15:07 27/06/2015
Abuja - A member of the House of Representatives, Amuda Garba
(APC-Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Kwara) , has expressed optimism that the
party would move beyond its present challenge.
Garba, who
expressed the opinion during interview with media in Abuja, added that
APC had sailed beyond more precarious situations.
Garba added that
the problems in the Senate and House of Representatives would be
surmounted and the party would remain stronger and united.
He said in view of recent fisticuffs in the House, "all will go back and get our acts right within the party."
"Right
from the beginning, the leadership of the party was challenging, the
presidential primaries came with its own challenges, even the choice of
the vice presidential candidate came with its own challenges."
"So, it is not a new thing. The legislature is always a very vibrant stage. That is why we are saying what we are saying."
"But
as loyal members of the party, as people who believe in the party and
what the party stands for, we will go back to mend our fences and will
come with a harmonized position."
"I can assure you that when the House reconvenes, we will be coming with a unified position", he said.
On complaints that fighting was not part of the promised change, he said that change does not come in any particular prototype.
"Sometimes, the change you promised is for events like this to happen and for the right positions to be upheld."
He
said the recent fisticuffs resulted from the party’s recommendation
that some candidates should occupy principal positions and the caucuses
in the House having a different view.
According to him, the caucuses made up of members of the House of should have decided who occupied the positions.
"It
is clearly stated in the Order Book that it is the party’s caucus
within the House that determines their leadership. But we know the party
can intervene and create a platform for election so that we would have
done our internal democracy."
He advised his colleagues to remember the interest of their constituencies.
"To
be truly successful as a legislator, one must not forget the reason for
which he was elected which is to be the voice of his/her constituents. "
Saturday, 27 June 2015
Keshi denies knowledge of Enyeama’s disciplinary invitation
Soccer Laduma
15:07 27/06/2015
Lagos - As another controversy between the Nigeria Football Federation and Vincent Enyeama over his supposed invitation to appear before the Disciplinary Committee lingers, Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has refrained from getting involved in the controversy, by saying he isn’t aware if Enyeama was invited or not.
When asked why his captain didn’t appear before the NFF Disciplinary Committee, Keshi said he was only aware of his own case, and wasn’t aware if Enyeama was invited or not.
“I don’t know about Enyeama and I don’t know whether he was invited or not, I only know about myself and I appeared before the committee,” he said.
The 32-year old Super Eagles captain was conspicuously missing when the NFF Disciplinary Committee sat on Tuesday, but the Lille of France goalkeeper denied shunning the NFF, insisting he wasn’t invited.
“I respect my country and those in charge of our football, which is why I find the whole thing strange."
“As the captain, I only raised our concerns about the venue before our game, which didn’t go down well with the football authority."
"I was told to apologise for my comments, which I did immediately and they told me that’s fine.”
“I only received a letter cautioning me about it [my comments] and to avoid a repeat of such."
“Personally, as it was resolved in-house I thought that was the end of the matter.
“But I only found out about a disciplinary hearing in the media but I didn’t get any letter to that effect,” he told the BBC.
Meanwhile, NFF spokesperson, Ademola Olajire told a local radio station they sent an invitation to Enyeama to appear before the Disciplinary Committee.
“I can confirm to you that Vincent Enyeama was sent an invitation by the NFF though the proper channel we usually communicate with him with," Olajire said.
15:07 27/06/2015
Lagos - As another controversy between the Nigeria Football Federation and Vincent Enyeama over his supposed invitation to appear before the Disciplinary Committee lingers, Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has refrained from getting involved in the controversy, by saying he isn’t aware if Enyeama was invited or not.
When asked why his captain didn’t appear before the NFF Disciplinary Committee, Keshi said he was only aware of his own case, and wasn’t aware if Enyeama was invited or not.
“I don’t know about Enyeama and I don’t know whether he was invited or not, I only know about myself and I appeared before the committee,” he said.
The 32-year old Super Eagles captain was conspicuously missing when the NFF Disciplinary Committee sat on Tuesday, but the Lille of France goalkeeper denied shunning the NFF, insisting he wasn’t invited.
“I respect my country and those in charge of our football, which is why I find the whole thing strange."
“As the captain, I only raised our concerns about the venue before our game, which didn’t go down well with the football authority."
"I was told to apologise for my comments, which I did immediately and they told me that’s fine.”
“I only received a letter cautioning me about it [my comments] and to avoid a repeat of such."
“Personally, as it was resolved in-house I thought that was the end of the matter.
“But I only found out about a disciplinary hearing in the media but I didn’t get any letter to that effect,” he told the BBC.
Meanwhile, NFF spokesperson, Ademola Olajire told a local radio station they sent an invitation to Enyeama to appear before the Disciplinary Committee.
“I can confirm to you that Vincent Enyeama was sent an invitation by the NFF though the proper channel we usually communicate with him with," Olajire said.
Omeruo open to move away from England
Soccer Laduma
15:07 27/06/2015
Lagos - Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo has spoken of his desire to play top flight football next season ‘not necessarily in England’, but admits he would love to play in the English Premier League ahead of the new season.
The 21-year old has been sent out on loan to Ado Den Haag in the Dutch top flight and Middlesbrough in the Championship over the last three seasons, but is set to resume pre-season with Chelsea next month.
Having earlier told News24 of his desire to prove himself to Jose Mourinho, he however concedes it is Chelsea that will decide where he plays next season, but says he will prefer it to be in the Premier League or a top flight club elsewhere.
“I think I’d rather prefer to play in the top flight not necessarily in England,” he told News24, “Though it depends on what the options are.
“I said before that I want to prove myself to the manager (Mourinho) and hopefully I’ll get to remain (at Chelsea), but they will have to decide.
“I want to play at Stamford Bridge and I want the fans to watch me every week but if the club wants me to go out on loan, I will choose the best option so I can get more experience,” he said.
Lagos - Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo has spoken of his desire to play top flight football next season ‘not necessarily in England’, but admits he would love to play in the English Premier League ahead of the new season.
The 21-year old has been sent out on loan to Ado Den Haag in the Dutch top flight and Middlesbrough in the Championship over the last three seasons, but is set to resume pre-season with Chelsea next month.
Having earlier told News24 of his desire to prove himself to Jose Mourinho, he however concedes it is Chelsea that will decide where he plays next season, but says he will prefer it to be in the Premier League or a top flight club elsewhere.
“I think I’d rather prefer to play in the top flight not necessarily in England,” he told News24, “Though it depends on what the options are.
“I said before that I want to prove myself to the manager (Mourinho) and hopefully I’ll get to remain (at Chelsea), but they will have to decide.
“I want to play at Stamford Bridge and I want the fans to watch me every week but if the club wants me to go out on loan, I will choose the best option so I can get more experience,” he said.
NDLEA arrests 85 suspects, seizes 55kg drugs in Ebonyi
15:07 27/06/2015
Abakaliki - Raph Igwenagu, Ebonyi State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) on Saturday said it arrested 85 suspects for drug related offences in the first half of 2015.
Igwenagu made this known in Abakaliki at a forum to commemorate the 2015 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
He said 75 males and 10 females were arrested while 55 kilogrammes of drugs were seized from the suspects.
"The command also secured the conviction of 25 suspects while 35 drug users were counselled and discharged and three drug dependent persons are still undergoing rehabilitation," he said.
According to him, drug abuse does not only influence anti-social behaviour, it is a major predisposing factor for all forms of crimes and criminalities such as youth restiveness, armed robbery, cultism, assassination, among others.
The commander held that youth’s involvement in drug abuse had brought about unprecedented breakdown in societal and family values, increase in school dropouts, low productivity and the spread of HIV and AIDS.
He called on Nigerians to join hands in the effort to critically appraise the menace of drug challenges in the society and to evolve means to eradicate its inherent dangers to the country.
"This programme serves as a veritable platform for the agency to critically appraise its activities in the better part of the year as well as provide the compass necessary to chart a way forward", he said.
The Commissioner of police in the state, Dikko Maigari, cautioned Nigerian youths against involvement in drug abuse in view of its damaging effect on the body and the society.
He warned that the long arms of the law would always catch up with those who are involved in drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Other speakers on the occasion were, Bibian Okpoko, Comptroller of Prisons, Ebonyi State, Magnus Eze, Coordinator, Okposi Development Center and Richard Anichukwu, state Coordinator, NAFDAC.
The Theme of the celebration is Lets Develop Our Lives,Our Communities,Our Identies Without Drugs.
Abakaliki - Raph Igwenagu, Ebonyi State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) on Saturday said it arrested 85 suspects for drug related offences in the first half of 2015.
Igwenagu made this known in Abakaliki at a forum to commemorate the 2015 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
He said 75 males and 10 females were arrested while 55 kilogrammes of drugs were seized from the suspects.
"The command also secured the conviction of 25 suspects while 35 drug users were counselled and discharged and three drug dependent persons are still undergoing rehabilitation," he said.
According to him, drug abuse does not only influence anti-social behaviour, it is a major predisposing factor for all forms of crimes and criminalities such as youth restiveness, armed robbery, cultism, assassination, among others.
The commander held that youth’s involvement in drug abuse had brought about unprecedented breakdown in societal and family values, increase in school dropouts, low productivity and the spread of HIV and AIDS.
He called on Nigerians to join hands in the effort to critically appraise the menace of drug challenges in the society and to evolve means to eradicate its inherent dangers to the country.
"This programme serves as a veritable platform for the agency to critically appraise its activities in the better part of the year as well as provide the compass necessary to chart a way forward", he said.
The Commissioner of police in the state, Dikko Maigari, cautioned Nigerian youths against involvement in drug abuse in view of its damaging effect on the body and the society.
He warned that the long arms of the law would always catch up with those who are involved in drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Other speakers on the occasion were, Bibian Okpoko, Comptroller of Prisons, Ebonyi State, Magnus Eze, Coordinator, Okposi Development Center and Richard Anichukwu, state Coordinator, NAFDAC.
The Theme of the celebration is Lets Develop Our Lives,Our Communities,Our Identies Without Drugs.
Gunmen attack western Mali town in pre-dawn raid
15:07 27/06/2015
Bamako - Gunmen attacked a town in western Mali near the border
with neighbouring Mauritania before dawn on Saturday, a town resident
and a senior military source said.
It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack, which took place a week after a Tuareg-led northern rebel alliance signed a peace deal with the government aimed at ending their uprising and allowing the authorities to focus on combatting Islamist militants.
Gunfire erupted at around 05:00 in the town of Nara, around 30km south of border with Mauritania.
"There was an exchange of gunfire with the [Malian army]. The attack was repelled. The army is patrolling in the town to look for them," army spokesperson Colonel Souleymane Maiga said.
There was no immediate information on casualties, he added.
A resident said that gunfire was still being heard several hours after the clashes began.
"We are in our houses. No one is going out. All the houses are closed up. The fighting is going on now," one town resident said, asking not to be named.
A French-led military campaign in early 2013 liberated northern Mali from al Qaeda-linked Islamist rebels, who seized control of the area after the Tuareg uprising led to a military coup that plunged Mali into chaos.
Insecurity persists however, and though the violence, often blamed on the remnants of Islamist groups, is generally focused in the desert north, attacks have in recent months crept further south.
Dozens of suspected Islamist militants attacked a police base near Mali's southern border with Ivory Coast earlier this month.
It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack, which took place a week after a Tuareg-led northern rebel alliance signed a peace deal with the government aimed at ending their uprising and allowing the authorities to focus on combatting Islamist militants.
Gunfire erupted at around 05:00 in the town of Nara, around 30km south of border with Mauritania.
"There was an exchange of gunfire with the [Malian army]. The attack was repelled. The army is patrolling in the town to look for them," army spokesperson Colonel Souleymane Maiga said.
There was no immediate information on casualties, he added.
A resident said that gunfire was still being heard several hours after the clashes began.
"We are in our houses. No one is going out. All the houses are closed up. The fighting is going on now," one town resident said, asking not to be named.
A French-led military campaign in early 2013 liberated northern Mali from al Qaeda-linked Islamist rebels, who seized control of the area after the Tuareg uprising led to a military coup that plunged Mali into chaos.
Insecurity persists however, and though the violence, often blamed on the remnants of Islamist groups, is generally focused in the desert north, attacks have in recent months crept further south.
Dozens of suspected Islamist militants attacked a police base near Mali's southern border with Ivory Coast earlier this month.
At least 8 Britons, 1 Belgian, 1 German among Tunisia dead
15:07 27/06/2015
Tunis - Eight Britons, one Belgian and one German have been identified among the 38 people killed by an Islamist gunman at a Tunisian beach resort, the health ministry said on Saturday.
"Ten bodies have been identified out of 38 - eight Britons, a Belgian and a German," said senior ministry official Naoufel Somrani.
Another 39 people were wounded including British, German and Belgian nationals.
The ministry said more time was needed to identify the other victims because most of them were in beachwear at the time of the attack and were not carrying identification.
The Islamic State jihadist group claimed responsibility for the attack on Friday by an assailant who pulled a gun from inside a beach umbrella and opened fire on crowds of tourists on the beach and by a hotel pool in the popular Mediterranean resort of Port el Kantaoui.
Tunisian Prime Minister Habib Essid said early Saturday that most of the dead were British but that they also included Germans, Belgians and French.
Tunis - Eight Britons, one Belgian and one German have been identified among the 38 people killed by an Islamist gunman at a Tunisian beach resort, the health ministry said on Saturday.
"Ten bodies have been identified out of 38 - eight Britons, a Belgian and a German," said senior ministry official Naoufel Somrani.
Another 39 people were wounded including British, German and Belgian nationals.
The ministry said more time was needed to identify the other victims because most of them were in beachwear at the time of the attack and were not carrying identification.
The Islamic State jihadist group claimed responsibility for the attack on Friday by an assailant who pulled a gun from inside a beach umbrella and opened fire on crowds of tourists on the beach and by a hotel pool in the popular Mediterranean resort of Port el Kantaoui.
Tunisian Prime Minister Habib Essid said early Saturday that most of the dead were British but that they also included Germans, Belgians and French.
British tour operators send planes to evacuate tourists from Tunisia
15:07 27/06/2015
London - British tour operators Thomson and First Choice sent 10 planes to evacuate tourists from Tunisia on Saturday after 39 people including at least five Britons were killed in the resort of Sousse in an attack claimed by Islamic State.
The British government said it expected the number of British casualties to rise after the attack on Friday at the Imperial Marhaba hotel in Sousse, 140km south of the capital Tunis. Other casualties included German and Belgian tourists.
"I expect it [the number of British casualties] to increase," British Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, told the BBC. "Most of the people were British and there were a large number of British caught up in the shooting."
A gunman disguised as a tourist opened fire on tourists as they lounged on the beach at the hotel, with a rifle he had hidden in an umbrella.
Terror attack
Thomson and First Choice said several of the people killed and injured were their customers and that they were working closely with the local authorities to confirm the exact details of casualties.
The tour operators said 10 Thomson Airways flights had gone to Tunisia to repatriate all of the companies' customers from Port El Kantaoui and Sousse, a total of approximately 2 500 people.
British Prime Minister David Cameron was due to chair a meeting of senior ministers on Saturday to discuss the response to the attack in Tunisia.
