₦airaland Forum

Benue-born singer and African Queen crooner, Innocent Ujah Idibia, Tuesday visited the Internally Displaced Persons in Makurdi.

www.IDOMAVOICE.com gathered that the singer came to the Makurdi camp in company of his wife, Annie Idibia (nne Macaulay).
Mr. Idibia donated items such as tubers of yam, bags of rice, clothes, toiletries and many other relief materials to the victims of the Benue flood disasters.

See pictures below.

SOURCE>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/09/tuface-idibia-storms-idps-camp-in.html

lalasticlala
seun
mynd44

In wake of the flooding in Makurdi, while houses have been submerged, a portion of the Makurdi-Lafia road at the Yelewata settlement on the outskirts of Makurdi has collapsed and just a chunk of the rod is still hanging.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] learnt that yesterday night, tragedy occurred as a car collapsed into the pit and one person died on the spot.

As a result, some angry youths in the area have barricaded the road in demonstration.

The condition is critical that, another heavy rainfall is enough to severe Makurdi and all persons passing through it from the rest of Lafia to Abuja therefrom.

Please the Federal Government should come to the aid of Nigerians by fixing the road else, people may soon be stranded when the road finally collapse.

SOURCE>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/09/one-dead-as-trailer-falls-into.html

Lalasticlala
seun
mynd44

Chief Agbo Ella, father of the man-turned-woman, Clifford Oche, otherwise known as Miss Sahhara Henson has told WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM that he is proud of the daughter, who was once his son and would welcome her with open arms if she decides to return home.

He denied ever disowning his former son, stressing that he would gladly accept bride price from any man who is willing to take his daughter to altar.

Born Clifford Oche to the family of Chief Agbo Ella in the dusty Benue town of Otukpo, he was raised in the capital city of Abuja. After two failed suicide attempts he escaped to London many years ago where he has since been living as a woman.


Sahhara Henson, a native of Otukpo Nobi in Otukpo LGA of Benue State, one of the first known Nigerian transgenders, is yet to find the absolute freedom she craves.

WATCH FULL INTERVIEW HERE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHZZfO1YCIM

SOURCE>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/09/exclusive-man-turned-woman-clifford.html

This is very urgent and important! Please Share this photos until it gets to President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Samuel Ortom, Minister for Works and any other concerned authority, road users from Makurdi to Nasarawa or Abuja, Jos, Kaduna and other states might be stranded by the end of today.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM [/url]observed that apart of Federal road which serves as access road from Makurdi to Nasarawa, Abuja and other states collapsed in what appeared to be a landslide at Yelewata, in Guma Local government Area of Benue State, following last night rainfall.
What is left of this part of Federal road, is is just a tiny portion which I doubt could stand for long, with heavy duty vehicles plying that road.

Photo credit: Desmond Ogwu

MORE PHOTOS HERE http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/09/makurdi-lafia-road-collapses-shocking.html

Barely two weeks after we introduced a young inventor, Oloche Paul, who is gifted in building motorcycle, grinding machine, et al, IDOMA VOICE is proud to present another Benue native, who has successfully constructed a ‘moving’ vehicle.

The construction engineer, known as IGBAUKE JULIUS; has successfully built a car vehicle, which he christened TOR BUA.
[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] observed that the machine features 5 gear-system, it has a radiator at the back and it takes 20 litre-capacity.

He is a Tiv man from Gboko area of the state.

See more photos and video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVGCn9T76nM

seun, lalasticlala, mynd44

SOURCE>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/09/another-benue-man-successfully-builds.html

By Vera Enenche

The identity of the pilot that died after a Nigerian Airforce Trainer Aircraft crashed at the permanent site of the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, in Kaduna has been revealed.

He is Group Capt Adamu Gabriel Ochai, a native of Adum Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA of Benue State.
Finding by [url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] reveal that he is the son of Chief David Ochai, the Clan Head ADUM/Aikwu.

WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM gathered that trainer aircraft with a single pilot on board crashed at about 4:25 pm of Thursday while on a mission.

A statement by Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Olatokunbo Adesanya, said one of NAF’s experienced instructor pilots was lost during the mishap.

Adesanya said that the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) has directed the constitution of a board of inquiry to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash.

MORE PHOTOS HERE>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/idoma-born-senior-air-force-officer.html

By Ben Idah

A 17-year-old boy identified as Oloche Paul in Otada village Otukpo is most likely to be rated among great inventors and developers like Steve Jobs, Nikola Tesla, James watt, Alexander Bell, Charles Babbage, Michael Faraday among others in the nearest future as a result of his ability to construct and develop machines in his own ways.

WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM Oloche, who was freshly promoted to SS-3 in Vama Model college Otukpo in July 2017 said he gets the pictures and inspiration of his works from his dream when ever he sleeps to do whatever he does.

"I believe it is my God given talent to create machines because I didn't learned this from anywhere or anyone, I get the insight on everything I do from my dream, when ever I get confused, I just need to get to sleep to get back on track, I feel gifted because I can see how any engine I need to create works and looks right from the in side,' He told [url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] during an interview.


"I've never bought any of the materials I used before, all I need to do is to melt rubbers into any shape I javascript:void(0);want then get wires from spoilt and condemned television panels," he added.


Mr. Paul the father of Oloche told our reporter that "he (Oloche) has so many amazing talents, which he has been displaying right from his primary school days.


" He is a science student but he can draw perfectly and also makes sandals for sale, I just pray that we can get him a sponsor or a scholarship to study abroad so he can advance and do better ".

The works of this amazing boy so far include: two mini motorcycles, a mini tricycle (Keke napep) which are powered by a Nokia phone batteries, and a grinding machine which uses engine oil, water and also powered by a Nokia phone battery among other things.

