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A man who claims to be a close friend of Atiku’s parents, precisely his late father Garba Abubakar, alleged that neither of his parents was a Nigerian.
Avvording to a fresh documents filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja, the unnamed family friend gave details of Atiku’s early years and how his father died, the Nation reports.

The All Progressive Congress had earlier argued that the former Vice-President of Nigeria is of Cameroonian origin and not even a Nigerian by birth.

But in his response, Atiku said he was a Nigerian by birth because his parents were Nigerians.

“The parents of the 1st petitioner (Atiku) are both Fulani, a community/tribe indigenous to Nigeria.
“The 1st petitioner was born on 25th November, 1946 in Jada, Adamawa State by Nigerian parents and he is therefore a citizen of Nigeria by birth.
“The 1st petitioner’s mother, Aisha Kande was the grand-daughter of Inuwa Dutse who came to Jada as an itinerant trader too from Dutse in present day Jigawa State.
“The 1st petitioner’s father, Garba Atiku Abubakar was a Nigerian by birth who hailed from Wumo in present day Sokoto State while the mother, Aisha Kande was also a Nigerian who hailed from Dutse in present day Jigawa State.

But, in a statement filed by an APC witness, simply identified with the initials – ADM – the party repudiate Atiku’s claim.

The witness said:
“l, ADM, adult, Nigerian citizen of Adamawa State do hereby make oath and say as follows:

“That I was a close family friend to the 1st petitioner’s late father. I know the family and I am familiar with the 1st petitioner’s background: who was born on the 25th day of November, 1946 to a Fulani trader and farmer by name Garba Abubakar, from his second wife, Aisha Kande, in Jada village of Northern Cameroon.

“I know the 1st petitioner was named after his paternal grandfather, Atiku Abdulkadir and became the only child of his parents after his only sister died at infancy.

“I also know about the unfortunate incidence of the death of the 1st petitioner’s father in 1957, who drowned while crossing a river to Toungo. a neighbouring village to Jada in Northern Cameroon.

“I do know that the 1st petitioner has, in all his documentations that are made public in national dailies or official gazettes, stated that he hails from Jada town in Adamawa State, from Ganye Local Government Area, regarded as the mother of the whole Chamba ethnic group (Chamba tribe).

“I know as a fact that, as at the time the 1st petitioner was born on the 25th day of November, 1946 to a FulanI trader and farmer, Garba Abubakar, Jada village and other parts of Chamba land in the then Northern Cameroon, were still part of the British Cameroons and not Nigeria.

“None of the 1st petitioner’s parents or grandparents was born in Nigeria.

“The 1st petitioner‘s father died as a citizen of Northern Cameroon in 1957 prior to the referendum of 1st June, 1961 which made Northern Cameroon to become part of Nigeria.

“The 1st petitioner’s ancestral origin is deeply rooted in the then Northern Cameroon, not Nigeria and I know as a fact that the 1st petitioner is not a Nigerian citizen by birth

“I know that Ganye which incorporates the 1st petitioner’s birth place of Jada, was the headquarters of British Cameroons, but it joined Nigeria after the plebiscite.

“I know that Ganye was not part of Nigeria as at the time of the birth of the 1st petitioner; on 25th November 1946.“I am familiar with the historical antecedents of the birth place of the 1st petitioner.

“Ganye area had been entrusted to Britain by a League of Nations Mandate in 1919 and later as Trust Territory by the United Nations in 1946.

“With the defeat of Germany in World War I. Kamerun (as it was known at the time) became a League of Nations Mandate Territory and was split into French Cameroons and British Cameroons in 1919

“While France integrated the economy of its part of the Cameroons with that of the mother colonial France, the British on the other hand, administered its part (British Cameroons) from neighbouring Nigeria, making Jada, the 1st petitioner’s place of birth, a British franchise.

“I know that a plebiscite was held in British Cameroons to determine whether the people in that territory preferred to stay in Cameroon or unite with Nigeria.

