₦airaland Forum

Senator Ben Murray Bruce wrote a very interesting article recently highlighting the similarities between former president Olusegun Obasanjo and Donald Trump. He says both men love women and are very brash and outspoken.

In his words;

On the morning of Saturday the 20th of February, 2016, I was having breakfast at Eko Hotel with a friend of mine, Reno Omokri and one of the top Democratic Party strategists in the US and an argument ensued. Omokri said Trump would go all the way while the American said he was not going anywhere. I joined the conversation by saying that Trump is a phenomenon and no one knows how far he will go.Today, I sit here writing this piece pleasantly stunned that what the mainstream media, what the establishment and what the powers that be said could never happen has happened due to this phenomenal man’s belief in himself when others did not believe in hm.

I have met Donald Trump one on one before and what I clearly remember about him is that he is a White and younger version of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.The two of them can be brash and outspoken but they always seem to come out on top by some sort of divine arrangement that makes whatever they do turn out for the best even if it began with controversy.More similarities between the duo is that they both undeniably have an insatiable taste for women and beautiful ones at that!

Then again, they are both men who have succeeded in business and, even though they were political outsiders, they extended their business success to politics.And even though there is a lot of anxiety in the Black world and especially Nigeria, I believe that a Trump Presidency would be better for Africa and Nigeria than a Hillary administration.For one, Boko Haram are now afraid. Very afraid! This is a man that is not afraid to use the word radical Islamic terror and to declare to all who care to listen that he will be their nemesis.Nigeria needs such a partner!

We are spending way too much of our resources on fighting terrorists. We need a big strong hand to help us fight them. A hand that will not be afraid to sell us weapons and will not make us grovel before it is willing to help us destroy our enemies who want to destroy us.But secondly and very importantly, Nigeria is an oil producing nation and though I believe that it is what is between the ears of our people that will make this nation great, we still need foreign exchange and Hillary’s plans for alternative energy was not going to see the price of oil go up anytime soon.But Trump won in Texas because the oil industry knows that they have a friend in him, and any friend of Texas big oil is a friend of Nigeria.

And forget about all that talk about immigration reform. Trump will not stop Nigerians from entering the US. The US needs Nigerians more than Nigerians need the US.Without Nigerian healthcare professionals, the US health industry would collapse overnight. Neither Trump or Hillary wanted that.


Trump’s rhetoric was directed more at Mexican immigrants because of the immediate threat posed to the US by illegal immigration from Mexico.Having said that, let me add that the last similarity between Trump and former President Obasanjo is that they both look not very intelligent, but their looks betray their vast knowledge and deep wisdom. You meet them and size them up by their looks and end up underestimating them.

But when they reach into their reptilian brain and come out with strategies it becomes too late to do what you should have done.I am glad that Trump won and I cannot wait to see how he will change the world positively.But one thing is clear, any politician who underestimates the role of social media in the battle to win the hearts and minds of the people is a politician that is going the way of the dinosaurs.

Social media and particularly Twitter was the weapon Trump used to fight the mainstream media. Social media is the ultimate form of democracy in that it gives the underdog a vehicle to amplify his or her voice against a biased media that wants to suppress it.
http://politicsngr.com/obasanjo-trump-alike-insatiable-taste-women-sen-ben-bruce/

cc : lalasticlala

Here are fresh images from the valedictory dinner organised for out-going governor of Edo state, Adams Oshiomole. Top APC chieftains and dignitaries from all walks of life were present at the event that held today, November 11 in Benin city.

Photos below;
http://politicsngr.com/photos-oshiomoles-valedictorysend-off-dinner/

cc : lalasticlala

Nigeria's Information minister, Alhaji Lai mohammed struck a powerful smile as he posed with officials at a meeting on sustainable tourism.

Mohammed joined other African Ministers of Tourism at the gathering in Marrakech, Morocco, this week for event on the sidelines of the UN climate change conference. Mohammed, who is also in charge of Tourism, represented his country. Following are snapshots from the meeting, which also featured officials of the UN World Tourism Organisation and others:
http://politicsngr.com/photos-lai-mohammed-shines-teeth-sustainable-tourism-meeting/

cc : lalasticlala

A Federal High Court, sitting in Benin-City, Edo State has convicted and sentenced to 18 months imprisonment one Collins Osadolor alias Albert Lin. Osadolor was first arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on 13 November, 2015 on a three count charge bordering on possession of fraudulent document containing false pretenses. Specifically, he defrauded an American lady, identified as Karry the sum of $250, which he admitted and refunded.


Upon his arraignment, the convict pleaded not guilty to the charge, but later changed his plea to ‘’guilty’’.Justice P. I. Ajoku consequently convicted Osadolor and sentenced him to 18 months imprisonment without an option of fine.

One of the count read: “Collins Osadolor alias Albert Lim on or about the 27th of August 2015 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court had in your possession in your email inbox folder a fraudulent document containing a false pretence dated 5th August 2015 with the subject: ‘Re: Hello’ which you knew to be false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under section 1(3) of the same Act”.