"I'll be chairing a COBRA meeting of senior ministers and officials shortly to continue discussing our response to the Tunisia terror attack," Cameron said on his Twitter account, referring to a meeting room where high-level security meetings take place.
The Foreign Office confirmed late on Friday that five Britons were among the dead but the British death toll was expected to rise. Tunisia is a popular holiday destination for British tourists.
The tour operators said they would be cancelling all Thomson and First Choice holidays to Tunisia for the next week, and that amendments could be made to bookings on holidays to Tunisia until July 24 with extra flights to Cape Verde, Rhodes and Gran Canaria offered as alternatives.
London - British tour operators Thomson and First Choice sent 10 planes to evacuate tourists from Tunisia on Saturday after 39 people including at least five Britons were killed in the resort of Sousse in an attack claimed by Islamic State.
The British government said it expected the number of British casualties to rise after the attack on Friday at the Imperial Marhaba hotel in Sousse, 140km south of the capital Tunis. Other casualties included German and Belgian tourists.
"I expect it [the number of British casualties] to increase," British Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, told the BBC. "Most of the people were British and there were a large number of British caught up in the shooting."
A gunman disguised as a tourist opened fire on tourists as they lounged on the beach at the hotel, with a rifle he had hidden in an umbrella.
Terror attack
Thomson and First Choice said several of the people killed and injured were their customers and that they were working closely with the local authorities to confirm the exact details of casualties.
The tour operators said 10 Thomson Airways flights had gone to Tunisia to repatriate all of the companies' customers from Port El Kantaoui and Sousse, a total of approximately 2 500 people.
British Prime Minister David Cameron was due to chair a meeting of senior ministers on Saturday to discuss the response to the attack in Tunisia.
"I'll be chairing a COBRA meeting of senior ministers and officials shortly to continue discussing our response to the Tunisia terror attack," Cameron said on his Twitter account, referring to a meeting room where high-level security meetings take place.
The Foreign Office confirmed late on Friday that five Britons were among the dead but the British death toll was expected to rise. Tunisia is a popular holiday destination for British tourists.
The tour operators said they would be cancelling all Thomson and First Choice holidays to Tunisia for the next week, and that amendments could be made to bookings on holidays to Tunisia until July 24 with extra flights to Cape Verde, Rhodes and Gran Canaria offered as alternatives.
The difference between Buhari and other politicians
09:48 26/06/2015
The difference between president Muhammdu Buhari and the other Nigerian politicians is his no-going-back policy. Before and after his election to become President of Nigeria PMB to most Nigerians is known by his "do what is right policy."
This to some corrupt-minded people have been so skeptical that things might come to change. His overwhelming victories in 28th march presidential election was a mixed effort made of the good, the bad and the ugly of all human endeavors. For the good ones, PMB would remain their friend forever, because to them, let every Nigerian be treated equally and without fear or favor.
And for the bad ones, he was supported in order to be free from being probe. These group of people has began to think another option since there is no any sentimentality of falling comrades. And the ugly ones are still the ones doing every worst to ridicule his reputation. But we all forgotten is the real PMB who does his work without minding whose ox is gored.
The difference between president Muhammdu Buhari and the other Nigerian politicians is his no-going-back policy. Before and after his election to become President of Nigeria PMB to most Nigerians is known by his "do what is right policy."
This to some corrupt-minded people have been so skeptical that things might come to change. His overwhelming victories in 28th march presidential election was a mixed effort made of the good, the bad and the ugly of all human endeavors. For the good ones, PMB would remain their friend forever, because to them, let every Nigerian be treated equally and without fear or favor.
And for the bad ones, he was supported in order to be free from being probe. These group of people has began to think another option since there is no any sentimentality of falling comrades. And the ugly ones are still the ones doing every worst to ridicule his reputation. But we all forgotten is the real PMB who does his work without minding whose ox is gored.
Corruption and terrorism in Nigeria
20:48 25/06/2015
Lagos - As every problem must definitely have a solution, Nigeria’s dual menace also doesn’t defy one. The government must first be sincere and willing to tackle this dual menace.
Then they should be ready to dedicate immense effort and time in ensuring that their visions become laudable reality. Critical pragmatic steps have to be taken, if this battle would be won.
The government must as a matter of urgency go to the root of this security challenge we now face on a daily basis. The government should as a matter of urgency overhaul our security system.
Moreover, the truth must be told we lack the sophisticated weaponry to suppress this insurgence. The government should endeavor to serve its true function; guarantee the security of lives and properties. All hands must be on deck; the government, non-governmental organizations, religious leaders and off course you and I.
There is dare need for the eradication of bribery, favoritism, nepotism and sectionalism; if free movement, peace and prosperity is to be achieved. Selfishness among individuals and government agencies which eventually yields corruption and marginalization and consequently terrorism should be discarded.
We must also employ a bottom-top approach, in tackling this ill. We must cure the cause and not only the symptoms. The known evils of inequality, poverty, and unemployment are viable seeds that have given birth to the big juicy evil fruits of corruption alongside terrorism. After all an idle hand is the devils workshop.
Joblessness leads to idleness and idleness leads to vices. This has to be addressed through well thought out and targeted programs of investment in education, healthcare, skills development and training.
Education must be a right not a privilege, as no country can expect to develop when it disenfranchises its intelligent poor. There is no direction left than the cancellation of negative principles and the cultivation of positive principles from now onward. The solution lies in volition for positive change at all levels.
The nuclear family has to develop positive values for the extended. The country must also develop a culture of relative openness, in contrast to the current bureaucratic climate of insecurity.
Merit system should be adopted in employment and distribution of natural resources. Any society that rewards bad behavior creates a moral hazard that may consume it. Nigerians need to absolutely cultivate the habit of security consciousness and rapidly report any equivocal security situation to the appropriate authority immediately. The challenge of quality leadership has to be combated also.
The leadership has to also look inward and project forward ways in which we can overcome this surmountable challenge. It should be a case of visionary leadership by example.
A wholesome leadership should attract fulfillment for the majority. A fulfilled polity provides no room for corruption or insecurity. Our leaders should not only be sensitive to the plight of the people they should also be proactive.
To create an atmosphere of mutual understanding; tolerance and positivity are values worth embracing, political rivalry which breeds bad blood and despotic infiltrations from despicable and questionable individuals cum cabals should be vehemently effaced. With this, the toll which these epidemics i.e. corruption and terrorism have, cannot successfully thrive in our beloved nation.
Just as Felix Adler puts it; “where the roots of private virtue are diseased, the fruit of public probity cannot but be corrupt”. It’s time to solve the problem from within and the solutions would definitely evolve on the outside. The time is now, the time is here.
The chaff has to be separated from the wheat. All perceived bad eggs in our society need be eradicated. When we come together with a strong will, definite sense of purpose, dedication and absolute altruism in tackling these dual menaces; I believe the sky would never be our limit but our starting point.
I have believed in Nigeria in the past, I believe in her collective effort now and her great future. When all these are effectively implemented, only then can we live the words of our anthem; and truly live in a “nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.”
Lagos - As every problem must definitely have a solution, Nigeria’s dual menace also doesn’t defy one. The government must first be sincere and willing to tackle this dual menace.
Then they should be ready to dedicate immense effort and time in ensuring that their visions become laudable reality. Critical pragmatic steps have to be taken, if this battle would be won.
The government must as a matter of urgency go to the root of this security challenge we now face on a daily basis. The government should as a matter of urgency overhaul our security system.
Moreover, the truth must be told we lack the sophisticated weaponry to suppress this insurgence. The government should endeavor to serve its true function; guarantee the security of lives and properties. All hands must be on deck; the government, non-governmental organizations, religious leaders and off course you and I.
There is dare need for the eradication of bribery, favoritism, nepotism and sectionalism; if free movement, peace and prosperity is to be achieved. Selfishness among individuals and government agencies which eventually yields corruption and marginalization and consequently terrorism should be discarded.
We must also employ a bottom-top approach, in tackling this ill. We must cure the cause and not only the symptoms. The known evils of inequality, poverty, and unemployment are viable seeds that have given birth to the big juicy evil fruits of corruption alongside terrorism. After all an idle hand is the devils workshop.
Joblessness leads to idleness and idleness leads to vices. This has to be addressed through well thought out and targeted programs of investment in education, healthcare, skills development and training.
Education must be a right not a privilege, as no country can expect to develop when it disenfranchises its intelligent poor. There is no direction left than the cancellation of negative principles and the cultivation of positive principles from now onward. The solution lies in volition for positive change at all levels.
The nuclear family has to develop positive values for the extended. The country must also develop a culture of relative openness, in contrast to the current bureaucratic climate of insecurity.
Merit system should be adopted in employment and distribution of natural resources. Any society that rewards bad behavior creates a moral hazard that may consume it. Nigerians need to absolutely cultivate the habit of security consciousness and rapidly report any equivocal security situation to the appropriate authority immediately. The challenge of quality leadership has to be combated also.
The leadership has to also look inward and project forward ways in which we can overcome this surmountable challenge. It should be a case of visionary leadership by example.
A wholesome leadership should attract fulfillment for the majority. A fulfilled polity provides no room for corruption or insecurity. Our leaders should not only be sensitive to the plight of the people they should also be proactive.
To create an atmosphere of mutual understanding; tolerance and positivity are values worth embracing, political rivalry which breeds bad blood and despotic infiltrations from despicable and questionable individuals cum cabals should be vehemently effaced. With this, the toll which these epidemics i.e. corruption and terrorism have, cannot successfully thrive in our beloved nation.
Just as Felix Adler puts it; “where the roots of private virtue are diseased, the fruit of public probity cannot but be corrupt”. It’s time to solve the problem from within and the solutions would definitely evolve on the outside. The time is now, the time is here.
The chaff has to be separated from the wheat. All perceived bad eggs in our society need be eradicated. When we come together with a strong will, definite sense of purpose, dedication and absolute altruism in tackling these dual menaces; I believe the sky would never be our limit but our starting point.
I have believed in Nigeria in the past, I believe in her collective effort now and her great future. When all these are effectively implemented, only then can we live the words of our anthem; and truly live in a “nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.”
5 basic (but super effective) ways to improve your skin
Marisa Crous
12:22 25/06/2015
Problem skin? No idea why? You might be getting the basics wrong.
Of course we all want glowing complexions like Noni Gasa and Beyoncé. But great skin is anything but easy to obtain. It kind of depends on whether or not you’ve won the genetic lottery it seems.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to ensure your chances of skin success.
1. Make sure you know your skin type
Knowing your skin type
is essential. Is it oily, combination, dry or normal?
• Normal skin: usually subtle and smooth (you are blessed if you have this ‘easy’ skin type)
• Combination skin: usually oily in the t-zone and normal in other areas of the face
• Dry skin: will show slight flaking and redness in places – it needs lots of moisturiser
• Oily skin: usually larger pores and a bit of a shine – especially in the t-zone
Image: Instagram
2. Invest in the right products for your skin type
Once you’ve figured out your skin type, be sure to use a cleanser and moisturiser that suit your skin type and its needs.
If you have very delicate, dry skin, try a creamy cleanser that won’t further dry out your skin. According to Glamour, salicylic acid cleansers and scrubs are again better for oily skin with larger pores.
In case of adult acne, be sure to consult your dermatologist for advice.
3. Remove make-up properly
No matter how tired you are at night, remove that make-up pronto! There is nothing worse than sleeping with your make-up on, it clogs the pores (blackheads!) and can even lead to skin allergies and rashes.
If you are really too lazy to remove make-up properly, i.e. make-up remover, cleanser, toner, moisturiser; at least use a wet wipe and follow with some night cream.
4. Sunscreen
Be sure to apply sunscreen daily. Many people find that it clogs their pores and leads to an increase in pimples; if this is the case, use a day cream with a built-in sun block as this is usually much lighter on your skin.
Make sure it’s higher than SPF 30.
5. Hydrate, eat healthily, exercise and sleep
Yes, this is kind of a given, but it’s perhaps the most important point.
You are what you eat, sleep and do. To improve the quality of your skin, be sure to drink lots of water, follow a balanced diet, do regular exercise to sweat out all those toxins and open up the pores; and sleep enough to avoid dull skin.
12:22 25/06/2015
Problem skin? No idea why? You might be getting the basics wrong.
Of course we all want glowing complexions like Noni Gasa and Beyoncé. But great skin is anything but easy to obtain. It kind of depends on whether or not you’ve won the genetic lottery it seems.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to ensure your chances of skin success.
1. Make sure you know your skin type
Knowing your skin type
is essential. Is it oily, combination, dry or normal?
• Normal skin: usually subtle and smooth (you are blessed if you have this ‘easy’ skin type)
• Combination skin: usually oily in the t-zone and normal in other areas of the face
• Dry skin: will show slight flaking and redness in places – it needs lots of moisturiser
• Oily skin: usually larger pores and a bit of a shine – especially in the t-zone
Image: Instagram
2. Invest in the right products for your skin type
Once you’ve figured out your skin type, be sure to use a cleanser and moisturiser that suit your skin type and its needs.
If you have very delicate, dry skin, try a creamy cleanser that won’t further dry out your skin. According to Glamour, salicylic acid cleansers and scrubs are again better for oily skin with larger pores.
In case of adult acne, be sure to consult your dermatologist for advice.
3. Remove make-up properly
No matter how tired you are at night, remove that make-up pronto! There is nothing worse than sleeping with your make-up on, it clogs the pores (blackheads!) and can even lead to skin allergies and rashes.
If you are really too lazy to remove make-up properly, i.e. make-up remover, cleanser, toner, moisturiser; at least use a wet wipe and follow with some night cream.
4. Sunscreen
Be sure to apply sunscreen daily. Many people find that it clogs their pores and leads to an increase in pimples; if this is the case, use a day cream with a built-in sun block as this is usually much lighter on your skin.
Make sure it’s higher than SPF 30.
5. Hydrate, eat healthily, exercise and sleep
Yes, this is kind of a given, but it’s perhaps the most important point.
You are what you eat, sleep and do. To improve the quality of your skin, be sure to drink lots of water, follow a balanced diet, do regular exercise to sweat out all those toxins and open up the pores; and sleep enough to avoid dull skin.
The real dangers of smoking cannabis
10:38 25/06/2015
The possession and use of cannabis is illegal in Nigeria, but despite this it is still one of the commonest illicit drugs abused in the country. Its use can lead to multiple health and psychiatric complications.
“Although cannabis is viewed as an innocent herb by many, there is increasing concern about adverse health consequences,” says Dr Lize Weich, senior psychiatrist and lecturer at Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
Many users become dependent on cannabis, it is estimated that about one in nine cannabis users will become dependent, while those who start using it in their teens have a one in six chance to become dependent. It is also linked to other medical complications, including heart attacks (one study found a nearly five-fold increased risk for this in the hour after use), as well as arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and strokes.
Smoking is the most common route of delivery of cannabis, so it is not surprising that lung problems, like chest infections, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are common among cannabis users.
Cannabis smoke also contains carcinogens (cancer causing agents) similar to that found in tobacco smoke and that may predispose an individual to lung cancer.
Cannabis use impairs driving ability and users are at a higher risk of car accidents.
Its use in pregnancy has been linked with neuro-behavioural problems in children.