SOURCE IDOMA VOICE: http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/exclusive-meet-17-year-old-idoma-boy.html

source >>>>> http://www.idomavoice.com/2016/08/meet-reigning-gospel-music-ministers.html

Some call them small but mighty. Igede, the third largest ethnic group in Benue occupies just two local governments, viz. Oju and Obi.

Despite its minority status, this medium-sized kingdom refused to resign to their fate.
The community is always in the news for good reason. It is either you read about a man from the land producing five daughters who are all lawyers or SIX sisters getting married to great ministers of the gospel.
‘Treasure Base of the Nation’ is the right alias for the community.

Today, IDOMA VOICE profiles six top gospel music ministers from Igede community. Igede Ohio!

Steve Crown
‘You are great. Everything written about you is great’ That is the mesmerizing first two lines of the chorus of his hit song entitled ‘You are Great’, that has become an anthem among many gospel music lovers in Nigeria and beyond.


Steve Crown Okolo was born into a family of six. He portrayed interest in music at the age of four and joined Saint John’s Anglican Church choir at the age of seven, he was a member of the famous children’s happiness club named Deacon Kids Band.

He has shared stage with many great gospel artists, sang in concerts, crusades, served as Music director in several choirs and singing groups till date.

Chris Ade
Chris Ade won the heart of music lovers during MTN Project Fame West Africa, Season 5 and emerging 4th runner up in the grand finale.

He was arguably the strongest vocalist in the music reality show and undoubtedly the judges and academy’s favourite (ask Joke Silver).

He has consistently grown and blossomed to a full fledged act while breaking boundaries with his unique style of music.

A graduate of Computer Sc/Statistics from the Prestigious Federal University Of Agriculture, Makurdi; Chris is highly gaced and blessed with great vocal strength, and unique song writing skills.


Eunice Morgan
Unknown to many, Quin Eunice is the wife of gospel music legend, Chris Morgan.
Before her encounter with Morgan, she was a chorus leader in Dr. Paul Enenche’s-led Dunamis Gospel Centre, Abuja for years.

She is loved by many for her electrifying voice and deep worship.
She has an album entitled 'You are Beautiful' and a couple of other singles on air.
She’s also the chief operating officer of Apples of Gold Record Labels.

Her husband, Chris once recalled how music united them in an interview thus: “I went there (Dunamis) for a ministration and I heard her leading the worship with such an angelic voice. I was so moved and was like, who is this damsel with such a Holy Ghost-inspired voice?


Abel Success Erebe
He is like the two-edged sword- a preacher and a music minister put together.
Abel Success Erebe was at a pount in the mid 90s the only and most sought-after guitarist in Idoma community.

His ability to play virtually all the music instruments has stood him out as a highly graced music minister.
With several songs to his credit, Erebe is known for the remix of Luciano hit song, Sweep Over My Soul.

Sunnygrace Erebe
Sunnygrace sure knows how to move heaven with his voice. He is an anointed singer whose songs are full of inspirational words. Among his numerous songs is ‘I’m not alone.”

Peter Adole
Peter Adole, had been a singer, since his teenage years and had recorded over 20 songs, altogether.

He is a true worshiper of Jehovah and has been described by many as the man who knows how to bring down the glory of God through worship. Among his songs are Father I Love You, Godiya and others.

More photos here>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/photos-from-burial-of-gen-abachas.html

Copy and paste.. see original source here
http://dailypost.ng/2017/08/20/2019-pdp-yet-endorse-fayose-president-makarfi/

...Seeks abolition of economic interests


An international civil rights organisation, Save Humanity Advocacy Centre (SHAC), Nigeria, has asked President Emmanuel Macron of France to order an immediate investigation into the alleged involvement of his country in the increasing wave of Boko Haram terrorists in the Lake Chad Basin.

The organisation premised its demand on the fact that overzealous operatives and/or business executives may be operating below the radar to pass off personal agenda as national interest.

The Executive Director of SHAC, Abubakar Idris Ibrahim, in a letter to the French President obtained by journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, said the outcome of the investigation must lead to immediate actions against persons found culpable of such gross threat to the world.

While recommending appropriate sanctions for countries that have acted against the internationally accepted position of not sponsoring terrorists or supporting terror organisations, Macron must firmly clarify the role of France in Boko Haram's growing menace in the Lake Chad Basin region.


He said, "We therefore urge you, in your capacity as one of the influential leaders in the world, to immediately cause an investigation into the extent of France's involvement since it is possible that overzealous operatives and or business executives may be operating below the radar to pass off personal agenda as national interest.

"The outcome of the investigation must lead to immediate actions against persons found culpable of such gross threat to the world and sanctions for countries that have acted against the internationally accepted position of not sponsoring terrorists or supporting terror organizations. You must firmly clarify France's role in Boko Haram's growing menace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

"Such behaviour is responsible for a situation where terrorists ride on their connection with operatives in the security circle to infiltrate countries in Europe and today flood the streets of western civilization with blood. This reality is what gives people like us the slightest flicker of hope that France, at least not under you, can be involved in something as repulsive as being suggested.

"Our expectation is that France under your leadership must act fast to prove to the world that it is not using Boko Haram to wage an economic war against Nigeria.

Thank you in anticipation of your intervention in this pressing matter as we hope that we can count on your principled resolve to the needful in the interest of humanity.

"The recent escalation in Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria however threatens to undermine France's reputation given the unfortunate connections and coincidences that cannot be simply wished away. There are strong suggestions that France or its allies – Niger, Chad and Cameroon are providing momentum for the terrorists to keep operating. For instance, it was reported that Boko Haram fighters were able to reorganize on the territories of these countries to regain the ability to launch attacks in Nigeria.