http://politicsngr.com/court-slams-yahoo-yahoo-boy-18-month-jail-sentence/

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Benin commended outgoing Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State for a job-well done, assuring him that the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) will find an important national assignment for him when he leaves office.
Speaking at the Palace of the new Oba of Benin, His Royal Highness Omo N'Oba N'Edo Nku Akpolokpolo Ewuare 11, shortly before he embarked on the commissioning of several projects in the State, President Buhari said that the country would be the loser if the APC fails to utilize the people’s governor's wisdom, skill and energy.
“It will be a pity to waste his energy by him retiring. I hope there will be a higher assignment for him to do more for the nation.
‘‘I congratulate the Governor for his hard work; Oshiomhole is a hard working Governor. We will need his services in Abuja.
‘‘Thank you for inviting me, most especially during this time in the country.
‘‘You have served two terms and you are about to leave. You deserve a place in history. I hope the APC will look for a place for you because your service for the country is far from over,’’ the President said.
President Buhari also congratulated the Oba for successfully ascending the throne of his ancestors and extended the support of the Federal government to his Royal highness in his bid to improve the lives of Edo people.
The Oba in his speech expressed delighted on the president’s visit, noting that it was the first since his recent coronation.
‘‘We believe this is a sign of better things to come. I appreciate your contribution to my coronation,’’ Oba Ewuare II said.
The royal father who commended the President for appointing Edo indigenes into positions in government appealed for the establishment of an export and import processing zone for agro-allied industries in the state.
He said the venture would stimulate the nation’s economy and create jobs.
After paying homage to the Oba, President Buhari who is on 2-day working visit to Edo commissioned the renovated Central Hospital in Benin.
The medical facility which was established in 1902 was rebuilt by the state government under Oshiomhole.
At the event, President Buhari praised the state-of-the art facility rebuilt by the Governor, noting that he had the choice of using the available money for his comfort by building a new government house but he opted for a hospital to help the people.
President Buhari also commissioned the Upper Siluko Road in Benin City, which he described as ``no ordinary type of road.’’
The President inspected the Queen Ede Gulley erosion site and commissioned the Samuel Ogbemedia College rebuilt to ‘world class standard.’
President Buhari commended the quality of infrastructure built by the outgoing Governor, noting that the history of EDOMARUSE state will not be complete without his name.
http://politicsngr.com/oshiomole-still-contribute-nigeria-buhari/

cc : lalasticlala

The suspended member of the House of Representatives, Abdulmumin Jibrin, has vowed never to return to Nigeria unless his safety is guaranteed.
Mr. Jibrin, who left Nigeria for London last week to receive award and take his anti-corruption campaign to international community, was suspended by the House of Representatives after accusing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, some Principal Officers and a few members of corruption, abuse of office and monumental fraud in 2016 budget.
In an exclusive interview with BEN TV in London on Monday, the lawmaker said he recently received threats from some of the lawmakers he accused of corruption.
According to him, the House cabal led by Speaker Yakubu Dogara, Deputy Speaker Yusuf Lasun, Whip Alhassan Doguwa and Minority Leader Leo Ogor are using Hon. Herma Hembe to either assassinate or kidnap him or members of his family.
The lawmaker also said the initial silence of the President on the matter was a blessing in disguise because if the President had spoken much earlier he would have been accused of using him to fight the House Leadership, saying the time is now ripe and the crisis mature enough for the President to break his silence.
"The situation currently at hand is different from the initial stage of the crisis. The silence of the presidency is no longer sending the right message to Nigerians and the international community ," he said.
Mr. Jibrin also revealed that he recently wrote to President Buhari, seeking audience to brief him about monumental fraud in the 2016 budget, individual and systemic corruption in the House and some vital information on how to check corruption in the House and further fraud in budget process and reform the House for the good of our country.
According to him, over 2,000 fraudulent projects worth over N284 billion were inserted into 2016 budget, saying such fraud never happened in the history of the Nigerian legislature.
He also exonerated himself of any wrongdoing in the appropriation process, saying he has been in the House for 5 years and has never abused his office or corruptly enrich himself.
While reiterating his resolve to continue with the anti corruption campaign, he revealed that he would now take the campaign to international stage by reaching out to foreign governments, parliaments, media, civil society groups and Nigerians in Diaspora among others to press further for the arrest and prosecution of Speaker Yakubu Dogara, Lasun, Doguwa, Ogor and other members of the corrupt cabal in the House of Representatives.

Press statement;

The constant vandalization of Pipelines, destruction of oil and gas infrastructure and the illegal dealing in Petroleum products in the country have been a source of grave concern to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim k. Idris NPM, mni.

2. The massive destruction of Government investment in the Petroleum Industry and loss of lives through the criminal activities of some undesirable elements have continued unabated. Indeed, this is worrisome in light of the negative effects it has on the Country’s economy. In order to halt this trend of wanton destruction of lives and property in a critical sector of the economy, the IGP has reorganized and empowered the Anti-Pipeline Vandalization Unit of the Force to decisively tackle these criminals and their collaborators.

3. In coordinated operations based on credible intelligence and assistance from the key players in the petroleum sector, the Anti-Pipeline Vandalization of the Nigeria Police Force arrested eighteen (18) suspects, impounded two vessels and twenty trucks loaded with stolen petroleum products as summarized below.


CASE I: ARREST OF ELLEN AND MB OPUDA VESSELS, TEN (10) CREW MEMBERS AND EIGHTEEN (18) TANKER TRAILER TRUCKS LOADED WITH ILLEGALLY REFINED AGO (DIESEL) THROUGH ILLEGAL BUNKERING AND VANDALIZATION OF NNPC PRODUCTS

SUSPECTS:

i. Tumbiri Ezekiel ‘M’ (captain)

ii. Thomas Arimoro Azamosa ‘M’ (Company’s Representative)

iii. Godwil Offeh ‘M’ (Chief mate)

iv. Alfred Iwanefun ‘M’ (Engineer)

v. Emmanuel Uyoi ‘M’ (Deckhand)

vi. Godwin Tabiti ‘M’ (Electrician)

vii. Omokete Enengite ‘M’(Engineer Cadet)

viii. Victor Onyenike ‘M’ (Seaman)

ix. Suleiman Ahmadu ‘M’

x. William Okitikpo ‘M’

Note: The 10 suspects are in Police custody in Lagos State.

EXHIBITS:

i. Ellen Vessel

ii. MB Opuda Vessel

iii. Eighteen Trucks

On November 1st, 2016 at about 0220hrs, a sustained surveillance and monitoring of Ellen vessel and crew members sailing from Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta States water ways to Lagos State with illegally refined AGO (Diesel) on board was embarked upon by the IGP’s Task Force on Illegal Petroleum Bunkering.

