Thursday, May 31, 2007
News Desk Thursday, May 31, 2007
Yar'Adua names Kingibe SGF
A former Minister of Internal Affairs, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, has been named the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation.more>>
Kingibe is SGF, Muhtar NSA, Mohammed, Chief of Staff; Onovo, Acting I-G
ABUJA — PRESIDENT Umaru Yar’Adua, yesterday, began to unveil the character of his administration by making the first set of appointments into executive and security offices. These include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe, who was the running mate to the late Chief Moshood Abiola in the June 12, 1993 presidential election. more>>
Monarch tasks electorate on LG Polls
OWERRI—As Imo people prepare for the forthcoming local government elections, the traditional ruler of Ihitte Okwe, Ngor Okpala local government area of Imo State, Eze Barnabas Obirieze, has charged his subjects to properly educate members of their individual families on the urgent need to vote in credible candidates into the elective positions instead of voting en-block for any party. more>>
Discontent over Mark as Senate President
ABUJA — THE choices of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the leadership of the next Senate have triggered disaffection among Senators-elect.
All through yesterday, as the out-going Senate began the process of winding down its session, returning and first term Senators were strategising on the issue with some allegedly plotting to kick against the party’s decisions. more>>
Flawed Polls may hurt Nigeria's bid for UN Seat
NOTWITHSTANDING the successful inauguration of the Umaru Musa Yar'Adua administration on Tuesday, the international community is yet to put behind it the controversial elections that produced his government. Several nations, which are unimpressed with the conduct of the April polls, are reportedly reviewing the support for Nigeria for one of Africa's seats in an expanded United Nations (UN) Security Council.more>>
PDP: Maduekwe, Egwu, Okorocha Bid for Ali's Job
With the confirmation of the zoning of key political offices by the ruling Peoples Demo-cratic Party (PDP), frontline contestants have emerged for the office of National Chair-man of the party. It was also gathered that the national caucus of the party has given tommorrow as the deadline for all its governors to submit names of their nominees for ministerial appointment by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua. more>>
Chimaroke to shun Senate Seat
There were strong indications yesterday that former Enugu State Governor and Senator-elect, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, who left the country before the Tuesday hand-over ceremony may not return to the country to claim his seat in the Senate.more>>
Suspect in INEC-HQ 'bombing' released
A man arrested in connection with the attempt to bomb the Independent National Electoral Commission during the elections was released from police custody yesterday, but headquarters opposition parties are demanding that police open up about the alleged incident. more>>
EFCC begins crackdown on fleeing politicians
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has said it is prepared to move against corrupt politicians, especially those who have reportedly fled the country at the expiration of the last administration on May 29.more>>
Million Naira fraud in Senate: Officials in detention...
A large scale fraud involving some officials of the Senate has been discovered in the last days of the end of the current Senate.
Consequently, the Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani, has queried the Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Nasir Arab, over deductions from the salaries of legislative aides running into millions of naira. more>>
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
We Lived Here in Amukoko City
How time flies.
For a city desperately founded and developed by a working class in the 70s without tarred roads, pipe borne water and other basic amenities of life, one should be wondering why the government deliberately abandoned a slum like this where humans dwell and go about their routine businesses and social gatherings. Did humans explore this place and left it that way in this modernity?
Amukoko is a city full of small-town slums and ghettos, where the streets are filthy and not motorable, and where the population can drive you crazy. The buildings are great, ain't it? Nevertheless, Amukoko celebrates the good life in the great outdoors and neigborhoods - Orile-Iganmu, Layinka after the kpako bridge, Ojo Road - with crazy motorists, motels and all kinds of pubs at every spot. Of course, it's a great city, and that's why Naijas are the happiest people on Planet Earth.
But, today, most of us, if not all, in Diaspora, are so proud to proclaim the American dream living in posh neigborhoods with uninterupted electricity, tarred roads to our doorsteps, efficient water system, access to supermarkets, recreation facilities and orderliness as in all civil societies.
The question now is, how many people can afford to live typically of an organized and civilized society in Naija?
Nothing much has changed, and one begins to wonder!
Full Text of Umar Yar'Adua's Inaugural Address
INAUGURAL ADDRESS OF UMARU MUSA
YAR’ADUA, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL
REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES.
ABUJA, MAY 29, 2007
His Excellency Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, President of the Senate, the Speaker House of Representatives, my Lord Chief Justice of Nigeria, President Obasanjo, distinguished Presidents and Heads of Governments who have graciously honored us with their presence today, leaders of our nation, guests from far and near, fellow citizens.
This is a historic day for our nation, for it marks an important milestone in our march towards a maturing democracy. For the first time since we cast off the shackles of colonialism almost a half-century ago, we have at last managed an orderly transition from one elected government to another. We acknowledge that our elections had some shortcomings. Thankfully, we have well-established legal avenues of redress, and I urge anyone aggrieved to pursue them.
I also believe that our experiences represent an opportunity to learn from our mistakes. Accordingly, I will set up a panel to examine the entire electoral process with a view to ensuring that we raise the quality and standard of our general elections, and thereby deepen our democracy.
This occasion is historic also because it marks another kind of transitional generational shift when the children of independence assume the adult responsibility of running the country at the heart of Africa.
My fellow citizens, I am humbled and honored that you have elected me and Vice President Jonathan to represent that generation in the task of building a just and humane nation, where its people have a fair chance to attain their fullest potential.
Luckily we are not starting from scratch. We are fortunate to have been led the past eight years by one of our nation’s greatest patriots, President Obasanjo. On behalf of all our people, I salute you, Mr. President, for your vision, your courage and your boundless energy in creating the roadmap toward that united and economically thriving Nigeria that we seek.
Many of us may find it hard to believe now, but before you assumed the presidency eight years ago, the national conversation was about whether Nigeria deserved to remain one country at all.
Today we are talking about Nigeria’s potential, to become one of the 20 largest economies in the world by the year2O2O. That isa measure of howfarwe have come.And we thank you.
The administration of President Obasanjo has laid the foundation upon which we can build our future prosperity.
Over the past eight years Nigerians have reached a national consensus in at least four areas: to deepen democracy and the rule of law; build an economy driven primarily by the private sector, not government; display zero tolerance for corruption in all its forms, and, finally, restructure and staff our government to ensure efficiency and good governance.
I commit myself to these tasks.
Our goal now is to build on the greatest accomplishments of the past few years. Relying on the 7-point agenda that formed the basis of our compact with voters during the recent campaigns, we will concentrate on rebuilding our physical infrastructure and human capital in order to take our country forward. We will focus on accelerating economic and other reforms in a way that makes a concrete and visible difference to ordinary people.Our economy already has been set on the path of growth. Now we must continue to do the necessary work to create more jobs, lower interest rates, reduce inflation, and maintain a stable exchange rate. All this will increase our chances for rapid growth and development.
Central to this is rebuilding our basic infrastructure. We already have comprehensive plans for mass transportation, especially railroad development. We will make these plans a reality.
Equally important, we must devote our best efforts to overcoming the energy challenge. Over the next four years we will see dramatic improvements in power generation, transmission and distribution.
These plans will mean little if we do not respect the rule of law. Our government is determined to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the police. The state must fulfill its constitutional responsibility of protecting life and property.
The crisis in the Niger Delta commands our urgent attention. Ending it is a matter of strategic importance to our country. I will use every resource available to me, with your help, to address this crisis in a spirit of fairness, justice, and cooperation.
We have a good starting point because our predecessor already launched a master plan that can serve as a basis for a comprehensive examination of all the issues. We will involve all stakeholders in working out a solution.
As part of this effort, we will move quickly to ensure security of life and property, and to make investments safe.
In the meantime, I appeal to all aggrieved communities, groups and individuals to immediately suspend all violent activities, and respect the law. Let us allow the impending dialogue to take place in a conducive atmosphere. We are all in this together, and we will find a way to achieve peace and justice.
As we work to resolve the challenges of the Niger Delta, so must we also tackle poverty throughout the country.
By fighting poverty, we fight disease. We will make advances in public health, to control the scourge of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases that hold back our population and limit our progress.
We are determined to intensify the war against corruption, more so because corruption is itself central to the spread of poverty. Its corrosive effect is all too visible in all aspects of our national life. This is an area where we have made significant progress in recent years, and we will maintain the momentum.
We also are committed to rebuilding our human capital, if we are to support a modern economy. We must revive education in order to create more equality, and citizens who can function more productively in today’s world.
To our larger African family, you have our commitment to the goal of African integration. We will continue to collaborate with fellow African states to reduce conflict and free our people from the leg chains of poverty.
To all our friends in the international community, we pledge our continuing fidelity to the goals of progress in Africa and peace in the world.
Fellow citizens, I ask you all to march with me into the age of restoration. Let us work together to restore our time-honored values of honesty, decency, generosity, modesty, selflessness, transparency, and accountability. These fundamental values determine societies that succeed or fail. We must choose to succeed. I will set a worthy personal example as your president.
No matter what obstacles confront us, I have confidence and faith in our ability to overcome them. After all, we are Nigerians! We are a resourceful and enterprising people, and we have it within us to make our country a better place.
To that end I offer myself as a servant-leader. I will be a listener and doer, and serve with humility. To fulfill our ambitions, all our leaders at all levels whether a local government councilor or state governor, senator or cabinet minister must change our style and our attitude. We must act at all times with humility, courage, and forthrightness.
I ask you, fellow citizens, to join me in rebuilding our Nigerian family, one that defines the success of one by the happiness of many. I ask you to set aside negative attitudes, and concentrate all our energies on getting to our common destination.
All hands must be on deck.
Let us join together to ease the pains of today while working for the gains of tomorrow. Let us set aside cynicism and strive for the good society that we know is within our reach. Let us discard the habit of low expectations of ourselves as well as of our leaders.
Let us stop justifying every shortcoming with that unacceptable phrase “the Nigerian Factor” as if to be a Nigerian is to settle for less. Let us recapture the mood of optimism that defined us at the dawn of independence, that legendary can-do spirit that marked our Nigerianess. Let us join together, now, to build a society worthy of our children. We have the talent. We have the intelligence. We have the ability.
The challenge is great. The goal is clear. The time is now.
YAR’ADUA, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL
REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES.
ABUJA, MAY 29, 2007
His Excellency Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, President of the Senate, the Speaker House of Representatives, my Lord Chief Justice of Nigeria, President Obasanjo, distinguished Presidents and Heads of Governments who have graciously honored us with their presence today, leaders of our nation, guests from far and near, fellow citizens.
This is a historic day for our nation, for it marks an important milestone in our march towards a maturing democracy. For the first time since we cast off the shackles of colonialism almost a half-century ago, we have at last managed an orderly transition from one elected government to another. We acknowledge that our elections had some shortcomings. Thankfully, we have well-established legal avenues of redress, and I urge anyone aggrieved to pursue them.
I also believe that our experiences represent an opportunity to learn from our mistakes. Accordingly, I will set up a panel to examine the entire electoral process with a view to ensuring that we raise the quality and standard of our general elections, and thereby deepen our democracy.
This occasion is historic also because it marks another kind of transitional generational shift when the children of independence assume the adult responsibility of running the country at the heart of Africa.
My fellow citizens, I am humbled and honored that you have elected me and Vice President Jonathan to represent that generation in the task of building a just and humane nation, where its people have a fair chance to attain their fullest potential.
Luckily we are not starting from scratch. We are fortunate to have been led the past eight years by one of our nation’s greatest patriots, President Obasanjo. On behalf of all our people, I salute you, Mr. President, for your vision, your courage and your boundless energy in creating the roadmap toward that united and economically thriving Nigeria that we seek.
Many of us may find it hard to believe now, but before you assumed the presidency eight years ago, the national conversation was about whether Nigeria deserved to remain one country at all.
Today we are talking about Nigeria’s potential, to become one of the 20 largest economies in the world by the year2O2O. That isa measure of howfarwe have come.And we thank you.
The administration of President Obasanjo has laid the foundation upon which we can build our future prosperity.
Over the past eight years Nigerians have reached a national consensus in at least four areas: to deepen democracy and the rule of law; build an economy driven primarily by the private sector, not government; display zero tolerance for corruption in all its forms, and, finally, restructure and staff our government to ensure efficiency and good governance.
I commit myself to these tasks.
Our goal now is to build on the greatest accomplishments of the past few years. Relying on the 7-point agenda that formed the basis of our compact with voters during the recent campaigns, we will concentrate on rebuilding our physical infrastructure and human capital in order to take our country forward. We will focus on accelerating economic and other reforms in a way that makes a concrete and visible difference to ordinary people.Our economy already has been set on the path of growth. Now we must continue to do the necessary work to create more jobs, lower interest rates, reduce inflation, and maintain a stable exchange rate. All this will increase our chances for rapid growth and development.
