Meanwhile, the peace committee set up the president and headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to mend fences with the National Assembly, is yet to reach out to the leadership of the National Assembly.
The committee was set up by Buhari soon after the Senate declined to confirm names of RECs he forwarded to them. Former lawmakers who are ministers are members of the committee.
Findings by Sunday Sun, showed that Professor Osinbajo is yet to write to Saraki, who is the chairman of the National Assembly to arrange for a formal meeting.
Osinbajo, it was learnt, is also yet to meet with Saraki informally on the issue, despite the urgency of the need to settle the rift between the two arms of government.
Instead, Osinbajo has maintained that Magu will continue to act, despite his rejection by the Senate. At a recent interaction with newsmen, Osinbajo said “it is up to the Senate to make their judgment and it is up to us say what we want to do.
“If our candidate is rejected, we can re-present him.No law says we can’t re-present him. And again, there is the other argument, whether or not we need to present him for confirmation and that’s a compelling argument from Femi Falana.
“His argument is that under the constitution, section 171, and if you look at that section, it talks about the appointments that the president can make. They include appointments of ministers, ambassadors and heads of agencies such as the EFCC.
“In that same section 171, the constitution rightly said that certain appointments must go to the Senate such as ministerial and ambassadorial appointments. Those of heads of agencies like the EFCC do not have to go to the Senate.
“That is what the constitution says. But the EFCC Act, which of course as you know is inferior, says that EFCC chairman should go to the Senate for confirmation.
“I am sure that even a pocket book lawyer knows that when a legislation conflicts with constitution, it’s the constitution that prevails.”
Some Senators are however unhappy over the issue. Some lawmakers who spoke to our correspondent in confidence, said some elements in the Presidency, particularly, the Vice President Osinbajo, are not ready to end the feud.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/confirmation-of-efcc-chair-presidency.html

Constitutional lawyer, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba has filed N1trillion fundamental human rights suit against the Federal Government before a Federal High Court for himself and on behalf of the South East Zone over alleged acts of discrimination and under development of the region.


In the suit brought pursuant to section 42 of the 1999 constitution, the erstwhile President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is further asking the court for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Federal Government and its agents, servants or privies, or otherwise howsoever from further acts of discrimination against the applicant or any member of the Group/Class represented in the civil action.

Besides, the applicants are also claiming a whopping sum of N1trillion from the Federal Government as general damages to be shared among the five states of the South-East geo-political zone.

The suit is asking the court to declare that the structural composition of the states in Nigeria, in this distribution: North-West, Seven States; North-Central, Six States; North-East, Six States; South-West, Six States; South-South, Six States; and South-East, Five States; creates a structural imbalance against the applicant and the Group/Class he represents to their political and economic disadvantage in “federal legislative representation, ministerial/political and judicial appointments, and revenue allocation contrary to Section 14(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which requires reflection of federal character in conduct of public affairs, and accordingly a violation of Section 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which prohibits discrimination against the applicant and the Group/Class represented based on Ethnic Grouping and place of origin.”

In an originating summons supported by an affidavit of 99 paragraphs and a statement of claim, the applicants rooted their action on the ground of alleged total neglect of the applicant’s geo-political zone by the Federal Government in terms of infrastructure and general federal presence making the region feel not part of the Federal Government (1st Respondent).

Besides the issue of under development, the applicants are further demanding the creation of two more states in the South-East geo political zone to balance with the seven states in the North-West, and thereby bring to an end the discriminatory practices against the South-East geo political Zone in terms of legislative representation, political and judicial appointments and net federal allocation accruing to the geo-political zone.

The suit is also asking the Federal High Court for an order directing the Federal Government to forthwith, “prepare and send to the National Assembly for enactment, a bill to establish the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) and for ancillary matters, which body shall be charged with the execution of the said master plan and the general development of the South-East geo-political zone.”

Other grounds upon which the action was filed is the alleged abandonment of the Niger Bridge to collapse and failure to build the ‘Second Niger Bridge’ making the applicants feel isolated from other parts of 1st Respondent and causing them apprehension about disaster on crossing the existing bridge.

They cited the abandonment of federal roads, which are death traps and robbery baits and occasioning and constraining on the applicants’ grueling road journeys within the geo-political zone as another reason for the suit.

It is their contention that the failure to develop strategic new roads especially the Anam-Nzam federal road linking the South-East with the North-Central at Idah in Kogi State to give the applicants easy access to the northern part of Nigeria is discriminatory.

The grounds of the suit also include failure to exploit the Oil/Gas Reserves in Anambra Basin and stalling the applicants’ legitimate expectation from employment and derivation funds for development of the Applicant’s South-East Zone.

The applicants further cited the abandonment of the Enugu Colliery and depriving them legitimate expectation from employment and derivation funds for the development of the South-East zone as grounds of their action.