Consequently, on November 3rd, 2016 at about 0830hrs, the Task Force trailed and intercepted Ellen vessel at Satomen’s Jetty located at Amuwo Odofin in Mile 2 area of Lagos State where it had discharged the illegal refined AGO (Diesel) into eighteen (18) Trucks, 33,000 liters each. The vessel, crew members, the eighteen Trucks and other suspects were promptly arrested and taken into custody by the IGP’s Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering.

In a similar development, another vessel branded MB OPUDA SHIP was also intercepted and arrested at the same Satomen’s Jetty located at Amuwo Odofin in Mile 2 area of Lagos State after discharging suspected illegally refined AGO (diesel).

Investigations into these cases are ongoing and all suspects will be arraigned in court to face the law.

CASE II: ARREST OF VANDALS, RECOVERY OF TWO TANKER TRAILER TRUCKS LOADED WITH 20,000 LITRES OF ILLEGALLY REFINED AGO (DIESEL) EACH AND RECOVERY OF EQUIPMENT OF THE VANDALS.

SUSPECTS:
EXHIBITS:

i. HARISON CHINEDU ‘M’ 40 YRS

ii. MOHAMMED ABDULKADIR ‘M’ 21 YRS

iii. IDRIS BAWA ‘M’ 28 YRS

iv. EMMANUEL AKIGHIR ‘M’ 39 YRS

v. SULEIMAN MUSA ‘M’ 22 YRS
i. Two Trucks with Reg No. RGG 76 XA, YKS 108 XA loaded with 20,000 litres of illegally refined ago (diesel) each and recovery of equipment of the vandals.

all with 40,000 liters of cooked diesel

On October 28th, 2016 at about 1600hrs, Operatives of the IGP’s Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering on a tip off stormed an illegal local refinery located at Adogu village of Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State, where two trucks were intercepted loaded with illegal AGO products 20,000 liters each. The five (5) suspects mentioned above during interrogation volunteered confessional statements and admitted to the various criminal roles they played in the commission of the crime.

However, investigation into the case is being intensified to arrest other members of the group at large. Suspects will be promptly arraigned in court on completion of thorough investigation.



CASE III: FOILED VANDALIZATION OF OIL PIPELINES, RECOVERY OF A TRUCK LOADED WITH 20,000 LITERS OF AGO (DIESEL), OPERATIONAL VEHICLE OF THE VANDALS, AND EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED BY THE VANDALS

RECOVERED EXHIBITS:

i. One white Scania Lorry with Reg No. RBC 552 ZS (covered body)

ii. One Toyota PERVIA Bus with Reg No. EKY 659 BJ

iii. Four (4) pumping machine

iv. One big blue motor jack

v. Two motor batteries

vi. Four shovels

vii. One filling machine (yellow color)

viii. One pumping hose

ix. Two tarpaulin

On October 13th, 2016, at about 1200-hrs, intelligence gathered by the IGP’s Special Task-Force on petroleum and illegal

Bunkering revealed that vandalization of NNPC pipeline was ongoing at Monkey’s village Okpella area of Edo State, the Task Force swiftly moved in. On sighting the Police team the vandals took to their heels and abandoned a lorry and some tools used for vandalization. Investigation into the case is currently ongoing.

CASE IV: ARREST OF VANDALS IN ABIA AND KADUNA STATES AND RECOVERY OF TRUCKS LOADED WITH ILLEGALLY REFINED AGO (DIESEL)

SUSPECTS:

i. Amechi Aduma ‘M. 47 years (owner of the illegally refined product, arrested in Abia)

ii. Ezechi Peter ‘M’ 17 years ( arrested at Obaga village in Abia State)

iii. Mamud Ibrahim ‘M’ 30 years (arrested in Kaduna near NNPC depot)

EXHIBITS:

i. One Truck XB 169 GWB with 33,000 litres of cooked diesel.

ii. One truck loaded with cooked diesel

The three (3) suspects mentioned above were arrested by the IGP’s Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering in Abia and Kaduna States. The first and second suspects were arrested in Abia State after vandalizing NNPC pipeline at a point in Owaza area of Abia State and siphoned 33,000 litres of cooked diesel, while the last suspect was arrested in Kaduna State for being in possession of a truck loaded with 25,000 litres of cooked diesel suspected to have been vandalized. They will be arraigned in court on completion of investigation.

4. At this juncture, the IGP wishes to register his profound appreciation to members of the Public who availed actionable intelligence that were instrumental to this huge success.

A particular mention must be made of the Governors and Government of Delta and Bayelsa States who provided and donated modern gun boats that ease the operations of Anti Pipeline Vandalization Units in the creeks of Niger Delta.

Also, the IGP wishes to register the appreciation of the Force to the Governors and Government of Imo and Kaduna States for the establishment and construction of the Police School of Finance and Accountancy and Special Protection Unit Training School in the two states respectively.

The commitment of the IGP to ensuring that our communities are safe and secure; that there is social production, economic growth and development remains unwavering and unequivocal.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-nigerian-police-parade-pipline-vandals-recover-20000-liters-diesel/

cc : lalasticlala

Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR the Executive Governor of Kano State and his delegation led by the Nigerian Ambassador to Egypt His Excellency Mohammed Abdulkadir Maccido visited 2 kano state students studying in Mansourah University Egypt, Sani Bello and Abubakar Abdullahi who had major accidents and were admitted in the University Hospital in Egypt.

Ganduje sympathized with the students and prayed for Allah to continue to heal them well so they can return to their normal lives and conclude their studies and return home. The Governor also promised to finance the ticket fair of the parents to be able to visit their kids to see for themselves the conditions they are in.