"A columnist, Richards Murphy, in an article " What If Oil Is the True Ideology of Boko Haram?" practically stated that France, through Niger, Chad and Cameroon, is sponsoring Boko Haram in order to gain control of the crude oil deposits in the Lake Chad Basin region. The article, and several others, claim that the resurgence of Boko Haram is all about a war for resource control.

The presidency on Sunday said in fulfillment of the Social Investment Programmes, the Buhari administration is now close to its target of feeding three million primary school children this year under the National Homegrown School Feeding Programme, one of its four ongoing SIP schemes.

The 14 states that have been covered under the School Feeding Programme are Anambra, Enugu, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ebonyi, Zamfara, Delta, Abia, Benue, Plateau, Bauchi, Taraba and Kaduna.

Benue State: Received a total of N337,157,800 to feed a total of 240,827 pupils, while 3,344 cooks were paid.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] obtained pictures of the food given to the pupils.

SOURCE>>>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/we-gave-benue-state-n337m-for-feeding.html

Seun, mynd44, lalasticlala make una come eat Benue yam

Today, 12th of August, 2017, makes it exactly 28 year since the exit of Nigeria’s first football martyr, Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji‎.
The sad event occurred on a tension-soaked Saturday, 12th August, 1989, during a make or mar Italia 1990 World Cup qualifier match, between the Green Eagles and the boastful Angolan side.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] recalls that the pulsating encounter was held at the now pathetic and rickety National Stadium, in Surulere, Lagos.

source>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/remembering-samuel-okwaraji-28-years.html

Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State on Tuesday commissioned the newly introduced Benue sacks and measures, otherwise known as mudus.

The occasion took place at Makurdi Ultra-Modern market, along Dr George Akume way.

The approved width of the sack for crops such as rice, groundnuts is 28 inches and its length is 47 inches - Net WT 28/47.
The approved size of a bag for crops such as soybeans is Net WT 23/27.

A container of products in category of parboiled rice must not be above 25kg.

Source>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/ortom-launches-sacks-mudus-in-benue.html

seun, lalasticlala

Who come snap the pixu?

Gurgur Japhet, a former Senior Special Adviser on Public Administration to Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has exposed the lies in "Facts versus Fiction" a book recently released by Reno Omokri



Omokri, was former Special Assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on New Media.



Japheth, while describing the book as 99.9% fiction and a fallacy of absurdum, said the ex-presidential aide goofed in many of his claims.



According to him, "Facts Versus Fiction: the Story of the Jonathan Years, 2015, Chibok and the Conspiracies" is a wonderful title not primarily because politics in Africa is full of facts and fiction but that the book itself is filled with more fiction as there could be facts.



“On page 44 of this wonderful book, Pastor Reno Omokri posits; "In Benue State, Jonathan substantially advanced the Loko-Oweto bridge and completed the Makurdi Water Supply Scheme supplying to 1 million people. He also rehabilitated the Lafia-Makurdi Road and the Aliade to Uturkpo Road and constructed a Perishable Cargo Terminal at the Makurdi Airport."



“In my brief review, let me observe that as an eye witness, the portion of this beautiful book as it pertains Benue is Fiction. There is no "Makurdi Water Supply Scheme" anywhere completed by Jonathan "supplying to 1 million people". The Greater Makurdi Water Works initiated by former Governor George Akume and treatment plant was completed by former Governor Suswam is left without Reticulation and therefore supplies no water to anywhere as Makurdi people get water from River Benue through "Mai-Ruwa".



“Second, "The Lafia-Makurdi Road and Aliade to Uturkpo Road" (sic) may only have been 'rehabilitated' on paper. The two roads remain Death traps.



“Third, as we speak, there is no "Perishable Cargo Terminal at Makurdi Airport", the only Cargo Airport in our subconscious minds is the one at Daudu in Guma along Lafia Road which groundbreaking ceremony was done in 2016 by the former Supervising Minister of Aviation under Jonathan now Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom PhD.



“In conclusion, the book by Pastor Reno Omokri, former Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan is Fiction; no Facts (safe Oweto) as far as Benue is concerned. It is distant rumour. It is 99.9% fiction. A fallacy of absurdum."

Source>>>>http://thenigerian.news/news/facts-versus-fiction-many-lies-reno-omokris-book-exposed/

seun, lalasticlala

This is plagiarism.. he copied from DAILY POST... OP, kindly credit the real source
http://dailypost.ng/2017/08/03/photo-news-charlyboy-shuts-benue-mumu-don-rally/

By Vera Enenche

A 19-year-old Idoma-born Oine Winfred Amali has bagged first class from the economics department of the Covenant Universiry, Otta, Ogun State.

Interestingly, Oine is the daughter of Bar. Amali Amali, chairman of Idoma National Forum.
[url]www.IDOMAVOICE.com [/url]gathered that Oine, a native of Otukpo LGA of Benue State graduated with 4.88 Grade Point Average (GPA)

She also emerged overall best in economics department as well as the best in her class.

Youthful Oine was also awarded by Meristem for her academic feat.

Speaking with IDOMA VOICE on Tuesday, INF chairman, Bar Amali attributed her daughter’s feat to God, dedication and hardwork.

source>>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/08/19-year-old-idoma-girl-bags-first-class.html

mynd44, seun, lalasticlala

By Ben Idah

A young Benue-born soldier, Onah John Ali has been killed by members of the Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] gathered that Onah was among the victims of the bomb blast,which ripped through the city of Maiduguri on Thursday.
Confirming the ugly incident, Tom Vera National Vice Chair lady of Idoma Culture and Tradition, a social cultural group described the demise of Ali as sad and unfortunate.