“Furthermore, cannabis intoxication can lead to multiple psychiatric complications, like panic, anxiety, depression or psychotic symptoms,” Weich explains. Heavy cannabis use has been linked to reduced pro-social goal-directed behaviour (when individuals select actions based on their predicted consequences), apathy and diminished drive, referred to by some as the “amotivational syndrome”.
Long-term cannabis use can also affect memory and the ability to process information.
The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of cannabis use. “It is the most common illicit drug used by this group and has been linked with poor educational attainment, dropping out of school, later unemployment and lower life satisfaction and even with a decline in IQ,” says Weich.
Adolescent onset cannabis use has also been linked to various psychiatric problems in this age group, including an increased risk of developing schizophrenia and an increased risk of developing – a brain disorder which affects the way a person behaves, thinks and sees the world.
Although the cannabis plant contains in excess of 400 compounds, the most potent agent is delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC acts by activating the endocannabinoid receptor system, a delicate system that modulates the balance in other neurotransmitter systems, thereby ensuring optimal functioning of multiple biological functions including learning, memory, stress, appetite, movement and pain perception.
There is some potential medicinal benefit
Weich emphasizes that although there are some early studies that suggest potential medicinal benefit from cannabis use, including relief of neuropathic pain, increasing appetite and treating glaucoma, there is not yet sufficient evidence to support its efficacy and rule out harms and human trials in this regard is still largely lacking.
She says there is concern about the popular belief that cannabis is “medicinal” and thus “harmless and safe”, especially among children and adolescents. Studies have shown that this vulnerable population’s risk of use is influenced by how safely they perceive a drug to be.
“It is clear that legalising cannabis for medicinal use is an important topic that needs careful consideration. Much more research is required to establish efficacy along with a clear public message highlighting risks, especially among the youth,” says Weich.
The possession and use of cannabis is illegal in Nigeria, but despite this it is still one of the commonest illicit drugs abused in the country. Its use can lead to multiple health and psychiatric complications.
“Although cannabis is viewed as an innocent herb by many, there is increasing concern about adverse health consequences,” says Dr Lize Weich, senior psychiatrist and lecturer at Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
Many users become dependent on cannabis, it is estimated that about one in nine cannabis users will become dependent, while those who start using it in their teens have a one in six chance to become dependent. It is also linked to other medical complications, including heart attacks (one study found a nearly five-fold increased risk for this in the hour after use), as well as arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and strokes.
Smoking is the most common route of delivery of cannabis, so it is not surprising that lung problems, like chest infections, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are common among cannabis users.
Cannabis smoke also contains carcinogens (cancer causing agents) similar to that found in tobacco smoke and that may predispose an individual to lung cancer.
Cannabis use impairs driving ability and users are at a higher risk of car accidents.
Its use in pregnancy has been linked with neuro-behavioural problems in children.
“Furthermore, cannabis intoxication can lead to multiple psychiatric complications, like panic, anxiety, depression or psychotic symptoms,” Weich explains. Heavy cannabis use has been linked to reduced pro-social goal-directed behaviour (when individuals select actions based on their predicted consequences), apathy and diminished drive, referred to by some as the “amotivational syndrome”.
Long-term cannabis use can also affect memory and the ability to process information.
The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of cannabis use. “It is the most common illicit drug used by this group and has been linked with poor educational attainment, dropping out of school, later unemployment and lower life satisfaction and even with a decline in IQ,” says Weich.
Adolescent onset cannabis use has also been linked to various psychiatric problems in this age group, including an increased risk of developing schizophrenia and an increased risk of developing – a brain disorder which affects the way a person behaves, thinks and sees the world.
Although the cannabis plant contains in excess of 400 compounds, the most potent agent is delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC acts by activating the endocannabinoid receptor system, a delicate system that modulates the balance in other neurotransmitter systems, thereby ensuring optimal functioning of multiple biological functions including learning, memory, stress, appetite, movement and pain perception.
There is some potential medicinal benefit
Weich emphasizes that although there are some early studies that suggest potential medicinal benefit from cannabis use, including relief of neuropathic pain, increasing appetite and treating glaucoma, there is not yet sufficient evidence to support its efficacy and rule out harms and human trials in this regard is still largely lacking.
She says there is concern about the popular belief that cannabis is “medicinal” and thus “harmless and safe”, especially among children and adolescents. Studies have shown that this vulnerable population’s risk of use is influenced by how safely they perceive a drug to be.
“It is clear that legalising cannabis for medicinal use is an important topic that needs careful consideration. Much more research is required to establish efficacy along with a clear public message highlighting risks, especially among the youth,” says Weich.
Never tell a woman she looks "fine"
Lili
13:24 25/06/2015
You know when people use the word “literally” when they mean “figuratively” and then you get all snooty and tell them they literally don’t know what literally means?
Well the joke’s on you, ma’am.
Since the incorrect usage of “literally” was so widespread, The Oxford English Dictionary officially changed the meaning of literally to include both definitions. In 2011 already. So while literally still means in a literal sense as in: “Advanced Ebola symptoms include literally bleeding from the eyes” it also officially means in a figurative sense as in: “The last Game of Thrones episode literally made my eyes bleed.”
So literally can literally mean figuratively these days.
While this might be an acrid pill to swallow for the staunch upholders of English grammar, I actually think it’s pretty cool. Languages evolve through time and usage and the only languages that do not change are the dead ones. Besides, there are many other words that we use daily that didn’t originally mean what they mean in today’s usage.
“Awesome” is a great example. It used to mean inspiring awe or terror. A natural disaster or a god would be awesome. Not a night out with friends, or getting to leave work early on a Friday.
“Amazing” is another one. It’s supposed to mean "to cause great wonder or astonishment". Yet, no one will blink an eye, or more pertinently, ask you what happened if you tell them you had an amazing chicken salad for lunch.
This is all good and well if everyone knows the new meanings and uses the words in the same way of course. Which brings me to my point this week…
These days I’m a big believer in building human relationships, mending rifts between the sexes and striving for harmony in general. Which is why I want to make a public service announcement right here in black on white:
“FINE” IS NOT A COMPLIMENT. AND YOU SHOULD NEVER ATTEMPT TO USE IT AS SUCH.
It is all very well that the word originally meant satisfactory or pleasing, but any woman can tell you that saying “Fine” in response to “How do I look?” is a deeply and incredibly stupid thing to do.
No one wants to look fine. Unless it’s with a long “I”. As in “damn, girl, you fiiiiiiiiiiiiine”.
There are literally dozens of other adjectives you can use that can denote a wide, nuanced variety of positivity in your response.
Fine is not one of them.
And while I’m at it, when you ask her how she is, hours later after the dragon fire has died down, and she says “I’m fine”, that’s probably not meant positively either.
13:24 25/06/2015
You know when people use the word “literally” when they mean “figuratively” and then you get all snooty and tell them they literally don’t know what literally means?
Well the joke’s on you, ma’am.
Since the incorrect usage of “literally” was so widespread, The Oxford English Dictionary officially changed the meaning of literally to include both definitions. In 2011 already. So while literally still means in a literal sense as in: “Advanced Ebola symptoms include literally bleeding from the eyes” it also officially means in a figurative sense as in: “The last Game of Thrones episode literally made my eyes bleed.”
So literally can literally mean figuratively these days.
While this might be an acrid pill to swallow for the staunch upholders of English grammar, I actually think it’s pretty cool. Languages evolve through time and usage and the only languages that do not change are the dead ones. Besides, there are many other words that we use daily that didn’t originally mean what they mean in today’s usage.
“Awesome” is a great example. It used to mean inspiring awe or terror. A natural disaster or a god would be awesome. Not a night out with friends, or getting to leave work early on a Friday.
“Amazing” is another one. It’s supposed to mean "to cause great wonder or astonishment". Yet, no one will blink an eye, or more pertinently, ask you what happened if you tell them you had an amazing chicken salad for lunch.
This is all good and well if everyone knows the new meanings and uses the words in the same way of course. Which brings me to my point this week…
These days I’m a big believer in building human relationships, mending rifts between the sexes and striving for harmony in general. Which is why I want to make a public service announcement right here in black on white:
“FINE” IS NOT A COMPLIMENT. AND YOU SHOULD NEVER ATTEMPT TO USE IT AS SUCH.
It is all very well that the word originally meant satisfactory or pleasing, but any woman can tell you that saying “Fine” in response to “How do I look?” is a deeply and incredibly stupid thing to do.
No one wants to look fine. Unless it’s with a long “I”. As in “damn, girl, you fiiiiiiiiiiiiine”.
There are literally dozens of other adjectives you can use that can denote a wide, nuanced variety of positivity in your response.
Fine is not one of them.
And while I’m at it, when you ask her how she is, hours later after the dragon fire has died down, and she says “I’m fine”, that’s probably not meant positively either.
At least 19 killed in gun attack on Tunisian tourism hotel
17:39 26/06/2015
Tunis - At least 19 people have been killed after at least one gunman attacked a Tunisian tourist hotel in the popular resort of Sousse, an interior ministry official said on Friday.
Details of the attack, which a local security source at the scene and radio reported was on the Imperial Marhaba hotel, were still emerging.
The body of one gunman lay at the scene with a Kalashnikov assault rifle after he was shot in an exchange of gunfire with police, the source said.
Sousse is one of Tunisia's most popular beach resorts, drawing visitors from Europe and neighbouring North African countries.
Tunisia has been on high alert since March when Islamist militant gunmen attacked the Bardo museum in Tunis, killing a group of foreign tourists in one of the worst attacks in a decade in the North African country.
Tunis - At least 19 people have been killed after at least one gunman attacked a Tunisian tourist hotel in the popular resort of Sousse, an interior ministry official said on Friday.
Details of the attack, which a local security source at the scene and radio reported was on the Imperial Marhaba hotel, were still emerging.
The body of one gunman lay at the scene with a Kalashnikov assault rifle after he was shot in an exchange of gunfire with police, the source said.
Sousse is one of Tunisia's most popular beach resorts, drawing visitors from Europe and neighbouring North African countries.
Tunisia has been on high alert since March when Islamist militant gunmen attacked the Bardo museum in Tunis, killing a group of foreign tourists in one of the worst attacks in a decade in the North African country.
Tribunal sacks Edo APC lawmaker
18:46 26/06/2015
Benin City - The Edo State Election Petitions Tribunal has upturned the election of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Yakubu Gowon, as the lawmaker representing Etsako West II Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, reports PM News.
The tribunal in its ruling on Friday declared the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gallant Sylvanus as the winner of the April 11 election.
Chairman of the tribunal, Justice E. Abuua in the judgement said APC candidate was not duly nominated by his party.
He noted that the APC’s notice of intention to hold party primaries, which he sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was less than the mandatory 21 days.
He said the notice was given on November 13, 2014, while the primaries was conducted on December 1, 2014.
He, therefore, declared that all the votes cast for the APC candidate was wasted as a result of which the first runner up who had 4001 votes was the rightful person to be declared winner of the election.
Read more at PM News.
Benin City - The Edo State Election Petitions Tribunal has upturned the election of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Yakubu Gowon, as the lawmaker representing Etsako West II Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, reports PM News.
The tribunal in its ruling on Friday declared the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gallant Sylvanus as the winner of the April 11 election.
Chairman of the tribunal, Justice E. Abuua in the judgement said APC candidate was not duly nominated by his party.
He noted that the APC’s notice of intention to hold party primaries, which he sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was less than the mandatory 21 days.
He said the notice was given on November 13, 2014, while the primaries was conducted on December 1, 2014.
He, therefore, declared that all the votes cast for the APC candidate was wasted as a result of which the first runner up who had 4001 votes was the rightful person to be declared winner of the election.
Read more at PM News.
Bomber who ran away feeds fears extremists using captives
17:38 26/06/2015
Maiduguri - A teenage girl strapped with explosives ran away from a crowded mosque this week, killing only herself and cementing suspicions that Boko Haram is using unwilling captives in its terror campaign in Maiduguri.
The girl took off after her companion blew up in an explosion that killed 30 people on Monday in Maiduguri, the biggest city in northeast Nigeria, witnesses and a mortuary worker said.
"In the confusion of the blast, the other girl just ran away and only exploded when she was far from the crowd," said fishmonger Idi Idrisa.
It was unclear if the teenager fled in fright, fear or on purpose, but this and other bungled bombings have many believing that Nigeria's home-grown Boko Haram Islamic extremist group is using some of its thousands of kidnap victims as unwilling weapons.
A military bomb disposal expert has told The Associated Press that most bombs carried by girls and women have remote detonation devices, meaning the carrier cannot control the explosion.
The U.N. children's agency last month reported an "alarming spike" in suicide bombings by girls and women, saying the number of reported suicide attacks had jumped to 27 in the first five months of this year compared to 26 for all of last year.
On Monday, a girl who looked no more than 12 years old detonated explosives that killed 10 people and injured 30 in a crowded market at Wagir village in northeastern Yobe state, according to truck driver Malam Usaini Jibril.
This past week, at least 85 people have been reported killed in suicide bombings and village attacks blamed on Boko Haram. Hundreds of homes have been burned.
Victims include five villagers killed in a cross-border raid in the Diffa region of neighboring Niger.
Niger's army responded with an attack that killed 16 suspected Boko Haram militants and captured 32, according to a government statement.
"The war against Boko Haram is a non-negotiable political goal," Niger's government said in a statement read on state television Thursday night. "The fight against Boko Haram will give us our collective freedom."
The United States has condemned the attacks and promised support for a multinational army that this year has driven Boko Haram from a large swath of northeast Nigeria where it had set up a so-called Islamic caliphate under its harsh version of Shariah law.
But the multinational fight has been bogged down with Chad claiming it has had to retake some towns two and three times because Nigerian troops have not arrived to secure them.
Underscoring those failures, the U.S. Embassy this week said "We encourage the government of Nigeria to take steps to secure and govern liberated areas by filling in behind military successes with police and civilian administration."
Boko Haram says Western-style democracy has brought only corruption and inequality to oil-rich but impoverished Nigeria and that only Islamic rule offers a just solution in the country of about 170 million people almost equally divided between Christians and Muslims.
Maiduguri - A teenage girl strapped with explosives ran away from a crowded mosque this week, killing only herself and cementing suspicions that Boko Haram is using unwilling captives in its terror campaign in Maiduguri.
The girl took off after her companion blew up in an explosion that killed 30 people on Monday in Maiduguri, the biggest city in northeast Nigeria, witnesses and a mortuary worker said.
"In the confusion of the blast, the other girl just ran away and only exploded when she was far from the crowd," said fishmonger Idi Idrisa.
It was unclear if the teenager fled in fright, fear or on purpose, but this and other bungled bombings have many believing that Nigeria's home-grown Boko Haram Islamic extremist group is using some of its thousands of kidnap victims as unwilling weapons.
A military bomb disposal expert has told The Associated Press that most bombs carried by girls and women have remote detonation devices, meaning the carrier cannot control the explosion.
The U.N. children's agency last month reported an "alarming spike" in suicide bombings by girls and women, saying the number of reported suicide attacks had jumped to 27 in the first five months of this year compared to 26 for all of last year.