Sani Bello whose condition was the most critical was in a comma for 3 days before being resuscitated by the exceptional doctors of the Hospital using state of the art equipment. They are both stable now and are recovering well.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-kano-gov-ganduje-visits-accident-victims-egypt/

cc : lalasticlala

Fresh facts have surfaced over the weekend revealing that the trio of Nasir El Rufai, Babatunde Fashola, and Kayode Fayemi forcefully prevailed on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, through its national commissioner and relative to President Muhammadu Buhari, Amina Zakari and the national chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, to switch the name of Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, as the flagbearer of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, for the November 26 Ondo governorship election.

Our investigations did not provide clarity as to if President Buhari is privy to the action of his ministers and the governor, who many said have been exerting more power and influence than the president since the All Progressives Congress came to power in 2015.

It would be recalled that INEC had replaced the name of Eyitayo in its final list of candidates released last Thursday, claiming it was obeying a court order by Justice Okon Abang despite. The INEC decision suspect because it ignored two other court rulings of coordinate jurisdiction restraining INEC from replacing Eyitayo as the PDP candidate.

Politics Nigeria obtained insider accounts that confirmed that INEC ignored the advice of its legal department and a consortium of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, advising it to obey court orders restraining it from removing Jegede’s name and replacing it with Jimoh Ibrahim, a billionaire businessman discovered to be a stooch of the three APC chieftains.

Further findings by our investigative journalists reveal that that trio of El Rufai, the governor of Kaduna State, Fashola, the minister of power, housing, and works, and Fayemi, the minister for mineral resources are the unseen hands tele guiding INEC in its conduct on the governorship elections in Ondo and that the tainted politicians are motivated by the 2019 presidential ambitions of the Kaduna governor.

The 2019 Maneuvering

According to a top source in the ruling party, El Rufai is building structures across the country with which to launch his presidential aspiration by pouching like-minds and pulling down every perceived obstacles using his close relationship with the president.

One of the regions which the Kaduna governor is worried about is the South West because of the threat posed by Bola Tinubu, a co-founder of APC and erstwhile national leaders of the party.

“El Rufai believes that Tinubu will not support his 2019 presidential ambition, so he is working the usual Fulani political tactic, to divide and rule,” the APC chieftain told our reporter on condition of anonymity.

“So he cashed in on the frosty relationship between Tinubu and his “boys” Fashola and Fayemi. He is hoping to undercut the South West leader to achieve his aim of becoming president in 2019 and he sees Governor [Olusegun] Mimiko as his biggest threat to winning the vote in Ondo State.

“El Rufai knows he doesn’t stand a chance in the South West because of his cantankerous nature, which is made worse by his highly publicised spat with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, so he is pulling out all the cards into the game to undermine Yoruba politicians. But it will not work,” our source concluded.

2019: Fashola (Or Fayemi) As VP

According to a reliable source in the presidency, “What is happening with the Ondo election is also part of the game plan to clear all obstacles for the emergence of El-Rufai as the Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019, and either Fashola or Fayemi as his running mate.

“Part of the orchestrated plan also led to the humiliation of the national leader of the APC, Bola Tinubu during the Ondo APC primaries where his preferred candidate, Dr. Segun Abraham was rigged out of the race to pave way for Rotimi Akeredolu, who they believe is one of them and would be loyal to the El-Rufai/Fashola/Fayemi 2019 Presidential ambition,” the source said.

Another source in the APC also disclosed that “after outsmarting Asiwaju Tinubu in their game of wit, in their desperate move to capture Ondo for the APC in order to enable smooth ride for El-Rufai in Ondo State ahead of the 2019 elections, they believe rigging the election in favour of Akeredolu of the APC against Jegede the most popular candidate in the race, will not be very easy for them”.

Fashola is a two-term former governor of Lagos, while Fayemi is a one-term former governor of Ekiti.

The Mimiko Determinant

The politician from one of the other South West states, who declined to be mentioned, continued, “They also see the big threat in Mimiko a highly experienced and smart politician whose political sagacity they cannot match, so they sought to use Jimoh Ibrahim to break the PDP in Ondo and capture the state as part of their 2019 agenda.

“When El-Rufai, Fashola and Fayemi consulted Jimoh, who had no intention to be governor. The plan was to use him obtain a court order from the controversial Justice Okon Abang to displace Jegede as the candidate of the PDP, thereby creating a smooth ride for the APC.

“Part of the deal was that when APC wins the Ondo election, the yet to be commissioned Ondo State Power Plant in Ore and the new International Events Center, The Dome in Akure, would be sold to Jimoh Ibrahim. While his lingering court battle with the Asset Management Company (AMCON) would also be settled,” he disclosed to our reporter.

Mimiko, who is presently fighting what has been described as one of the greatest political battles of his life, learning from the humiliation Asiwaju Tinubu suffered in the hands of El-Rufai, Fashola and Fayemi, seems to have seen the handwriting on the wall that the trio will leave no stone unturned to ensure he doesn’t handover to his preferred choice as next Ondo Governor.

The governor has been running from pillar to pole to ensure his party’s preferred candidate is reinstated on the INEC list before the November 26 election.

Meanwhile, the Appeal Court as set Tuesday, November 1, 2016 to pass judgement on the applications to set aside the dubiously obtained court order by Justice Okon Abang.
http://politicsngr.com/ondo-elections-fayemi-fashola-el-rufai-forced-inec-remove-eyitayo-jegedes-name/

cc : lalasticlala

Omini Aho has effected the arrested of actress, Grace Obuji after she falsely accused him of threatening to leak her alleged s*xtape. According to omini, grace is now opting to settle the case off camera.

Nollywood actress and broadcaster Ogbuji Grace Amarachi had earlier accused omini of threatening to release her past lesbian sex tape. The visibly annoyed Omini wasted no time in involving the police to adress the issue which now seems to be false.

President Buhari has reacted to a report released on Oct. 31st by Human rights watch alleging the abuse of female Internally displaced persons(IDPs) in the Northern part of Nigeria. In a statement issued by his Media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari stated that the issue will not be taken lightly.