She prayed God to give the family the fortitude to bear irreparable loss. Ali was a former student of Army Day Secondary School Lokoja, Kogi state.

More photos here>>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/07/benue-born-young-soldier-onah-john-ali.html
cc: lalasticlala, seun, mynd44

more photos>>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/07/ruins-of-nigerias-first-republic.html

The wreckage of the official car of Nigeria’s Minister of Mines and Power in the first republic, Jacob Obande has been found parked in Otukpo, Benue State.

[url]WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM[/url] observed that the red-coloured nameless vehicle without tyres and engine is still parked at Chief J C Obande Street Otukpo.
Jacob Obande was a minister of state in charge of the Nigerian Army and Establishments during the Nigerian First Republic and was also a Minister of Mines and Power.

In 1958, he was the parliamentary secretary to the Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa.

Obande was born in Elelazi, Igumale, Benue State, to the family of Obande Ochogbo, the district head of Igunmale. He was educated at the Methodist School in Igunmale and later attended the Teachers Training College, Uzuakoli. After completing his teacher’s training program, he began work as a teacher before subsequently working as an hotelier, clerical officer and contractor with the Nigerian Railways.

In 1951, he was an honourable representative from Idomaland in the Northern house of Assembly and later in 1954, he became a member of the Idoma/Otukpo Local Authority.

During the second republic, Obande served as a state chairman for the defunct National Party of Nigeria

Throughout his life, Obande served as member of various boards, including, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigeria Airways, Nigeria Hotels, Benue-Plateau Marketing Company and Nigeria reinsurance.

In 1959 Obande defeated other contenders to win the Idoma South East parliamentary elections.

SEE MORE PIX HERE>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/07/ruins-of-nigerias-first-republic.html

The family of Victor Paul Bassey, a 23-year-old young man currently living between life and death following a brain cancer, which has exposed his skull has cried out to the Akwa Ibom State government and well meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the dying man.

Bassey, a native of Uyo LGA of the state, it gathered has been suffering from the deadly sickness for over a year with no help for his treatment.

Speaking with our reporter on Monday, Samuel Bassey, elder brother to the bedridden Victor said problem started last year July after the he (Victor) was allegedly knocked on the head by his superior in his place of work.

According to him, “this problem started last year, precisely July after he returned from work and was complaining of headache. When we asked him, he told us that his superior knocked him on the head for receiving phone call while on duty.

“Since then, we have been to three hospitals but the problem keeps worsening by the day. The last hospital we went to was Ibom Specialist Hospital where we conducted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to ascertain the number of damages done to his skull but the result shows his skull has no been badly affected by the tumor.

“The doctor said since his skull has not been affected by the ailment, the surgery could be done in Akwa Ibom here but they would be needing like N870, 000 to for the operations.

“All our efforts to raise the money have failed. In fact, the last time we went to the state government house in Uyo, we were bounced back. They asked us to go and get a reference letter from a reputable person in our local government or senatorial district.

“We don’t even know where to raise the money from. We are calling on well meaning Nigerians, the state government led by Governor Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past governor, Godswill Akpabio, our senator, Bassey Albert Akpan to come to our aide.

“The doctor said the operation must be done this week or we might lose him. Please, we don’t want him to die,” the troubled young man said on phone amid sobs.

Several efforts to reach Ekerete Udo, the Senior Special Adviser and Chief Press Secretary to Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel of Akwa Ibo could not yield any positive result at the time of this report.

To help Victor, call his elder brother, Samuel on 08089827614

Seun, lalasticlala, mynd44

Players and officials of Markmentors, former champions of DStv Men’s Premier Basketball League, yesterday, narrowly escaped death by the whiskers after they were attacked by angry fans during a match with Niger Potters in Minna, the Niger State capital.

DAILY POST gathered that the Otukpo lads were leading the host team 48 to 42 when the visibly angry and disappointed fans descended on their cameraman, Jimoh Momoh and threw him off the spectators’ stand at the College of Education, Minna.

A source hinted our reporter that the fans reportedly launched the attack on the players just six seconds to the end of 3rd quarters during free throw in favour of Markmentors.

He said, “Fans of Niger Potters who were sent off the court decided to unleash their anger and frustration on the Markmentors camera man by beating him and collecting his camera. They threw him off the spectators’ stand and he was critically injured.”

The source added that the Markmentors players were later visited with rain of bottles from the angry fans when they tried to rescue their camera man; two of the players were later rushed to the hospital with deep head injuries.

Those injured in the attack were identified as Jimoh Momoh, Emmanuel Ndibe and Okuongbae Osarhiemen.

Confirming the incident to our report, Markmentors Coach, Adeka Daudu said the injured players were currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

Speaking with our correspondent on Friday, the Chairman of Markmentors Basketball Team, Igoche Mark condemned in totality the incident, describing it as very unfortunate.

He said, “In a basketball match like every other sports, you either win or lose. If you win, super and if otherwise, accept your fate and bow out gallantly. Learn from your mistakes and prepare for your next game. I fear for the future of basketball in Nigeria if we start entertaining this kind of attitude that we must win all home matches.”

Mr. Igoche, who wondered why basketball game should be turned into a win or die affairs, said, “I rather pull my team out of the NBBF league than risk the lives of any of my players or officials."

“This is supposed to be a basketball game and not boxing or wrestling. This is really sad, I must confess. Up till now, we are yet to even receive a call from officials of the host team after the attack. It is a bad omen to the basketball community and it should be condemned in its totality. In as much as we love this game so much, in as much as we are trying so hard to promote, encourage and build the game in Nigeria, we would not want to risk the lives of promising youths to some unpatriotic elements,” Igoche added.