In addition, they also pointed out the failure to develop trade-friendly ports and customs policies and establish ‘ease-of-business’ platforms to assist the applicants’ trading brothers and sisters to do better and operate on a higher and modern scale in trading, which makes the applicants to spend money to support relatives.

The suit further raised concern over the failure to have an operational international cargo airport at Owerri to aid trading, which causes the applicants to spend huge sums of money to support trading relatives to haul airborne goods by road from Lagos, with the attendant risks.

The failure to dredge the Lower Niger and establish a Port at Onitsha to aid trading which causes the applicants to spend huge sums of money to support trading relatives to haul seaborne goods by road from Port Harcourt or Lagos, with the attendant risks, has also prompted the action of the applicants.

They also alleged disparity in states structure, which puts the South-East zone behind every other geo-political zone in political and judicial appointments and representation at the National Assembly, as well as in revenue allocation.

Also, foisting low revenue allocation status on the South-East Zone as a result of failure to exploit Oil/Gas and Coal and as a result of the said structural imbalance is adduced as a ground for the suit.

Among other declarations sought, they want the court, to declare that the worsening menace of erosion in the South-East zone generally and in particular in Agulu, Nanka and Obosi in Anambra State, under the watch and neglect of the 1st Respondent, who responds to similar or less-threatening ecological problems in other Zones with dispatch and commitment, is discriminatory and a violation of the fundamental right of the applicant and the Group/Class represented guaranteed under Section 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/igbo-demands-n1trillion-from-fg.html

Detectives are to question a former governor and some high-profile owners of apartments in Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos where $43.4million was recovered last Wednesday.
Besides, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has identified how the controversial apartment 7B, where the $43.4m was kept, was acquired. Also recovered were £27,000 and N23m cash.
The EFCC has intensified investigation into the roles played by some apartment owners and tenants on how the cash was brought into the Towers, The Nation has learnt.
The anti-graft agency is said to be suspecting that some owners or tenants may have been complicit in the matter.
A source said: “The more we investigate this $43.4m haul, the more we get fresh facts. It has become imperative to interact with some owners or tenants of apartments in the Towers.
“We have invited a former governor and other high-profile owners and tenants for interaction. It is just to ask a few questions on whether or not they were aware of such movement of cash.
“We have clues linking some occupants of the Towers to the cash haul. And in line with sections 16 and 17 of the EFCC (Establishment Act) 2004, we are inviting these landlords or tenants.
“Unless we get to the root of this case, Nigerians may not know the truth or otherwise about the cash.
“We are not saying that those invited are guilty of any infraction or having link with the $43.4million but we need to hear from them – in line with the ongoing profiling of those in the Towers.”
Sections 16 and 17 of the EFCC Act reads: “A person when – (a) whether by concealment. removal from jurisdiction, transfer to nominees or otherwise retains the control of the proceeds of a criminal conduct or an illegal act on behalf of another person knowing that the proceeds is as a result of criminal conduct by the principal, or (b) knowing that any property is in whole, or in part, directly or indirectly represent another person’s proceeds of a criminal conduct, acquires or uses that property or has possession of it, commits an office and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not less than five years or to a fine equivalent 105 times the value of the proceeds of the criminal conduct or to both such imprisonment and fine.
“(1) A person who, without lawful authority (a) engages in the acquisition, possession or use of property knowing at the time of its acquisition, possession or use that such property was derived from any offence referred to in this section, or
(b) engages in the management, organisation of financing of any of the offences under this Act; or(c) engages in the conversion or transfer of property knowing that such property is derived from any offence under this Act; or
(d) engages in the concealment or disguise of the true nature, source, location, disposition, movement, rights with respect to or ownership of property knowing that such property is derived from any offence referred to in this section, commits an offence under this Act and is liable on conviction to the penalties provided in Subsection (2) of this section.
”The penalties for offences under subsection (I) of this section shall be imprisonment for a term not less than 15 years and not exceeding 25 years.”
Meanwhile, there were indications yesterday that the EFCC had been able to trace how the controversial 7B apartment, where the $43.4m was kept, was acquired.
Another source said detectives discovered that the 7B Apartment was bought in the name of a company allegedly owned by the wife of a senior government official.
“Since investigation is still ongoing, we will not release the identity of the owner of the company. Doing so might jeopardise investigation,” the source said, adding that the EFCC had interacted with “some people from the company.”
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/osborne-towers-efcc-invites-ex-governor.html

South East Forum has asked the Federal Government to release the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Director of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu to it for the elders to talk to him.

This was one of the issues the forum discussed in its meeting in Enugu a couple of days ago, according to its convener, Dr. Dozie Ikedife who made the disclosure to our correspondent in Nnewi, Anambra State.


Ikedife said the elders resolved that if the Federal Government could release Nnamdi Kanu and others held under the same circumstance to them, they would take up the responsibility to talk to Biafra agitators and advise them as elders. He insisted that the elders saw it as justice denied to continue to hold Kanu and others in detention without either releasing them or giving them speedy trial. He said there was nothing wrong for somebody to ask for his rights.