On Monday, a girl who looked no more than 12 years old detonated explosives that killed 10 people and injured 30 in a crowded market at Wagir village in northeastern Yobe state, according to truck driver Malam Usaini Jibril.
This past week, at least 85 people have been reported killed in suicide bombings and village attacks blamed on Boko Haram. Hundreds of homes have been burned.
Victims include five villagers killed in a cross-border raid in the Diffa region of neighboring Niger.
Niger's army responded with an attack that killed 16 suspected Boko Haram militants and captured 32, according to a government statement.
"The war against Boko Haram is a non-negotiable political goal," Niger's government said in a statement read on state television Thursday night. "The fight against Boko Haram will give us our collective freedom."
The United States has condemned the attacks and promised support for a multinational army that this year has driven Boko Haram from a large swath of northeast Nigeria where it had set up a so-called Islamic caliphate under its harsh version of Shariah law.
But the multinational fight has been bogged down with Chad claiming it has had to retake some towns two and three times because Nigerian troops have not arrived to secure them.
Underscoring those failures, the U.S. Embassy this week said "We encourage the government of Nigeria to take steps to secure and govern liberated areas by filling in behind military successes with police and civilian administration."
Boko Haram says Western-style democracy has brought only corruption and inequality to oil-rich but impoverished Nigeria and that only Islamic rule offers a just solution in the country of about 170 million people almost equally divided between Christians and Muslims.
Police rescue 2 abducted Lebanese in Bayelsa
18:46 26/06/2015
Yenagoa - The Bayelsa Police Command on Friday said it rescued two expatriate construction workers abducted by unknown gunmen in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
The command’s spokesman, Asinim Butswat, said the Lebanese were freed on Thursday following massive crackdown by combined security forces in the area.
"The two Lebanese, Ibrahim Abi Phrem and Sarkis Abi Chimooni, all male, were kidnapped on June 24, at Ogbia Local Government Area.
"They were rescued at Okodi in Ogbia riverine community on 25 June 2015 where they were abandoned by the kidnappers due to massive manhunt by police.
"They are hale and hearty and have been reunited with their families.
"Efforts are being intensified to arrest the kidnappers,” Butswat said.
Unknown gunmen had on Wednesday afternoon killed two policemen and abducted two Lebanese nationals in Onuegbum community.
The slain policemen were attached to Pache Construction Company, employers to the abductees.
The eight gunmen, according to residents who witnessed the incident, arrived the community at about 12.20 p.m. through the waterway in two speed boats.
The gunmen reportedly besieged the sand dredging site and shot repeatedly into the air to scare passersby and other dredging workers in the area who escaped to safety.
The two policemen responded with gunshots, but were killed by the volley of shots released by the armed men.
Butswat said the corpses of the policemen were deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa for autopsy.
Butswat also said that efforts were being intensified to arrest the kidnappers and bring them to book.
- NAN
Yenagoa - The Bayelsa Police Command on Friday said it rescued two expatriate construction workers abducted by unknown gunmen in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
The command’s spokesman, Asinim Butswat, said the Lebanese were freed on Thursday following massive crackdown by combined security forces in the area.
"The two Lebanese, Ibrahim Abi Phrem and Sarkis Abi Chimooni, all male, were kidnapped on June 24, at Ogbia Local Government Area.
"They were rescued at Okodi in Ogbia riverine community on 25 June 2015 where they were abandoned by the kidnappers due to massive manhunt by police.
"They are hale and hearty and have been reunited with their families.
"Efforts are being intensified to arrest the kidnappers,” Butswat said.
Unknown gunmen had on Wednesday afternoon killed two policemen and abducted two Lebanese nationals in Onuegbum community.
The slain policemen were attached to Pache Construction Company, employers to the abductees.
The eight gunmen, according to residents who witnessed the incident, arrived the community at about 12.20 p.m. through the waterway in two speed boats.
The gunmen reportedly besieged the sand dredging site and shot repeatedly into the air to scare passersby and other dredging workers in the area who escaped to safety.
The two policemen responded with gunshots, but were killed by the volley of shots released by the armed men.
Butswat said the corpses of the policemen were deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa for autopsy.
Butswat also said that efforts were being intensified to arrest the kidnappers and bring them to book.
- NAN
Accident claims 12 lives in Ogun
07:05 27/06/2015
Abeokuta - No fewer than 12 persons lost their lives in an accident involving a truck and a commercial bus at Ilishan Remo/Sagamu Junction of Sagamu/Benin Expressway on Friday in Ogun.
Abdullahi Lawal, the FRSC Sagamu unit Commander, who confirmed the accident, told the media that 15 persons were involved in the accident.
According to him, while 12 of them died, three were seriously injured.
"We went to the scene and met the crash which involved a truck carrying a container and a commercial bus."
"Three of them were rescued and taken to the hospital, the remaining 12 were killed."
"We could not find the driver of the truck, we assumed that they ran off when the accident happened."
"Eye witnesses said the truck was driving against traffic. It happened in Ijebu Ode- Sagamu side of the road."
"We recovered the manifest of the vehicle, we discovered that the vehicle loaded from Ago-Iwoye and was heading to Sango Ota."
"All the recovered items, including the original copy of the manifest, are with the police."
The commander said the corpses were deposited at Fakoya Mortuary in Sagamu while the injured were taken to Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.
Abeokuta - No fewer than 12 persons lost their lives in an accident involving a truck and a commercial bus at Ilishan Remo/Sagamu Junction of Sagamu/Benin Expressway on Friday in Ogun.
Abdullahi Lawal, the FRSC Sagamu unit Commander, who confirmed the accident, told the media that 15 persons were involved in the accident.
According to him, while 12 of them died, three were seriously injured.
"We went to the scene and met the crash which involved a truck carrying a container and a commercial bus."
"Three of them were rescued and taken to the hospital, the remaining 12 were killed."
"We could not find the driver of the truck, we assumed that they ran off when the accident happened."
"Eye witnesses said the truck was driving against traffic. It happened in Ijebu Ode- Sagamu side of the road."
"We recovered the manifest of the vehicle, we discovered that the vehicle loaded from Ago-Iwoye and was heading to Sango Ota."
"All the recovered items, including the original copy of the manifest, are with the police."
The commander said the corpses were deposited at Fakoya Mortuary in Sagamu while the injured were taken to Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.
Police arrest human trafficker in Imo
20:44 26/06/2015
Lagos - Police have said that they have arrested a suspected human trafficker in Imo, along with four other baby factory suspects.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo, Austin Evbakharbokun said in a statement to various news agencies that the arrests were made following a report made by a woman who gave birth but returned home without her child.
Evbakharbokun in the statement also named the suspects and said that the victim's parents grew suspicious when their daughter returned home without her baby, and reported the matter to the police.
During the course of the investigation, the mother revealed that she had sold her child for N500 00.
For more on this story, visit Punch.
Lagos - Police have said that they have arrested a suspected human trafficker in Imo, along with four other baby factory suspects.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo, Austin Evbakharbokun said in a statement to various news agencies that the arrests were made following a report made by a woman who gave birth but returned home without her child.
Evbakharbokun in the statement also named the suspects and said that the victim's parents grew suspicious when their daughter returned home without her baby, and reported the matter to the police.
During the course of the investigation, the mother revealed that she had sold her child for N500 00.
For more on this story, visit Punch.
Buhari dissolves state oil company board
20:44 26/06/2015
Abuja - Nigeria's new President Muhammadu Buhari dissolved the board of the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on Friday as a first step to cleaning up the oil industry in Africa's biggest economy.
Inaugurated on May 29, Buhari came into power on an anti-corruption platform and a pledge to make the oil sector more transparent. Oil represents 80 percent of the government's revenues but the slide in crude prices since last year has left it struggling to pay its bills.
"The president has said he will clean up the oil sector. That is the beginning of the clean up," Buhari's spokesman, Femi Adesina, said.
The government may be losing money through opaque contracts in which crude oil worth billions of dollars is given to traders in exchange for refined imports, mainly gasoline, international and domestic watchdogs have said.
The lower house of parliament decided on Wednesday to set up a committee to investigate whether the government had been short-changed by the state oil company scheme to swap crude for refined products.
"You can't possibly have the same board in place while the place is being investigated and with the intention to change the way things are being done there," said Adesina.
Nigeria's anti-corruption agency has investigated various oil scandals in the past, namely a fuel subsidy fraud costing the government $6.8 billion between 2009-2011. But due to a lack of political will, only a handful were prosecuted.
"It's the country's cash cow. It has a bright future. It's just that transparency and accountability have to be introduced into how it operates and this is the beginning of that process," Adesina said. (Additional reporting by Alexis Akwagyiram; Editing by David Clarke)
Abuja - Nigeria's new President Muhammadu Buhari dissolved the board of the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on Friday as a first step to cleaning up the oil industry in Africa's biggest economy.
Inaugurated on May 29, Buhari came into power on an anti-corruption platform and a pledge to make the oil sector more transparent. Oil represents 80 percent of the government's revenues but the slide in crude prices since last year has left it struggling to pay its bills.
"The president has said he will clean up the oil sector. That is the beginning of the clean up," Buhari's spokesman, Femi Adesina, said.
The government may be losing money through opaque contracts in which crude oil worth billions of dollars is given to traders in exchange for refined imports, mainly gasoline, international and domestic watchdogs have said.
The lower house of parliament decided on Wednesday to set up a committee to investigate whether the government had been short-changed by the state oil company scheme to swap crude for refined products.
"You can't possibly have the same board in place while the place is being investigated and with the intention to change the way things are being done there," said Adesina.
Nigeria's anti-corruption agency has investigated various oil scandals in the past, namely a fuel subsidy fraud costing the government $6.8 billion between 2009-2011. But due to a lack of political will, only a handful were prosecuted.
"It's the country's cash cow. It has a bright future. It's just that transparency and accountability have to be introduced into how it operates and this is the beginning of that process," Adesina said. (Additional reporting by Alexis Akwagyiram; Editing by David Clarke)
Thousands arrive for Obama's tribute to Charleston victims
20:44 26/06/2015
Charleston - The first black president of the United States prepared Friday to eulogize the victims of a mass shooting at a historic African-American church, a tragedy that one civil rights activist said was a sign of "how far yet" the nation has to go to put racial tensions behind it.
Thousands of mourners gathered to hear President Barack Obama pay tribute to the Rev. Clementa Pinckney and eight parishioners of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church. The nine were shot dead at the church during a Bible study session last week in what authorities are investigating as a racially motivated attack.
Police said they had to turn away hundreds of people who were still standing in a line that stretched several blocks. Some people cried after they were turned away.
The 21-year-old suspect in the shooting, Dylann Roof, was questioned three months before the deadly shooting rampage by a police officer who found AR-15 gun magazines in his trunk, according to a police document released Friday. The officer found six 40-round magazines as well as part of an AR-15. Roof was questioned but not charged.
Roof has been charged with nine counts of murder. Police say he used a .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun in the attack.
The first two funerals for victims were held Thursday amid tight security. The mourning began as the debate over the Confederate flag and other Old South symbols continued around the region. A growing number of leading politicians said Civil War symbols should be removed from places of honor, despite their role as elements of Southern identity.
Haley started the move against Confederate icons Monday by successfully calling on South Carolina lawmakers to debate taking down the Confederate battle flag flying in front of the Statehouse. Then Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, also a conservative Republican, brought down four secessionist flags at the Capitol there.
Some authorities have worried openly about a backlash as people take matters into their own hands.
"Black Lives Matter" was spray-painted on a monument to Confederate President Jefferson Davis in Richmond, Virginia, on Thursday, only the latest statue to be defaced.
The shooting suspect, 21-year-old Dylann Storm Roof, appeared in photos with a Confederate license plate, waving a Confederate flag, burning and desecrating U.S. flags on a website created in his name months before the attacks.
Attorney Boyd Young, who represents Roof's family, issued a statement saying they will answer questions later, but want to allow the victims' families to grieve. "We feel it would be inappropriate to say anything at this time other than that we are truly sorry for their loss," the statement said.
Charleston - The first black president of the United States prepared Friday to eulogize the victims of a mass shooting at a historic African-American church, a tragedy that one civil rights activist said was a sign of "how far yet" the nation has to go to put racial tensions behind it.
Thousands of mourners gathered to hear President Barack Obama pay tribute to the Rev. Clementa Pinckney and eight parishioners of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church. The nine were shot dead at the church during a Bible study session last week in what authorities are investigating as a racially motivated attack.
Police said they had to turn away hundreds of people who were still standing in a line that stretched several blocks. Some people cried after they were turned away.
The 21-year-old suspect in the shooting, Dylann Roof, was questioned three months before the deadly shooting rampage by a police officer who found AR-15 gun magazines in his trunk, according to a police document released Friday. The officer found six 40-round magazines as well as part of an AR-15. Roof was questioned but not charged.
Roof has been charged with nine counts of murder. Police say he used a .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun in the attack.
The first two funerals for victims were held Thursday amid tight security. The mourning began as the debate over the Confederate flag and other Old South symbols continued around the region. A growing number of leading politicians said Civil War symbols should be removed from places of honor, despite their role as elements of Southern identity.
Haley started the move against Confederate icons Monday by successfully calling on South Carolina lawmakers to debate taking down the Confederate battle flag flying in front of the Statehouse. Then Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, also a conservative Republican, brought down four secessionist flags at the Capitol there.
Some authorities have worried openly about a backlash as people take matters into their own hands.
"Black Lives Matter" was spray-painted on a monument to Confederate President Jefferson Davis in Richmond, Virginia, on Thursday, only the latest statue to be defaced.
The shooting suspect, 21-year-old Dylann Storm Roof, appeared in photos with a Confederate license plate, waving a Confederate flag, burning and desecrating U.S. flags on a website created in his name months before the attacks.
Attorney Boyd Young, who represents Roof's family, issued a statement saying they will answer questions later, but want to allow the victims' families to grieve. "We feel it would be inappropriate to say anything at this time other than that we are truly sorry for their loss," the statement said.
- AP2
Vitesse hire yet another player from Chelsea
20:44 26/06/2015
Amsterdam - Vitesse Arnhem have signed Chelsea's junior international Lewis Baker on loan for the coming eason, the Dutch club said on Friday.
The 20-year-old, who has played for England at under-20 level, has come through the youth system at Chelsea and had loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and MK Dons. He has played once for Chelsea in a FA Cup tie against Derby in 2014.
Last season Vitesse took Bertrand Traore, Josh McEachran and Wallace on loan from the English champions.
The season before last they had several players on loan from Chelsea, including Lucas Piazon, Sam Hutchinson and Christian Atsu.
The Russian owner of Vitesse, Aleksandr Tsjigirinski, is reportedly a good friend of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
Amsterdam - Vitesse Arnhem have signed Chelsea's junior international Lewis Baker on loan for the coming eason, the Dutch club said on Friday.
The 20-year-old, who has played for England at under-20 level, has come through the youth system at Chelsea and had loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and MK Dons. He has played once for Chelsea in a FA Cup tie against Derby in 2014.
Last season Vitesse took Bertrand Traore, Josh McEachran and Wallace on loan from the English champions.
The season before last they had several players on loan from Chelsea, including Lucas Piazon, Sam Hutchinson and Christian Atsu.