He called on the Nigerian Basketball Federation to deal with this issue appropriately without bias, re-emphasizing that, Markmentors will pull out of the Kwese sponsored NBBF League if the culprits go scot free.

Meanwhile, a text message to the Niger State Police Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana was not replied at the time of this report, just as efforts to reach the Niger Potters Coach Ishaq Yahaya could not yield any result at the time of this report.

source>>>http://dailypost.ng/2017/07/21/many-injured-markmentors-escape-death-minna-photos/

seun, lalasticlala

You just did copy and paste and expecting to make front page... better credit Daily Post

Nigeria’s music legend and Still Searching crooner, Chief Dr. Bongos Ikwue has reportedly embraced Christianity as his religion, and has been commissioned an evangelist.

The Methodist Arch Bishop of Otukpo Diocese, Most Reverend Oliver Proclaimed him an Evangelist and changed his name to Ebenezer at the Norcross Memorial Methodist Church in Otukpo, Benue State.

Bongos, who clocked his 75 year on earth recently made the decision to ‘accept Christ’ at the thanksgiving service put together by his family to celebrate his birthday on Saturday, July 8, 2017.

www.THENIGERIAN.NEWS gathered that the singer who is known for his popular hit song ‘Cock Crow at Dawn’ had in the past said he doesn’t doubt the existence of God but hates religion and will never go to church. His guiding mantra had always been - “The only sin is laziness, the only religion is hard work.”

Narrating the incident, a preacher in Benue State, Pastor Abel Uloko said: “This is the turning Point, 10 days ago, in the company of my beloved wife, we joined hundreds other people to the Thanksgiving Service in honour of Dr. Bongos Ikwue as he turned his heart over to the Lord.

“My joy knew no bounds as The Methodist Arch Bishop of Otukpo Diocese, Most Reverend Oliver proclaimed/ commissioned him as an Evangelist with a new name, Ebenezer.

"Interestingly, when I took to the stage to address the attendees at the reception and recount my 23 year old history and holy adventure with him, he corrected me when I addressed him as Dr. Ebenezer Bongos Ikwue, he charged at me for omitting his Ecclesiastical Title. I had to address him correctly, Evangelist Dr. Ebenezer Bongos Ikwue.

“To God be the Glory forevermore! God is still in the business of changing lives and calling men to Himself. Friends, do not give up on anybody, for me and Bongos, it took 23 years after I preached Jesus to him for him to come to repentance. Just keep Lifting up the name of Jesus and He will draw men unto Himself,” he said.

Meanwhile, fans and friends of the singer have been congratulating him on his recent decision.

SOURCE>>>http://thenigerian.news/entertainment/nigerian-singer-bongos-ikwue-now-evangelist/

By Ameh Comrade Godwin

As clock ticks for the 2019 presidential election, the campaign posters of former Senate President and the senator representing Benue South, David Mark have flooded the social media.

The posters show Mark in a red and black traditional Idoma cap, clad in a grey agbada.

The development came four days after the PDP zoned its presidency slot to north.

An inscription of ‘WANTED’ is boldly written over the top of the poster with PDP logo and another write up entitled ‘change the change.’

Below the poster, sponsored by Middle Belt Volunteers, is another inscription which reads, “Senator Dr. David Mark Alechenu Bonaventure Mark (GCON) for President 2019.”

Aside social media, DAILY POST reports that the posters have been spotted in some places in Abuja, Igah Ikeje, Okpo in Kogi State, as well as some parts of Kaduna State.

Speaking with our correspondent, an official of the group, Sunday Argah said Mark happened to be the strongest person that would challenge the current government.
“Yes, we are presenting him (Mark) as our candidate in 2019. He is the man to beat,” he told DAILY POST

Reacting to the campaign, James Oche, the coordinator of Mark campaign organisation, Door to Door, said, though the posters did not come from them it was a clear indication that Nigerians were yearning for a change.

He said, “it is a testimony of his eight years of unblemished leadership he gave to Nigerians in the senate.

"He has no doubt shown that he is one of the Nigerians that can manage and provide real leadership in a country that has numerous ethnic groups

“For now, he is more concerned with ensuring that PDP put their house together so as to play their role of opposition perfectly.”

The Idoma people in Benue State had in 2015 asked Mark to join the presidential race.

His ambition reverberated during a reception in his honour by the Idoma League of Professors, ILP, led by Prof. Owoicho Akpa where they asked the former military general to run for president.

SOURCE.....http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/07/2019-middle-belt-presents-david-mark.html

The Global Amnesty Watch (GAW) has exonerated the Nigerian government from the alleged use of child soldiers in the counter-insurgency war in the northeaster part of Nigeria.

GAW said the claim by the United States 2017 Trafficking in Persons Report that accused the Civilian JTF of recruiting children in the fight against Boko Haram is false.

Recall that the organisation had vowed to investigate allegations of the use of child soldiers in the counter-terrorism war in the North-Eastern part of the country, saying it categorically contravened the Child Soldier Prohibition Act 2008.

However, after rigorous investigations, the Human Rights and humanitarian organization said the report was not only misleading, but a deliberate attempt to belittle the efforts of the Nigerian military in its fight against insurgency.

Mrs Helen Adesola, the Country’s Representative of Global Amnesty Watch said the instances of underage persons or children being conscripted to fight in the crisis was limited to Boko Haram, which abducts children, brainwash them, ply them with drugs and send them out to fight.


Below is the full report of the investigation.