Central to this is rebuilding our basic infrastructure. We already have comprehensive plans for mass transportation, especially railroad development. We will make these plans a reality.
Equally important, we must devote our best efforts to overcoming the energy challenge. Over the next four years we will see dramatic improvements in power generation, transmission and distribution.
These plans will mean little if we do not respect the rule of law. Our government is determined to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the police. The state must fulfill its constitutional responsibility of protecting life and property.
The crisis in the Niger Delta commands our urgent attention. Ending it is a matter of strategic importance to our country. I will use every resource available to me, with your help, to address this crisis in a spirit of fairness, justice, and cooperation.
We have a good starting point because our predecessor already launched a master plan that can serve as a basis for a comprehensive examination of all the issues. We will involve all stakeholders in working out a solution.
As part of this effort, we will move quickly to ensure security of life and property, and to make investments safe.
In the meantime, I appeal to all aggrieved communities, groups and individuals to immediately suspend all violent activities, and respect the law. Let us allow the impending dialogue to take place in a conducive atmosphere. We are all in this together, and we will find a way to achieve peace and justice.
As we work to resolve the challenges of the Niger Delta, so must we also tackle poverty throughout the country.
By fighting poverty, we fight disease. We will make advances in public health, to control the scourge of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases that hold back our population and limit our progress.
We are determined to intensify the war against corruption, more so because corruption is itself central to the spread of poverty. Its corrosive effect is all too visible in all aspects of our national life. This is an area where we have made significant progress in recent years, and we will maintain the momentum.
We also are committed to rebuilding our human capital, if we are to support a modern economy. We must revive education in order to create more equality, and citizens who can function more productively in today’s world.
To our larger African family, you have our commitment to the goal of African integration. We will continue to collaborate with fellow African states to reduce conflict and free our people from the leg chains of poverty.
To all our friends in the international community, we pledge our continuing fidelity to the goals of progress in Africa and peace in the world.
Fellow citizens, I ask you all to march with me into the age of restoration. Let us work together to restore our time-honored values of honesty, decency, generosity, modesty, selflessness, transparency, and accountability. These fundamental values determine societies that succeed or fail. We must choose to succeed. I will set a worthy personal example as your president.
No matter what obstacles confront us, I have confidence and faith in our ability to overcome them. After all, we are Nigerians! We are a resourceful and enterprising people, and we have it within us to make our country a better place.
To that end I offer myself as a servant-leader. I will be a listener and doer, and serve with humility. To fulfill our ambitions, all our leaders at all levels whether a local government councilor or state governor, senator or cabinet minister must change our style and our attitude. We must act at all times with humility, courage, and forthrightness.
I ask you, fellow citizens, to join me in rebuilding our Nigerian family, one that defines the success of one by the happiness of many. I ask you to set aside negative attitudes, and concentrate all our energies on getting to our common destination.
All hands must be on deck.
Let us join together to ease the pains of today while working for the gains of tomorrow. Let us set aside cynicism and strive for the good society that we know is within our reach. Let us discard the habit of low expectations of ourselves as well as of our leaders.
Let us stop justifying every shortcoming with that unacceptable phrase “the Nigerian Factor” as if to be a Nigerian is to settle for less. Let us recapture the mood of optimism that defined us at the dawn of independence, that legendary can-do spirit that marked our Nigerianess. Let us join together, now, to build a society worthy of our children. We have the talent. We have the intelligence. We have the ability.
The challenge is great. The goal is clear. The time is now.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
News Desk: Inauguration, Etc.
“For the first time since we cast off the shackles of colonialism almost a half-century ago, we have at last managed an orderly transition from one elected government to another.
“We acknowledge that our elections had some shortcomings. Thankfully, we have well-established legal avenues of redress, and I urge anyone aggrieved to pursue them.
“I also believe that our experiences represent an opportunity to learn from our mistakes. Accordingly, I will set up a panel to examine the entire electoral process with a view to ensuring that we raise the quality and standard of our general elections, and thereby deepen our democracy.
"This occasion is historic also because it marks another kind of transitional generational shift when the children of independence assume the adult responsibility of running the country at the heart of Africa.
“My fellow citizens, I am humbled and honoured that you have elected me and Vice President Jonathan to represent that generation in the task of building a just and humane nation, where its people have a fair chance to attain their fullest potential.
“Luckily we are not starting from scratch. We are fortunate to have been led the past eight years by one of our nation’s greatest patriots, President Obasanjo. On behalf of all our people, I salute you, Mr. President, for your vision, your courage and your boundless energy in creating the roadmap toward that united and economically thriving Nigeria that we seek.
“Many of us may find it hard to believe now, but before you assumed the presidency eight years ago, the national conversation was about whether Nigeria deserved to remain one country at all.
“Today we are talking about Nigeria’s potential, to become one of the 20 largest economies in the world by the year 2020. That is a measure of how far we have come and we thank you.
"The administration of President Obasanjo has laid the foundation upon which we can build our future prosperity."more>>
Kalu hands over to Orji in Abia
UMUAHIA—THE embattled new governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji and his deputy, Comrade Chris Akomas were sworn in yesterday in Umuahia by the chief judge of the state, Justice Sunday Imo in the presence of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, thus showing that the alleged swearing in at the state Liaison office in Lagos last Friday was merely a hoax. Orji thus became the third civilian governor of the state since its creation in 1991.more>>
Uba vows to build cargo airport, sacks commissioners, others
Awka—Dr. Andy Uba was sworn-in by the state Chief Judge, Justice Umegbolu Nri-Ezedi, with a promise to build a cargo airport in the state within 12 months. more>>
Chime Pledges equity, justice in Enugu
ENUGU —MR Sullivan Chime yesterday took the oath of office as the third Executive Governor of Enugu State with a firm promise that his administration would ensure equity and justice for all irrespective of political persuasion or affiliation.more>>
Ohakim pledges to exploit oil, gas in Imo
OWERRI—The new Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, has promised that “in the new face of Imo under his administration, the state will no longer be a passive participant in the oil and gas sector to be pacified with the crumbs from the rich oil revenue accruing to the federal government”.more>>
Sanction await former Imo council chairmen still keeping govt properties
Imo State Government has sent a warning to former chairmen of the 27 local government areas still in possession of government properties almost two months after vacating office.
Special Adviser to the former governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ogbuagu Bons Nwabiani regretted that in spite of several appeals, some of them have refused to surrender the properties in their possession, warning of dire consequences.more>>
Uduaghan promises honesty, diligence
Uduaghan, who was inaugurated by the state‘s Chief Judge, Justice Roseline Bozimo, promised to lead the state with honesty, diligence and excellence.
He vowed to recognise the plural nature of the state‘s polity.
Uduaghan added that his administration would be committed to the pursuit of equity, justice and fairness in the handling of all issues.The new governor, who subscribed to the relevant oath of office by 9.45am at the Government Cenotaph, Asaba, said the government was prepared to build a bridge of understanding across the state.more>>
Omehia challenges youths on peace
The governor of Rivers State, Celestine Omehia, yesterday appealed to the youths of the state to embrace peace, dialogue and productive service for the overall development of the people. more>>
Police beat up Benue NUJ boss, 14 other reporters, disrupting the swearing-in ceremony of governor Gabriel Tor-Suswam, in Makurdi
A team of mobile policemen yesterday beat and injured the Benue State chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and 14 other reporters, disrupting the swearing-in ceremony of governor Gabriel Tor-Suswan, in Makurdi. more>>
“We acknowledge that our elections had some shortcomings. Thankfully, we have well-established legal avenues of redress, and I urge anyone aggrieved to pursue them.
“I also believe that our experiences represent an opportunity to learn from our mistakes. Accordingly, I will set up a panel to examine the entire electoral process with a view to ensuring that we raise the quality and standard of our general elections, and thereby deepen our democracy.
"This occasion is historic also because it marks another kind of transitional generational shift when the children of independence assume the adult responsibility of running the country at the heart of Africa.
“My fellow citizens, I am humbled and honoured that you have elected me and Vice President Jonathan to represent that generation in the task of building a just and humane nation, where its people have a fair chance to attain their fullest potential.
“Luckily we are not starting from scratch. We are fortunate to have been led the past eight years by one of our nation’s greatest patriots, President Obasanjo. On behalf of all our people, I salute you, Mr. President, for your vision, your courage and your boundless energy in creating the roadmap toward that united and economically thriving Nigeria that we seek.
“Many of us may find it hard to believe now, but before you assumed the presidency eight years ago, the national conversation was about whether Nigeria deserved to remain one country at all.
“Today we are talking about Nigeria’s potential, to become one of the 20 largest economies in the world by the year 2020. That is a measure of how far we have come and we thank you.
"The administration of President Obasanjo has laid the foundation upon which we can build our future prosperity."more>>
Kalu hands over to Orji in Abia
UMUAHIA—THE embattled new governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji and his deputy, Comrade Chris Akomas were sworn in yesterday in Umuahia by the chief judge of the state, Justice Sunday Imo in the presence of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, thus showing that the alleged swearing in at the state Liaison office in Lagos last Friday was merely a hoax. Orji thus became the third civilian governor of the state since its creation in 1991.more>>
Uba vows to build cargo airport, sacks commissioners, others
Awka—Dr. Andy Uba was sworn-in by the state Chief Judge, Justice Umegbolu Nri-Ezedi, with a promise to build a cargo airport in the state within 12 months. more>>
Chime Pledges equity, justice in Enugu
ENUGU —MR Sullivan Chime yesterday took the oath of office as the third Executive Governor of Enugu State with a firm promise that his administration would ensure equity and justice for all irrespective of political persuasion or affiliation.more>>
Ohakim pledges to exploit oil, gas in Imo
OWERRI—The new Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, has promised that “in the new face of Imo under his administration, the state will no longer be a passive participant in the oil and gas sector to be pacified with the crumbs from the rich oil revenue accruing to the federal government”.more>>
Sanction await former Imo council chairmen still keeping govt properties
Imo State Government has sent a warning to former chairmen of the 27 local government areas still in possession of government properties almost two months after vacating office.
Special Adviser to the former governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ogbuagu Bons Nwabiani regretted that in spite of several appeals, some of them have refused to surrender the properties in their possession, warning of dire consequences.more>>
Uduaghan promises honesty, diligence
Uduaghan, who was inaugurated by the state‘s Chief Judge, Justice Roseline Bozimo, promised to lead the state with honesty, diligence and excellence.
He vowed to recognise the plural nature of the state‘s polity.