The statement read;

President Muhammadu Buhari is worried and shocked by the recently released Human Rights Watch (HRW) report which alleges sexual abuse and exploitation of women and girls in camps for those displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency.

The welfare of these most vulnerable of Nigerian citizens has been a priority of his government. Nigerians and the international community can rest assured that the allegations raised in the HRW are not being taken lightly.

President Buhari has instructed the Inspector General of Police and the state governors of the affected states to immediately commence investigations into the issue. Their findings will determine the next course of action for the government and define an appropriate response.While the Nigerian military continues to work hard so that these unfortunate victims of Boko Haram terrorism can soon return safely to their homes, the government will do its best to ensure their protection and welfare in the temporary IDP camps.

http://politicsngr.com/buhari-reacts-human-rights-reports-alleging-abuse-female-idps-north/

It was gathered that the hoodlums, who were dressed in army camouflage, used dynamite and welding tools to break into the ATM inside the bank and the bank’s vault, where a bulk of the cash was kept. An auditor of the bank, who was sent from the Benin regional office for the regular auditing of the bank’s branch, estimated that about N25 million was stolen from the bank. Confirming the incident yesterday, a staff of the bank, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the bank’s manager and some senior staff were arrested and taken to Asaba for questioning in connection with the incident. Giving details of the incident, the staff said: “The security guards were tied up while the operation lasted. “Though they spared the ATM outside the bank premises, they used dynamite to blow up the ATM inside the bank and drilled their way through into the bank’s vault.”

Apart from being a sportsman, Nigeria's minister for sport, Solomon Dalung is also a pretty good dancer. Barrister Dalung showed of his dancing skills after giving a speech to youths at the Jos 2016 tradefair yesterday.

Dalung did the reggae skank while dancing to a Lucky Dube classic.
http://politicsngr.com/photosvideo-solomon-dalung-dancing-reggae-jos-2016-trade-fair/

cc : lalasticlala


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od_MnJwzcPM

Politics Nigeria has gotten photos of the suicide bomber killed at an IDP camp in Maiduguri today by eagle eyed soldiers. The suicide bomber was spotted as he was loitering around the camp walls seeking to gain entry.

According to the Army;

At about 9.00am this morning, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE deployed behind Bakassi Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, Damboa road, Maiduguri, on security duty, intercepted and killed a male suicide bomber who had attempted to sneak through the troops’ inner parapet towards the IDP camp.The vigilant sentry sighted the bomber and laid in wait until the suicide bomber came close. The sniper instantly shot and killed the terrorists as he tried to force his way to the western flank of the IDP camp fence.Unfortunately, the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) vest strapped on the bomber failed to detonate. Consequently, a combined team of military and police Explosive Ordinance Device (EOD) have been called to safely detonate the IED.

The situation at the camp and the general area is calm.

http://politicsngr.com/photos-suicide-bomber-killed-maiduguri-today/

A lady by the name of Amonia Stewart is an unrepentant critic of President Muhammadu Buhari. Stewart, who is popular on Facebook for her antics, recently got her account shutdown by the social media giant. She is really not happy about it.

In a very daring attempt to get her account back, Amonia has written a letter to Facebook's founder/CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, which will be delivered by DHL, accusing him of aiding Buhari to bridle opposition.

Her letter read;

Dear Mark Zuckerberg,

UNDUE CLOSURE OF MY FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

I write you from Nigeria and I hope this letter meets you well. I am writing directly to you as all other avenues put on Facebook to communicate with your team has yielded no result. It is sad to note that Facebook, in as much it connects people, as an organization has one of the most unfriendly and rigid customer services in the world where people with genuine issues, like myself, relating to Facebook are frustrated over lack of an effective user-Facebook communications channel.

I am writing you in connection with my Facebook Account – AMONIA RITA STEWART, which was unduly closed and locked out of access. On the 19th of September, 2016 my Facebook account, Amonia Rita Stewart with log in phone number +2348034922094 was suddenly deactivated. I do not know the reason why my account was deactivated but I assume it was reported as fake, which is not true.

After my account was deactivated I was asked by Facebook to verify my account with a Government issued ID, which I have done on two separate occasions too when my account was previously reported and deactivated by Facebook and I had no issues verifying my account then. But this time, after uploading my ID , the ID refused uploading and I get an error message saying: “something went wrong, we are working on it”.

I have tried uploading my ID several times, I still get the same error message. After several attempts at uploading my ID to no avail, I tried filling out the Appeal Form for Disabled Accounts but the reply I got was that my account is not associated with a disabled account. I also used the option of filling the form of “if I am having difficulty verifying my account” but the feedback I got was that I would be contacted by Facebook if more details are needed. As at the time of writing this letter no contact has been made by Facebook to me.


These past weeks have been harrowing for me especially as my SMS is synced with my Messenger. I am using this medium to appeal to you to forward my case to the relevant department so as to reactivate my account. I love Facebook and it is the only social media I use and I miss it. I have done nothing wrong for my account to be deactivated except if there is something going on I don’t know about and in that case at least I deserve to know.

I am a political analyst and social commentator siding mostly with the opposition party in my country and popular opinions suggest that my account may have been shutdown as part of a plot by the government of Nigeria to clamp down on opposition social media voices. I strongly hope my case is unconnected with such suspected political conspiracy theory. This theory now seems believable as many opposition “online voices” seem to be recently associated with one issue or the other relating to their Facebook accounts. Some have been banned from making post for as long as 30 days, others shorter, while many have to do re-verification. We hope these are not signs of any form of an attack on “Freedom of Speech” in Nigeria using Facebook.

This tend more to the truth as the Nigerian government is currently cracking down on opposition voices using a state tool called “EFCC” and controlled by the presidency. We are weary that these rampant Facebook sanctions on opposition users could be related to these deliberate crackdown by the Nigerian government.