INTRODUCTION
The United States 2017 Trafficking in Persons Report accused the Civilian JTF of recruiting child fighters and therefore placing minors in hostile environment in contravention of the Child Soldier Prohibition Act, CSPA, 2008. The accusation was expanded to imply that the Nigerian government and military authorities were responsible for recruiting these children even when the vigilante group operates voluntarily.

A likely consequence of this is further unveiling of sanctions and measure against Nigeria that could tilt the balance in favour of terrorists as opposed to safeguarding the wellbeing of the civilian population that had been forced in the past to adopt desperate ploys to stay safe. It became pertinent that far reaching decisions are not taken on the strength of faulty report or flawed research.

The Global Amnesty Watch commissioned an investigation to establish the veracity or otherwise of the US report in line with its stated objective of monitoring and observing adherence to human rights issues in areas with ongoing conflicts. The Global Amnesty Watch has worked in Nigeria's northeast and has teams of researchers and experts that were dispatched for the assignment.
BACKGROUND (CIVILIAN JTF)
The seven years of Boko Haram terrorists activities have greatly impacted Nigeria especially in the northeast of the country where Borno, Yobe, Adamawa and Bauchi experience the brutality of insurgent. Being the birthplace of the terror group, Borno remain the epicenter that has suffered the harshest form of depravity the group's fighters have unleashed.

Counter –insurgency efforts were largely ineffective in the period before February 2015 when the start of military operations against Boko Haram were cited as reason for postponing the General Elections by six weeks. Nigeria was faced with arms embargo at about this time which limited the ability of the military and its leadership as constituted then to effectively fight the terrorists. In the period beginning since 2009, Boko Haram freely attacked villages and communities in and around Borno often sacking entire districts, pillage and burn markets, kill residents and abduct children and women.
In 2013 youths in their thousands "armed with sticks, swords, bows, arrows, and in rare occasions Dane guns" formed vigilante groups to repel Boko Haram attacks. The lose vigilante groups came to be known as Civilian JTF (Joint Task Force).

Over the years, the Civilian JTF has contributed to the counter-insurgency war by deploying their knowledge of the terrain and familiarity with the locality to hunt down Boko Haram suspect, apprehend them and hand them over to security agencies.
The state government has streamlined the activities of the group through screening, training and absorbing some of them into state employment schemes. It must be emphasized that none of these schemes is opened to minors and in most cases those that got these assignments are above 24 years of age.

METHODOLOGY
The Global Amnesty Watch investigated the allegations of the recruitment and use of children or underage persons as fighters in by the Civilian JTF using various methodologies to ensure that all possible areas are covered. These include:
Content analysis of records to which members of the Civilian JTF are subscribed.
Content analysis of media reports of the activities of Civilian JTF.
Review of field reports from Global Amnesty Watch researchers and experts.
Witness interviews.

FINDINGS
Content Analysis of Records:
The Borno State Government has carried out intervention programmes like empowerment schemes and training for members of the Civilian JTF. These programmes required them to register and provide personal details that include Date of Birth (DoB). These details are available in record archives of the state.

The finding from analyzing these records is that even when the 2013 formation year of Civilian JTF is factored in the DoBs on record showed that those that were captured were of age, being older than 18 years old at the time of joining the group. Other information like educational level support this fact because many of them being at holders of at least a basic diploma of having completed one form of apprenticeship or the other post-secondary school, were well past the minimum age before becoming part of the Civilian JTF.

Content Analysis of Media Reports:
A review of media report indicated that this is not the first time that the Civilian JTF has been accused of recruiting child fighters in their war against Boko Haram. A pattern was however established that showed that each time such reports are issued and Civil Society Organizations question them the authors were usually unable to defend their claims and in many instances simply disappear such that nothing is heard from their claims again. The claim that Civilian JTF are using child fighters is usually given weight by tying it to the forced recruitment of abducted children as Boko Haram fighters by the terrorists. This strategy simply globalize the forced engagement of children in the war without zeroing down on the party that is primarily responsible for the act, which makes it possible to blame the Civilian JTF for the atrocities committed by Boko Haram.

Publish potographs and videos were also reviewed, which raised the prospect that the victory gatherings that follow successful operations against Boko Haram could have been misconstrued since children would usually mix up with Civilian JTF members in the course of Civilian JTF members in the course of cheering them on the streets. No video or photographic evidence were found of minors engaging Boko Haram fighters.
Review of Field Reports:

Experts working for Global Amnesty Watch had undertaken several field investigations and reports in the number of years that the organization has been working in tracking human rights issues in the counter-terrorism operations against Boko Haram in the northeast of Nigeria. The use of minors has been a red flag that our experts and researchers look out for in the course of gathering information. These reports have been reviewed to collate secondary data on the use of child soldiers. The instances of underage persons or children being conscripted to fight in the crisis was limited to Boko Haram, which abducts children, brainwash them, ply them with drugs and send them out to fight.
Witness Interviews:

The Global Amnesty Watch sent researchers to conduct interviews that span across the Civilian JTF's chain of command – vertically and horizontally. The questionnaire included items that interrogated the age at which the witness joined the Civilian JTF, if they knew of any child that was recruited as part of their batch at the point of joining the vigilante group, whether joining the group was mandatory or voluntary, and whether members are forced to remain in the Civilian JTF against their will.

Researchers interviewed 148 respondents between the ages of 21 and 45. It was discovered that the persons of the lower age (21 –24) had wanted to join the fight against Boko Haram since the formation of the vigilante group but were constrained to wait until they are older. Those that were older then 24 years old were able to join the group right from when it was formed. From the responses, membership of Civilian JTF is not forced so those that joined are able to live at their choosing.