“While Northern Cameroon preferred a union with Nigeria, the Southern Cameroon chose to align with the mother country.

“I know that on the 1st of June 1961, Northern Cameroon became a part of Nigeria and on the 1st of October 1961 the Southern Cameroonian territory dissolved and merged into the Republic of Cameroon.”
An aide to Atiku told The Nation last night that his principal would not respond to the issue.

lailasnews.com/atikus-parents-not-nigerians/

Date:April 29, 2019, 6:36 am

Police Arrest Men Who Store Weed Disguised As Soft DrinksBy Mod - 11 minutes ago - [ Update Crime ]

Four suspects identified as Opeyemi Wahab, 22; Kabirat Ahmed, 21; Yusuf Rasaki, 20; and Saheed Mustapha, 32; have been arrested by men of the Ogun State Police command over alleged illegal drugs dealing.

In a raid of the Agbara area of the state, the suspects were apprehended by men of the special forces known as 'OPERATION PUFF-ADDER'. The suspects are alleged to have concealed wraps of Indian hemp inside freezers while pretending that the freezers are used in retailing soft drinks.

PPRO of the state police command, Adegbite Omotayo, said while speaking to newsmen

The raiding of black spots across the state is in furtherance of total clampdown on hoodlums perpetrating violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, etc.

“On interrogation, they confessed to being the major distributor of the substance in Agbara area and that they always used the freezer to distribute it so as to deceive the security agents and escape arrest.”

Date:April 29, 2019, 6:38 am

Saraki Appointed As International Human Rights Commission AmbassadorBy Mod - 7 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been nominated as an “Ambassador-at-Large” of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC).

This is according to a communique by the Senate President’s Media Office.

According to the communique, Saraki’s nomination was confirmed in a letter dated March 16, 2019.

In that letter, Ambassador Friday Sani, the Diplomatic Head of the Commission to Nigeria and other African Countries, stated that as a sequel to the approval of the World Secretary General of the IHRC, Dr. Saraki has been appointed as one of the revered Ambassadors-at-Large of the multinational body

“While our role as a regional body is to promote and encourage institutions and persons to uphold human dignity across the world, we must not fail to mention the commendation of our Nigerian team over your resolute efforts in the stability of your country and your firm leadership of the Nigerian Senate which is adjudged to be among the most proactive parliaments across the world.

“Besides, the Commission is not unmindful of the maturity that you recently displayed in the face of an obvious provocation in your constituency during the last Presidential and National Assembly elections,” Ambassador Sani said in the letter.

In the new capacity, Dr. Saraki is expected to lead the diplomatic team of the IHRC in various diplomatic missions across the world.

The Senate President, on April 10th, 2019, accepted the nomination of the Commission, while also expressing his appreciation to the IHRC for his nomination.




                

 Date:April 29, 2019, 6:36 am

The Police Brutality Continues: 70 Women Arrested and Battered in the FCTBy Mod - 4 minutes ago - [ Must Read Peoples Gist ]

A lawyer and activist has on twitter posted  about the actions of men of the Nigeria Police Force who arrested over 70girls and took the to an Utako police station in Abuja. This is coming just days after a nightclub in the FCT was raided by policemen with over 30 girls arrested and accused of prostitution by the police.

The lawywer identified as Martin Obono, posted on twitter saying:

“As I type, 70 girls were arrested and brought to Utako Police station last night. This is in addition to the ones who were arrested on Friday night. Their offence; clubbing and in some instance, prostitution. Some have been assaulted with injuries in their V*g*nas.

“One of the ladies arrested has a 2-month old baby. She wasn’t allowed to breastfeed her baby by CRO in charge on duty despite continuous plea amidst tears. It took the intervention of a female police officer who called the DPO to overrule the decision of the inspector at the time.