Uduaghan added that his administration would be committed to the pursuit of equity, justice and fairness in the handling of all issues.The new governor, who subscribed to the relevant oath of office by 9.45am at the Government Cenotaph, Asaba, said the government was prepared to build a bridge of understanding across the state.more>>
Omehia challenges youths on peace
The governor of Rivers State, Celestine Omehia, yesterday appealed to the youths of the state to embrace peace, dialogue and productive service for the overall development of the people. more>>
Police beat up Benue NUJ boss, 14 other reporters, disrupting the swearing-in ceremony of governor Gabriel Tor-Suswam, in Makurdi
A team of mobile policemen yesterday beat and injured the Benue State chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and 14 other reporters, disrupting the swearing-in ceremony of governor Gabriel Tor-Suswan, in Makurdi. more>>
News Desk Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Offering Puppies is the newest twist in Nigeria Scams
The Council of Better Business Bureaus and American Kennel Club were to issue a warning today about fraudulent Web sites, MySpace postings and print ads asking people to help save puppies that are in desperate straits. more>>
Oil recovers in London on continued worries over Nigeria tensions, US gasoline
LONDON (Thomson Financial) - Oil prices recovered in London from losses posted yesterday as traders focused on continued tensions in key crude producer Nigeria and remained concerned about US gasoline supplies. At 10.22 am in London, benchmark Brent crude contracts for July delivery were up 21 cents at 69.93 usd per barrel. more>>
EFCC's Reprieve for Orji
Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday declared that Abia State governor-elect, Chief Theodore Orji has secured reprieve from prosecution till the next four years.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Daily Champion, Ribadu, an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) said, Chief Orji who is expected to be sworn-in today as governor would not be arrested by his agency by the virtue of the bail he secured in a Federal High Court Lagos last week. more>>
We may sack Akala, Uba from office after swearing-in -- Supreme Court
ABUJA—The Supreme Court yesterday refused an invitation by Senator Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo State and Mr Peter Obi of Anambra State to stop today’s inauguration of their successors. more>>
PDP chooses David Mark as Senate President, Etteh for House Speaker
ABUJA—RETIRED Brigadier-General David Bonaventure Mark (Benue South) is the choice of the leadership of the ruling PDP as the nation’s next Senate President, and Mrs. Patricia Etteh (Aiyedade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in Osun State is its choice as the next Speaker of the Hosue of Representative. Senator Mark was nominated as the PDP upon the strong backing of President Olusegun Obasanjo who leaves office today. more>>
BPE hands over PH, Kaduna refineries to Dangote, Otedola, Others
LAGOS—The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), yesterday handed over Port-Harcourt and Kaduna refineries to Bluestar Oils Services Consortium, floated by business mogul, Alh. Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola of Zenon Oil, Rivers State Government and other Nigerian investors. more>>
Tight Security at Eagle Square as Yar'Adua takes over
At every corner of the square and under the pavilions are gun-wielding soldiers and plain-cloth security men under a strict instruction to prevent movements into the expansive arena. Please by one of our correspondents to some of the operatives for permission to get into the area for a closer appraisal of the state of readiness, were turned down. more>>
The Council of Better Business Bureaus and American Kennel Club were to issue a warning today about fraudulent Web sites, MySpace postings and print ads asking people to help save puppies that are in desperate straits. more>>
Oil recovers in London on continued worries over Nigeria tensions, US gasoline
LONDON (Thomson Financial) - Oil prices recovered in London from losses posted yesterday as traders focused on continued tensions in key crude producer Nigeria and remained concerned about US gasoline supplies. At 10.22 am in London, benchmark Brent crude contracts for July delivery were up 21 cents at 69.93 usd per barrel. more>>
EFCC's Reprieve for Orji
Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday declared that Abia State governor-elect, Chief Theodore Orji has secured reprieve from prosecution till the next four years.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Daily Champion, Ribadu, an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) said, Chief Orji who is expected to be sworn-in today as governor would not be arrested by his agency by the virtue of the bail he secured in a Federal High Court Lagos last week. more>>
We may sack Akala, Uba from office after swearing-in -- Supreme Court
ABUJA—The Supreme Court yesterday refused an invitation by Senator Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo State and Mr Peter Obi of Anambra State to stop today’s inauguration of their successors. more>>
PDP chooses David Mark as Senate President, Etteh for House Speaker
ABUJA—RETIRED Brigadier-General David Bonaventure Mark (Benue South) is the choice of the leadership of the ruling PDP as the nation’s next Senate President, and Mrs. Patricia Etteh (Aiyedade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in Osun State is its choice as the next Speaker of the Hosue of Representative. Senator Mark was nominated as the PDP upon the strong backing of President Olusegun Obasanjo who leaves office today. more>>
BPE hands over PH, Kaduna refineries to Dangote, Otedola, Others
LAGOS—The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), yesterday handed over Port-Harcourt and Kaduna refineries to Bluestar Oils Services Consortium, floated by business mogul, Alh. Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola of Zenon Oil, Rivers State Government and other Nigerian investors. more>>
Tight Security at Eagle Square as Yar'Adua takes over
At every corner of the square and under the pavilions are gun-wielding soldiers and plain-cloth security men under a strict instruction to prevent movements into the expansive arena. Please by one of our correspondents to some of the operatives for permission to get into the area for a closer appraisal of the state of readiness, were turned down. more>>
Monday, May 28, 2007
8 Spooky Years of Olusegun Obasanjo's Fourth Republic (1)
Curious viewers and readers who have been concerned on what I have been up to lately since I stopped my political commentary particularly on Igbo matters, wondering what may have happened to the ardent Igboist should hold their breath. Of course, I was almost nailed for cricizing a politically suicidal Ichie Chibuzor Onwchekwa for taking Igbos to hell. Some assumed I may have thrown in the towel on a series of grounds that the heat was becoming unbearable and it's time to quit. The point is, there is nothing else to write about on a subject matter that no longer makes sense especially on Igbo issues now that it's patently clear Igbos are a conquered people. Even the lame duck Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, who should be handing over any moment now admits Igbos are a finished people. Udenwa in his own words:
"Today the Igbos have no place in the leadership of this country. The Igbos have never been as low as we are today in the society called Nigeria. We are so incapacitated; we have no say. We blame others but at the same time we have not done anything to help ourselves; instead we have aided such situation where we are completely relegated to the background."
I'm kind of shocked reading Udenwa made the above statement, when he, Udenwa, for eight doggone years as governor has little or nothing to show for his stewardship to the people of Imo State. Udenwa should be blaming himself and the Igbo-related governors and commissioners for such failures not the unemployed graduates who have nothing to do with it.
Was it not the same Udenwa who at a time held teachers and civil servants salaries for months while he and his cronies including the coattails who trooped on the death traps, the so-called roads while unemployed youths roamed around like hobos? Was it not Udenwa who had been tight-lipped while bad things happened all around Igbo land, for instance, the invasion of Okigwe to "smoke" out Ralph Uwazuruike? Was it not Udenwa whose political loyalty and salesmanship denied Nd'Igbo infrastructures required to propel industries in Igboland to the forefront? No question, we've seen eight years go away just like that and Nd'Igbo have been reduced to nothing; and Udenwa has the guts to blame a crop of new Igbo leaders. Imagine!
Enter Olusegun Obasanjo, a man whose regime as military junta discharged armored tanks on students who complained of school fees hike. A man whose regime levelled Fela's Shrine and locked up every inhabitant during that fateful raid. A man who banned Chris Okolie's New Breed Magazine from circulation on the basis the magazine's journalists interviewed Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Ivory Coast. A man whose regime destroyed all aspect of civil liberties. A man who snatched cameras from journalists and smashed it. And, a man who by a stroke of luck survived Sani Abacha's reign of terror. Ironically, this same man would take over the affairs of state in a purported democratic fabric only to make things worse.
Now, after eight years of President Obasanjo initially thought by every observer (precisely the international community) hopefully to be the most viable and intact representative government since independence, where does our democracy stand today? No one would deny the fact that the quest for sound democracy was long overdue after years of misrule by the military juntas. A miltary junta will always be a military junta. Obasanjo flogged a peace officer in public and got away with it even when the peace officer could have punched his big belly in retaliation. He said Igbos can go to hell when questioned about his hatred of Nd'Igbo. He promised to fish out Ibrahim Babangida's hidden assets if made known that the wizard dribbling evil genius stashed away money in foreign accounts swearing "no be my papa born me" if there is evidence. He made the world know that "I dey kampe" upon all the civil disturbances and mayhem during the satanic Sharia riots from around which Igbos were the victims losing lives and properties.
On May 29, 1999, a little bit after a year Obasanjo came close to death under Abacha's iron rule, a new beginning in the nation's political dispensation began. In his vow of "no sacred cows" upon being sworn-in, Obasanjo convinced the world he was a changed man, that he had found God and a born again christian. That Nigeria would change within a short period of time, and that he would fight corruption to the last man. And that he would uphold democracy and respect the rule of law. We have seen the worst and let's take a look at some of the spooky events all these years of maladministration:
On September 01, 1999, Obasanjo and the 36 states governors scrapped the monthly envoronmental exercise as unconstitutional negating the constitutional rights of the local government councils that was not part of the said decision.
On October 6, 1999, Gbenga Olarinoye of the Vanguard Newspapers Group reported thousands of residents of Pateji and Edu Local Government areas of Kwara State were drowned, and about 300,000 displaced by River Niger, following the release of excess water from the Shiroro, Kainji and Jebba Dams by National Electric Power Authority (NEPA).
On November 1999, Obasanjo and his Defense Minister, Theophilus Danjuma summoned one Colonel Agbabiaka to invade Odi for the shooting death of some police officers in the oil rich region. Odi was totally demolished and plundered and will never be the same again.
On December 14, 2000, a petition signed and copied to the President of the Senate, Senator Pius Anyim; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Ghali Na'Abba; Governors of the 36 states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; major Nigerian Newspapers and media houses by then radicals at Nigeriaworld including my humble self in a complaint titled "The Invasion of Okigwe Township by a Combined team of the Military and Police Forces" extracted from This Day December 04, 2000 news and UNIRIN report in an operation carried out to arrests Ralph Uwazuruike for his non violent approach agitating for Biafra nationhood. Regardless, Uwazuruike was remanded in custody for a while.
On June 2001, Jilian Okenwa of This Day and Nnamdi Onyenua, editor of Glamour Trends Magazine were arrested and tortured on a publication about obasanjo over an alleged defamation of the president.
August 21, 2001: Vanguard reports a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Mr. Monday Ndor was fatally shot by suspected assassins at his No. 4 Elelenwo Street, Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt.
December 23, 2001: Federal Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige was shot dead in his bedroom at his Bodija, Ibadan residence in an apparent assassination. A single bullet to the heart killed the Cicero of Esa Oke.
January 28, 2002: BBC reports "at least 100 people are now known to have drowned in a canal in the Nigerian city of Lagos while fleeing a series of huge explosions at an army mutinous dump" A number of others died when the fire ripped through the dump, setting off many bombs at the barracks. Many people, mostly children, were missing and thousands were homeless as a result of the inferno, which started the previous day.
August 03, 2002: Inspector General of Police, Tafa Balogun deploys about 500 policemen who stormed the premises of Enugu State House of Assembly to shoot at sight and to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
September 17, 2002: Victor Akiuwa of Vanguard reports about "120 factory workers feared dead after a massive fire swept through a rubber slippers/aluminium spoon/bottled water factory in the early hours of yesterday, at Odogunyan, in Ikorodu, Lagos State."
October 10, 2002: BBC reports "The international Court of Justice has awarded the disputed oil-rich Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon, rejecting Nigeria's claims." The court based its decision on a 1917 document between colonial powers Britain and Germany. The colonies have clashed several times over the peninsula and Cameroon referred the dispute to the Hague in 1994.
October 16, 2002: No fewer than seven people were gunned down in separate clashes in Ikorodu and Mile 2 areas of Lagos between the police and on one hand commercial bus drivers, and on the other motor park touts. A police post was burnt down in one of the incidents.
In Mile 2, five people lost their lives in fresh outbreak of crisis between the police and members of two rival transport unions - NURTW and RTEAN.
October 17, 2002: Daily Champion -- "Litigations Stall Oputa Report." "Government yesterday deferred consideration and implementation of the Justice Chukwudifu Oputa-led Human Rights Violation Investigation Commission (HRVIC). This was due to series of legal actions instituted against adoption of the report by former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida and other interested parties"
November 5, 2002: Vanguard Anayo Okoli reports "the police have taken over the Onitsha provisional headquarters of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) located on the busy Onitsha-Owerri Road. The police action followed a raid on the camp weekend by the police. At least one person claimed to be a member of the group was killed. The police said it was part of a clampdown on militia groups in the country."
November 13, 2002: En environmental rights group, Environmental Rights Action Friends of the Earth (ERA) has alleged that the military invasion of Odi in Bayelsa State claimed 2,483 casualties comprising of 1,023 females and 1,460 males. In extract from report entitled "Blamket of Silence, Images of the Odi Genocide."
Part 2 next as the saga continues.