The Russian owner of Vitesse, Aleksandr Tsjigirinski, is reportedly a good friend of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
Obama says gay marriage ruling 'victory for America'
07:05 27/06/2015
Washington - US President Barack Obama hailed the Supreme Court ruling in favor of gay marriage Friday, saying it shows social changes once thought impossible can become reality.
"Today we can say in no uncertain terms that we've made our union a little more perfect," Obama said in a White House address shortly after the court issued its decision.
"It's a victory for the allies and friends and supporters who spent years, even decades working and praying for change to come. And this ruling is a victory for America."
The Supreme Court ruling that the constitution protects the right of all Americans in all states to form same-sex marriages was a victory for gay rights campaigners.
But it will also be seen as a success for Obama, whose own position shifted between his first presidential campaign and his second, and who now supports marriage equality.
"This ruling is a victory for Jim Obergefell and the other plaintiffs in this case," Obama said, referring to one of the people who brought the case all the way to the high court.
"It's a victory for gay and lesbian couples who fought so long for their basic civil rights. It's a victory for their children whose families will now be recognized as equal to any other," he said.
"This decision affirms what millions of Americans already believe in their hearts, when all Americans are treated as equal, we are all more free."
But he also asked Americans to be "mindful" of those who do not approve of gay marriage.
"I know that Americans of goodwill continue to hold a wide range of views on this issue. Opposition in some cases has been based on sincere and deeply held beliefs. All of us who welcome today's news should be mindful of that fact," he said.
Washington - US President Barack Obama hailed the Supreme Court ruling in favor of gay marriage Friday, saying it shows social changes once thought impossible can become reality.
"Today we can say in no uncertain terms that we've made our union a little more perfect," Obama said in a White House address shortly after the court issued its decision.
"It's a victory for the allies and friends and supporters who spent years, even decades working and praying for change to come. And this ruling is a victory for America."
The Supreme Court ruling that the constitution protects the right of all Americans in all states to form same-sex marriages was a victory for gay rights campaigners.
But it will also be seen as a success for Obama, whose own position shifted between his first presidential campaign and his second, and who now supports marriage equality.
"This ruling is a victory for Jim Obergefell and the other plaintiffs in this case," Obama said, referring to one of the people who brought the case all the way to the high court.
"It's a victory for gay and lesbian couples who fought so long for their basic civil rights. It's a victory for their children whose families will now be recognized as equal to any other," he said.
"This decision affirms what millions of Americans already believe in their hearts, when all Americans are treated as equal, we are all more free."
But he also asked Americans to be "mindful" of those who do not approve of gay marriage.
"I know that Americans of goodwill continue to hold a wide range of views on this issue. Opposition in some cases has been based on sincere and deeply held beliefs. All of us who welcome today's news should be mindful of that fact," he said.
AU calls on UK to release Rwanda's spy chief
07:05 27/06/2015
Addis Ababa - The African Union has called for Britain to release Rwanda's intelligence chief after his arrest on a warrant issued by Spain, which accuses him of killings after the 1994 genocide, Rwanda's foreign minister said on Friday.
British police arrested Karenzi Karake, 54, at Heathrow airport on Saturday on a warrant issued in Spain, a move the Rwandan government condemned as an "outrage".
Karake was released on bail on Thursday and has said he would fight the extradition. A full extradition hearing has been set for October 29-30.
After a meeting of the AU's Peace and Security Council, Rwandan Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo told reporters in Addis Ababa that the continental body had asked for Karake's release.
"The outcome of this discussion has been the urgent call for the unconditional and immediate release of General Karenzi and an awakening of the Peace and Security Council and indeed the continent to the grave danger that faces Africa with the abuse of international law..." she said.
Mushikiwabo said Rwanda was in touch with the United Kingdom on the issue and that the arrest was a mistake.
"We have communicated back and we are in constant discussion, because to this hour we do not see why the United Kingdom would arrest General Karenzi," she said.
Karake was part of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), the then-rebel force led by Paul Kagame, who is now president of Rwanda. The RPF halted genocidal attacks being carried out in Rwanda, mostly against minority Tutsis, making Karake a hero to his supporters.
The Spanish warrant stems from a lengthy indictment issued by a judge in 2008 which accused 40 senior Rwandans, including Karake, of war crimes in the aftermath of the genocide. Karake is also accused of ordering the killing of three Spanish volunteers from a medical charity in 1997.
The RPF government has long accused Western nations of failing to act to prevent the genocide and many of them have acknowledged the failing and since poured in aid.
Addis Ababa - The African Union has called for Britain to release Rwanda's intelligence chief after his arrest on a warrant issued by Spain, which accuses him of killings after the 1994 genocide, Rwanda's foreign minister said on Friday.
British police arrested Karenzi Karake, 54, at Heathrow airport on Saturday on a warrant issued in Spain, a move the Rwandan government condemned as an "outrage".
Karake was released on bail on Thursday and has said he would fight the extradition. A full extradition hearing has been set for October 29-30.
After a meeting of the AU's Peace and Security Council, Rwandan Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo told reporters in Addis Ababa that the continental body had asked for Karake's release.
"The outcome of this discussion has been the urgent call for the unconditional and immediate release of General Karenzi and an awakening of the Peace and Security Council and indeed the continent to the grave danger that faces Africa with the abuse of international law..." she said.
Mushikiwabo said Rwanda was in touch with the United Kingdom on the issue and that the arrest was a mistake.
"We have communicated back and we are in constant discussion, because to this hour we do not see why the United Kingdom would arrest General Karenzi," she said.
Karake was part of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), the then-rebel force led by Paul Kagame, who is now president of Rwanda. The RPF halted genocidal attacks being carried out in Rwanda, mostly against minority Tutsis, making Karake a hero to his supporters.
The Spanish warrant stems from a lengthy indictment issued by a judge in 2008 which accused 40 senior Rwandans, including Karake, of war crimes in the aftermath of the genocide. Karake is also accused of ordering the killing of three Spanish volunteers from a medical charity in 1997.
The RPF government has long accused Western nations of failing to act to prevent the genocide and many of them have acknowledged the failing and since poured in aid.
Flood-hit Cameroon to demolish low-lying homes
Elias Ntungwe Ngalame
07:05 27/06/2015
Douala - Climate change and unregulated housing development are to blame for the devastation brought by floods that have so far killed at least 4 people and forced more than 80 000 from their homes in Cameroon's economic capital, experts say.
Heavy rains that began on Monday triggered major flooding in the Douala V district area, submerging over 60 000ha of land and forcing thousands to flee for safety.
"Many families, mostly children and mothers who found refuge on rooftops, were rescued from the deluge by the army's firefighting brigade," said Beti Assomo, governor of the Littoral region.
As the rains persist, the governor and other local authorities have advised people to evacuate the area.
Though living in the swampy Douala V area is unlawful because of the high risk of flooding, the land is cheap, attracting many of the city's urban poor.
"Inhabitants of squatter settlements such as the Douala V council area and other flood-prone areas of the economic capital live in constant fear of every drop of rain," Didier Yimkoua, an environmentalist and secretary general of the National Salvation Front political party, told the Cameroon Tribune.
On Wednesday, officials announced that anyone refusing to leave the Douala V area will be forcefully evicted and that most of the housing - much of it built with wooden plants and other makeshift materials - will be torn down over the coming days.
"We think the only way to put an end to such catastrophe in the future is to demolish and force people out of these risky and vulnerable zones," said Fritz Ntone Ntone, the government delegate to the Douala city council.
Experts say several factors, including climate change, deforestation, rapid population growth and poor town planning, are exacerbating the effects of the rainy season, making the current flood among the most destructive in the town's history.
Manage disaster risks
With over 3 million residents, Douala is one of Cameroon's most densely populated cities. Flooding is not uncommon in the area, but the scale of the devastation wrought by this latest flooding is unprecedented, said Ntone.
Many of the affected people say they have lost everything: their crops, livestock, homes and businesses. In some parts of flooded area, only the tops of houses and trees can be seen emerging from the water.
"This is one of the worst floods we have had in Douala, a clear sign that climate change is on our doorsteps," said Samuel Nguiffo, executive director of the Center for Environment Development (CED), a non-governmental organisation focused on the environment and land rights.
Environmental experts say natural disasters in Cameroon continue to hit communities hard but local governments lack the ability and means to manage disaster risks adequately.
Cameroon's government needs to give local authorities more autonomy over disaster risk reduction and development practices to improve the situation, they say.
Cameroon recently announced the launch of a new meteorological and hydrological services network, which authorities hope will help the country combat the effects of climate change by providing governments with accurate, real-time weather information.
07:05 27/06/2015
Douala - Climate change and unregulated housing development are to blame for the devastation brought by floods that have so far killed at least 4 people and forced more than 80 000 from their homes in Cameroon's economic capital, experts say.
Heavy rains that began on Monday triggered major flooding in the Douala V district area, submerging over 60 000ha of land and forcing thousands to flee for safety.
"Many families, mostly children and mothers who found refuge on rooftops, were rescued from the deluge by the army's firefighting brigade," said Beti Assomo, governor of the Littoral region.
As the rains persist, the governor and other local authorities have advised people to evacuate the area.
Though living in the swampy Douala V area is unlawful because of the high risk of flooding, the land is cheap, attracting many of the city's urban poor.
"Inhabitants of squatter settlements such as the Douala V council area and other flood-prone areas of the economic capital live in constant fear of every drop of rain," Didier Yimkoua, an environmentalist and secretary general of the National Salvation Front political party, told the Cameroon Tribune.
On Wednesday, officials announced that anyone refusing to leave the Douala V area will be forcefully evicted and that most of the housing - much of it built with wooden plants and other makeshift materials - will be torn down over the coming days.
"We think the only way to put an end to such catastrophe in the future is to demolish and force people out of these risky and vulnerable zones," said Fritz Ntone Ntone, the government delegate to the Douala city council.
Experts say several factors, including climate change, deforestation, rapid population growth and poor town planning, are exacerbating the effects of the rainy season, making the current flood among the most destructive in the town's history.
Manage disaster risks
With over 3 million residents, Douala is one of Cameroon's most densely populated cities. Flooding is not uncommon in the area, but the scale of the devastation wrought by this latest flooding is unprecedented, said Ntone.
Many of the affected people say they have lost everything: their crops, livestock, homes and businesses. In some parts of flooded area, only the tops of houses and trees can be seen emerging from the water.
"This is one of the worst floods we have had in Douala, a clear sign that climate change is on our doorsteps," said Samuel Nguiffo, executive director of the Center for Environment Development (CED), a non-governmental organisation focused on the environment and land rights.
Environmental experts say natural disasters in Cameroon continue to hit communities hard but local governments lack the ability and means to manage disaster risks adequately.
Cameroon's government needs to give local authorities more autonomy over disaster risk reduction and development practices to improve the situation, they say.
Cameroon recently announced the launch of a new meteorological and hydrological services network, which authorities hope will help the country combat the effects of climate change by providing governments with accurate, real-time weather information.
Flying Eagles Quartet finally arrive at Dream Team Camp
07:05 27/06/2015
Lagos - Four of the Flying Eagles players invited by Samson Siasia to the Dream Team VI have finally arrived the team’s camp beating the deadline given by the coach.
First to hit camp was winger Godwin Saviour who arrived at the team’s Serob Legacy Hotel, putting his team mates hugging and back slapping him, some hailing him on his performance at the U-20 world cup.
Taiwo Awoniyi also arrived at the camp at about 10.15am on Friday morning looking trim and getting set to go, not long after the U-20 captain defender Musa Mohammed stormed the camp in his all jean dressing, then as the team was getting set to have their lunch, in came goalkeeper Dele Alampasu.
With the arrival of the four players, the camp is now in full swing as preparation for the 1st leg U-23 Africa Championship qualifier game heats up.
Kingsley Sokari was supposed to join the team today, but is now expected to join two weeks to the game against Congo as he has signed for Tunisian club, Esperance.
Coach Siasia has meanwhile released players to play for their clubs in this weekend's Glo Premier League, expecting them to return to camp on Monday.
Lagos - Four of the Flying Eagles players invited by Samson Siasia to the Dream Team VI have finally arrived the team’s camp beating the deadline given by the coach.
First to hit camp was winger Godwin Saviour who arrived at the team’s Serob Legacy Hotel, putting his team mates hugging and back slapping him, some hailing him on his performance at the U-20 world cup.
Taiwo Awoniyi also arrived at the camp at about 10.15am on Friday morning looking trim and getting set to go, not long after the U-20 captain defender Musa Mohammed stormed the camp in his all jean dressing, then as the team was getting set to have their lunch, in came goalkeeper Dele Alampasu.
With the arrival of the four players, the camp is now in full swing as preparation for the 1st leg U-23 Africa Championship qualifier game heats up.
Kingsley Sokari was supposed to join the team today, but is now expected to join two weeks to the game against Congo as he has signed for Tunisian club, Esperance.
Coach Siasia has meanwhile released players to play for their clubs in this weekend's Glo Premier League, expecting them to return to camp on Monday.
NBC urges public to ignore radio Biafra
07:05 27/06/2015
Abuja - The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), on Friday, urged the public to ignore radio Biafra transmission.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs of the commission, Alhaji Awwalu Salihu, made available to the media in Abuja.
The statement said the commission had become aware of a pirate radio station transmitting seditious and divisive content contrary to the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and law.
It assured the public that it was working in conjunction with security forces to track the source of the broadcast.
It urged the public to ignore the inflammatory content of the broadcast and continue to work toward a strong, united and prosperous nation.
Abuja - The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), on Friday, urged the public to ignore radio Biafra transmission.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs of the commission, Alhaji Awwalu Salihu, made available to the media in Abuja.
The statement said the commission had become aware of a pirate radio station transmitting seditious and divisive content contrary to the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and law.
It assured the public that it was working in conjunction with security forces to track the source of the broadcast.
It urged the public to ignore the inflammatory content of the broadcast and continue to work toward a strong, united and prosperous nation.
Friday, 26 June 2015
Buhari holds first Jumat prayer
15:34 26/06/2015
Abuja - President Muhammadu Buhari joined the Muslim faithful for the Jumat service inside the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
It was the first time that a Jumat service was held inside the presidential property.
All former Muslim Presidents and Vice-presidents took part in the services at the National Mosque.
Since his inauguration as President, Buhari took part in three Jumat services at the National Mosque.
The inaugural Jumat service at the Presidential Villa was attended by Buhari's aides and other workers in the villa.
Abuja - President Muhammadu Buhari joined the Muslim faithful for the Jumat service inside the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
It was the first time that a Jumat service was held inside the presidential property.
All former Muslim Presidents and Vice-presidents took part in the services at the National Mosque.
Since his inauguration as President, Buhari took part in three Jumat services at the National Mosque.
The inaugural Jumat service at the Presidential Villa was attended by Buhari's aides and other workers in the villa.
Court sentences nine to death for blasphemy
16:36 26/06/2015
Kano - Nine people have been sentenced to death in Kano after being found guilty of blasphemy, a court clerk and the head of the religious police told AFP on Friday.
The Upper Sharia Court in the city of Kano handed down death sentences to a Sufi Muslim cleric and eight of his followers for remarks they made about the Prophet Mohammed last month.
The comments, made during a religious ceremony, sparked anger and violence in the city.