“The forum is of the view that nothing happens without nothing. They have the view that the agitators have the right to protest because of relative exclusion in the decision-making circle of Nigeria. For instance, in the Council of States, there is no single representation from the South East. And the agitators feel that if you look at the allocation of patronages, amenities and development, they are getting shares not equal to what others in the country are getting or commensurate with their contributions to national development.

“For example, in the federal allocation for road maintenance in the nation, the South East and South South are the least, yet, the federal roads in these areas are among the worst. These roads are not maintained, not to talk of constructing or opening up a new one. People of these zones are not comfortable about it and we have the feeling that, if you reject somebody in a dance group, you should allow him go away with his dancing paraphernalia. You cannot beat a child and ask him not to cry,” Ikedife said.

He noted that there was no relationship between the elders forum and Nnamdi Kanu “except that the forum feels that the time has come either to release him or those holding him to expedite action and legal process that will lead to his release because justice delayed is justice denied.”

Ikedife said the forum was of the view that if Kanu stayed in confinement this long and probably he is found innocent of the charges against him, then, he might have suffered confinement for nothing.

“therefore we call for his release, even if it is to the elders. It is not just Kanu, we are talking about others who are in that comparable circumstance. Let them regain their freedom. Keeping them in detention for that long is unfair.”

On the forum’s relationship with Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Ikedife said the forum is made up of elders from the five states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo in the South East geo-political zone without youth, women or other wings. He said the forum does not usurp the activities of Ohanaeze as every other body has its relevance.

He explained that Ohanaeze is there as a socio-cultural organisation that harmonised the activities of Ndigbo and talk about their welfare within the content of Nigeria. He added that the South East Forum was there to fill the gap in a situation where Ohanaeze could not handle certain issues.

On Igbo presidency, Ikedife said the elders had not taken any position, despite the fact that it is a topical issue. “We think 2019, when Buhari will quit should not be in the front burner now, even though it is not quite far, we have to watch a few other events before we take a stand.”

Also, IPOB has condemned the incessant arrest, harassment and illegal detention of members in different prisons and secret cells across the country even when court had declared the group legal.

The group stated that on April 15, 2017, the Divisional Police Office (DPO) of Umuebulu police station, Mary Iheanacho, a Superintendent of Police (SP) ordered the arrest of IPOB members who were evangelising for the restoration of Biafra in Umuebulu 1 Etche in Etche Local Government Area of River State.

A statement by the Media and Publicity Secretary of IPOB, Emma Powerful said the peaceful evangelism of IPOB family members was held on April 2, 2017 and there was no arrest until April 15, when the DPO ordered the arrest of our members in the community.

Meanwhile, Assistant Commander of Nnewi Central Vigilance group, Nnewi, Anambra State and a community youth leader, Chukwueloka Ubajekwe has warned about the dangers in continued detention of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/release-kanu-to-us-eastern-elders-tell.html

Chief Jude Okonkwo has called on the people of Anambra to support Obiano for a second term. He also declared that FG’s economic policies was killing business.

What is your take on the political situation in Anambra state?


Presently, the political situation is tense, there are many political gladiators contesting for the governorship and the list is growing on a weekly basis. For now, there about eight of them, they include Sen. Andy Uba that has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party [PDP] to the All Progressives Congress [APC], present APC national auditor, George Moughalu, Alex Obiagbolu, Osita Chidoka, Chike Obidigbo, Ezeemo, and Oseloka Obazee among others. Though it is never easy for a governor to come back, there is no doubt that this second term is going to be a tough challenge for the incumbent governor because there are a whole lot of interests, but Obiano will come out tops based on his antecedents.

What are those antecedents?

For instance, he is doing a great job in terms of housing. The on- going construction works at Baron’s Court Estate and Green Valley Estate, both in Awka Capital Territory of the state are part of the infrastructures he is putting in place. Aside from this, the Ngozika Estate was also completed recently to provide housing for the people.

He has also through the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board [ASUBEB] lifted the academic standards of the state. He has also done well in other sectors like health. His chances are bright.

I am also using this medium to appeal to Senator Andy Uba to jettison his idea of contesting for the governorship position, he should support Obiano for a second term, and by 2021 he can contest.

What is your assessment of the security situation in the state?

The state is experiencing relative peace presently. Crime rate has reduced drastically. Recently, Onitsha residents and traders commended the governor for the clampdown on crimes and criminals in the area. They noted that crime has reduced drastically within the three years he has been the governor compared to what was obtainable in the past when Onitsha and its environs were safe haven for criminals and criminal activities.

How has the recession affected business?