I hope my case would be used to send a message to the Nigerian users. Please, note that I changed my log in option last year November from my e-mail ritafyncountry@yahoo.com to my mobile number +2348034922094 and in this letter I have attached copies of my government issued ID, screen shots of my experience since this ordeal started and the e-mail I received from Facebook when I changed my log in options. My e-mail is still valid and I can be reached on it or on the phone number stated in this letter. I am looking forward to having a positive reply from Facebook. My regards to your lovely wife Priscilla, your daughter Max and your amazing dog Beast- I also love dogs.

Yours Sincerely,

Amonia Rita Stewart
http://politicsngr.com/nigerian-lady-writes-zuckerberg-via-dhl-accusing-helping-buhari-stop-opposition/

cc : lalasticlala

A tanker fully loaded with PMS crashed today in the Gbagada area of Lagos state. Thankfully it did not explode and officials of the Lagos state Emergency squad were quick to arrive at the scene and secure the loaded Tanker. Just yesterday, a tanker exploded in the Kiri-Kiri area of Lagos state killing one person and injuring a few others.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-fully-loaded-petrol-tanker-crashes-gbagada-lagos/

cc : lalasticlala

Politics Nigeria obtained a picture of the president's letter to former Kano governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who celebrated his birthday a few days ago in Kano.

http://politicsngr.com/photo-buharis-letter-kwankwaso-birthday/

First lady, Aisha Buhari visited Kaga, Borno state recently to dole out food items/relief materials to Internally displaced persons(IDPs) in the state.

Mrs. Buhari, in company of the Governor of Borno State, H.E Kashim Shettim and wife, H.E Nana Shettima flagged off the distribition of the relief materials realized from the launch of the first lady's Get Involved initiative which was launched in August.Food items and other essential commodities were distributed to the displaced victims of insurgency who have now resettled back in their community, Kaga Local government area in Borno State.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-see-aisha-buhari-giving-food-items-idps-borno-state/

cc : lalasticlala

President Muhammadu Buhari met with former head of state, Gen. yakubu gowon earlier today at the state house in Aso-rock. Photos below

http://politicsngr.com/photos-muhammadu-buhari-meets-yakubu-gowon-aso-rock/

Reliable reports indicate that President Muhammadu Buhari, has incurred the wrath of Leaders in the All Progressives Congress, APC, over the choice of nominees for non-career Ambassadors.

Recall, that last week, the Presidency sent names of Ambassadorial nominees for confirmation, by the Senate.

It was learnt that most of the 23 APC Governors are angry, because their candidates for the Ambassadorial posts, were rejected by the Presidency.

Governors, APC Leaders, and Ministers, who are party leaders in many States, especially where the governing party is not in control, were sidelined in the appointments.

“Many of these APC bigwigs are contemplating dumping APC, and forming a new party, if this mess continues,” a source said.

Reports, further indicate that Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s bid to have Professor Julius Ihonvbere, as Edo State nominee, could not fly, as the President opted for Uyagwe Igbe.

It was the same situation in Osun State, as Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s nominee, Senator Mudasiru Hussein, did not make the list.

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, was this time lucky, as the President conceded one of the two Ambassadorial nominees, Professor Mohammed G. Yisa, from Kwara State, to him.

It was learnt, that Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, was given only one, out of the 46 Ambassadorial slots submitted to the Senate for confirmation last week.

Eslewhere, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, confirmed the frustration of the APC members, over the appointment made so far by the President.

“Most members of the party, feel that they have not been carried along. I know that many of them are complaining every day,” Okorocha stated in an interview with Journalists, last Sunday.

It was gathered, that the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babagana Kingibe, played prominent roles in the selection process.

Even the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, was said to have no input in the list of the nominees.

A source, said that Onyeama cannot complain, because the President’s Chief of Staff, facilitated his appointment as Minister.

“The appointment of the Ambassadors, is a continuation of the policy to sideline the Governors.

“When the Minister from my State was picked, I was not consulted, and when it is time for the Ambassadorial appointment, they did not consider my nominee. This is a party we all worked to build. I have spoken to quite a number of my colleague Governors, it is the same thing.

“To us, we believe the President has his own game plan. I’m sure he is building a separate structure for himself. When you sideline Governors and Party Leaders in appointments, then it means you are up to something.

“I can tell you conveniently, that most of the Party Leaders, especially Governors, are not happy with the President, over his choice of appointment,” a Governor said.

Reports, revealed that most of the State Governors and Party Leaders, had no input as to who represents their respective States on the foreign mission.

A source, further revealed that in instances where Governors and Party Leaders were asked to submit nominees, their lists were not considered.

The President personally requested for former Supreme Court Justice, Justice George Adesola Oguntade, and Senator Olorunnibe Mamora.

Mamora, was the Deputy Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, and his appointment was long overdue.

On the choice of Justice Oguntade, Buhari nominated him, because of his forthrightness, especially based on the minority judgement he gave in his (President’s) favour in 2008.

When Buhari challenged the result of the 2007 Presidential election up to the Supreme Court, the apex court upheld the election of Umaru Yar’Adua, by 6-1. Justice Oguntade, gave the minority judgement in favour of Buhari.

In Ekiti, the APC members are angry over the choice of Ayodele I. Ayodeji. The nominee retired last year, after 35 years in the foreign service.

He is the immediate past Ambassador to Greece. APC members in the State, are angry that the likes of former Governor, Adeniyi Adebayo, and Senator Olu Adetunbi, were rejected, in preference for Ayodeji.
http://politicsngr.com/aregbesola-oshiomole-others-stage-walk-aso-rock/

cc : lalasticlala

The Lagos state government today, arraigned the kidnappers of the Oniba of Iba, Oba Yishau Goriola Oseni before a High Court in Igbosere, Lagos.