Court clerk Alhaji Nasuru said the nine, including one woman, were "sentenced to death in accordance with sections 110 and 302 of the Sharia penal code."
Four other followers of the cleric, Aminu Abdul Nyass, were acquitted, he added.
The defendants were arrested when violence broke out in the Makwarari district of Kano as they marked the birthday of the former leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, Ibrahim Nyass.
An angry crowd attacked the ceremony and later burnt down Abdul Nyass' home, police said at the time.
Abdul Nyass belongs to a separate branch of Tijaniyya, some of whose beliefs are considered heretical because of their different interpretation of some basic Islamic principles.
The head of the Kano state Sharia (Islamic law) police, known locally as the Hisbah, welcomed the verdicts.
"We are happy the Sharia court handed the death sentences to the nine people who made the blasphemous statements against the Holy Prophet," said Aminu Daurawa.
The trial was held in secret to avoid violence, after crowds set fire to a section of the Sharia court on the defendants' first appearance on May 22.
The judgment still has to be approved by Kano governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, added Daurawa, who warned the sentence should remind Muslims that blasphemy attracts the ultimate penalty.
He also said the risk of violence was high if the nine were released.
"The concern is mobs would take extrajudicial action if these convicts are for whatever reason released because they would certainly kill them when they see them on the streets," he said.
There was no immediate word on whether the nine would appeal.
Sharia courts in Kano have handed down death sentences for adultery, murder and homosexuality since they were set up in the early 2000s. But to date, no executions have been carried out.
Twelve states in the mainly Muslim north have the courts, which run parallel to state and federal justice system.
Kano - Nine people have been sentenced to death in Kano after being found guilty of blasphemy, a court clerk and the head of the religious police told AFP on Friday.
The Upper Sharia Court in the city of Kano handed down death sentences to a Sufi Muslim cleric and eight of his followers for remarks they made about the Prophet Mohammed last month.
The comments, made during a religious ceremony, sparked anger and violence in the city.
Court clerk Alhaji Nasuru said the nine, including one woman, were "sentenced to death in accordance with sections 110 and 302 of the Sharia penal code."
Four other followers of the cleric, Aminu Abdul Nyass, were acquitted, he added.
The defendants were arrested when violence broke out in the Makwarari district of Kano as they marked the birthday of the former leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, Ibrahim Nyass.
An angry crowd attacked the ceremony and later burnt down Abdul Nyass' home, police said at the time.
Abdul Nyass belongs to a separate branch of Tijaniyya, some of whose beliefs are considered heretical because of their different interpretation of some basic Islamic principles.
The head of the Kano state Sharia (Islamic law) police, known locally as the Hisbah, welcomed the verdicts.
"We are happy the Sharia court handed the death sentences to the nine people who made the blasphemous statements against the Holy Prophet," said Aminu Daurawa.
The trial was held in secret to avoid violence, after crowds set fire to a section of the Sharia court on the defendants' first appearance on May 22.
The judgment still has to be approved by Kano governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, added Daurawa, who warned the sentence should remind Muslims that blasphemy attracts the ultimate penalty.
He also said the risk of violence was high if the nine were released.
"The concern is mobs would take extrajudicial action if these convicts are for whatever reason released because they would certainly kill them when they see them on the streets," he said.
There was no immediate word on whether the nine would appeal.
Sharia courts in Kano have handed down death sentences for adultery, murder and homosexuality since they were set up in the early 2000s. But to date, no executions have been carried out.
Twelve states in the mainly Muslim north have the courts, which run parallel to state and federal justice system.
Dogara moves against erring lawmakers
15:34 26/06/2015
Abuja - Angered by what transpired on the floor of the House of Representatives on Thursday, Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara is set to wield the big stick on lawmakers who participated in the show of show, reports Tribune.Dogara, who spoke through the Chairman of the House ad hoc committee on media, Mohammed Sani Zorro, said the conduct of these members amount to contempt of the House and is in clear violation of the Standing Orders of the House .
He described the attempt to seize the mace, which is the symbol of the House, as an unparliamentary actions unbecoming of the status of honourable members.
He said the leadership of the House would take necessary action to sanction any member found culpable.
He apologized to Nigerians for the ugly event of Thursday.
Read more at ribune.
Davido launches HKN Gang clothing line
14:40 26/06/2015
Lagos - Singer, Davido and his elder brother and Adewale Adeleke, have unveiled the HKN gang's clothing line.
Davido and his elder brother and Adewale Adeleke, who is also the chairman of HKN gang unveiled the clothing line one on their Instagram accounts.
They also said that the HKN Gang and OBO designs will be sold via a dedicated online platform.
It was further revealed that Davido just signed a tour contract to tour UK and Europe between September and October 2015.
Lagos - Singer, Davido and his elder brother and Adewale Adeleke, have unveiled the HKN gang's clothing line.
Davido and his elder brother and Adewale Adeleke, who is also the chairman of HKN gang unveiled the clothing line one on their Instagram accounts.
They also said that the HKN Gang and OBO designs will be sold via a dedicated online platform.
It was further revealed that Davido just signed a tour contract to tour UK and Europe between September and October 2015.
Getafe hire Fran Escriba as new coach
15:35 26/06/2015
Madrid - Getafe have hired former Elche coach Fran Escriba to take charge of their first team on a three-year contract, the La Liga club said on Friday.
Escriba will take over from Pablo Franco, who stepped up from B team coach on a temporary basis after Quique Sanchez Flores quit in February.
Escriba, 50, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Getafe, left Elche this month after they were relegated to the second division because of unpaid debts to the tax authorities.
Madrid-based Getafe typically have to fight for their La Liga survival each season and ended last term a mere two points above the relegation places in 15th.
Reuters
Madrid - Getafe have hired former Elche coach Fran Escriba to take charge of their first team on a three-year contract, the La Liga club said on Friday.
Escriba will take over from Pablo Franco, who stepped up from B team coach on a temporary basis after Quique Sanchez Flores quit in February.
Escriba, 50, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Getafe, left Elche this month after they were relegated to the second division because of unpaid debts to the tax authorities.
Madrid-based Getafe typically have to fight for their La Liga survival each season and ended last term a mere two points above the relegation places in 15th.
Reuters
Asa takes album tour to London
15:35 26/06/2015
Lagos - Soul singer Asa has announced her album tour will continue in London in August.
The international singer is touring for the promotion of her 3rd studio album, Bed Of Stone.
The ‘Fire on the Mountain’ singer will be making her first stop in London on August 1, 2015 with her band.
The concert holds at the London Convent Garden in continuation of her tour across Europe having performed in cities including Hamburg, Paris and Barcelona.
Lagos - Soul singer Asa has announced her album tour will continue in London in August.
The international singer is touring for the promotion of her 3rd studio album, Bed Of Stone.
The ‘Fire on the Mountain’ singer will be making her first stop in London on August 1, 2015 with her band.
The concert holds at the London Convent Garden in continuation of her tour across Europe having performed in cities including Hamburg, Paris and Barcelona.
Male strippers return for one last show in "Magic Mike XXL"
16:38 26/06/2015
Los Angeles - The world of male stripping returns to the silver screen in "Magic Mike XXL" with the performers back in the spotlight for one last show.
Picking up the story three years on from 2012's "Magic Mike", the sequel sees the cast reunite in the stripper saga, which was loosely based on producer and actor Channing Tatum's experiences early in his career.
"The first movie was a bit of an expose into the darkness of this lifestyle and this was a celebration," actor Adam Rodriguez said at the film's premiere on Thursday night.
"This is why these guys are friends, why they managed to live this life for as long as they have together and it's their farewell to it."
The sequel has expanded the cast and also aims to leave audiences, particularly men, with a positive message, actor Joe Manganiello said.
"The unexpected part of this film for people that watch it is that they are really good guys and they're very likeable and their whole mission in life is to treat women better," he said.
"I think that is something that any guy who comes to the theatre or watches this at home should learn."
The movie also stars Hollywood actresses Jada Pinkett Smith, Andie MacDowell and Elizabeth Banks.
"Magic Mike XXL" opens in U.S. and UK cinemas next week.
Los Angeles - The world of male stripping returns to the silver screen in "Magic Mike XXL" with the performers back in the spotlight for one last show.
Picking up the story three years on from 2012's "Magic Mike", the sequel sees the cast reunite in the stripper saga, which was loosely based on producer and actor Channing Tatum's experiences early in his career.
"The first movie was a bit of an expose into the darkness of this lifestyle and this was a celebration," actor Adam Rodriguez said at the film's premiere on Thursday night.
"This is why these guys are friends, why they managed to live this life for as long as they have together and it's their farewell to it."
The sequel has expanded the cast and also aims to leave audiences, particularly men, with a positive message, actor Joe Manganiello said.
"The unexpected part of this film for people that watch it is that they are really good guys and they're very likeable and their whole mission in life is to treat women better," he said.
"I think that is something that any guy who comes to the theatre or watches this at home should learn."
The movie also stars Hollywood actresses Jada Pinkett Smith, Andie MacDowell and Elizabeth Banks.
"Magic Mike XXL" opens in U.S. and UK cinemas next week.
Blatter 'did not resign' - report
16:37 26/06/2015
Lausanne - Sepp Blatter has claimed that he "did not resign" as FIFA president, according to a report by the Swiss newspaper Blick.
"I did not resign. I put myself and my office in the hands of the FIFA congress," Blick reported Blatter as saying during a visit to the site of the future FIFA museum in the Swiss city of Zurich.
The 79-year-old Blatter announced on June 2 that he would step down from the FIFA presidency at an extraordinary congress to be held between December this year and March 2016.
That decision followed the crisis that engulfed FIFA with 18 people indicted in the United States on football-related corruption charges.
Since then, sources close to Blatter have been reported as saying he was not ruling out the prospect of going back on his decision to resign after receiving messages of support from Asian and African federations.
On Friday, FIFA confirmed Blatter's comments but said that they were "nothing new. They are exactly the words he used in his speech on June 2 when he explained that he would lay down his mandate and would continue with his mission until the elective congress."
Blatter's announcement on June 2 came just days after he had been re-elected as president.
At the time, he said: "While I have a mandate from the membership of FIFA, I do not feel that I have a mandate from the entire world of football.
"Therefore, I have decided to lay down my mandate at an extraordinary elective congress. I will continue to exercise my functions as FIFA president until that election."
An extraordinary meeting of the FIFA Executive Committee will take place in Zurich on July 20, when a date will be fixed for the congress at which Blatter's successor will be elected.
Ten days ago, Klaus Stoehlker, Blatter's advisor during the last election campaign, indicated that he could go back on his decision to stand down if no "convincing candidate" emerged.
However, the head of FIFA's audit and compliance unit, Domenico Scala, responded to those claims by saying "it is clearly indispensable to follow through with the initiated process of president's change as it has been announced."
Lausanne - Sepp Blatter has claimed that he "did not resign" as FIFA president, according to a report by the Swiss newspaper Blick.
"I did not resign. I put myself and my office in the hands of the FIFA congress," Blick reported Blatter as saying during a visit to the site of the future FIFA museum in the Swiss city of Zurich.
The 79-year-old Blatter announced on June 2 that he would step down from the FIFA presidency at an extraordinary congress to be held between December this year and March 2016.
That decision followed the crisis that engulfed FIFA with 18 people indicted in the United States on football-related corruption charges.
Since then, sources close to Blatter have been reported as saying he was not ruling out the prospect of going back on his decision to resign after receiving messages of support from Asian and African federations.
On Friday, FIFA confirmed Blatter's comments but said that they were "nothing new. They are exactly the words he used in his speech on June 2 when he explained that he would lay down his mandate and would continue with his mission until the elective congress."
Blatter's announcement on June 2 came just days after he had been re-elected as president.
At the time, he said: "While I have a mandate from the membership of FIFA, I do not feel that I have a mandate from the entire world of football.
"Therefore, I have decided to lay down my mandate at an extraordinary elective congress. I will continue to exercise my functions as FIFA president until that election."
An extraordinary meeting of the FIFA Executive Committee will take place in Zurich on July 20, when a date will be fixed for the congress at which Blatter's successor will be elected.
Ten days ago, Klaus Stoehlker, Blatter's advisor during the last election campaign, indicated that he could go back on his decision to stand down if no "convincing candidate" emerged.
However, the head of FIFA's audit and compliance unit, Domenico Scala, responded to those claims by saying "it is clearly indispensable to follow through with the initiated process of president's change as it has been announced."
Keshi to be sacked if…
16:37 26/06/2015
Lagos - Head coach of the Nigeria national football team Stephen Keshi could be fired if rumours about his application to coach Ivory Coast are found to be true.
The Nigeria Football Federation has reacted angrily to reports that Keshi submitted an application to take over as Cote d'Ivoire's coach while he was employed by the Super Eagles.
Vice chairman of the NFF's disciplinary Committee Iyke Igbokwe told AfricanFootball, in no uncertain terms, that Keshi would lose his job if the reports turned out to be true.
"If it were proven that he indeed applied to coach Cote d'Ivoire when he is still coaching the Super Eagles, then that is a breach of trust.
"We will then recommend (to the executive committee) that he be relieved of his job so that he could go and coach Cote d'Ivoire."
NFF president Amaju Pinnick said it would be suicidal of Keshi to apply for another job while still being employed by Nigeria, considering his already tenuous position as Nigeria's coach and the fact that his salary has been fully paid up.
Keshi, for his part, has denied that he applied for the job and the NFF stated if it the reports turned out to be false, they would take action against the Ivoirians for trying to poach their employee.
"The truth is that if we find out that Keshi didn't actually apply for the job we might have to take immediate action - including taking them to CAF and possibly FIFA," an official from the organisation was quoted sayin
Lagos - Head coach of the Nigeria national football team Stephen Keshi could be fired if rumours about his application to coach Ivory Coast are found to be true.
The Nigeria Football Federation has reacted angrily to reports that Keshi submitted an application to take over as Cote d'Ivoire's coach while he was employed by the Super Eagles.
Vice chairman of the NFF's disciplinary Committee Iyke Igbokwe told AfricanFootball, in no uncertain terms, that Keshi would lose his job if the reports turned out to be true.
"If it were proven that he indeed applied to coach Cote d'Ivoire when he is still coaching the Super Eagles, then that is a breach of trust.
"We will then recommend (to the executive committee) that he be relieved of his job so that he could go and coach Cote d'Ivoire."
NFF president Amaju Pinnick said it would be suicidal of Keshi to apply for another job while still being employed by Nigeria, considering his already tenuous position as Nigeria's coach and the fact that his salary has been fully paid up.
Keshi, for his part, has denied that he applied for the job and the NFF stated if it the reports turned out to be false, they would take action against the Ivoirians for trying to poach their employee.
"The truth is that if we find out that Keshi didn't actually apply for the job we might have to take immediate action - including taking them to CAF and possibly FIFA," an official from the organisation was quoted sayin
Tuesday, 23 June 2015
Japan condemns rampant Boko Haram terror
Okoro Chinedu
09:13 23/06/2015
Lagos - Japan has condemned the recent terror attacks the Islamic militant Boko Haram carried out in Niger.