It has really affected business. But government is not making things easy for people, especially we importers. No palliative in place. Why do we have an economic team with the Vice president Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as its chairman? Yet solution cannot be proffered. The exchange rate is high, even at that you cannot access the dollar to import your goods. For instance, with your documents in order as an importer, you cannot get it to buy at the Central Bank, it is terrible and killing business. Abroad, shipment on a 40feet container before now was 6000 dollars but it has now dropped to 2000 dollars, a discount of 3000 dollars is being given to importers from the factories overseas because of the exchange rate. Back here in Nigeria, the reverse is the case. Prior to now, a 40 feet container is 1.8 million to clear but presently, it has risen to almost 2.8 million. The tariff is too high, how do we (importers) survive?

Some Nigerians see the war against corruption as being selective, what is your take?

How is it selective? Most of the people that have been in government are members of the PDP because the party has been in power for the last 16years. Now, most of the people being prosecuted for corruption today are from the PDP too. So how could it be selective? Can you name one APC member that was minister in the last 16 years? Seriously, I have heard people say it is selective but I don’t think it is selective because PDP was in charge. But if you are taking the battle to the state level, it can go both ways.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/fgs-policies-killing-business-okonkwo.html

Governor Nasir El-Rufai has warned National Assembly members from the state of disloyalty, even as he reaffirmed his support for Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi representing Kaduna North Senatorial District at the upper chamber.
The Governor dismissed those purporting to recall Senator Hunkuyi, and warned them to desist from tarnishing the image of respected persons and trying to create divisions.
In a statement signed by his spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, the Governor said Senator Hunkuyi is a pillar of the movement that achieved victory for the APC in Kaduna State.

He noted that: “Senator Hunkuyi is a respected representative of our people with a distinguished record of service in formal and informal positions of leadership”.
The governor therefore warned those who are planting the seed of discord and trying to cause confusion in the State to desist from such act, saying, “this is a man that deserves every respect, those playing the childish game of a futile recall bid on Senator Hunkuyi should desist.
El-Rufai said: “In testing times, Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi has proven to be a loyal and disciplined party man. He stood firm for the APC and its directives when others were flouting the wishes of the party in selecting the National Assembly leadership in 2015.”
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/el-rufai-warns-disloyal-kaduna-national.html#more

A days to the Easter celebration, dealers in food stuff seem to be recording low patronage.


This is even as their prices remain high.
Correspondent, Nneka Ibe Anoliefo, who went on market survey of some markets in Awka metropolis reports that at Nkwo Amaenyi, Awka, fresh tomatoes, yam, groundnut oil, rice , beans were in low demand, but said this has not affected their prices as they remained high.
Commenting on the situation, dealers on food stuff, Mrs Ngozi Anakwo and Mrs Ndidi amaka Ozoekwe, explained that a bag of semovita which was sold for two thousand seven hundred naira is now three thousand naira, while a bag of beans, potiskum brand, now sells for thirty – eight thousand naira against the old price of twenty- two thousand naira.
Also , a tuber of yam which, hitherto, sold for between two hundred and one thousand naira, now sells for between four hundred and one thousand, four hundred naira.
Grandnut oil and Onions have also recorded substantial increase in their prices.
Cows and goats which are the major sources of meat to many families have also gone so high beyond the reach of many, a trend, their dealers linked to the economic recession in the country which has left prices sky- rocketing.
Some of the dealers, messrs Ifeanyi Ideba and Silas Nwankwo, who complained of low patronage, said a cow now costs as high as between one hundred and eighty thousand and two hundred thousand naira while Alhaji Bello Maigari said prices of goats now range from eighteen thousand to sixty thousand naira, depending on the size.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/recession-traders-record-low-easter.html#more

Man, 44, born without penis because of ‘1-in-20 MILLION’ condition has bionic manhood fitted – but says he’s NOT excited about losing virginity to his girlfriend

A LOVED up 44-year-old who was born without a penis has had a bionic manhood fitted – but he insists the operation isn’t about sex.
Andrew Wardle was born with bladder exstrophy, a rare birth defect that means the organ, that usually sits inside the pelvis, is exposed.
Although he has testicles, the rare condition meant Andrew was born without a penis.
But after a string of operations over the last four years, the caterer has been given a bionic manhood and is one step away from finding out whether it works.
Surgeons at University College London have used muscle, nerves and skin from Andrew’s arm to build his appendage.
Now they have to complete the procedure for it to be functional.
Andrew, who has boasted in the past of bedding more than 100 women, insists the operation isn’t about sex.
He even claims he isn’t that excited about losing his virginity to long-term girlfriend Fedra Fabian.
Andrew, from Manchester, said: “My operation is one of the most expensive ever done because the surgeons had to build me a bladder and everything.
“This has taken four years. Basically my penis is there but needs to be tuned in.
“I could use it but I would rather wait because I don’t want to ruin it after all this time!
“I’ve been with my girlfriend for a few years now but it isn’t the sex I’m looking forward to.
“When you’re born without a penis and you can’t have sex, you just don’t get that excited about it.
“I’m just happy to get my life back but I could understand how if you were born with a penis but lost it, it would be hard.
“A lot of it is peer pressure – society places certain expectations on you and you feel like you have to match that.
“I’ll do it when I’m good and ready.
“A lot of people do think it’s about sex but it’s not, it’s about relationships and life.”
While bladder exstrophy typically affects one in every 40,000 births, Andrew said rare complications with his case mean his is one in around one in 20 million cases.
He had a successful op on his bladder as a child but his birth defect remained and his mum, who was just 17, made the painful decision to give Andrew up for adoption.
Growing up, he had countless kidney problems and underwent 15 operations to build a tube from his bladder so he could pass water normally.
But he managed to keep his big secret from his friends and classmates until he made the brave decision to speak to The Sun in 2015 to raise awareness of his condition.
He has turned his life around after taking an overdose when he hit rock bottom.
Andrew tries to spread a positive message to those in similar situations, such as Edinburgh man Mohammed Abad, who lost his penis in a car crash aged six.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/its-not-about-sex-man-born-without-penis.html

The Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, yesterday said he was disappointed that a private memo he sent to President Muhammadu Buhari on the state of the nation was leaked to the public.
He said those who published the document revealed the identities of those who leaked it to him.
The Kaduna governor spoke with State House correspondents shortly after he joined Buhari for the Juma’at prayer at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Recall that El-Rufai had in a 29-page memo dated September 22, 2016, told Buhari that his administration has not only failed in meeting the expectations of Nigerians but equally fell short of delivering on mundane issues of governance.

In the memo entitled, “Immediate and medium-term imperatives for President Muhammadu Buhari,” he also claimed that inexperienced and clueless officials, who don’t share in the vision of the ruling All Progressives Congress, surround the president.
El-Rufai also noted that he was conscious of the fact that his memo might be misunderstood but willing to accept the consequences.
He told State House correspondents that he didn’t have any wrong motive over his memo to the president.
While saying he has no regret for writing the document, the governor said he would not hesitate to write another memo to the president if the need arises.
He said, “I am disappointed that a private communication to the highest office in the land can be leaked and it was leaked from the villa. I am told by those that published it, but this is a fact of life.
“We live in an age where anything you write or say can be leaked. It is ok, my intentions are clear, I have no ill motive but I wanted to communicate with the president what many Nigerians are talking about and what steps can be taken to improve governance of the country and move the country forward.
“That was my motive and if tomorrow, like I said, I see anything that the president needs to know I will discuss with him and I will articulate and put it into writing and on the record for him to have a reminder document to work on.
“I have no regrets and I have no apologies”.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/buharis-men-leaked-my-memo-el-rufai.html

The Personal Assistant on Social Media to the President, Lauretta Onochie, has insisted that President Muhammadu Buhari will not take any drastic measures against the National Assembly.
In a statement on Facebook, Onochie said Buhari would not behave like former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan amid the face-off between the executive and the legislature.
She said: “I understand when well-meaning Nigerians call on President Buhari to ‘descend’ on the National Assembly, the Senate in particular. After all, that’s what Presidents Jonathan and Obasanjo did.
“With all due respect, it would appear, and was very clear, even to the blind that what Nigeria had under President Obasanjo was democracy tinged with autocratic tendencies.
“President Buhari is a man of honour. He has vowed to give Nigerians a democratic leadership and he will not be pressured into breaking that vow.”
Onochie said Nigerians should descend on the Senate, instead of asking the President to do so.
“This idea of wanting our President to break constitutional provisions that recognise separation of powers is nothing but a total cop out on the side of Nigerians. We must have democracy in a democratic setting.
“Nigerians did it in January of 2012. That was when we recovered the executive arm of our government. The elections of 2015 merely confirmed that Nigerians actually recovered their government.”
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/buhari-will-not-act-like-obasanjo.html

A United States District Judge, Paul W. Grimm has sentenced Gbenga Ogundele aka Benson Ogundele, age 58; of Laurel, Maryland to 234 months in prison, and sentenced his wife, Moji Popoola, aka Mojisola Oluwakemi Tin Popoola/Moji T. Popoola, age 42, also of Laurel, to 18 months in prison, each followed by three years of supervised release.
They were jailed for conspiracies to commit wire fraud and money laundering arising from a scheme to defraud vulnerable victims of millions of dollars. Ogundele was also convicted of aggravated identity theft in connection with the scheme.
Judge Grimm ordered that Mojisola Popoola’s supervised release is to be served in home detention. He also ordered Ogundele to forfeit $2,195,103.36, and ordered Mojisola Popoola to forfeit approximately $165,000 and to pay restitution of $34,100.