News Desk Monday, May 28, 2007
...10,000 Policemen to Provide Inauguration Security
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command will deploy about 10,000 policemen to provide security during the May 29 presidential inauguration ceremony at the Eagle square, Abuja, FCT police commissioner, Mr Lawrence Alobi, said in a radio programme in Abuja yesterday. more>>
Crude cools as Nigeria's unions simmer down
Singapore - Oil prices edged lower in Asian trade on Monday as Nigeria's oil unions suspended a two-day-old strike on Saturday, relieving concerns of possible disruptions to shipments, said dealers.The market remains focused on tight petrol supplies as the peak-demand US summer driving season got underway Saturday, they added. more>>
...FG hikes fuel price to N75
LAGOS — BARELY 48 hours to the end of its tenure, the Obasanjo administration, yesterday, effected its sixth increase in the price of petrol in eight years. Petrol now costs N75 per litre from N65— a 15.4 per cent margin, with indications that the in-coming government may move it up to N85 per litre in an effort to keep the level of subsidy within manageable limits. more>>
Igbo leaders have failed
After a critical appraisal of eight years of democracy and the political dividends that have accrued to the various ethnic nationalities in Nigeria during the period, outgoing governor of Imo State, Chief Achike Udenwa has cause to lament that the Igbos have been destroyed politically, just as he blamed the present generation of Igbo leaders for this unfortunate development. more>>
Group backs Orji's swearing-in as Abia gov
Warri — HUMAN Rights Defenders Organization of Nigeria (HURDON), a Warri-based human rights group has thrown its weight behind the swearing-in, weekend, of Mr. Theodore Orji as the governor of Abia state by the erstwhile governor, Dr. Orji Kalu, saying that “it is quite in order in the spirit and intendment of Section 180 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. more>>
PDP se to announce choice for senate president
ABUJA — THE People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has extracted a commitment of firm loyalty from the four principal contenders for the office of Senate President ahead of a decisive meeting today with all Senators-elect on the party’s platform. more>>
N'Assembly leaders may emerge today
The leadership of the National Assembly may emerge on Monday (today) as the Peoples Democratic Party has summoned all the senators and House of Representatives member-elects to a meeting. The meeting, which holds at the State House, is to be attended by all the principal officers of the party, including President Olusegun Obasanjo. more>>
EFCC declares Enugu deputy gov-elect wanted
ECONOMIC and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday declared the deputy governor-elect of Enugu State, Mr Sunday Onyebuchi, wanted in connection with alleged "charges of criminal conspiracy, abuse of office and money laundering". more>>
Buhari asks court to commit Iwu to prison
ECONOMIC and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday declared the deputy governor-elect of Enugu State, Mr Sunday Onyebuchi, wanted in connection with alleged "charges of criminal conspiracy, abuse of office and money laundering". more>>
Count Me Out of May 29 Inauguration - Atiku
VICE President Atiku Abubakar yesterday said that he would not attend the swearing-in of Alhaji Umaru Yar'Adua as President tomorrow to avoid conferring credibility on the April general elections. In a statement, the outgoing vice president maintained that the election that threw-up Yar'Adua "has been condemned worldwide as falling short of the basic minimum of electoral standards". more>>
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command will deploy about 10,000 policemen to provide security during the May 29 presidential inauguration ceremony at the Eagle square, Abuja, FCT police commissioner, Mr Lawrence Alobi, said in a radio programme in Abuja yesterday. more>>
Crude cools as Nigeria's unions simmer down
Singapore - Oil prices edged lower in Asian trade on Monday as Nigeria's oil unions suspended a two-day-old strike on Saturday, relieving concerns of possible disruptions to shipments, said dealers.The market remains focused on tight petrol supplies as the peak-demand US summer driving season got underway Saturday, they added. more>>
...FG hikes fuel price to N75
LAGOS — BARELY 48 hours to the end of its tenure, the Obasanjo administration, yesterday, effected its sixth increase in the price of petrol in eight years. Petrol now costs N75 per litre from N65— a 15.4 per cent margin, with indications that the in-coming government may move it up to N85 per litre in an effort to keep the level of subsidy within manageable limits. more>>
Igbo leaders have failed
After a critical appraisal of eight years of democracy and the political dividends that have accrued to the various ethnic nationalities in Nigeria during the period, outgoing governor of Imo State, Chief Achike Udenwa has cause to lament that the Igbos have been destroyed politically, just as he blamed the present generation of Igbo leaders for this unfortunate development. more>>
Group backs Orji's swearing-in as Abia gov
Warri — HUMAN Rights Defenders Organization of Nigeria (HURDON), a Warri-based human rights group has thrown its weight behind the swearing-in, weekend, of Mr. Theodore Orji as the governor of Abia state by the erstwhile governor, Dr. Orji Kalu, saying that “it is quite in order in the spirit and intendment of Section 180 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. more>>
PDP se to announce choice for senate president
ABUJA — THE People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has extracted a commitment of firm loyalty from the four principal contenders for the office of Senate President ahead of a decisive meeting today with all Senators-elect on the party’s platform. more>>
N'Assembly leaders may emerge today
The leadership of the National Assembly may emerge on Monday (today) as the Peoples Democratic Party has summoned all the senators and House of Representatives member-elects to a meeting. The meeting, which holds at the State House, is to be attended by all the principal officers of the party, including President Olusegun Obasanjo. more>>
EFCC declares Enugu deputy gov-elect wanted
ECONOMIC and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday declared the deputy governor-elect of Enugu State, Mr Sunday Onyebuchi, wanted in connection with alleged "charges of criminal conspiracy, abuse of office and money laundering". more>>
Buhari asks court to commit Iwu to prison
ECONOMIC and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday declared the deputy governor-elect of Enugu State, Mr Sunday Onyebuchi, wanted in connection with alleged "charges of criminal conspiracy, abuse of office and money laundering". more>>
Count Me Out of May 29 Inauguration - Atiku
VICE President Atiku Abubakar yesterday said that he would not attend the swearing-in of Alhaji Umaru Yar'Adua as President tomorrow to avoid conferring credibility on the April general elections. In a statement, the outgoing vice president maintained that the election that threw-up Yar'Adua "has been condemned worldwide as falling short of the basic minimum of electoral standards". more>>
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Biography: Ali Farka Toure
Ali Farka Touré was born in 1939 in the village of Kanau on the banks of the River Niger in the north west of Mali. He was his mothers’ tenth son but the first to survive infancy. When Ali was still an infant his father died while serving in the French army, and the family moved south along the river to Niafunké, the village Ali called home for the rest of his life. People make their living by farming, cattle herding and fishing. There is no tradition of music in his family, but he had a calling early on in life, becoming drawn to music by its power. He was a child of the river. View Details>>>
Saturday, May 26, 2007
News Desk Sunday, May 27, 2007
48 hours to Yar'Adua's swearing in: We'll march against Ehindero's tanks -- Labour, Opposition groups
The stage appears set weekend for a showdown between the police and a coalition of Labour and Civil Society groups who have scheduled mass action and rallies for Tuesday. The action, to protest alleged fraud in the April elections, coincides with the inauguration of the president-elect, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and the governors-elect in the 36 states more>>
Why military chiefs won't go with Obasanjo, Battle for IG splits police
Indications have emerged that the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Owoye Andrew Azazi, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ganiyu Adekeye, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Paul Dike and the Chief of the Army Staff, Major-General L.N. Yusuf, may not go with the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo as they are likely to be retained by the incoming administration of Alhaji Umar Yar’adua for a minimum of six months in the first instance with a view to helping the new government to stabilise. more>>
New 'Abia gov' illegal - FG Tongue lashes Kalu
THE Federal Government, yesterday, dismissed as illegal and unconstitutional the purported swearing-in of Mr. Theodore Orji as the new governor of Abia State. Specifically, the government said his swearing-in was in flagrant conflict with provisions of sections 180 (2) and 191(1) of the 1999 constitution. more>>
Heightened Security as Abuja waits for Yar'Adua
IN the next 48 hours, the Presidency will receive one big tenant, this time round, not from the Owu Kingdom, but from the ancient city of Katsina. The person is the incoming number one citizen and winner of the April 21 presidential election, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua more>>
El-Rufai's bulldozers sack Utako Traders
Utako Market traders who had earlier considered the expiring tenure of office of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Mallam Ahmad Nasir el-Rufai, a harbinger of an end of the demolition exercise in the Abuja metropolis have had to bite their fingers as they were made to contend with the minister's bulldozers yeaterday. more>>
US Government Sends Delegation To Yar'Adua's Inauguration
OUTGOING President Olusegun Obasanjo's request to visit the White House on a farewell visit has met with a diplomatic stonewall from the Americans.
The US government has, however, decided to send a delegation from Washington, DC led by the US Assistant Secretary of State, Dr Jendayi Frazer, to attend Tuesday's inauguration of President-elect Umaru Yar'Adua.
Authoritative sources explained that when a request was forwarded from the Nigerian government to its US counterpart for a farewell visit, the response from the US was that President George W. Bush was busy and otherwise engaged. more>>
PDP Expels Osakwe, Udeh, 32 Others
Despite his emergence as a Senator-elect on the platform of the Accord Party (AP) to which he defected after losing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial ticket for Delta North, Senator Patrick Osakwe has been expelled from PDP.
Osakwe, defected to Accord Party from where he defeated Dr. (Mrs.) Mariam Ali, the wife of the National Chairman of PDP, Dr. Ahmadu Ali. more>>
The stage appears set weekend for a showdown between the police and a coalition of Labour and Civil Society groups who have scheduled mass action and rallies for Tuesday. The action, to protest alleged fraud in the April elections, coincides with the inauguration of the president-elect, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and the governors-elect in the 36 states more>>
Why military chiefs won't go with Obasanjo, Battle for IG splits police
Indications have emerged that the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Owoye Andrew Azazi, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ganiyu Adekeye, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Paul Dike and the Chief of the Army Staff, Major-General L.N. Yusuf, may not go with the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo as they are likely to be retained by the incoming administration of Alhaji Umar Yar’adua for a minimum of six months in the first instance with a view to helping the new government to stabilise. more>>
New 'Abia gov' illegal - FG Tongue lashes Kalu
THE Federal Government, yesterday, dismissed as illegal and unconstitutional the purported swearing-in of Mr. Theodore Orji as the new governor of Abia State. Specifically, the government said his swearing-in was in flagrant conflict with provisions of sections 180 (2) and 191(1) of the 1999 constitution. more>>
Heightened Security as Abuja waits for Yar'Adua
IN the next 48 hours, the Presidency will receive one big tenant, this time round, not from the Owu Kingdom, but from the ancient city of Katsina. The person is the incoming number one citizen and winner of the April 21 presidential election, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua more>>
El-Rufai's bulldozers sack Utako Traders
Utako Market traders who had earlier considered the expiring tenure of office of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Mallam Ahmad Nasir el-Rufai, a harbinger of an end of the demolition exercise in the Abuja metropolis have had to bite their fingers as they were made to contend with the minister's bulldozers yeaterday. more>>
US Government Sends Delegation To Yar'Adua's Inauguration
OUTGOING President Olusegun Obasanjo's request to visit the White House on a farewell visit has met with a diplomatic stonewall from the Americans.
The US government has, however, decided to send a delegation from Washington, DC led by the US Assistant Secretary of State, Dr Jendayi Frazer, to attend Tuesday's inauguration of President-elect Umaru Yar'Adua.
Authoritative sources explained that when a request was forwarded from the Nigerian government to its US counterpart for a farewell visit, the response from the US was that President George W. Bush was busy and otherwise engaged. more>>
PDP Expels Osakwe, Udeh, 32 Others
Despite his emergence as a Senator-elect on the platform of the Accord Party (AP) to which he defected after losing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial ticket for Delta North, Senator Patrick Osakwe has been expelled from PDP.
Osakwe, defected to Accord Party from where he defeated Dr. (Mrs.) Mariam Ali, the wife of the National Chairman of PDP, Dr. Ahmadu Ali. more>>
Saturday News Desk May 26, 2007
New Chief of Defence Staff, Army Chief Appointed
Barely four days to the end of his eight year reign as Nigeria’s President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday made changes at the command structure of the nation’s highest military command appointing new chiefs of Defence and Army staff. more>>
Theodore Orji...Sworn-in as Abia Govenor
Embattled Governor-elect of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji yesterday made history when he was sworn-in as Abia State Governor with 3 days to the May 29 hand over.
The swearing-in of Orji as the Abia Governor followed reprieve by the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos which granted him bail. more>>
Ige's Killers Planned with Mariam Abacha's Driver - Ehindero
ABUJA—Alhaji Moshood Enefeni, the prime suspect paraded in the killing of the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, yesterday publicly denied ever having a hand in it, saying he is being framed up by the government agent posing as witness in the murder case. more>>
Inauguration: Police Roll Out Tanks, as Soldiers are put on Red Alert
ABUJA, the Federal Capital Territory, now wears a new look, courtesy of the swearing in of Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua as the next President of Nigeria precisely three days away, just as the Nigeria Police Force is to deploy no less than 50,000 of its personnel within the capital city alone. more>>
Fear Grips Obasanjo...As Yar'Adua Courts IBB
There is palpable fear in the inner camp of President Olusegun Obasanjo as president-elect, Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua, increasingly asserts himself over certain issues and key appointments, including his believed refusal to accept Gen. David Mark as the next Senate President. more>>
Andy Uba Wants to kiil me - Ngige
FORMER governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, yesterday alleged threats to his life by the state's governor-elect, Dr. Andy Uba, declaring that there would be a clan war if he is attacked by any person or group of persons.
But washing his hands of the allegation, Dr. Uba urged relevant security agencies to investigate Dr. Ngige's claim, which he described as “wild and wicked.”Dr. Ngige, who spoke with journalists in Lagos, alleged that his life was being threatened, following the petition he recently filed before the Anambra State Elections Petitions Tribunal seeking a quash of the April 14 gubernatorial poll in the state. more>>
Tension in Awka, 500 Policemen Deployed
BARELY four days to the expected hand over to a new government, palpable tension has gripped Anambra State following deployment of 500 heavily – armed policemen to Awka, the state capital.