“The joint task force that arrested some of these girls have been allegedly molesting and assaulting them. Some even showed the bruises and bleeding in their V*g*nas,”

Date:April 28, 2019, 11:24 pm

Nigerian Army Sets To Take ₦1b Loan Towards Producing Local Armoured Fighting VehicleBy Mod - 8 minutes ago - [ Update ]

Tukur Buratai who is Chief of Army Staff said the Nigerian Army needs N1billion to boost capacity of its vehicle manufacturing company to produce more combat vehicles, which will help to counter terrorists and other insurgents.

In the closing ceremony of the Nigerian Army Combat Arms Training Week on Saturday, Mr. Buratai revealed that the Army would take a loan from its “number of investments that have been generating huge amounts of money”, for the purpose.

“The innovations by the Nigerian Army in the areas of equipment production, localizing and bringing back vehicles and equipment that are hitherto abandoned, is another major achievement that we recorded,” he said.

“You have been promised by the Group Managing Director of NAVMC that in the next three to four months, we should have brand new vehicles originally produced by the Nigerian Army for use in the Army and the general public that may find it useful, especially the paramilitary agencies. This, we believe, will transform the Nigerian Army and Nigerian industrial companies when we start mass production.

“We are already sourcing the sum of N1billion to support the Nigerian Army Vehicle Manufacturing Company. We a have a number of investments in the Army that have been generating huge amounts of money and we will take a loan from there to support Nigerian Army Vehicle Manufacturing Company to realize our dream of producing indigenous armoured fighting vehicles and to continue to maintain our existing equipment.”

“The Nigerian Army and Police have helped to keep Nigeria and Kaduna safe,” he said. “They have helped in combating terrorism, armed banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity.”



                 

LESSONS FROM OFE ONUGBU AT A MARRIAGE SEMINAR

.................he came back from a meeting that fateful day and informed his wife that the next meeting of Good Brothers London Branch will be in their house. It was now his turn to host them. He added that *the people have demanded to eat special OFE ONUGBU for entertainment.*🥘

On the day of the meeting, she went to Nigerian market to purchase the items to make the Onugbu Soup🥘 for the guest who are well respected personalities, highly placed individuals with profound integrity.

She entered the kitchen and started making the food, while the husband went out to get other important items for the meeting. Lo and behold, the people have started arriving.

Just as they have settled down and waiting for entertainment, the wife whispered to the husband who just arrived and was saluting the people's with great excitements with handshake in turns telling them that the food was ready........

Wooow!! He was so excited the more... As the custom demands that food should be presented before everything thing.

The husband then accompanied her to the kitchen, decided to taste the soup before hand.

It happened that this woman just got the Onugbu (bitter leaf) straight from the market without knowing that onugbu must be boiled and squeezed out part of the bitterness very well before putting into the soup. She just sliced them like that and put them directly into the soup. The husband became dumbfounded, not knowing what to do!!

Suddenly, a thought crept to his mind, though he didn't disclose nor say anything to the wife who was believing the cooked soup to be the best, and to her, that's indeed it going to be *"a delicious bitter leaf".*

He said, honey, please could you take up the fufu pot to the dining for the visitors while I assist you to carry the soup pot?

She accepted.

Just as they were approaching the center table, *he intentionally double crossed his legs, and fell down fatally, and the whole soup poured out and wasted to the ground.*

The people started shouting: sorry, sorry sorry oh my God, oh my God. Hope you're OK, no injury, etc, this delicious soup wasted. Oh nooh. Sorry sir.. And helping him to stand up... Eventually, the people ended up taking only the drinks alone and left with joy and showing pity for the man.

However, the wife was very angry shouting at him, you are just a devil, who came to ruin my happiness, look how honoured I could have been before this people, you just wasted my soup. This wicked man.

The man didn't answer nor respond anything to her wife. But was very happy that the wife integrity and respect was wittily, handsomely and smartly rescued. The woman continued to Abuse the husband with razor blade mouth.

Later in the night while they have slept and woke up, the husband quietly said to the wife, *darling, do you really know what happened yesterday, I intentionally poured out that Soup to protect your integrity. The soup could have brought a big Shame to them. And told her the soup was very bitter and no one could have eaten such a bitter Soup. Probably you forgot to wash out the bitter leaf properly before putting it into the soup

There she fell down and started crying and begging the husband for forgiveness... And, the Love for the husband increased the more.