On March 20, 2017, Judge Grimm sentenced Moji Popoola’s brother, Babatunde Emmanuel Popoola, aka Emmanuel Popoola/Tunde Popoola, age 34, of Bowie, Maryland, to 12 years in prison, on the same charges.
He ordered Babatunde Popoola to pay restitution of $465,170.76. Ogundele and the Popoolas were convicted on November 18, 2016, after a 17-day trial.
In a related case, Funmilayo Joyce Shodeke, age 67, of Burtonsville, Maryland, pleaded guilty on March 22, 2017 to conducting an unlicensed money transmitting business, and was sentenced to 13 months’ probation, and ordered to forfeit $29,900.
The sentences were announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein and Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to the evidence presented at trial, and co-conspirators’ plea agreements, from January 2011 to May 18, 2015, members of the conspiracy searched online dating websites to initiate romantic relationships with vulnerable male and female individuals.
They phoned, emailed, texted and used internet chat messenger services to form romantic relationships with the victims, who lived in Maryland and around the country.
Members of the conspiracy used false stories and promises to convince the victims to provide money to the conspirators, including fake hospital bills, plane trips to visit the victims, problems with overseas businesses and foreign taxes.
Ogundele, the Popoolas, co-conspirators Olusegun Charles Ogunseye, Olufemi Wilfred Williams, Adeyinka Olubunmi Awolaja and others opened bank accounts, called “drop accounts,” in order to receive millions of dollars from the victims.
The victims provided money to the defendants as a result of the false stories and promises, either depositing money directly into drop accounts controlled by the defendants, or by checks sent to the conspirators.
The payments from victims ranged from $1,720 to $50,000. Ogundele, Babatunde Popoola, and others used victims’ names, bank account numbers or driver’s licenses in furtherance of the fraud scheme.
Ogundele, the Popoolas, Ogunseye, Williams, Awolaja and their co-conspirators dispersed money received from the victims by transferring funds to other accounts controlled by the conspirators, by obtaining cashier’s checks, and by writing checks to individuals or entities, in order to conceal the nature, source, and control of those assets.
Co-conspirator Victor Oyewumi Oloyede, age 42, of Laurel, Maryland, was also convicted at trial for his role in the fraud scheme. Oloyede was sentenced to 234 months in prison.
Co-conspirators Olusegun Charles Ogunseye, age 59 of Laurel, Maryland, Olufemi Wilfred Williams, age 28, of Owings Mills, Maryland, and Adeyinka Olubunmi Awolaja, Jr., age 34, of New Carollton, Maryland, each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Judge Grimm scheduled sentencing for Awolaja on June 12, 2017, for Ogunseye on July 25, 2017, and for Williams on July 27, 2017, all at 2:30 p.m.

The Maryland Identity Theft Working Group has been working since 2006 to foster cooperation among local, state, federal, and institutional fraud investigators and to promote effective prosecution of identity theft schemes by both state and federal prosecutors.
This case, as well as other cases brought by members of the Working Group, demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to work with financial institutions and businesses to address identity fraud, identify those who compromise personal identity information, and protect citizens from identity theft.

The conviction is part of the efforts undertaken in connection with the US President’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force, established to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices, and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/nigerian-family-jailed-252-months-in-us.html

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the government of the All Progressives Congress (APC), under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari as “insensitive and clueless.”
The opposition party said that the ruling party has not achieved anything tangible in two years but has only survived on blaming the past government of the PDP while failing to provide Nigerians with the “change” it promised them during the electioneering campaign.
In a statement signed by the spokesman of the National Caretaker Committee (NCC), Prince Dayo Adeyeye, yesterday, the opposition party said the APC government should have been done with complaints about past administration and show to Nigerians it has the capacity to provide leadership.

The PDP had on Wednesday issued a statement to criticise the APC government and its policy in two years but the APC in a response accused the PDP of being the brain behind the nation’s problems.
But the PDP in another reaction to the APC said the PDP had better records than the APC, urging the ruling party to wake up to the responsibility of proving its worth and stop behaving like an opposition party.
The statements read in part: “It has been two years since the ‘ruling party in opposition’ took over power in May, 2015 and all the APC has done since assumption of office is complaining and whining, instead of governance and delivering to Nigerians its campaign promises.
“Nigerians have not also forgotten how the APC in opposition politicized all issues of governance without proffering a single solution to any of them, but remained adamant, condemning the sincere policies of previous PDP administration.
It continued: “Nigerians thought the only reply by the APC to our statement of Wednesday, March 29, 2017, would have been for the party to roll out its achievements in the last two years instead of another shameless descent into the abyss of propaganda, blame-game and media trial of previous PDP-led administration.
“However, we are not surprised because the APC has no achievement to flaunt before Nigerians than the boring rehash of what the PDP did or did not do.
“We still maintained that Nigerians should take critical look at the mid-term report of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s administration and compare it to that of the current APC-led government and access them on performance and achievements.
The opposition party also faulted the much- touted anti-corruption war of the APC government saying it was one-sided unlike what was obtainable under the PDP government.
The party went further to declare the anti-corruption war as a farce because it allegedly gave protection to members of APC who were caught up in the web of corruption,
“On the much celebrated anti-corruption fight of the APC, it must be noted that it was previous PDP governments that created and sustained all the institutions for fighting corruption such as the ICPC and the EFCC.
“Under the PDP administrations most of those who were tried by these agencies were PDP members. There was no effort to shield PDP members from prosecution and investigation, as is the case with the APC government, which has made it a policy to sweep all the dirt of its members under the carpet.
“Recall the grass cutting allegations against the SGF, the awards of contracts to ghost companies by the Federal Government Committee on Northeast, allegation of attempted bribery of Judges by the Minister of Transport and that of Science and Technology, the CBN forex racketeering and most recently, the DSS indictment of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu and many others.
“On the war on Boko Haram, the APC spokesman forgot to mention that it was the same weapons bought by previous PDP administration that the present government is still using to prosecute the war on insurgency in the Northeast.
“He also forgot to mention that despite his corruption claim on the PDP-led Government, the PDP made Nigeria’s Economy the largest in Africa and the fastest growing in the world. Where are we now? In less than two years, our economy is in recession.
“May we again remind the APC that the Dollar under the PDP Government was 165 Naira to one dollar. Today, the difference is there for everyone to see. The 18,000 Naira minimum wage could buy two bags of rice and still had some change in the PDP led government, but today, where are we?
“Nigerians have never been so hungry in their entire lives, except during the civil war as seen in the last two years. The APC spokesman forgot to add that, the Federal Government under the PDP created 500,000 jobs a year for our teeming unemployed youths. Since the APC led administration took over, more than 4.5 million people have lost their jobs.