The policemen who have taken over government establishments in the city, yesterday, prevented some legislators and civil servants from carrying out their responsibilities. more>>
PDP Zoning Formula Out...South-West Gets Speakership
A source at the meeting of the National Caucus of the party which was held at the Presidential Villa on the night of Thursday, told our correspondent on the condition that his identity be protected that the position of the Senate president has been zoned to the North Central while the Speaker of the House of Representatives will come from the South-West. more>>
Igbo In America Protest Poll Result
The Council of Igbo States in America (CISA), will on Saturday (today) hold a
peaceful demonstration to join voices with Nigerians in rejecting the results of
the just concluded elections in Nigeria.
The Igbo group has invited all Nigerians living in America to participate in the
protest rally. more>>
Court Stops Soludo From Possessing Abuja Land
An Abuja High Court has stopped Central Bank Of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, from disturbing the quiet possession of plot number 704 Ahmadu Bello Way, Garki II in the Federal Capital Territory belonging to an indigenous company, Dubu Nig. Ltd. more>>
Barely four days to the end of his eight year reign as Nigeria’s President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday made changes at the command structure of the nation’s highest military command appointing new chiefs of Defence and Army staff. more>>
Theodore Orji...Sworn-in as Abia Govenor
Embattled Governor-elect of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji yesterday made history when he was sworn-in as Abia State Governor with 3 days to the May 29 hand over.
The swearing-in of Orji as the Abia Governor followed reprieve by the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos which granted him bail. more>>
Ige's Killers Planned with Mariam Abacha's Driver - Ehindero
ABUJA—Alhaji Moshood Enefeni, the prime suspect paraded in the killing of the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, yesterday publicly denied ever having a hand in it, saying he is being framed up by the government agent posing as witness in the murder case. more>>
Inauguration: Police Roll Out Tanks, as Soldiers are put on Red Alert
ABUJA, the Federal Capital Territory, now wears a new look, courtesy of the swearing in of Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua as the next President of Nigeria precisely three days away, just as the Nigeria Police Force is to deploy no less than 50,000 of its personnel within the capital city alone. more>>
Fear Grips Obasanjo...As Yar'Adua Courts IBB
There is palpable fear in the inner camp of President Olusegun Obasanjo as president-elect, Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua, increasingly asserts himself over certain issues and key appointments, including his believed refusal to accept Gen. David Mark as the next Senate President. more>>
Andy Uba Wants to kiil me - Ngige
FORMER governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, yesterday alleged threats to his life by the state's governor-elect, Dr. Andy Uba, declaring that there would be a clan war if he is attacked by any person or group of persons.
But washing his hands of the allegation, Dr. Uba urged relevant security agencies to investigate Dr. Ngige's claim, which he described as “wild and wicked.”Dr. Ngige, who spoke with journalists in Lagos, alleged that his life was being threatened, following the petition he recently filed before the Anambra State Elections Petitions Tribunal seeking a quash of the April 14 gubernatorial poll in the state. more>>
Tension in Awka, 500 Policemen Deployed
BARELY four days to the expected hand over to a new government, palpable tension has gripped Anambra State following deployment of 500 heavily – armed policemen to Awka, the state capital.
The policemen who have taken over government establishments in the city, yesterday, prevented some legislators and civil servants from carrying out their responsibilities. more>>
PDP Zoning Formula Out...South-West Gets Speakership
A source at the meeting of the National Caucus of the party which was held at the Presidential Villa on the night of Thursday, told our correspondent on the condition that his identity be protected that the position of the Senate president has been zoned to the North Central while the Speaker of the House of Representatives will come from the South-West. more>>
Igbo In America Protest Poll Result
The Council of Igbo States in America (CISA), will on Saturday (today) hold a
peaceful demonstration to join voices with Nigerians in rejecting the results of
the just concluded elections in Nigeria.
The Igbo group has invited all Nigerians living in America to participate in the
protest rally. more>>
Court Stops Soludo From Possessing Abuja Land
An Abuja High Court has stopped Central Bank Of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, from disturbing the quiet possession of plot number 704 Ahmadu Bello Way, Garki II in the Federal Capital Territory belonging to an indigenous company, Dubu Nig. Ltd. more>>
Friday, May 25, 2007
Eko Traffic, How Man Miss Molue
Before all the gas guzzling trucks and exotic cars began flooding Lagos' death trap roads--but not before nnabe crota (Volkswagen Beetle) and 404 (Peugeot), and not now that Okada riders had taken over-- there had been the kia-kia bus (Volkswagen van)and molue (Los Angeles Unified School District school bus look alike). From Ebute Ero to Orile, Iganmu; from Mile 2 to Oshodi; from CMS to Lawanson; from Ijora Causeway to Boundary, Ajegunle; and from Wilma Peoples to Kirikiri, bus conductors and happy passengers had a joy ride coupled with salesmen who sold ampicillin, tetracycllin, amoxycillin, pennicillin and rimactane in the bus without prescription. No wonder Naijas are said to be the happiest people on Planet Earth. How about the bus conductors' gestures of "Oshodi straight, Ilasa Maja ma wole O?" "Lagos bin dey good o!"
As I thought about the terrible Lagos traffic, the above picture popped up and I was like, wow, is this my Lagos. "Overtake Don Overtake Overtake," as Baba would say in one of his lyrics. Baba is the Chief Priest who preached on how to alleviate social ills like the congested Lagos traffic. Baba sef, na real agbalagba. The man see road sha! I'm not sure if that's Oshodi Bus Stop or is it Mile 2? I really dunno! But Lagos is always Lagos, sha!
Nothing much has changed as Okada has become the best transit system. From molue to Okada. Ain't that something?
Breaking News
Abia State Gov-Elect Granted Bail
Abia State governor-elect, Theodore Orji who has been in custody for numerous offences was granted bail by the Court of Appeal. more>>
Ehindero Parades Suspected Ige Killers
The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Sunday Ehindero this afternoon paraded four suspects whom he alleged murdered the former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Chief Bola Ige, at his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State on 23 December, 2001 more>>
Abia State governor-elect, Theodore Orji who has been in custody for numerous offences was granted bail by the Court of Appeal. more>>
Ehindero Parades Suspected Ige Killers
The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Sunday Ehindero this afternoon paraded four suspects whom he alleged murdered the former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Chief Bola Ige, at his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State on 23 December, 2001 more>>
Dateline Ehirim Files Friday, May 25, 2007
Gunmen Shoot at Crowded Nigeria bus stop
Port Harcourt - Unidentified gunmen shot and killed two people when they opened fire on a crowd at a bus station in Nigeria's southern city of Port Harcourt, witnesses said.
READ MORE...
EU Parliament Wants Aid To Nigeria Stopped Until Fresh Polls
ADVOCATES of fresh elections in Nigeria have secured a strong ally in the European Parliament.
The parliament, in a resolution yesterday, urged the European Union (EU) to withhold all financial aid to the country until fresh elections are held.
READ MORE...
Senate: Obasanjo Can't Dissolve N/Assembly
The Senate yesterday sent words to President Olusegun Obasanjo that the National Assembly cannot be dissolved before June 3, which is the day the four-year tenure of the lawmakers would lapse and that he has no power to take any such action before or as he leaves office on May 29.
READ MORE...
Nnamani Pledges Loyalty to PDP
Senate President Ken Nnamani said yesterday in Abuja that he would continue be a loyal member of the PDP.
Nnamani was summoned by the party's NEC to appear before its National Working Committee (NWC) over newspapers reports of his views on the April general elections. Speaking shortly to newsmen after his closed-door meeting with the NWC, Nnamani said: ``I am a loyal party man.
READ MORE...
Egwuonwu, Agballah Petition Enugu Tribunal
Enugu—TWO more petitions have been filed before the Enugu State Governorship Election Tribunal against the election of Mr. Sullivan Chime, the PDP governor-elect
READ MORE...
Uba Files Protest Appearance at Election Tribunal
Awka—Anambra State Governor-elect, Dr. Andy Uba has filed a Conditional Memorandum of Appearance at the Anambra State Governorship and Legislative Houses Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Awka
READ MORE...
United States Lauds Nigeria's Intellectual Property Regulation
The United States of America (USA), in recognition of Nigeria’s spirited efforts at checking the incidence of copyright violations, has removed the country from the Special 301 lists of countries blacklisted for condoning the rising incidence of intellectual property thefts referred to as piracy and counterfeiting.
READ MORE...
Little Has Changed in Nigeria
The three Nigerian elections held under military rule between 1979 and 1999 were riddled with controversy where in some cases, the military would "resolve" the controversies summarily. The 1992/1993 elections for instance, were frequently delayed, cancelled or postponed and eventually adjusted to produce predetermined results
READ MORE...
How PPA Confirmed Imo - Obasanjo
The President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Thursday explained how the candidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, emerged as the governor-elect of Imo State.
Obasanjo recalled that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party had some problems in the state which could not be resolved satisfactorily in spite of his intervention in the matter during the last election
READ MORE...
Senate Considers Warrant to Arrest Iwu
The Senate is considering issuing a warrant of arrest on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Maurice Iwu, for refusing to obey the summons by the ad hoc committee investigating the appropriated funds for the 2007 general election.
READ MORE...
Ehindero Parades Suspected Ige Killers Today
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Sunday Ehindero, will on Friday (today) parade the four suspected killers of the former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Chief Bola Ige (SAN).
They were accused of killing him on the instruction of a drug baron.
READ MORE...
Port Harcourt - Unidentified gunmen shot and killed two people when they opened fire on a crowd at a bus station in Nigeria's southern city of Port Harcourt, witnesses said.
READ MORE...
EU Parliament Wants Aid To Nigeria Stopped Until Fresh Polls
ADVOCATES of fresh elections in Nigeria have secured a strong ally in the European Parliament.
The parliament, in a resolution yesterday, urged the European Union (EU) to withhold all financial aid to the country until fresh elections are held.
READ MORE...
Senate: Obasanjo Can't Dissolve N/Assembly
The Senate yesterday sent words to President Olusegun Obasanjo that the National Assembly cannot be dissolved before June 3, which is the day the four-year tenure of the lawmakers would lapse and that he has no power to take any such action before or as he leaves office on May 29.
READ MORE...
Nnamani Pledges Loyalty to PDP
Senate President Ken Nnamani said yesterday in Abuja that he would continue be a loyal member of the PDP.
Nnamani was summoned by the party's NEC to appear before its National Working Committee (NWC) over newspapers reports of his views on the April general elections. Speaking shortly to newsmen after his closed-door meeting with the NWC, Nnamani said: ``I am a loyal party man.
READ MORE...
Egwuonwu, Agballah Petition Enugu Tribunal
Enugu—TWO more petitions have been filed before the Enugu State Governorship Election Tribunal against the election of Mr. Sullivan Chime, the PDP governor-elect
READ MORE...
Uba Files Protest Appearance at Election Tribunal
Awka—Anambra State Governor-elect, Dr. Andy Uba has filed a Conditional Memorandum of Appearance at the Anambra State Governorship and Legislative Houses Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Awka
READ MORE...
United States Lauds Nigeria's Intellectual Property Regulation
The United States of America (USA), in recognition of Nigeria’s spirited efforts at checking the incidence of copyright violations, has removed the country from the Special 301 lists of countries blacklisted for condoning the rising incidence of intellectual property thefts referred to as piracy and counterfeiting.
READ MORE...
Little Has Changed in Nigeria
The three Nigerian elections held under military rule between 1979 and 1999 were riddled with controversy where in some cases, the military would "resolve" the controversies summarily. The 1992/1993 elections for instance, were frequently delayed, cancelled or postponed and eventually adjusted to produce predetermined results
READ MORE...
How PPA Confirmed Imo - Obasanjo
The President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Thursday explained how the candidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, emerged as the governor-elect of Imo State.
Obasanjo recalled that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party had some problems in the state which could not be resolved satisfactorily in spite of his intervention in the matter during the last election
READ MORE...
Senate Considers Warrant to Arrest Iwu
The Senate is considering issuing a warrant of arrest on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Maurice Iwu, for refusing to obey the summons by the ad hoc committee investigating the appropriated funds for the 2007 general election.
READ MORE...
Ehindero Parades Suspected Ige Killers Today
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Sunday Ehindero, will on Friday (today) parade the four suspected killers of the former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Chief Bola Ige (SAN).
They were accused of killing him on the instruction of a drug baron.
READ MORE...
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Naija's version of the Grammys Showcases the Unknown in any Music Category
I have followed the last three months relating to the much talked about in the Nigerian tabloid press regarding the Nigerian Music Awards (NMA) held at the International Conference Center in Abuja on May 19, 2007 to promote the nation's music industry universally. Reading the so-called tabloids and how the event unfolded, I couldn't but laugh at how the organizers talked about having a great show. Only in Abuja, without a doubt, that NMA is big story parading artists never heard of in any jam session. Let me be blunt here, I am a music freak and I do know about music dating back to the swing and be-bop era which initiated the big bands, but it's quite disturbing when a nation that produced legends like Fela would stage a musical award and nobody around the globe heard about it. Poor promotions?