The four suspects namely; Duba Furejo, Yerin Fresh, Ododomo Isaiah and Reuben Anthony were arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo for offences of conspiracy to kidnap, murder and robbery. They were arraigned on eight-count charges relating to murder of the palace security guard; Sunday Eniola Okanlawon, kidnapping of the monarch, and murder of a commercial motorcycle rider, Okeke Joseph.

http://politicsngr.com/photos-lagos-state-arraigns-kidnappers-lagos-monarch/

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently in a meeting with all apc governors in Aso rock. The meeting is geared towards moving the party and the nation forward.

http://politicsngr.com/photos-buhari-meets-apc-governors-aso-rock/

Some Nigerian soldiers have lamented to the media on the horrible living conditions they are experiencing as the figh Boko Haram in the far north. The soldiers appealed to the president to come to their aid as they can't bear the situation anymore.

Below are statement from the soldiers(who pleaded anonymity) and photographs of the terrible, rationed food they have to eat.

"Our Situation has only gone from bad to worst, things improved then went bad"

''The one sachet of cowbell choco they used to give us daily has been stopped for over six months.The food they cook and serve us here can't sustain human life, poorly prepared supplied cold.When we are fighting Boko Haram food supply should not be our worry, they are failing us badly.

Soldiers have resorted to buying stoves and pots, I cook twice a day to sustain my life.We come back from 48hours mission tired & wait endlessly for food ration, we have to recook same.I Will send you pictures of our food as well as the cooking utensils of some of our colleagues.

We have codenamed our central food supply centre CHOP AND DIE You eat & sentenced to the toilet.Rotation system is corrupt, some in frontline 4 over 2yrs, if u know someone u spend few months.

Allowance was hurriedly paid last Friday after 3 months of owing us. Sept allowances is still being owned.Things are really getting bad. Some soldiers are deserting but the story is kept secret.

Ops allowance and RCA (Ration Cash Allowance) calculated per head for feeding battalions are dissapearing.RCA in particular has not come since Aug.Commanders are doing their best.

They've been borrowing on credit.Food merchants have stopped giving out food on credit as a result of millions of RCA being owed.''

Photo 1:
According to one of the solider, This is the size of loaf of bread two Soldiers are meant to share for lunch"

Photo 2:
This is the ration of meat for 1day that each soldier fighting Boko Haram gets


Photo 3:
The soldier said ''photo of tuwo is supply for Sunday surprisingly big. The soup is meant to be ogbono served cold''


Photo 4:
''This is my ration of pure water. We are entitled to 4 aday but we end up with 2 a day begging locals''

Source:
http://politicsngr.com/see-photos-horrible-food-given-nigerian-soldiers-fighting-boko-haram/

These are photos of Nigerian navy commandos training hard in preparation for batlle against insurgents.

http://politicsngr.com/see-photos-nigerian-navy-commandos-training-hard-desert/

Following the defeat of the PDP in the September 28th Edo Governorship election, the former minister of foreign affairs and a supposed prominent leader in the PDP Chief Tom Ikimi has begun surreptitious attempts to return to the ruling APC.

Politics Nigeria gathered that Chief Ikimi told close circle of friends in Abuja that he was already reaching out to the APC leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he termed a reconcilatory meeting. Chief Ikimi, often hailed as the "Oduma" (lion) of Esanland is reported as pleading through his emissaries that Asiwaju should display the "nobility of forgiveness".

It will be recalled that both Ikimi and Asiwaju had a bitter feud after Ikimi failed to secure the chairmanship of the APC which he blamed on Asiwaju. This led to his exit from the party.

It was also revealed that Chief Ikimi has approached some close circles of Comrade-Governor Oshiomhole to initiate an urgent peace meeting. Chief Ikimi told his representatives that he has enough evidence to prove that the PDP lost the election.


Chief Ikimi is said to be very angry with Ize-Iyamu and State party chairman Dan Orbih over the disbursement of resources donated by some PDP governors for the election. He was quoted as saying "instead of Pastor and Dan to come up with explanation of what actually came and how and what was expended, they are trying to single me out for failure in Esanland, I will not be humiliated by these boys" he concludes.


Chief Ikimi is being blamed by Ize-Iyamu for the failure of the PDP to have a 'complete sweet' of Edo central senatorial zone.


The PDP won four of the five local government areas that makeup Edo central senatorial zone. Orhionmwon local government area in Edo South was the only win for the PDP outside Edo central , making it five while the Apc won thirteen of the eighteen local government areas of the state.

http://politicsngr.com/pdp-chieftain-tom-ikimi-secret-moves-join-apc-send-emissaries-tinubu/


https://m.facebook.com/APCNEWSBLOG/photos/a.781232731917855.1073741828.781222181918910/1222361411138316/?type=3

The welfare of women and children is such that should not be treated with kid gloves considering their role in the society. Also, the mother/child mortality rate which is so alarming today may have been as a result of the certain complications resulting from negligence by both the society and government.

But in Abia State, the wife of the governor, Deaconess Nkechi Ikpeazu has routinely visited the destitute and has remained resolute in ensuring the rights and privileges of not just the children but mothers are provided.She has a heart of Gold.

It was a joyous moment on the 6th of October 2016 at the maternity ward of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Abayi, Aba when deaconess Ikpeazu paid a flying visit to the maternity ward of the hospital to ascertain the condition of a certain woman who was delivered of triplet in the hospital. The wife of the governor used the occasion to foot her hospital's bills while others at the ward were handed cash gifts and other material items.

In his address, the chief medical director (CMD) of ABSUTH, Dr. Christian Kamalu expressed gratitude to the wife of the governor for identifying with them and disclosed that the ABSUTH environment was overgrown by weeds months ago but expressed happiness that with Dr. Ikpeazu led administration, there has been massive expansion and infrastructural edifice erected in the hospital which has enabled for easy day-to-day running of the affairs of the hospital.