*LESSONS TO LEARN FROM THIS:*

1. Take all possible risk to protect your spouse, you're his or her shield.

2. Women, not all your men action is against your happiness.

3. Men, don't talk back at your angry Wife, her ears are always at her back whenever she is so provoked.

4. Wise men talk quietly and reply to issues when the situation is calm.

MAY YOUR HOME AND FAMILY BE BLESSED TODAY.

Esther 9:25 But when Esther came before the king, he commanded by letters that his wicked device, which he devised against the Jews, should return upon his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows.

Evil decrees are pronounced on a regular basis in satanic coven meetings to ensnare and truncate the glorious destinies of men through evil traps.

NOW LET US PRAY
Every evil plan to waste my destiny on satanic gallows, be roasted by fire in Jesus Name.
Oh Lord my Father, let every evil tongue contending with the gate pass to my Promised Land, be utterly silenced and destroyed in Jesus Name.
I command fire and brimstone of the living God to burn into ashes every principality that has sworn that i would not be decorated in this life in Jesus Name.
Abba Father, let every evil counsel of my enemies turn upon their own heads and backfire a hundred fold in Jesus mighty name. Let your AMEN roar.
Good morning and remain blessed.

 Date:April 27, 2019, 9:11 pm

Bricklayer Caught Stealing Human Parts from CemetaryBy Mod - 17 minutes ago - [ Crime ]

A bricklayer and a herbalist have been arrested by the Ogun state police command for stealing human parts.

 

The bricklayer Kunle Adewunmi, and two of his accomplices were nabbed while attempting to steal human parts from a Methodist Church cemetery in Ogbe community in Abeokuta, the state capital.

 

Adewunmi and his accomplices according to reports,  after a female member of the Odua People’s Congress (OPC), caught the men digging the grave and raised an alarm.

A church member who spoke with newsmen said the bricklayer is a member of their church who the church asks to plaster tombs inside the cemetery.

The suspect has since confessed to the crime saying he sells the parts to a trader at the Itoku market in the state.

They have all been charged to court.

Date:April 27, 2019, 7:54 pm

FG Condoles With Family of Liuving Faith GMBy Mod - 7 minutes ago - [ Update Politics Religion ]

The Federal Government has condoled with the family of the General Manager of the National Theatre, Dr Stella Oyedepo, who died in a road accident.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, said her death has created a huge vacuum in the ecosystem of the nation’s creative industry.

He made the remark on Friday when he led the top management staff of the ministry on a condolence visit to the husband of the deceased, Dr Hezekiah Oyedepo, in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

“We were all shocked and short of words but we must just accept what God has destined to happen,” Mohammed was quoted as saying in a statement by his media aide, Segun Adeyemi.

He added, “But the good side is that Dr Oyedepo left a big imprint in the national ecosystem of the creative industry within the one year that she spent as the CEO of the National Theatre.

“We will continue to remember her enthusiasm, passion and her resolute decision to move the National Theatre and the creative industry as a whole to the next level.”

The minister informed the family that he has formally communicated the news of Dr Oyedepo’s death to the President and the Federal Executive Council.

He asked them to take solace in the fact that her legacy in creativity transcended the boundaries of the country.

Mohammed said, “I am glad that what she has done has gone beyond the shores of this country because when we hosted the 61st United Nations World Tourism Organisation Meeting (in Abuja), I think we gave every delegate this decorative kola, which was a product of her creativity.”

He, therefore, commended the husband of the deceased for his strength of character and faith, even as he mourned the loss of his wife.

The minister prayed that God would grant repose to the soul of the late GM and give her family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

In his response, Dr Oyedepo said the death of his wife was the biggest tragedy that has befallen the family.

He described her as his companion, confidante and partner for life who would be sorely missed by the family.