Sadly, it is a Nigerian show featuring local champions who have made mockery of the music industry in Naija and had limited capabilities for exposure worldwide like aspiring new artists and legendary musicians who have left a mark in the entertainment industry. Where in the universe has Tuface Idibia been given air time, or where in broadcast news have we heard of Sunny Neji who took home Song of the Decade and Artiste of the Decade Awards, respectively?
If the late South African legendary star Brenda Fassie should perform today in Diaspora, she would be playing at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles, UCLA's Royce Hall, Coach House, San Juan capistrano and other major events all around the United States. The irony, though, is, we find ourselves caught up with our local musicians playing at naming ceremonies, recreation parks and events of that nature when they should be supposedly playing at big events; for eaample, dates at the Hollywood Bowl, House of Blues, Jazz Bakery, Mixed Nuts and places in that category where live audiences recognizes masterpiece performances and are given the exposure required to blow up. And who among us here in Diaspora ever heard of the Nigerian Music Awards' Tony "Juliana Play Me Wayo" Okoroji is iconic to the music industry's projects that has no history and which is all news to my ears? We make too much noise, yet, we can't feature in local pubs here in the Yanks. Not even a roadside coffee house.
But it's ok, though, when we play gigs at related naming ceremonies and "community launchings for worthy causes" to portray ourselves as societal nouveau riche and spraying money in your face kind of stuff with all that "Ogbuefi,", "Omemgbeoji," "Ebubedike," "Ori ewu na azi," "Iyi," Osimiri," "Dikeanatuegwu" and stuff like that just to make ourselves relevant to a conquered people who lost every sense of belonging and had hoped deliverance would come from Diaspora in terms of building a profound community. The Diaspora community is a lost cause and nobody really cares. They are a finished people. They have failed to build community like their other Diaspora counterparts. It is a sad reality.
I still remember, back in the day, Kris Okotie's second album launched at National Theatre, Iganmu, promoted by Silverbird Production in a quest to introduce World Music, reflecting on 70's era pure funk which brought about the "funkitified" music of the time. Brothers Johnson, Kool and the Gang, Shalamar, Dynasty, Delegation, and many other foreign ensembles of the time in the Disco and razzmatazz funked-up era which had Quincy Jones as we read Right On Magazine believe in a situation music was not all about the be-bop era, but a change in the scheme of things. Showbiz(ness) will never be the same, henceforth. Quincy Jones sprang up from that era, the swing and be-bop, including the Big Bands. And Quincy brought about the modern era that would change music spending hours as a "studio rat" in jam sessions making beats and producing quality music 24/7 trying to figure out why a pot-smoking-generation Woodstock shouldn't be changed for the better.
Be-bop is fine with me. When it comes to music, I don't discrininate and have no reason to as long as the targeted audience gets the message. And, that's the problem, especially when our local musicians have no clue what it means to get the message through in terms of a universal language in the culture of music. No Los Angeles club or the airwaves has heard of Tuface Idibia and the much talked about "African Queen", Crooner, Yinka Davies, JJC and Diya Ojo as popular artists who have made the breakthrough in popular music. I "wanna" see these guys play the Greek Theatre and the Wiltern; not isi-ewu joints and all that bragging about a good show. But, hey, alas, enter a Naija crowd in Diaspora to check out who is who in pop and reggae; and you will be hearing names like Yinka Davies and JJC. Names not even heard of anywhere on Planet Earth as far as music and showbiz is concerned.
But I have no qualms, as long these dudes are getting paid from playing gigs at our local facilities, especially in Los Angeles. That's not the case. It is a case of opportunists who deliberately took advantage of these aspiring artists requiring airtime and promotions only to be dumped and abandoned by a greedy group of "promoters" who've not attended big shows in their entire lives as in Playboy Jazz Festival, Newport Beach Jazz Festival, Reggae Sunsplash, concerts in any category at auditoriums and jam sessions seen at high profile night clubs.
Even though the legendary Fela received a posthumous award coupled with lifetime achievement awards presented to King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey and co., last weekend's Nigerian Music Awards is big deal only in Naija, and they should stuff it where it belongs. No fuss about that and no big deal.
News Desk Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Police Arrest Ige's Killers
ABUJA—THE police confirmed yesterday they had in their custody, the drug baron suspected of masterminding the December 23, 2001 assassination of the then Attorney-General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Chief Bola Ige.
READ MORE...
Yar'Adua's Presidential Inauguration To Gulp N820m
ABUJA — THE May 29 inauguration of Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua as Nigeria’s next president will cost N820,306,727.10k, according to Information Minister, Mr. Frank Nweke (Jnr).
Mr. Nweke at a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, on the events lined up for the change of baton at the federal level listed the inaugural lecture as top of the events.
READ MORE...
Obi Loses Tenure Elongation Bid
Enugu—THE Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu yesterday dismissed the application filed by the outgoing Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi seeking the elongation of his tenure by three years for lack of merit.
In a unanimous verdict on the suit filed by Mr. Obi the five-man panel of judges held that the determination of tenure of the governor was an exclusive jurisdiction of the Election Petitions Tribunal and not that of the courts saying the Federal High Court which had earlier dismissed the matter for lack of jurisdiction was right in its decision.
READ MORE...
6 vDays To Go, Obasanjo Vacates Official Residence
With six days left before handing over power on May 29, President Olusegun Obasanjo has moved out of his official residence in Aso Rock to another house within the Villa to allow for renovation of the official residence for his successor, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
According to presidency sources, the out-going president vacated the residence Sunday night soon after he held series of meetings with some of his friends and associates for a house that is called “Glass House”, a small house adjacent to the main residence.
READ MORE...
48 Nobel Laureates Calls For Election Re-run
As preparations for the handover of power gets into its final stages, a group of 48 Nobel prize winners has joined the call for a re-run of Nigeria's recent elections, warning that not doing so could lead to violence.
The laureates, in a statement issued through Elie Wiesel Foundation (EWF) for Humanity yesterday, recommended the convocation of a Conference of National Unity that will oversee the conduct of fresh polls within 18 months.
READ MORE...
PDP Moves to Censure Nnamani, Obasanjo Insists on Party Loyalty
FOR publicly criticising the conduct of the April 2007 elections, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday asked its National Working Committee (NWC) to summon the Senate President, Ken Nnamani, for explanations within 48 hours, failing which he will face dire consequences.
The NEC took this decision at a meeting at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja during which President Olusegun Obasanjo apologised to the National Chairman of the party, Col. Ahmadu Ali (rtd), over the demolition of the PDP chief's house in Abuja by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
READ MORE...
Nigerian Diplomat Caught With N300m In India
A senior Nigerian diplomat was reportedly caught by Indian authorities on Monday as he was trying to board a flight from New Delhi to Lagos with $2.27 million (about N300 million) in cash in his possession.
The diplomat, Defence Adviser to the Nigerian High Commissioner in India, Captain G.A. Ojedokun, was reportedly caught when Indian Airlines staff members handling baggage on the early morning shift at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were alerted by the X-ray images of the contents of his bag.
READ MORE...
How Bribe Money Entered N/Assembly
VICE-President Atiku Abubakar yesterday gave insight into how bribe money entered the National Assembly. He alleged that President Olusegun Obasanjo used bribes to scuttle the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) choice of first Senate president, thereby destroying the unity and solidarity in the rank and file of the National Assembly.
In a release made available to Daily Champion, Atiku said: "On May 29th, 1999, the day the new civilian administration was sworn-in, the PDP called a meeting of its senators-elect at Agura Hotel in Abuja . At the meeting, which minutes were taken, the party said that it wanted to involve the senators in the choice of their presiding officer and other principal officers. When the choice of the Senate President was put to vote, the overwhelming majority cast their votes for Dr Chuba Okadigbo. In fact, only four senators declined to support Okadigbo, namely: Nwobodo who wanted to be Senate President and therefore, voted for himself; as well as Nzeribe and Enwerem who also harboured a similar aspiration. Chief Joseph Waku, the fourth of the dissenters voted for Nwobodo.
READ MORE...
ABUJA—THE police confirmed yesterday they had in their custody, the drug baron suspected of masterminding the December 23, 2001 assassination of the then Attorney-General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Chief Bola Ige.
READ MORE...
Yar'Adua's Presidential Inauguration To Gulp N820m
ABUJA — THE May 29 inauguration of Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua as Nigeria’s next president will cost N820,306,727.10k, according to Information Minister, Mr. Frank Nweke (Jnr).
Mr. Nweke at a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, on the events lined up for the change of baton at the federal level listed the inaugural lecture as top of the events.
READ MORE...
Obi Loses Tenure Elongation Bid
Enugu—THE Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu yesterday dismissed the application filed by the outgoing Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi seeking the elongation of his tenure by three years for lack of merit.
In a unanimous verdict on the suit filed by Mr. Obi the five-man panel of judges held that the determination of tenure of the governor was an exclusive jurisdiction of the Election Petitions Tribunal and not that of the courts saying the Federal High Court which had earlier dismissed the matter for lack of jurisdiction was right in its decision.
READ MORE...
6 vDays To Go, Obasanjo Vacates Official Residence
With six days left before handing over power on May 29, President Olusegun Obasanjo has moved out of his official residence in Aso Rock to another house within the Villa to allow for renovation of the official residence for his successor, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
According to presidency sources, the out-going president vacated the residence Sunday night soon after he held series of meetings with some of his friends and associates for a house that is called “Glass House”, a small house adjacent to the main residence.
READ MORE...
48 Nobel Laureates Calls For Election Re-run
As preparations for the handover of power gets into its final stages, a group of 48 Nobel prize winners has joined the call for a re-run of Nigeria's recent elections, warning that not doing so could lead to violence.
The laureates, in a statement issued through Elie Wiesel Foundation (EWF) for Humanity yesterday, recommended the convocation of a Conference of National Unity that will oversee the conduct of fresh polls within 18 months.
READ MORE...
PDP Moves to Censure Nnamani, Obasanjo Insists on Party Loyalty
FOR publicly criticising the conduct of the April 2007 elections, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday asked its National Working Committee (NWC) to summon the Senate President, Ken Nnamani, for explanations within 48 hours, failing which he will face dire consequences.
The NEC took this decision at a meeting at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja during which President Olusegun Obasanjo apologised to the National Chairman of the party, Col. Ahmadu Ali (rtd), over the demolition of the PDP chief's house in Abuja by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
READ MORE...
Nigerian Diplomat Caught With N300m In India
A senior Nigerian diplomat was reportedly caught by Indian authorities on Monday as he was trying to board a flight from New Delhi to Lagos with $2.27 million (about N300 million) in cash in his possession.
The diplomat, Defence Adviser to the Nigerian High Commissioner in India, Captain G.A. Ojedokun, was reportedly caught when Indian Airlines staff members handling baggage on the early morning shift at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were alerted by the X-ray images of the contents of his bag.
READ MORE...
How Bribe Money Entered N/Assembly
VICE-President Atiku Abubakar yesterday gave insight into how bribe money entered the National Assembly. He alleged that President Olusegun Obasanjo used bribes to scuttle the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) choice of first Senate president, thereby destroying the unity and solidarity in the rank and file of the National Assembly.
In a release made available to Daily Champion, Atiku said: "On May 29th, 1999, the day the new civilian administration was sworn-in, the PDP called a meeting of its senators-elect at Agura Hotel in Abuja . At the meeting, which minutes were taken, the party said that it wanted to involve the senators in the choice of their presiding officer and other principal officers. When the choice of the Senate President was put to vote, the overwhelming majority cast their votes for Dr Chuba Okadigbo. In fact, only four senators declined to support Okadigbo, namely: Nwobodo who wanted to be Senate President and therefore, voted for himself; as well as Nzeribe and Enwerem who also harboured a similar aspiration. Chief Joseph Waku, the fourth of the dissenters voted for Nwobodo.
READ MORE...
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Trendwatch: Great Fashion for Less
Darling readers, I'm quite sure that many of you, like me, are fashionistas on a budget. You've become experts at finding great fashion at bargain prices. You've given of your time and persistence and developed a great eye at stores like Target, Century 21, Loehmann's and H&M. Well friends, the fashion gods have smiled upon us!
There is a growing movement towards quality design that is affordable and accessible to all. Target and H&M have had great success partnering with high fashion designers to create lines at low-price points (Patrick Robinson's current line at Target is a fabulous, Meditteranean inspired line that's perfect for summer). In that same vein, today's Trendwatch will take a look at two exciting new lines that offer amazing pieces that won't break the bank.