The CMD used the occasion to request for partnership with the office of the wife of the governor for the procurement of mammogram for the hospital. He decried the rate at which carcinoma of the breast and cervical cancer has ravaged the lives of many in the society and maintained that if provided, the hospital will do better in diagnosing some of these deadly ailment and control them in the early stage to save lives and resources.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-abia-gov-wife-nkechi-ikpeazu-doles-cash-sick-destitute/

cc : lalasticlala , mynd44

Senator Gbenga Ashafa of Lagos state paid a visit to Government Model College, Igbonla Epe yesterday to commiserate with the staff & students.

The school has been under severe pressure after some its students were kidnapped last week. Ashafa reassured staff & students of the School that the Lagos State Government ably led by His Excellency Governor Akinwunmi Ambode the men of the Lagos State Police Command are working assiduously towards the safe rescue of their colleagues and continued safety of the School.

He equally promised to provide 2 tricycles to help boost the internal security of the School.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-lagos-senator-gbenga-ashafa-visits-school-kidnapped-students/

cc : lalasticlala , mynd44

Governor of Ogun state, Ibikunle Amosun, his wife Olufunso and Former Ekiti governor, Kayode Fayemi were pictured having fun at the 50th birthday of Legal adviser to the All Progressives party, Muiz Banire.

See pics below;

http://politicsngr.com/photos-ibikunle-amosun-kayode-fayemi-attend-50th-birthday-party-apc-legal-adviser-muiz-banire/

Here are photos from the closing ceremony of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2016. The event with the theme “Exploring the Goldmine Inherent in Nigeria’s Creative Industries” started on the 2nd October, 2016 and it was hosted by Akwa Ibom state with 36 States of Nigeria participating .

Nigeria's information minister, Lai mohammed, Director General, NCAC, Mrs.Dayo Keshi among many other dignitaries were present.

Below is a transcript of lai Mohammed's speech at the event;

'I welcome you all most heartily to the official Closing Ceremony of the 29th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2016, hosted by the Government and good people of Akwa-Ibom State.‘I congratulate and thank the Executive Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and the entire members of his Executive Council, for a job well done.Undoubtedly the biggest achievement recorded at the NAFEST 2016 is that the festival has once again lived up to its original concept of uniting us as a nation.As you are very much aware, what is known today as the National Festival of Arts and Culture started off as the Unity Festival.

This is because it was conceived as one of the tools to re-unite us as a people after the unfortunate 30-month civil war.Bringing people from many states across the Federation together for many days in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility is a strong statement, and it shows that we have decided to accept and respect one another's differences and come together as one.There is no bigger achievement than this, because without peace, there can be no sustainable development. I congratulate the organizers.Another achievement is the fact that the Festival was able to hold, successfully, despite the recession which we are experiencing at the moment. This has confirmed the fact that the only sector that is recession-proof is the creative sector.

Talking about the relevance of the creative sector, it is instructive that the theme of this edition of NAFEST - Exploring the Goldmine Inherent in Nigerian Creative Industries - was chosen to utilize and explore the multi-faceted ways in which culture contributes in concrete terms to our collective quest for economic empowerment and national development.This festival has attempted to draw attention to the need for producers of cultural products and services to work towards attaining the standard of modern practice in packaging our cultural products to enable them compete favourably at the global market.

The specialized exhibitions, the cultural market, as well as the drama and poetry performances are part of the campaign which we need to sustain towards advancing our local products to meet our demands rather than relying on inferior imported goods and services.The high packaging and standard of all the events of this festival, especially the conceptualization and the finishing of the documents and exhibits, attest to the fact that the sector has a unique ability to enhance economic development through job creation and wealth generation.What we have attempted to demonstrate through the various events that made up NAFEST 2016 is that culture could be one of the potent tools for driving our development goals and aspirations if appropriately tapped.I wish to here reiterate my call on the private sector to step up efforts towards exploring investment opportunities in this sector which has a great future and is emerging as the most prospective sector in the world.

We at FMIC Nigeria are working with local and international partners, including the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the British Council, to develop the capacity of our creative artists, including festival managers, and also prepare the necessary environment for the private sector to show more than a passing interest in the sector.Once again, I congratulate all the participants, officials and contingents from the various States of the Federation and Federal Capital Territory for their wonderful performances.I must also commend the supportive roles played by the Non-Governmental Organizations, the Press and all those that have contributed to making the Festival a success.'I thank you all and wish you a safe journey back to your various destinations.
http://politicsngr.com/photos-nafest-2016-akwa-ibom/

cc : lalasticlala

A loaded truck skidded of the road on Otedola bridge this morning. The driver sustained some injuries and was immediately treated at the scene by LRU emergency officials.

LASEMA has since evacuated the crashed truck.

http://politicsngr.com/photos-loaded-truck-falls-off-otedola-bridge-morning-driver-injured/

The government of Delta state has approved a new slogan and anthem for the state. According to the Delta State Commissioner of Information, Mr Patrick Ukah,the catchphrase ‘finger of God‘ has been dropped for the ‘Big Heart Of The Nation'.

Ukah stated that the state had a new logo and anthem. He called on Deltans to learn how to sing it like the national anthem.He also added that state Governor, Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa was more preoccupied with spreading democratic dividends to the people of the state through the SMART agenda , urging that Okowa is even more committed than ever in the development and creation of more jobs opportunity in the state than issues about re-election bid adding that 2019 shall take care of itself.

http://politicsngr.com/delta-state-changes-slogan-to-big-hear-of-the-nation-gets-new-anthem/

This boy of only 8 months old was forcefully kidnapped early this morning around 3am at Umuohia village in Obingwa LGA, Abia State from his mother. Please share until he is found.

Please call this number for any information; 07032803351 or report to any nearby Police station.
http://politicsngr.com/8-month-old-baby-forcefully-kidnapped-abia-morning-photo/

cc: lalasticlala