“The Government of Japan strongly condemns a terrorist attack in the south-eastern part of the Republic of Niger. Japan expresses its deep condolences to the victims and their families, as well as its heartfelt sympathies to those wounded in the incident,” stated Foreign Press Secretary, Yasuhisa Kawamura.
“Terrorism cannot be justified by any reason. The Government of Japan firmly condemns all forms of terrorism. Japan continues to cooperate with the Government of Niger, which has been contributing to the peace and stability of the region.”
The Boko Haram has killed more than 13 000 people in Nigeria and displaced some 2 million victims. The sect has in recent months carried out attacks in neighbouring countries.
09:13 23/06/2015
Lagos - Japan has condemned the recent terror attacks the Islamic militant Boko Haram carried out in Niger.
“The Government of Japan strongly condemns a terrorist attack in the south-eastern part of the Republic of Niger. Japan expresses its deep condolences to the victims and their families, as well as its heartfelt sympathies to those wounded in the incident,” stated Foreign Press Secretary, Yasuhisa Kawamura.
“Terrorism cannot be justified by any reason. The Government of Japan firmly condemns all forms of terrorism. Japan continues to cooperate with the Government of Niger, which has been contributing to the peace and stability of the region.”
The Boko Haram has killed more than 13 000 people in Nigeria and displaced some 2 million victims. The sect has in recent months carried out attacks in neighbouring countries.
Rivers government denies Amaechi's witch-hunt claims
10:20 23/06/2015
Rivers - Rivers State government on Monday denied claims by immediate past governor of the state Rotimi Amaechi that the state governor Nyesom Wike was embarking on a witch-hunt to slander him, Punch reports.
Rivers State Commissioner for Housing, Emma Okah, who dismissed the claims, described the allegation by the former governor as mischievous.
Okah explained that if Amaechi is invited by any commission of enquiry, he needs to state his own side of the story and tender documents to buttress his case, adding that there was nothing to fear if his hands were clean.
The commissioner also said that certain things must be clarified by the Amaechi government, noting that the state could not close its eyes to some grave allegations of corruption against the Amaechi government.
Read more at Punch
Rivers - Rivers State government on Monday denied claims by immediate past governor of the state Rotimi Amaechi that the state governor Nyesom Wike was embarking on a witch-hunt to slander him, Punch reports.
Rivers State Commissioner for Housing, Emma Okah, who dismissed the claims, described the allegation by the former governor as mischievous.
Okah explained that if Amaechi is invited by any commission of enquiry, he needs to state his own side of the story and tender documents to buttress his case, adding that there was nothing to fear if his hands were clean.
The commissioner also said that certain things must be clarified by the Amaechi government, noting that the state could not close its eyes to some grave allegations of corruption against the Amaechi government.
Read more at Punch
PDP governors stategise ahead of meeting with Buhari
10:20 23/06/2015
Abuja - Ahead of Tuesday’s meeting between President Muhammadu Buhari and governors of the 36 states of the federation, governors elected under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have met to fine tune their strategy for the meeting, reports Thisday.
The meeting was held on Monday night in Abuja.
The PDP governors during the meeting harmonized their positions over the prevailing cash crunch facing their states .
The governors also agreed to use the opportunity of the meeting with Buhari to formally complain about the relocation of some states election tribunals to Abuja instead of the states where the elections took place.
The PDP governors present at the meeting included Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Darius Isiaku (Taraba), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), Idris Wada (Kogi), Nysome Wike (Rivers), Udo Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom) and Ben Ayade (Cross River).
Read more at Thisday.
Abuja - Ahead of Tuesday’s meeting between President Muhammadu Buhari and governors of the 36 states of the federation, governors elected under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have met to fine tune their strategy for the meeting, reports Thisday.
The meeting was held on Monday night in Abuja.
The PDP governors during the meeting harmonized their positions over the prevailing cash crunch facing their states .
The governors also agreed to use the opportunity of the meeting with Buhari to formally complain about the relocation of some states election tribunals to Abuja instead of the states where the elections took place.
The PDP governors present at the meeting included Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Darius Isiaku (Taraba), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), Idris Wada (Kogi), Nysome Wike (Rivers), Udo Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom) and Ben Ayade (Cross River).
Read more at Thisday.
Buhari orders removal of military checkpoints
10:20 23/06/2015
Abuja - President Muhammadu Buhari has directed that the military checkpoints set up in the wake of Boko Haram activities in parts of the country be removed, Punch reports.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Aliyu Ismaila, said that Buhari instructed the Chief of Defence Staff to get the Chief of Army Staff and Inspector-General of Police to remove all the military men along the roads across the country during his meeting with service chiefs at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, quoted the President as saying that the soldiers must concentrate more on ending insurgency in the country.
He said however, the checkpoints shall be retained in areas outside the North-Eastern states where the military considered them absolutely essential for the maintenance of national security.
Read more at Punch
Abuja - President Muhammadu Buhari has directed that the military checkpoints set up in the wake of Boko Haram activities in parts of the country be removed, Punch reports.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Aliyu Ismaila, said that Buhari instructed the Chief of Defence Staff to get the Chief of Army Staff and Inspector-General of Police to remove all the military men along the roads across the country during his meeting with service chiefs at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, quoted the President as saying that the soldiers must concentrate more on ending insurgency in the country.
He said however, the checkpoints shall be retained in areas outside the North-Eastern states where the military considered them absolutely essential for the maintenance of national security.
Read more at Punch
ISIS ties 2 boys to pole for eating in Ramadan
11:37 23/06/2015
Beirut - The Islamic State group on Monday made two youths hang from a beam by their wrists after accusing them of eating during daylight hours in the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights said.
"Residents of the village of Mayadeen in Deir Ezzor province reported that ISIS suspended from a crossbar two boys aged under 18 near the HQ of the Hissba", the jihadist police, Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.
"The children have been suspended by ropes from a pole since noon, and they were still there in the late evening," he said.
"Apparently, they were caught eating."
A placard was attached to the bodies reading "They broke the fast with no religious justification".
Throughout the month of Ramadan, which began on Thursday, believers abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and having sex from dawn until sunset.
ISIS, which controls swathes of territory across Syria and Iraq where it has created a self-proclaimed "caliphate", advocates an extreme view of the application of Islamic law, or sharia.
The jihadists do not hesitate to impose brutal punishments including beheadings, stonings, floggings and crucifixions.
Beirut - The Islamic State group on Monday made two youths hang from a beam by their wrists after accusing them of eating during daylight hours in the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights said.
"Residents of the village of Mayadeen in Deir Ezzor province reported that ISIS suspended from a crossbar two boys aged under 18 near the HQ of the Hissba", the jihadist police, Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.
"The children have been suspended by ropes from a pole since noon, and they were still there in the late evening," he said.
"Apparently, they were caught eating."
A placard was attached to the bodies reading "They broke the fast with no religious justification".
Throughout the month of Ramadan, which began on Thursday, believers abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and having sex from dawn until sunset.
ISIS, which controls swathes of territory across Syria and Iraq where it has created a self-proclaimed "caliphate", advocates an extreme view of the application of Islamic law, or sharia.
The jihadists do not hesitate to impose brutal punishments including beheadings, stonings, floggings and crucifixions.
Monday, 22 June 2015
Heat wave kills more than 120 in Pakistan's Karachi
08:56 22/06/2015
Karachi - An intense heat wave killed more than 120 people over the weekend in Pakistan's southern city of Karachi, officials said on Monday, as the electricity grid crashed during the first days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
The outages hit large portions of Pakistan's financial heart and home to 20 million people, where residents lit bonfires in protest.
"Hundreds of patients suffering from the heat wave are being treated at government hospitals," Saeed Mangnejo, health secretary for the province of Sindh, told Reuters.
Temperature soared to 44 degrees Celsius on Saturday and hovered at 43 degrees Celsius (109 Fahrenheit) on Sunday, coinciding with a surge of demand for power as families observed Ramadan, when Muslims fast during daylight hours.
Both the federal government and K-Electric, the private company that supplies Karachi with power, had promised there would be no outages during the time when families gathered to break their fast at sunset.
Officials from K-Electric were not immediately available for comment on the scale or cause of the outages, which left many families without water, air-conditioning, fans and light.
One of the Karachi's biggest hospitals, the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, reported 85 deaths from heat stroke and dehydration.
Thirty-five patients died from heat stroke in other hospitals, doctors said. Two more died from heat-related complications, Mangnejo said.
Corruption and mismanagement mean Pakistan usually suffers eight hours of daily power cuts even in its wealthy urban areas. Those in poorer areas are hit even harder.
The cash-strapped government sells power for less than the cost of production, but its late payments to suppliers cause a chronic shortage.
Many wealthy or influential families and factory owners exacerbate the problem by refusing to pay their bills or cutting deals with corrupt power officials.
Karachi - An intense heat wave killed more than 120 people over the weekend in Pakistan's southern city of Karachi, officials said on Monday, as the electricity grid crashed during the first days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
The outages hit large portions of Pakistan's financial heart and home to 20 million people, where residents lit bonfires in protest.
"Hundreds of patients suffering from the heat wave are being treated at government hospitals," Saeed Mangnejo, health secretary for the province of Sindh, told Reuters.
Temperature soared to 44 degrees Celsius on Saturday and hovered at 43 degrees Celsius (109 Fahrenheit) on Sunday, coinciding with a surge of demand for power as families observed Ramadan, when Muslims fast during daylight hours.
Both the federal government and K-Electric, the private company that supplies Karachi with power, had promised there would be no outages during the time when families gathered to break their fast at sunset.
Officials from K-Electric were not immediately available for comment on the scale or cause of the outages, which left many families without water, air-conditioning, fans and light.
One of the Karachi's biggest hospitals, the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, reported 85 deaths from heat stroke and dehydration.
Thirty-five patients died from heat stroke in other hospitals, doctors said. Two more died from heat-related complications, Mangnejo said.
Corruption and mismanagement mean Pakistan usually suffers eight hours of daily power cuts even in its wealthy urban areas. Those in poorer areas are hit even harder.
The cash-strapped government sells power for less than the cost of production, but its late payments to suppliers cause a chronic shortage.
Many wealthy or influential families and factory owners exacerbate the problem by refusing to pay their bills or cutting deals with corrupt power officials.
Blasts in Egypt's North Sinai wound police, civilians
10:13 22/06/2015
Ismailia - At least eight policemen and civilians were wounded on Monday when explosions hit two houses in Egypt's El-Arish, the provincial capital of the North Sinai region, security and medical sources said.
Militants planted two bombs in two adjacent houses, both inhabited by police, the sources said. The force of the explosions led to the collapse of large parts of the homes, injuring three policemen and five civilians.
The extent of their injuries was not immediately clear.
Egypt is facing a Sinai-based insurgency that has killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers since the army toppled Islamist president Mohammed Morsi after mass protests against his rule in 2013.
The most active militant group is Sinai Province, which has pledged allegiance to Islamic State, the Sunni group that controls large parts of Iraq and Syria.
Egypt executed six members of Sinai Province for carrying out an attack on soldiers near Cairo last year, their lawyer said in May.
Ismailia - At least eight policemen and civilians were wounded on Monday when explosions hit two houses in Egypt's El-Arish, the provincial capital of the North Sinai region, security and medical sources said.
Militants planted two bombs in two adjacent houses, both inhabited by police, the sources said. The force of the explosions led to the collapse of large parts of the homes, injuring three policemen and five civilians.
The extent of their injuries was not immediately clear.
Egypt is facing a Sinai-based insurgency that has killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers since the army toppled Islamist president Mohammed Morsi after mass protests against his rule in 2013.
The most active militant group is Sinai Province, which has pledged allegiance to Islamic State, the Sunni group that controls large parts of Iraq and Syria.
Egypt executed six members of Sinai Province for carrying out an attack on soldiers near Cairo last year, their lawyer said in May.
South Korea sees 2 more MERS deaths
12:41 22/06/2015
Seoul - Two people died in South Korea of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and three others were diagnosed, officials said on Monday.
The latest cases, which included a 97-year-old man being treated for cancer, brought the death toll to 27 in the recent outbreak, and the total number of confirmed cases to 169, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The latest cases were already being monitored because the patients had had close contacts with other MERS cases, the Ministry of Health and Welfare was quoted as saying.
The number of people in isolation after suspected exposure fell on Monday to 3 833 from 4 035, the report said. Around 9 300 people have been held and released after the 14-day incubation period since the outbreak started a month ago.
The fatality rate, which was around 40% in the Middle East where the virus was originally identified three years ago, has crept up from under 10% to the current level of 14% in South Korea, figures from the Ministry of Health and Welfare showed last week.
South Korea is dealing with the biggest outbreak of the disease outside the Middle East, almost entirely centred on hospitals.
Seoul - Two people died in South Korea of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and three others were diagnosed, officials said on Monday.
The latest cases, which included a 97-year-old man being treated for cancer, brought the death toll to 27 in the recent outbreak, and the total number of confirmed cases to 169, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The latest cases were already being monitored because the patients had had close contacts with other MERS cases, the Ministry of Health and Welfare was quoted as saying.
The number of people in isolation after suspected exposure fell on Monday to 3 833 from 4 035, the report said. Around 9 300 people have been held and released after the 14-day incubation period since the outbreak started a month ago.
The fatality rate, which was around 40% in the Middle East where the virus was originally identified three years ago, has crept up from under 10% to the current level of 14% in South Korea, figures from the Ministry of Health and Welfare showed last week.
South Korea is dealing with the biggest outbreak of the disease outside the Middle East, almost entirely centred on hospitals.
PDP Gov's Forum: Fayose kicks against Mimiko's emergence
11:26 22/06/2015
Ado Ekiti - There appears to be a fresh crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ) as Gov. Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has rejected the emergence of Gov. Olesegun Mimiko of Ondo State as the Chairman of the party's Governors' Forum, reports The Nation.
He said the election of Mimiko on Tuesday did not follow due process on grounds that Mimiko defected to the PDP only a year ago.
Fayose has already petitioned the party’s National Working Committee (NWC ) to intervene in the choice of Mimiko before the matter degenerates into a full blown crisis.
Fayose has allegedly rallied some other governors in the party to make a stand against Mimiko’s emergence.
Read more at The Nation.
Ado Ekiti - There appears to be a fresh crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ) as Gov. Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has rejected the emergence of Gov. Olesegun Mimiko of Ondo State as the Chairman of the party's Governors' Forum, reports The Nation.
He said the election of Mimiko on Tuesday did not follow due process on grounds that Mimiko defected to the PDP only a year ago.
Fayose has already petitioned the party’s National Working Committee (NWC ) to intervene in the choice of Mimiko before the matter degenerates into a full blown crisis.
Fayose has allegedly rallied some other governors in the party to make a stand against Mimiko’s emergence.
Read more at The Nation.
APC governors meet senators, Reps
11:26 22/06/2015
Abuja - In a bid to find a lasting solution to the crisis rocking the party over the outcome of the National Assembly elections, which produced Senator Bukola Saraki as Senate President and Yakubu Dogara as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are expected to meet with the party’s senators and House of Representatives members, reports The Sun.
The governors alongside the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) members have scheduled a meeting with the lawmakers ahead of when the National Assembly resumes on Tuesday.
The meeting will be between the two warring camps in the National Assembly; the Unity Forum and Like Minds.