Bitten by Sarah Jessica Parker
Set to launch on June 7, 2007, SJP has designed her line with the idea that "Fashion is not a luxury, it's a right." I couldn't agree more! Bitten, available exclusively at Steve and Barry's, is a collection of classic American sportswear. Amazingly, each piece costs less than $20 and is available from size 2 to 22.
"Pair simple pieces for a put-together look. Casual chic has never been this easy!"
Premium denim roll up capri ($14.98)
Textured bib top ($7.98)
Braided belt with studs ($7.98)
"Masculine-tailored pieces create an androgynous appeal that is totally on trend."
Seersucker pants ($14.98)
3/4 sleeve pintuck Henley shirt ($9.98)
"Every woman's wardrobe should include a little black dress. At $19.98, this one's a no-brainer!"
Bell sleeve v-neck dress ($19.98)
Leather peep-toe wedges ($9.98)
Simply. Chloe Dao
After winning Season Two of Project Runway with a stunning collection of women's evening wear, Chloe Dao returned to her hometown of Houston to invest her winnings into her boutique, Lot 8, seemingly never to be heard from again. But I always knew my Chloe was destined for big things. On May 10, 2007, Dao premiered a 13-piece collection for QVC (yes, QVC) featuring silk dresses and tops, twill blazers and stretch leggings. Best of all? Pricing that will make you wonder why you've been clicking past QVC all this time.
"This belted tunic would be perfect over jeans. Go for a color that really pops!"
Silk tunic with belt ($65.00)
"This dress is perfect for an overnight getaway. The matte jersey fabric makes it easy to be rolled up in luggage and worn at a moment's notice."
Dress with removable belt (Introductory price $59.40)
"With an empire waist, a great print and exaggerated pockets, this is one silk dress that will get you noticed!"
Silk tank dress ($70.00)
Shopping on a budget has never been more fabulous!
Be fab, Elle
There is a growing movement towards quality design that is affordable and accessible to all. Target and H&M have had great success partnering with high fashion designers to create lines at low-price points (Patrick Robinson's current line at Target is a fabulous, Meditteranean inspired line that's perfect for summer). In that same vein, today's Trendwatch will take a look at two exciting new lines that offer amazing pieces that won't break the bank.
Bitten by Sarah Jessica Parker
Set to launch on June 7, 2007, SJP has designed her line with the idea that "Fashion is not a luxury, it's a right." I couldn't agree more! Bitten, available exclusively at Steve and Barry's, is a collection of classic American sportswear. Amazingly, each piece costs less than $20 and is available from size 2 to 22.
"Pair simple pieces for a put-together look. Casual chic has never been this easy!"
Premium denim roll up capri ($14.98)
Textured bib top ($7.98)
Braided belt with studs ($7.98)
"Masculine-tailored pieces create an androgynous appeal that is totally on trend."
Seersucker pants ($14.98)
3/4 sleeve pintuck Henley shirt ($9.98)
"Every woman's wardrobe should include a little black dress. At $19.98, this one's a no-brainer!"
Bell sleeve v-neck dress ($19.98)
Leather peep-toe wedges ($9.98)
"This classic houndstooth coat with high collar is amazingly chic. Straight leg jeans keep the look so fresh."
Coat with classic collar ($19.98)
Premium straight leg jeans ($14.98)
Pointed flats ($9.98)
Simply. Chloe Dao
After winning Season Two of Project Runway with a stunning collection of women's evening wear, Chloe Dao returned to her hometown of Houston to invest her winnings into her boutique, Lot 8, seemingly never to be heard from again. But I always knew my Chloe was destined for big things. On May 10, 2007, Dao premiered a 13-piece collection for QVC (yes, QVC) featuring silk dresses and tops, twill blazers and stretch leggings. Best of all? Pricing that will make you wonder why you've been clicking past QVC all this time.
"This belted tunic would be perfect over jeans. Go for a color that really pops!"
Silk tunic with belt ($65.00)
"This dress is perfect for an overnight getaway. The matte jersey fabric makes it easy to be rolled up in luggage and worn at a moment's notice."
Dress with removable belt (Introductory price $59.40)
"With an empire waist, a great print and exaggerated pockets, this is one silk dress that will get you noticed!"
Silk tank dress ($70.00)
Shopping on a budget has never been more fabulous!
Be fab, Elle
Saturday, May 19, 2007
An Interview With Pascal Atuma, Filmmaker and Actor
Pascal Atuma, who now has three blockbuster movies (Only in America, My American Nurse and Hurricane In The Rose Garden) to his credit talked to me after a long chase trying to corner him for this interview. I had talked him into this pleasant chat when we met in February at a jam session, the PAFF Bistro African Night. With a very busy schedule, he shuttles around cities in the United States and Canada. When not in Toronto, he is somewhere in Atlanta; and when not in Washington, D.C., he is probably in Atlantic City or New Orleans cutting deals. And when he is a little bit done midway, he pops up in the City of Angels where it's all happening.
At a particular time, when I thought we had a done deal for an early morning breakfast somewhere in Culver City, California, his agent called and that appointment had to be cancelled. Then, another move was made by Pascal himself for us to meet in a dinner and isi-ewu at Dozie Ozoemena's Joint. That, too, had to be rescheduled due to series of his Hollywood engagements. Nevertheless, we became buddies and talked on the phone all the time discussing how Nollywood can turn things around and start making movies not only for commercial purposes but for change to reflect on human events of our time and beyond.
We talked more about what inspired him and how his career in showbiz started. Born in Umuahia, Pascal attended Government College, Umuahia and University of Port Harcourt, and at that point he knew what exactly he wanted in life. Not satisfied with the scholarly work that has nothing to do with his destiny, he travelled home to notify his dad he was through with academics realizing "America is the land of opportunity" and Hollywood is the dream. Landing in Dallas and enrolling in a film school, the rest now would be history. His movie was the first ever Nigerian movie to be released all over Europe and his success in the US is quite telling.
Pascal had told me his ultimate goal in moviemaking "is" to set a standard pledging to help generations to come. While we were at it, he introduced Tony One Week who had just arrived Los Angeles to explore opportunities to start playing gigs and concert series to promote his new CD. Pascal, with a very good sense of humor, likes to tease me every now and then when he calls me Oga Ambrose. "You know say you be my oga now," Pascal would say with a smile.
However, we talked about a whole lot of things including the pogrom and the fate of Nollywood ten to fifteen years from now. Excerpt:
Ehirim Files: I wasn't used to watching Nigerian movies until I ran into you. Recently, I reviewed a movie called "Girls Cot," starring Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic, Ini Edo and Bonita Nzeribe. Based on Nollywood movies that I have watched so far, they pretty much has the same resemblance. I mean the plot and story line runs to the same direction. Love, voodoo and things like that which to me is becoming boring and I'm quite sure movie goers would feel the same if they are in my shoes. In analogy, how come Nollywood is not making movies related to human events and tragic moments of our time as in Hollywood's "Schindler's List," about the Holocaust, "We Were Soldiers," about Vietnam, "The Pianist," about the Nazis invasion of Poland, "The Last of the Mohicans," about a Native American Confederacy of subtribes who were driven out and things of that nature? When will Nollywood start making movies based on human events and tragic moments of our time, for instance, "Blood on the Niger" and "The Aba Women Riots"?
Pascal Atuma: I think with time we will change the way business is done in Nollywood, you know. You see, I saw Stephanie Okereke the other day and Stephanie told me she is here to take some courses and I was so proud of her. With moves like this, I can see the future of Nigeria film industry shaping up because now they know that they want to conquer this; that we need training. The only thing our industry lacks right now is priofessionalism, you see what I am saying? The only thing that is stopping us from the stories you are talking about is professionalism in Nollywood. You see, there is a difference between a job and a career. A job is something you have to do to survive. A career is something you choose to do. Once that is done, we will be able to make the kind of movies you are talking about, like the Aba Women Riots. Nollywood can say all they wanna say, the thing is professionalism. And the problem is most of the people are not professionals. You see, Hollywood has the capability and you can see my movies are in a different class. We need more people to come up and do what we are doing. Stephanie has taken the right step.
Ehirim Files: I don't know how you put all the stuff you do together. The scripts, the production team and all that is attached to movie making. How do you do that?
Pascal Atuma: I have not started yet. You see, my scripts are original and it comes from stories of life and I give thanks to God because God gives the beginning, the middle and end of every story. God provides.
Ehirim Files:From Nollywood perspective and in my own humble opinion, how do you guys take over independently and carry out projects without interference from the sponsors who bankroll the movies and magnates alike who seemingly manipulate how the movies should be made? How do you take charge as it's done in Hollywood?
Pascal Atuma: You have to go through the system. You see, the catch is you have to fight and work hard. If you are consistent in what you do and you are committed to it, like my first movie, "Only In America," they will give you money to go and do the movie because you have estalished that trust that you can produce a good movie because if not they will know that when they give you the money it's going to finish. I have been consistent and have featured movies three years in a row at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival. On the other hand, you see, when you give a Nollywood producer ten million Naira to go and produce a movie, he wil put only one million Naira in the project and before you know it he is building a foundation whereas he can produce a movie and make one hundred million Naira and still go and build his foundation. You see, as you are looking at me now, anytime I come to L.A. I have been in position of solid cash because of the connections and the movies that I have made. Once you get to that level, you see that people can relax and say take this money go and do this movie and bring it back. You see what I am saying? So it's a problem of trust, that's number one. Number two, the last movie, "The Hurricane," the budget was five-hundred thousand Dollars. When you came to Magic Johnson, you saw that it was sold out because people were watching it. And they thought they were watching a one million dollar movie, but that movie, that "Hurricane," I did it with five hundred thousand Dollars, you see what I am saying. And I promise you, the day I finished shooting, I didn't even have a dollar to buy hamburger to eat.
Ehirim Files: Yes, I saw that during the question and answer session after the movie. You mentioned how you guys ran out of money and had to cope up and come up with the money, struggling to make sure the project is finished. That's courageous.
Pascal Atuma: But you see in Nollywood, the producers will take the money and just find a way to finish it haphazardly. But here, I put the whole money to the point that the investors were there, you see what I am saying. Now I am doing a new movie which we are working on right now. You see, my job now and all I'm doing for the last three months is flying around meeting with actors. Money part is not my business. I am not worried about the money part. My lawyers and all the investors, they are the ones doing their own meetings trying to get the money. My job is what I am doing. The only thing they do for me is to provide the money for me to run around to make sure I put a good cast together. And now I promise you when you see my next movie, you won't believe that a Nigerian did it. I promise you that.
Ehirim Files: So let's go back to Nollywood. It has been said Nollywood is the third ranked or fourth ranked movie industry in the Universe, but when you look at it closely you will find out Nollywood is still far from Hollywood and that to me is a long journey. Is there a kind of union that protects the rights of writers, producers and actors in Nollywood?
Pascal Atuma: You see the problem with Nollywood is that with what you just said, they have unions. The have the Producers Guild of Nigeria and they have the Actors Guild of Nigeria. But the thing is this, are they the people that can stand up and fight for the actors and producers? That's the problem.
Ehirim Files: How do you see Nollywood in the next ten, fifteen years from now?
Pascal Atuma: In the next few years, Nollywood is going to change. The way is going to change is when they look at my movies and ask themselves questions why is my movies in theatres and not their own. Then they will go back home and they will buy my movies and they will look at it, and they will look at their own. Now they will see how things are done professionally and that is how Nollywood is going to change because I know the next professionals will put the unprofessionals out of business. By then professionals like us will have money. If you have money and don't have the professionalism, nobody would want to work with you, they would want to work with professionals like us because I will still give them the same amount of money. I know Nollywood is gonna change. There is no where in the world I'm gonna be born in Nigeria and I'm playing Hollywood and am gonna see Nollywood die. It's not gonna happen. If they don't want to accept it, they will be forced because if you can't beat them, you join them. You see what I'm saying?
Ehirim Files: Very impressive. Goodluck, man!
Pascal Atuma: Thanks for having me.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Dateline Ehirim Files Friday May 18, 2007
US Denies 150 Nigerians Visas Weekly
No fewer than 150 Nigerians are denied visas weekly in the U.S. Embassy for non-compliance with the requirements.
This was disclosed at a news conference on Thursday in Lagos by the Chief Consular Officer in the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, Mr Allan Latimer.
Latimer, speaking on problems associated with non-immigrant visa, appealed to Nigerians to avoid applying for visa through third parties or touts operating within the corridors of the embassy.
View Details...
Okonjo-Iweala tipped to head World bank
Two Africans have been tipped as likely replacement of Mr. Paul Wolfowitz as World Bank President. They are former Nigeria’s Finance Minister and vice president of the bank, Dr. (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the South African Finance Minister, Mr. Trevor Manuel.