“During the era of the PDP under President Goodluck Jonathan alone, 12 new Universities, and Almajiri schools were established. What is the APC achievement in education, agriculture, sports development, job creation, economy etcetera.
The PDP, therefore, urged the APC to stop complaining but deliver on its election promises.
“The APC should stop complaining and do what they promised Nigerians. The party promised to fix Nigeria and solve all the problems in less than two years. All the Party has done is to blame the PDP and give excuse for its failure.
“Nigerians are no longer excited with the APC’s selective fight against corruption when its house is smelling and oozing with the stench of corruption and reckless looting of our common wealth. This reminds us of the statement credited to Senator Shehu Sani of Kaduna state, that the APC led government is using insecticide to fight corruption
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/pdp-challenges-apc-to-list-achievements.html

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said only tax payers with Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) issued Tax Identification Number (TIN) would be eligible to participate in a new auction sales of seized items.
This is part of the guidelines in a new e-auction portal to be deployed for the disposing of seized goods that have undergone the process of court condemnation.
The portal would require applicants to input their recent passport photographs with a payment of non-refundable administrative fee of N1000.

The new e-auction portal for the sales of seized items at Customs Commands across the country is expected to reduce congestion in the various government warehouses and increase revenue from the sales.
Controller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd) introduced the process as a way of enhancing transparency, reducing human contacts and ensuring that only the highest bidders for any auctioned item takes it.
Aside the TIN by prospective bidders, other terms and conditions include exclusion of customs officers and their families from participating in the bidding process either directly or indirectly.
The guidelines also indicate that auctioned items cannot be replaced or funds paid refunded to the bidders. Successful bidders are expected to make payments within five working days as auctioned items whose winners fail to pay within the period would forfeit the auctioned item to the second highest bidder.
Successful bidders will be given a period of 14 days from the date of payment to remove the item bidded for or forfeit it at expiration of the period.
Any auctioned item not removed from the warehouse within 14 days from the date of payment shall revert to its pre-bidding status which makes such item open for sale again.
Winners in the auction process are also expected to pay 25% of the auction amount to the Terminal Operator with another 25% of the auction amount to the shipping line operator.
Confirming the development, Customs spokesman, Joseph Attah said Ali took time to entrench the new method that requires deploying of ICT to avoid human contact and influences. He said apart from increase of revenue for government, the online platform would ensure integrity of the process.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/04/customs-to-commence-online-auction-of.html

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora has urged Nigerians in India to remain calm and be watchful of their surroundings.

Her appeal followed multiple distress calls by Nigerian students in India on concerns over their safety as a result of renewed attacks on them.


Dabiri-Erewa said in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday that the renewed Tuesday attacks on Nigerian students’ in India was uncalled for.

While condemning the mob action as unwarranted and deplorable, the SSA noted that the Indian authorities currently had five suspects in custody.

Dabiri-Erewa noted that though the situation was calm at the moment, the Indian government has a responsibility to protect Nigerian students in India going about their normal duties.

She urged the Indian government “to ensure that any alleged suspect should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law”.


She said the Chargé d’affaires in India, Amb. Mrs Queen Worlu has promptly visited the scene of the incident and also visited the three patients in hospital.

Abike discloed that “I have also spoken with Mr Charles Kennedy, President of the Students’ association in Greater Noida where the attacks occurred.

“He said though a Kenyan girl who was working alone in the early hours of today was attacked, more police patrol vehicles have been deployed to all areas.