The meeting is expected to resolve how to share the remaining principal offices in the National Assembly among the two camps.
The remaining leadership positions are: Majority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Chief Whip, Deputy Chief Whip.
Read more at The Sun.
Abuja - In a bid to find a lasting solution to the crisis rocking the party over the outcome of the National Assembly elections, which produced Senator Bukola Saraki as Senate President and Yakubu Dogara as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are expected to meet with the party’s senators and House of Representatives members, reports The Sun.
The governors alongside the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) members have scheduled a meeting with the lawmakers ahead of when the National Assembly resumes on Tuesday.
The meeting will be between the two warring camps in the National Assembly; the Unity Forum and Like Minds.
The meeting is expected to resolve how to share the remaining principal offices in the National Assembly among the two camps.
The remaining leadership positions are: Majority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Chief Whip, Deputy Chief Whip.
Read more at The Sun.
Jega denies being forced to proceed on leave before 2015 elections
12:40 22/06/2015
Lagos - Contrary to insinuations that former President Goodluck Jonathan threatened the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Atathiru Jega to proceed on terminal leave or retire before the general elections, Jega has denied that noting of such happened, reports Thisday.
He described the insinuations as the work of rumour mongers who did not want anything good for Nigeria.
Speaking in Lagos at a programme tagged, ‘Afternoon Tea with Professor Attahiru Mohammed Jega’ by EbonyLife TV, Jega said he was never threatened or asked to proceed on leave or retire by anybody or authority.
He stated that he never contemplated going on leave because he knew there was a job to be done.
He, however, admitted that knowing the nature of the country, he was fully prepared for the worst to happen during the elections.
Read more at Thisday.
Lagos - Contrary to insinuations that former President Goodluck Jonathan threatened the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Atathiru Jega to proceed on terminal leave or retire before the general elections, Jega has denied that noting of such happened, reports Thisday.
He described the insinuations as the work of rumour mongers who did not want anything good for Nigeria.
Speaking in Lagos at a programme tagged, ‘Afternoon Tea with Professor Attahiru Mohammed Jega’ by EbonyLife TV, Jega said he was never threatened or asked to proceed on leave or retire by anybody or authority.
He stated that he never contemplated going on leave because he knew there was a job to be done.
He, however, admitted that knowing the nature of the country, he was fully prepared for the worst to happen during the elections.
Read more at Thisday.
Atiku denies plotting against Buhari
12:39 22/06/2015
Abuja - Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has denied plotting against President Muhammadu Buhari, reports Premium Times.
He said he holds Buhari in the highest esteem and would always remain loyal to him.
Atiku in a statement by his media office on Sunday, alleged a plot by some individuals and groups in the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pit him against President Buhari for their selfish interests.
He denied causing disunity in the party because of his ambition in 2019.
He described the allegation as a figment of the imagination of those promoting it and asked Nigerians to ignore it.
Atiku is being accused of been the mastermind of the emergence of Bukola Saraki as the Senate President contrary to the party’s choice.
Read more at Premium Times.
Abuja - Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has denied plotting against President Muhammadu Buhari, reports Premium Times.
He said he holds Buhari in the highest esteem and would always remain loyal to him.
Atiku in a statement by his media office on Sunday, alleged a plot by some individuals and groups in the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pit him against President Buhari for their selfish interests.
He denied causing disunity in the party because of his ambition in 2019.
He described the allegation as a figment of the imagination of those promoting it and asked Nigerians to ignore it.
Atiku is being accused of been the mastermind of the emergence of Bukola Saraki as the Senate President contrary to the party’s choice.
Read more at Premium Times.
Police arrest man for allegedly torturing girlfriend
10:13 22/06/2015
Abuja - A 34-year-old man has been arrested following the alleged torture of his girlfriend because of suspected infidelity.
The suspect, Solomon Ajisafe, a Lagos resident, is alleged to have tortured his girlfriend of four years, along with the help of his mother.
According to a PUNCH report, Ajisafe's mother, a known member of the Oodua People's Congress (OPC), assisted her son in inserting ground pepper into his girlfriend's private parts after flogging her for alleged adultery.
The victim, Tope Amuda, is said to have been seen talking to herself and speaking incoherently following the humiliation.
Ajisafe has denied the claims, saying that he only slapped Amuda, his girlfriend of four years.
Ajisafe described the victim as a thorn in his flesh and insisted that she was troublesome.
While speaking with police, Amuda alleged that Ajisafe and his family members had tortured her by not only inserting ground pepper into her genitals but using a bottle to do so.
Ajisafe and an accomplice, Ayomide Ajayi, have been charged on three counts of assault and have pleaded their innocence in court.
Amuda has been taken to a rehabilitation centre while the case has been adjourned to July 15.
Read more at PUNCH
Abuja - A 34-year-old man has been arrested following the alleged torture of his girlfriend because of suspected infidelity.
The suspect, Solomon Ajisafe, a Lagos resident, is alleged to have tortured his girlfriend of four years, along with the help of his mother.
According to a PUNCH report, Ajisafe's mother, a known member of the Oodua People's Congress (OPC), assisted her son in inserting ground pepper into his girlfriend's private parts after flogging her for alleged adultery.
The victim, Tope Amuda, is said to have been seen talking to herself and speaking incoherently following the humiliation.
Ajisafe has denied the claims, saying that he only slapped Amuda, his girlfriend of four years.
Ajisafe described the victim as a thorn in his flesh and insisted that she was troublesome.
While speaking with police, Amuda alleged that Ajisafe and his family members had tortured her by not only inserting ground pepper into her genitals but using a bottle to do so.
Ajisafe and an accomplice, Ayomide Ajayi, have been charged on three counts of assault and have pleaded their innocence in court.
Amuda has been taken to a rehabilitation centre while the case has been adjourned to July 15.
Read more at PUNCH
Buhari finally relocates to presidential villa
11:26 22/06/2015
Abuja - President Muhmadu Buhari has finally moved into the Aso Rock presidential villa, Abuja, Leadership reports.
The president relocated Sunday evening almost three weeks after his inauguration.
A presidential aide had explained recently that Buhari could not move into his official residence because renovation works were still going on.
It will be recalled that since their inauguration, Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo have yet to relocate to the Presidential Villa.
The president’s wife, Aisha, moved in there on Thursday ahead of her husband.
Read more at Leadership
Abuja - President Muhmadu Buhari has finally moved into the Aso Rock presidential villa, Abuja, Leadership reports.
The president relocated Sunday evening almost three weeks after his inauguration.
A presidential aide had explained recently that Buhari could not move into his official residence because renovation works were still going on.
It will be recalled that since their inauguration, Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo have yet to relocate to the Presidential Villa.
The president’s wife, Aisha, moved in there on Thursday ahead of her husband.
Read more at Leadership
PDP governors set to replace Mu’azu
13:41 22/06/2015
Abuja - Governors elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party are expected to meet in Abuja on Monday, reports Punch.
The governors during the meeting are expected to discuss how to find a replacement for the former Chairman of the party, Adamu Mu’azu who resigned on May 20 on health grounds.
The party’s Deputy National Chairman, Uche Secondus, has been acting as the National Chairman since Mu’azu’s exit.
Monday’s meeting of the PDP governors is expected to be presided over by the Chairman of the party’s governors’ forum, Governor Olusegun Mimiko.
There are indications that the governors will likely picked a candidate from the North-East, where the position of national chairman was zoned to.
Read more at Punch.
Abuja - Governors elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party are expected to meet in Abuja on Monday, reports Punch.
The governors during the meeting are expected to discuss how to find a replacement for the former Chairman of the party, Adamu Mu’azu who resigned on May 20 on health grounds.
The party’s Deputy National Chairman, Uche Secondus, has been acting as the National Chairman since Mu’azu’s exit.
Monday’s meeting of the PDP governors is expected to be presided over by the Chairman of the party’s governors’ forum, Governor Olusegun Mimiko.
There are indications that the governors will likely picked a candidate from the North-East, where the position of national chairman was zoned to.
Read more at Punch.
Why do we keep getting into bad relationships?
Violet Online
14:58 22/06/2015
To catch up on the series, read Love, sex, drama and self-discovery: The escapades of Violet Online.
I find it so interesting how we can see repeated patterns in our girlfriends but not in ourselves. Right now my best friend forever is going through a difficult time.
All of her relationships have been difficult and ended disastrously. And her current partner, who has a dreadful history with women, is behaving like a real bastard.
She’s in turmoil. I spend hours listening to her, nodding my head, rubbing her shoulders, making her tea and passing her tissues.
What I really want to do is scream and shake her, yell at her to dump him, plot the murder, tell her to quit the games, the lies, the drama and move on.
But I bite my tongue. Because she knows what she should be doing; she just can’t do it. And really, she just wants someone to listen to her. Which I do, gladly and patiently.
Maybe not always patiently, because I do sometimes roll my eyes and I do sometimes actually shake her.
But, I listen because I am her friend. I also support her because she is my friend, but it kills me that she has sleepless nights over this guy.
It kills me that he makes her unhappy.
It kills me that I know she has no future with him.
But it kills her a lot more than it kills me. She’s in it and it should be easy for her to get out of. But it isn’t. These things are always complicated. And I know this because I have been in it too.
Or I am in it too. And right now there is probably someone writing a story about me and my obsession with this guy and a relationship that is going nowhere. Yet I too cannot see my way out of it.
We all repeat patterns.
We all get stuck.
We can all say what someone else should do, but we don’t do it ourselves.
Is it because we thrive on the drama? Is it because we are scared of the alternative? Or is it because secretly we hope that something is going to shift and we really love the guy so think it’s worth putting up with a lot of bad for a little bit of good?
Of course it isn’t worth putting up with the bad. Goodness, girls, we deserve much better than that. We just get stuck and we somehow need to learn how to unstick ourselves.
We need to stop being scared. We need to be ready for change.
We all need to learn to move on when it’s time to move on.
14:58 22/06/2015
To catch up on the series, read Love, sex, drama and self-discovery: The escapades of Violet Online.
I find it so interesting how we can see repeated patterns in our girlfriends but not in ourselves. Right now my best friend forever is going through a difficult time.
All of her relationships have been difficult and ended disastrously. And her current partner, who has a dreadful history with women, is behaving like a real bastard.
She’s in turmoil. I spend hours listening to her, nodding my head, rubbing her shoulders, making her tea and passing her tissues.
What I really want to do is scream and shake her, yell at her to dump him, plot the murder, tell her to quit the games, the lies, the drama and move on.
But I bite my tongue. Because she knows what she should be doing; she just can’t do it. And really, she just wants someone to listen to her. Which I do, gladly and patiently.
Maybe not always patiently, because I do sometimes roll my eyes and I do sometimes actually shake her.
But, I listen because I am her friend. I also support her because she is my friend, but it kills me that she has sleepless nights over this guy.
It kills me that he makes her unhappy.
It kills me that I know she has no future with him.
But it kills her a lot more than it kills me. She’s in it and it should be easy for her to get out of. But it isn’t. These things are always complicated. And I know this because I have been in it too.
Or I am in it too. And right now there is probably someone writing a story about me and my obsession with this guy and a relationship that is going nowhere. Yet I too cannot see my way out of it.
We all repeat patterns.
We all get stuck.
We can all say what someone else should do, but we don’t do it ourselves.
Is it because we thrive on the drama? Is it because we are scared of the alternative? Or is it because secretly we hope that something is going to shift and we really love the guy so think it’s worth putting up with a lot of bad for a little bit of good?
Of course it isn’t worth putting up with the bad. Goodness, girls, we deserve much better than that. We just get stuck and we somehow need to learn how to unstick ourselves.
We need to stop being scared. We need to be ready for change.
We all need to learn to move on when it’s time to move on.
Cech will save Arsenal, says Terry
14:58 22/06/2015
London - Petr Cech will save Arsenal "12 to 15 points a season" if he joins from English champions Chelsea, according to Blues skipper John Terry.
The Gunners have long been reported as eyeing a deal to bring Cech across London from their Premier League rivals, with the goalkeeper now playing understudy to Thibault Courtois at Stamford Bridge.
But there is no denying the contribution Cech has made to Chelsea's success since his arrival from Rennes in 2004 and club captain Terry believes the 33-year-old still has plenty to offer in top-flight football.
Terry, in an interview with Britain's talkSPORT radio from China, where the Chelsea centre-half is on a promotional tour, said of Cech: "I am sure if he does leave the club, which nobody wants to see, but we understand he wants to play football, he is going to be sorely missed.
"He will improve whatever side he goes to," added Terry in an interview broadcast on Monday.
The former England defender added: "There is obviously talk of Arsenal signing Petr and if they do get Pete, that will strengthen them for sure. He will save them 12 to 15 points a season."
Meanwhile Chelsea are set to be active in the transfer market themselves, amid widespread reports they will soon complete a season-long move for Monaco forward Radamel Falcao, whose temporary stay at Manchester United last season proved unsuccessful.
And Terry said resting on their laurels was not an option for Chelsea.
"To be top of the league the whole way through the season was an exceptional thing to do, but you can't kind of dwell on that," he said.
"We have to start concentrating on next season and try to improve on that again.
"When you win the league, you know teams go and spend money to buy the best."
Meanwhile Terry said he expected Jose Mourinho's side would face even tougher title challenges next term.
"Manchester City were a little way off this year and will strengthen.
"I feel Arsenal and Manchester United are going to be very strong as well," he added.
"We all know once you win it, everyone wants to beat you the following year, (so) it will be even harder for us to win the league again."
London - Petr Cech will save Arsenal "12 to 15 points a season" if he joins from English champions Chelsea, according to Blues skipper John Terry.
The Gunners have long been reported as eyeing a deal to bring Cech across London from their Premier League rivals, with the goalkeeper now playing understudy to Thibault Courtois at Stamford Bridge.
But there is no denying the contribution Cech has made to Chelsea's success since his arrival from Rennes in 2004 and club captain Terry believes the 33-year-old still has plenty to offer in top-flight football.
Terry, in an interview with Britain's talkSPORT radio from China, where the Chelsea centre-half is on a promotional tour, said of Cech: "I am sure if he does leave the club, which nobody wants to see, but we understand he wants to play football, he is going to be sorely missed.
"He will improve whatever side he goes to," added Terry in an interview broadcast on Monday.
The former England defender added: "There is obviously talk of Arsenal signing Petr and if they do get Pete, that will strengthen them for sure. He will save them 12 to 15 points a season."
Meanwhile Chelsea are set to be active in the transfer market themselves, amid widespread reports they will soon complete a season-long move for Monaco forward Radamel Falcao, whose temporary stay at Manchester United last season proved unsuccessful.
And Terry said resting on their laurels was not an option for Chelsea.
"To be top of the league the whole way through the season was an exceptional thing to do, but you can't kind of dwell on that," he said.
"We have to start concentrating on next season and try to improve on that again.
"When you win the league, you know teams go and spend money to buy the best."
Meanwhile Terry said he expected Jose Mourinho's side would face even tougher title challenges next term.
"Manchester City were a little way off this year and will strengthen.
"I feel Arsenal and Manchester United are going to be very strong as well," he added.
"We all know once you win it, everyone wants to beat you the following year, (so) it will be even harder for us to win the league again."
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