Already, high-wire politics is currently going on over who of the two Africans may likely take over the position. It was gathered that while South Africa is already intensively lobbying to get the post by reaching out to the United States which may decide who will get the post, the Nigerian government is yet to make any contact on the issue.
View Details.../a>
Senate President under probe: Over INEC contract--7-man panel to investigate him
THE Senate on Thursday resolved to set up a seven-man panel to investigate allegations that its President, Chief Ken Nnamani, benefited from contracts awarded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the run-up to the April general elections.
Senators moved to ascertain whether Nnamani actually benefited from the contracts as reported by a national newspaper on Thursday by setting up the ad hoc committee.
Members of the committee are Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, who is the chairman; Senators Victor Kassim Oyofo, Robert Kolesoho, Joy Emodi, Lawal Shuaibu, Idris Kuta, and Baba Tela.
View Details.../a>
I Know The Bonbers--Goodluck, VP-Elect
Shaking his head in disbelief and with tears welled up in his eyes, Governor of Bayelsa State and the Vice President-elect, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan yesterday inspected the bombed remains of his home in Otueke, Ogbia Local Government Area and declared: “We know those who did this. “We know who they are and where they came from. The attack is politically motivated and it is a follow up to the earlier attack on my official residence in Yenagoa on the eve of the Presidential election.”
Although Dr. Jonathan refused to reveal the identity of the militants he claimed bombed his country home for security reasons, P.M.News gathered that the security forces had been briefed and a manhunt was already on for the attackers
View Details.../a>
Groups declares two-day strike, NBA opts for judicial process
THE battle line appears drawn between civil society groups and the Federal Government over the outcome of last month's general election, ahead of the scheduled handover of power to new helmsmen across the country on May 29.
But from a critical sector of the civil society has also come words of caution on the modalities for upturning the results, as the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) yesterday said that an Interim National Government being proposed by opposition political parties is unknown to the 1999 Constitution.
Labour leaders and the civil society groups yesterday declared May 28 and May 29 for sit-at-home protests. The NBA, which shares similar sentiments against the elections and has fixed today for court boycotts, has, however, insisted that the judiciary is the appropriate place for redress.
View Details.../a>
Expose my contract deals, Nnamani dares agencies
FURIOUS Senate President Ken Nnamani yesterday challenged any government institution in Nigeria, which has proofs of his role in any contract with it, to publish it.
Nnamani specifically refuted a report (not in The Guardian) linking him with an alleged N50 million contract with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which he said had been engaging in a "bazaar" with Nigeria's funds.
He said: "I have tried to avoid applying to any ministry or parastatal. And I challenge any ministry or parastatal in Nigeria from 2003 to publish any transactions Ken Nnamani or his company has had with that ministry, talk less (not to talk) of the bazaar, the bazaar that went on at INEC."
View Details.../a>
Army's refusal to release suspects for prosecution stalls murder suit
OWERRI—The robbery and murder case involving Lance Corporals Bassey Asinya and Augustine Nwolisa of the 34 Field Artillery Brigade, Obinze, was yesterday stalled as the Brigade refused to release the accused persons to the Imo State Police Command for prosecution.
Giving this explanation when the matter HOW/13c/2007 was called up by the presiding High Court Judge, Mr. Justice Ngozi Bernadine Ukoha, the State Counsel, Mr. Silas O. Amaechi, told the court that spirited efforts were made to get the suspects released for prosecution.
View Details.../a>
Presidency warns on threats to May 29 handover
ABUJA — THE Presidency, yesterday, warned leaders of the opposition to desist from making inflammatory statements or threatening to cause civil unrest, even as the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) enjoined Nigerians to ignore the opposition’s call as security agencies were on full alert to their responsibilities.
View Details.../a>
Blair Seeks Early Meeting with Yar'Adua
British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, has said he looked forward to "an early meeting" with the President-elect, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua in order "to begin our discussion on future co-operation."
Blair in a letter to President Olusegun Obasanjo said the British Government will work with the new administration on reforms and governance among others.
View Details.../a>
Why We Attacked Jonathan's Home, By Militants
Twice they have threatened the life of the Vice-President-elect and Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Jonathan Goodluck and twice he was lucky to escape the evil plans. At the eve of the presidential election last month, militants invaded the Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital in an attempt to kidnap the governor. In their usual commando style they struck but however missed their target: Jonathan Goodluck.
Like the April attack, the Wednesday attack at the country home of the Vice-President-elect was a clinically planned operation, which caught the mobile security unit attached to the country home of the Governor napping.
View Details.../a>
Obasanjo Cronies Takes Over Port-Harcourt Refinery
Dangote Group, Zenon Oil, Transcorp and Rivers State Government under the name: Bluestar Oil Services Limited Consortium, yesterday emerged the preferred bidder/core investor for Port Harcourt Refinery Company. The consortium submitted a bid of $561 million (N71.808 billion) for 51 per cent of Federal Government’s equity in the ailing crude oil refining company.
This is coming against the backdrop of protest from National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NU-PENG), and the shutting down operations of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Lagos, Port Harcourt, Mosimi and Kaduna.
View Details.../a>
Chukwumerije Uncovers Plot Against Ndigbo
Chairman of the 2007 Movement, a caucus in the National Assembly opposed to third term, Senator Uche Chukwumerije yesterday alleged plot by the powers-that-be to zone the South East out of power in the next government.
Senator Chukwumerije alleged that the plan to zone the post of deputy senate president, and the national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the South-East was a calculated attempt to reduce the bargaining turf of the zone in the next dispensation.
He lampooned some Igbo leaders whom he alleged are being used by the anti-Igbo to impose the two weak positions on the South East people.
View Details.../a>
Our Population now 150m--Obasanjo
The President, who recalled the figures of the last headcount by the National Population Commission last year, reasoned that by the three per cent growth rate projection, there was no doubt that Nigeria ‘s population now stood at 150 million.
The results of the last census showed that Africa’s most populous nation had a population of more than 140 million.
He spoke at the inauguration of the new headquarters of the National Bureau of Statistics in Abuja.
View Details...
No fewer than 150 Nigerians are denied visas weekly in the U.S. Embassy for non-compliance with the requirements.
This was disclosed at a news conference on Thursday in Lagos by the Chief Consular Officer in the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, Mr Allan Latimer.
Latimer, speaking on problems associated with non-immigrant visa, appealed to Nigerians to avoid applying for visa through third parties or touts operating within the corridors of the embassy.
View Details...
Okonjo-Iweala tipped to head World bank
Two Africans have been tipped as likely replacement of Mr. Paul Wolfowitz as World Bank President. They are former Nigeria’s Finance Minister and vice president of the bank, Dr. (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the South African Finance Minister, Mr. Trevor Manuel.
Already, high-wire politics is currently going on over who of the two Africans may likely take over the position. It was gathered that while South Africa is already intensively lobbying to get the post by reaching out to the United States which may decide who will get the post, the Nigerian government is yet to make any contact on the issue.
View Details.../a>
Senate President under probe: Over INEC contract--7-man panel to investigate him
THE Senate on Thursday resolved to set up a seven-man panel to investigate allegations that its President, Chief Ken Nnamani, benefited from contracts awarded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the run-up to the April general elections.
Senators moved to ascertain whether Nnamani actually benefited from the contracts as reported by a national newspaper on Thursday by setting up the ad hoc committee.
Members of the committee are Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, who is the chairman; Senators Victor Kassim Oyofo, Robert Kolesoho, Joy Emodi, Lawal Shuaibu, Idris Kuta, and Baba Tela.
View Details.../a>
I Know The Bonbers--Goodluck, VP-Elect
Shaking his head in disbelief and with tears welled up in his eyes, Governor of Bayelsa State and the Vice President-elect, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan yesterday inspected the bombed remains of his home in Otueke, Ogbia Local Government Area and declared: “We know those who did this. “We know who they are and where they came from. The attack is politically motivated and it is a follow up to the earlier attack on my official residence in Yenagoa on the eve of the Presidential election.”
Although Dr. Jonathan refused to reveal the identity of the militants he claimed bombed his country home for security reasons, P.M.News gathered that the security forces had been briefed and a manhunt was already on for the attackers
View Details.../a>
Groups declares two-day strike, NBA opts for judicial process
THE battle line appears drawn between civil society groups and the Federal Government over the outcome of last month's general election, ahead of the scheduled handover of power to new helmsmen across the country on May 29.
But from a critical sector of the civil society has also come words of caution on the modalities for upturning the results, as the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) yesterday said that an Interim National Government being proposed by opposition political parties is unknown to the 1999 Constitution.
Labour leaders and the civil society groups yesterday declared May 28 and May 29 for sit-at-home protests. The NBA, which shares similar sentiments against the elections and has fixed today for court boycotts, has, however, insisted that the judiciary is the appropriate place for redress.
View Details.../a>
Expose my contract deals, Nnamani dares agencies
FURIOUS Senate President Ken Nnamani yesterday challenged any government institution in Nigeria, which has proofs of his role in any contract with it, to publish it.
Nnamani specifically refuted a report (not in The Guardian) linking him with an alleged N50 million contract with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which he said had been engaging in a "bazaar" with Nigeria's funds.
He said: "I have tried to avoid applying to any ministry or parastatal. And I challenge any ministry or parastatal in Nigeria from 2003 to publish any transactions Ken Nnamani or his company has had with that ministry, talk less (not to talk) of the bazaar, the bazaar that went on at INEC."
View Details.../a>
Army's refusal to release suspects for prosecution stalls murder suit
OWERRI—The robbery and murder case involving Lance Corporals Bassey Asinya and Augustine Nwolisa of the 34 Field Artillery Brigade, Obinze, was yesterday stalled as the Brigade refused to release the accused persons to the Imo State Police Command for prosecution.
Giving this explanation when the matter HOW/13c/2007 was called up by the presiding High Court Judge, Mr. Justice Ngozi Bernadine Ukoha, the State Counsel, Mr. Silas O. Amaechi, told the court that spirited efforts were made to get the suspects released for prosecution.
View Details.../a>
Presidency warns on threats to May 29 handover
ABUJA — THE Presidency, yesterday, warned leaders of the opposition to desist from making inflammatory statements or threatening to cause civil unrest, even as the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) enjoined Nigerians to ignore the opposition’s call as security agencies were on full alert to their responsibilities.
View Details.../a>
Blair Seeks Early Meeting with Yar'Adua
British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, has said he looked forward to "an early meeting" with the President-elect, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua in order "to begin our discussion on future co-operation."
Blair in a letter to President Olusegun Obasanjo said the British Government will work with the new administration on reforms and governance among others.
View Details.../a>
Why We Attacked Jonathan's Home, By Militants
Twice they have threatened the life of the Vice-President-elect and Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Jonathan Goodluck and twice he was lucky to escape the evil plans. At the eve of the presidential election last month, militants invaded the Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital in an attempt to kidnap the governor. In their usual commando style they struck but however missed their target: Jonathan Goodluck.
Like the April attack, the Wednesday attack at the country home of the Vice-President-elect was a clinically planned operation, which caught the mobile security unit attached to the country home of the Governor napping.
View Details.../a>
Obasanjo Cronies Takes Over Port-Harcourt Refinery
Dangote Group, Zenon Oil, Transcorp and Rivers State Government under the name: Bluestar Oil Services Limited Consortium, yesterday emerged the preferred bidder/core investor for Port Harcourt Refinery Company. The consortium submitted a bid of $561 million (N71.808 billion) for 51 per cent of Federal Government’s equity in the ailing crude oil refining company.
This is coming against the backdrop of protest from National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NU-PENG), and the shutting down operations of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Lagos, Port Harcourt, Mosimi and Kaduna.
View Details.../a>
Chukwumerije Uncovers Plot Against Ndigbo
Chairman of the 2007 Movement, a caucus in the National Assembly opposed to third term, Senator Uche Chukwumerije yesterday alleged plot by the powers-that-be to zone the South East out of power in the next government.
Senator Chukwumerije alleged that the plan to zone the post of deputy senate president, and the national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the South-East was a calculated attempt to reduce the bargaining turf of the zone in the next dispensation.
He lampooned some Igbo leaders whom he alleged are being used by the anti-Igbo to impose the two weak positions on the South East people.
View Details.../a>
Our Population now 150m--Obasanjo
The President, who recalled the figures of the last headcount by the National Population Commission last year, reasoned that by the three per cent growth rate projection, there was no doubt that Nigeria ‘s population now stood at 150 million.
The results of the last census showed that Africa’s most populous nation had a population of more than 140 million.
He spoke at the inauguration of the new headquarters of the National Bureau of Statistics in Abuja.
View Details...
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