OBSERVATIONS
Consistent with the poverty that was blamed for fueling the insurgency, some of the persons in the Civilian JTF might have had stunted growth as children which could account for the difficulty in placing their age by mere visual appraisal.

Boko Haram was and is still solely responsible for the use of child fighters. Since neither the Civilian JTF or a larger number of Boko Haram fighters wear uniforms, the likelihood is high that children compelled to fight by the terrorists could have been counted on the side of the Civilian JTF.

There was no case of the use of child fighters established against the Civilian JTF, whose members rather fight to protect women and children from terrorists attacks.
Accusations of engaging child fighters is not new and are often repeated from time to time even when there has never been any proof to continue repeating the claim.

Its status as a loose assemblage of vigilante groups makes the Civilian JTF lack the capacity to counter the allegations of using child fighters, which raises the prospect that it is being targeted for other reasons other than stated by the organizations making the allegations.

CONCLUSION
This report found allegation that the Civilian JTF recruited children as fighters to be an outright falsehood, and lies that mark a descent to an unacceptable low for any reputable organization or entity to make.

source>>>>>http://thenigerian.news/uncategorized/boko-haram-us-lied-claims-child-solider-civilian-jtf-global-amnesty-watch/

I have been wondering about this since last night, which of the factions won the Osun West By-election? Is it the Sheriff-led faction or the Markafi group?

seun, lalasticalala, any idea?

www.idomavoice.com

Suspected armed robbers have killed a 28-year-old young man identified as Sunday Aba Ogidi, famously known as Enwu in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu LGA of Benue State.

WWW.IDOMAVOICE.COM The young man was accosted by the daredevil gunmen between Eke and Ugbokolo road Benue where they bulleted him to death around 4pm on Sunday.

Confirming the incident to IDOMA VOICE on Monday, Johnson Agada, the Publicity Secretary of Ai Oji Community, described the incident as very unfortunate.

Agada said Ogidi is a native of Odoba in Otukpa.


source>>>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2017/07/another-idoma-son-killed-by-robbers-in.html

[url]THENIGERIAN.NEWS[/url] can authoritatively report that the 28-year-old woman, who was sacked by her husband for moaning while being raped by robbers recently has finally arrived her country home in Owukpa for spiritual cleansing.

The woman, whose name was given as Ejalo (surname withheld) arrived her husband’s Umufu home at Ugbugbu community in Owukpa, Ogbadibo LGA of Benue State for the exercise.
Our source revealed that the woman had gone for HIV test in Lagos before leaving but the result showed negative. However, the doctor asked her to return in six months time for another test to ascertain she is free form any from of STD and pregnancy.

The insider said, the woman, who hailed from Ifikeri, in Itabono Owukpa is expected to spend sometimes in the village to perfect the spiritual cleansing.

“During this process, she is not expected to step into her father in-law’s compound nor shake hand with the oldest person in the family. She would be forced to go before Ekwu Anya in Ipole Ugbugbu with a three-day old chick and some kolanuts for prayers.

“From there, she would move to Aje’Owukpa in Ipole Owukpa where the cleansing would perfected by the chief priest,” the source added.

Asked if the husband is ready to take her back, the insider, who would not want his name mentioned said, the man had already sent the bride price to the go-before so he could return it to the wife’s family.

“The truth of the matter is that the man is not ready to accept the wife back. He had since sent the bride price to the Ogbobonya for a refund but some family elders are still trying to meditate to see how they could resolve the matter,” the source added.

Speaking on the development, the Ochoklobia of Ogbadibo, Johnson Agada said the man should accept the wife back after the spiritual cleansing since it was a case rape, the gods would look the other way.

“No, its not really her fault. It’s really painful. The man should allow her do alekwu and return home,” the source added.

When reached, the eldest man in Ugbugbu community, Mr. Ameh declined to comment on the issue.

“I am a Christian, so I don’t really have much to say about this. It would be better they settle it rather than involving the public,” the centenarian told THE NIGERIAN.

SOURCE>>>http://thenigerian.news/crime/shocking-update-woman-sacked-moaning-raped-robbers/

Evans: I don’t use ‘juju’ to track criminals – ACP Abba Kyari opens up on arrest of billionaire kidnapper



ACP Abba Kyari, a Kanuri, is a quintessential crime buster, a cop who puts the fear of God in criminals, an officer of the law who restored public confidence in police's ability to crack criminal cases.



Proficiency and hard work earned him the reputation of a ‘first-class crime buster.’ He has to his credit a long list of solved high-profile criminal cases, including the recent clampdown on acclaimed most brilliant kidnapper in Nigeria, Chikwudubem Onwuamadike otherwise known Evans.



In this EXCLUSIVE Interview with DAILY POST, this 'Guerrier sans peur' opens up on the secret of his power, what Evans did to him for five years as well as why he is no longer afraid of death.



Congratulations on your latest feat by bringing Evans on his knells.

May Allah be praised. Thank you.



How long have you been looking for Evans?

I have been on his trail since the past five years. He really gave us a tough time



Why tough times, was he more sophisticated that your team?

Not really, I think he is the smartest criminal I have ever seen in my entire life. Among all the high-profile robbers and kidnappers we have nabbed, Evans stands to be the smartest. He really gave me headache because we couldn’t track him.



How true is the report that his sister showed you his hideout?

That is not true. He kidnapped someone and refused to release the person after collecting ransom of N300m. When the victim’s family called, he asked them to bring another N300m. unfortunately for him, the victim escaped and alerted the police. However, on getting there, they had fled but left some details behind. That was how we traced them to him.



What was his reaction when he saw you?