The deceased’s husband, however, noted that as a Christian, he was taught to always give thanks to God in every situation.

The elder brother of the husband and General Overseer of the Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, prayed for the family and the repose of the soul of Dr Oyedepo.

Date:April 27, 2019, 8:39 pm

Ohanaeze youths Demands For The Position Deputy Senate PresidentBy Mod - 25 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

Leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide (ONYCW) has cautioned Igbo leaders against making divisive comments capable of destabilizing the unity of the country and portraying the tribal group in a bad light.

In a statement signed by the President, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the group said it supported the zoning arrangement made by the All Progressives Congress, APC, with respect to the leadership of the incoming National Assembly.

However, it demanded for the positions of Secretary to Government of the Federation and Deputy Senate President, saying the Igbo nation has competent men to fill these positions.

He said, “We want to caution Igbo leaders to desist from making unguarded comments capable of affecting the unity of Nigeria.”

“We know President Buhari’s victory in the just concluded election has retired some Igbo leaders from active politics. It ended some political dynasties in the South East, and threw up fresh opportunities for the youths. That is why those people are making disparaging comments.

“We are watching those elders keenly and may have no option than to sanction them if they continue to use the name of Igbo nation to discredit the good works of the president towards the Southeast.

“We support that Senate President should go to North East and Speakership to South West or North Central.

“We only demand for the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Deputy Senate President. We have eminent personalities qualified for both Jobs. We advise Our people in the House of Representatives to Support the decision of APC leadership.

“We commend the South East governors-elect, and hereby urge implore them to make youths to constitute over 50% of their cabinets and also urge them to ensure that the new salary structure is implemented at the state levels.”


                  

Date:April 27, 2019, 7:55 pm

Kidnapper Jumps Down from Three-Storey Building to Escape ArrestBy Mod - 11 minutes ago - [ Update Crime ]

The Anambra State Police have reported the arrest of the kidnapper and murderer of father of former Super Eagles player, Chikelu Iloanyusi.

Pa Iloanyusi, 85, was kidnapped and murdered by one Ikechukwu Emilie, a notorious kidnapper terrorizing Anaku and Otoucha axis in Anambra State in 2014, five years ago.

A press release by the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Haruna Mohammed, said the suspect had then been rounded up at Phix Motel Abagana where he jumped down from a three storey building with handcuff and escaped in 2014.

The statement said, “Since then he became elusive and all efforts to get him re-arrested were futile.

“However, on the 27/4/2019(today) at about 1:30pm, following credible intelligence, Police detectives attached to the Command Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) arrested the suspect Ikechukwu Emilie ‘m’ aged 30 years in his hideout at Anaku in Anyamelum LGA of Anambra State.”

Haruna said investigation into the matter has commenced, after which suspect would be charged to court for prosecution.

In 1892 at _Stanford University_ , an 18-year-old student was struggling to pay his fees. He was an orphan, and not knowing where to turn for money, he came up with a bright idea. He and a friend decided to host a musical concert on campus to raise money for their education.

They reached out to the great pianist *Ignacy J. Paderewski*. His manager demanded a guaranteed fee of $2000 for the piano recital. A deal was struck and the boys began to work to make the concert a success.
The big day arrived. But unfortunately, they had not managed to sell enough tickets. The total collection was only $1600. Disappointed, they went to *Paderewski* and explained their plight. They gave him the entire $1600, plus a cheque for the balance $400. They promised to honour the cheque at the soonest possible.

“No,” said *Paderewski*. “This is not acceptable.” He tore up the cheque, returned the $1600 and told the two boys: “Here’s the $1600. Please deduct whatever expenses you have incurred. Keep the money you need for your fees. And just give me whatever is left”. The boys were surprised, and thanked him profusely.
It was a small act of kindness. But it clearly marked out *Paderewski* as a great human being.
Why should he help two people he did not even know? We all come across situations like these in our lives. And most of us only think “If I help them, what would happen to me?” The truly great people think, “If I don’t help them, what will happen to them?” They don’t do it expecting something in return. They do it because they feel it’s the right thing to do.