“He confirmed that the situation is calm and is pleased with the prompt actions of the Nigerian Chargé d’affaires in India and the Indian government so far”.


Two of the victims are two brothers, Precious and Endurance Amalawa and Chukwuma Igboamalu.

Other reports have it that nine Nigerians were attacked, all students of Noida International University in India.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/03/presidency-begs-nigerians-in-india-to.html

Comptroller-General of Customs Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) has approved the redeployment of 337 Assistant Comptrollers of Customs to various Commands across the country with immediate effect.

Abubakar Dalhatu, Customs Deputy Public Relations, in a statement said the development was part of the ongoing repositioning of the Service.


The redeployment exercise which also confirms AC Joseph Attah as the substantive Public Relations Officer of the Service, moved AC Babadidi B from FOU D to Apapa, AC Udenze A from ICT to TCIP, AC Ilesanmi K.D from Apapa to Kad/Kt, AC Ugorji, O.A from ICT to PH II among others.

Hameed Ali charged the affected officers to support the leadership of their new Commands in the renewed efforts to entrench a more transparent culture of service delivery.

The statement quoted him as saying “so much is expected from NCS in terms of economic and security wellbeing of the country, we cannot afford to fail the nation”.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/03/customs-redeploys-337-assistant.html

In line with its resolve to achieve a rate convergence, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Tuesday lowered the rate at which dollar inflows from International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) are sold to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators to N360/$1, from N381/$1.

With this directive, BDCs are now expected to sell the greenback to retail end-users at not more than N362/$1, lower than N400/$1 it was sold in this segment of the market.
This emerged barely 24 hours after the central bank directed commercial banks in the country to sell FX obtained from it to retail end-users at not more than N360/$1 for invisibles.


CBN acting Director of Corporate Communications, Isaac Okorafor, confirmed the new directive.
Okorafor said the objective of the new FX policy was to ensure a convergence of the rates in the interbank and BDC segments, stressing that the CBN remained committed to ensuring transparency in the market, as well as fairness to end-users, many of whom hitherto experienced challenges in accessing foreign exchange.

He urged licensed BDCs to play by the rules, cautioning that the CBN would not hesitate to sanction any erring dealer.
The CBN spokesman also disclosed that the sum of $100 million offered to authorised forex dealers in the interbank wholesale window to meet the requests of wholesale customers was fully subscribed on auction on Tuesday .
Okorafor also reiterated his call to all stakeholders to play their respective roles in the smooth running of the FX market for the benefit of the Nigerian economy.

Commenting on the new FX rate for BDC operators, the President, Association of Bureau De Change of Nigeria (ABCON), Mr. Aminu Gwadabe, expressed satisfaction with the directive.
“We are happy about it because it is the right step to harmonise the various rates in the market that have been affecting our operations. Now that the harmonisation has been achieved, we are sure that the naira will gain strength.
“We expect that the parallel rate will appreciate to about N370 to a dollar in the coming days,” Gwadabe said in a phone interview.

On his part, the acting Managing Director, Afrinvest Securities Limited, Mr. Ayodeji Ebo, said lowering the rate for BDCs showed that the intervention by the CBN was yielding the desired results.
“It is now pointing to a direction: the CBN may converge the rate at N360/$1. But to consolidate the gain, I think the CBN needs to move the benchmark band for interbank rate from its current rate to somewhere close to N360/$1 to help conserve external reserves.

“By doing that, it will send a positive signal to foreign investors who are still sitting on the fence, because the CBN is not expected to remain the sole supplier of foreign exchange.
“We also feel the CBN needs to look at corporate investors who want to take out their funds that are still trapped and see how to support then. So, lowering the rate for BDCs is good news for retail FX end-users,” Ebo added.
The naira traded at N380 to the dollar at some parallel market points in Lagos on Tuesday.

Also, external reserves stood at $30.340 billion as of last Friday, down from $30.489 billion last Thursday.
Meanwhile, following concerns that banks with so much dollars for retail invisibles in their vaults might incur losses following Monday’s directive that the adjustment of the exchange rate by the CBN for PTA, BTA and medical fees should be implemented immediately, a senior banker on Tuesday allayed any apprehension.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/03/cbn-lowers-dollar-rate-for-bdcs-to-n3601.html

Residents of the Assin Fosu township in the Central region of Ghana are presently mourning the tragic death of a popular prophetess in the area. Prophetess Ewura Esi Amanda, the spiritual leader of the International Christian Bible Church was struck dead by lightning in front of her home Sunday evening when it began raining.


According to reports, Prophetess Amanda who had missed the Sunday service in other to attend some personal business was found unconscious after the incident.

She was rushed to St. Francis Xavier Hospital where she was declared dead on arrival. The deceased who was in her 30’s has since being deposited at the hospital morgue.
more at http://www.akelicious.com/2017/03/lightning-allegedly-kills-prophetess-in.html