That guy is very smart. On sighting us he was shocked to his marrow, he wanted to run but when he sighted my pistol he surrendered. He never thought he could ever be arrested. He was speechless for hours because he made sure he equipped himself with all the gadgets that would not enable us track him.



Would you say his arrest is your greatest feat as an intelligent Police officer?

Well, I think my biggest catch was a notorious kidnapper called Abiodun Egunjobi, otherwise known as Godogodo. The man had killed over 200 Nigerians. Upon his arrested, he admitted killing over 50 policemen and took away their riffle. But he is not as smart as Evans.



Some people believe you use spiritual power to track criminals, how true is this?

I don’t have any spiritual power aside the almighty Allah. There is no other secret aside God, hardwork and dedication. If you have been to developed countries, then you would know Nigeria still has a long way to God. In this job, I try to be focused and dedicated. This is the secret to a successful life. I don’t use any juju in the course of my duty.



Are you not afraid of being attacked by these people?

Well, when I ventured into this job, I know what it entails so there is nothing to be scatred one, though one has to be very careful. Of course, you don’t except me to party around like other people would do. I try as much as possible to be careful. Like, before you came here, you were screamed and they people at the gate made sure no one comes in here with any weapon to attack anyone?



When are you going to arrest Benue most wanted criminal, Ghana?

All I can say now is, juts watchout. I don’t want to speak much on that hence it becomes an empty noise. Nigerians will see serious soon?



Kate Henshaw and other Nigerians have been trashing you for celebrating and snapping pictures with Evans, what’s your reaction?

Who is Kate Henshaw and what does she know? She must be out of her mind to criticize us. Even in other developed countries, people celebrate the capture of criminals and I wonder why she is running her mouth criticizing us why she has never caught a fly in her entire life.



There were reports that you are at loggerheads with the IGP Ibrahim Idris for snubbing you in the special promotion for your officials for the recent feat?

When I read that stuff, I laughed because those people don’t event know how the police operates. The IGP only has the power to promote constable, corporal and sergeant. Any other promotion above that must be done by the Police Service Commission. I wonder where they got their news from?



Who is going to be the next victim?

Will surely let you know when the time comes. So hold your breathe.
source>>>>http://dailypost.ng/2017/06/24/evans-dont-use-juju-track-criminals-acp-abba-kyari-opens-arrest-billionaire-kidnapper/



Seun, lalasticlala

The Center for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, CESJET, has described report of the panel of inquiry set up by the Nigerian Army to investigate alleged human rights violations by army personnel in the counter-terrorism war in Nigeria as impartial, neutral and most professional.

Recall that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, had announced that officers of the Nigerian Army who are found guilty of Human Rights abuses, especially in connection with arrested Boko Haram terrorists and members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) will not go unpunished.

The report was submitted to the Chief of Army Staff on May 18, 2017 and due for gazette by the Army Council for posterity.

Speaking on the development, CESJET Executive Director, Joyce Ogwu, said the centre was pleased with release of the anticipated report of the Nigerian Army Board of Inquiry (BOI) inaugurated by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), describing it ‘most neutral and professionally done.’

Ogwu, who addressed newsmen in Abuja on Sunday, commended the six-member panel chaired by Major General A.T.Jibril for expeditiously investigating and prodding deep into the alleged human rights violations by some army personnel.

She said, CESJET was, “equally pleased that despite the frightening and highly scandalous figures of claims of extra-judicial killings of Boko Haram suspects in Army detention facilities in Borno state and some members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), the panel diligently conducted a detailed, faultless and splendid inquiry by meeting all the different stakeholders covered by the alleged human rights abuses and found the claims by AI very spurious and patently false.

“The published report of the Army BOI embodied a thorough, impartial and neutral inquest into the allegations gleaned from the tissue of evidences and testimonies by victims and non-victims alike. The exoneration of the Amy personnel of culpability or complexity in its anti-terrorism campaigns is indication of Nigerian Army’s unflinching commitment and adherence to the highest ethical standards of professionalism and discipline in the execution of its assignments. This is a fact abundantly buttressed by the COAS, Gen. Buratai, as signposted by the setting up of the Human Rights Desk at the Nigerian Army Headquarters (AHQs) Abuja,” he said.

According to her, by this development, “we dare to frown, restate and reaffirm our objection at the suspiciously covert role of Amnesty International as terrorism mongers in Nigeria and the promotion of same with such false reports to the detriment of Nigerians and security forces battling to tame the monster of terrorism in Nigeria. The recent repudiation of AI’s claims of human rights violations as contained in its report on army personnel tallies with the proof of emptiness of previous similar reports from the organization conducted by other independent bodies. We therefore call on the Nigerian Government, Civil Society Organizations’ (CSOs) and the International community among others, to take a critical interest in the conspicuously biased and anti-Nigerian posture of Amnesty International in the country.”

The centre further appealed to the Army Council to consider reviewing the subsisting sanctions and punishments on Army Personnel, in the event a prima facie case of human rights abuses has been established against any officer.

She said the measure became imperative in view of the contemporary reality of terrorism and the delicate nature of the prosecution of anti-terrorism war by troops, which often involve the risk of life and death of victims they are constrained to rescue, vis-à-vis safeguarding their own lives.

“British Prime Minister, Theresa May has provided insight into the delicateness of the terrorism combat war and the human rights protection laws that appear to embolden terrorists and already thinking of tinkering with UK human rights laws that provide shield for terrorists. It is our thinking that military personnel engaged in terrorism combat wars should also be entitled to some measure of relief on the strictness of the application of human rights abuses laws,” she added.

SOURCE>>>>>http://thenigerian.news/news/human-rights-inquiry-armys-panel-report-impartial-neutral-professional-cesjet/