*Paderewski* later went on to become the *Prime Minister of Poland*. He was a great leader, but unfortunately when the *World War* began, *Poland* was ravaged. There were more than _1.5 million people starving in his country, and no money to feed them_ . *Paderewski* did not know where to turn for help. He reached out to the *US Food and Relief Administration* for help.
He heard there was a man called *Herbert Hoover* — who later went on to become the *US President*. *Hoover* agreed to help and quickly shipped tons of food grains to feed the starving *Polish* people.
_A calamity was averted_ .*Paderewski* was relieved.

He decided to go across to meet *Hoover* and personally thank him. When *Paderewski* began to thank *Hoover* for his _noble gesture_ *Hoover* quickly interjected and said, " *You shouldn’t be thanking me Mr. Prime Minister. You may not remember this, but several years ago, you helped two young students go through college. I was one of them* .”

_The world is a wonderful place. What goes around comes around. Please help others to the best of your ability. In the long run you may be helping yourself. God never forgets anyone who sows a good seed in other people, never_ .

*Nothing in nature lives for itself. Rivers don't drink their own water. Trees don't eat their own fruit. Sun doesn't give heat for itself. Flowers don't spread fragrance for themselves. Living for others is the rule of nature. And therein lies the secret of living* .

If you find this useful please pass it on.

A policeman was checking the assignment of his two sons.He checked the senior
child's work who scored 55 over 100 and flogged him. He turned to the junior child,who scored 14 over 100, opened his notebook and without saying a word,walked away.The older child ask the younger one.
"U wey no sabi anytin, why papa no flog u?.The younger one replied: I put N200 inside
my notebook!
U forget say papa na policeman?
😂😂😂😂😂

Hot Coconut water​ please forward please forward:
 Professor Chen Huiren of the Beijing Army General Hospital stressed that if everyone who receives this newsletter can forward ten copies to others, surely at least one life will be saved back... I have already done my part, hope You can also help with your part. thank!

Hot coconut water can save you a lifetime

Look at it again, then tell others,
    Spread love out!

Hot coconut ~ only kill cancer cells!

Cut 2 to 3 thin coconut flakes in a cup, add hot water, it will become "alkaline water", drink every day, it is good for anyone.

Hot Coconut water releases an anti-cancer substance, which is the latest advance in the effective treatment of cancer in the medical field.

Hot coconut juice has an effect on cysts and tumors. Proven to remedy all types of cancer.

This type of treatment with coconut extract only destroys malignant cells, it does not affect healthy cells.

In addition, the amino acid and coconut polyphenol in coconut juice can regulate high blood pressure, effectively prevent deep vein thrombosis, adjust blood circulation and reduce blood clots.

After reading, tell others, family, friends, spread love! Take care of your own health. 🙏💖

""Morning by morning new mercies I see,
All I have needed thy hands have provided
Great is thy faithfulness""
Lord unto me.

Beloved, as u go out dis morni, new mercies from God will locate u in d name of Jesus. The Lord will guide, guard, protect, bless & comfort u on every side in d name of Jesus.
He shall supply all ur needs & grant u abundant joy in Jesus mighty name.

Gud morni & l see ur Status changing & ur importance blossoming in d name of Jesus. Hav a lovely weekend.

“This poem is beyond all relationships.......*

_When I'm dead.....,_
_Your tears will flow,.._
_But I won't know..._
*Cry with me now instead!*

_You will send flowers,.._
_But I won't see..._
*Send them now instead!*

_You'll say words of praise,.._
_But I won't hear.._
*Praise me now instead!*

_You'll forget my faults,...._
_But I won't know....._
*Forget them now, instead!*

_You'll miss me then,..._
_But I won't feel..._
*Miss me now, instead*

_You'll wish..._
_You could have spent more time with me,..._
*Spend it now instead!*

_When you hear I'm gone, you'll find your way to my house to pay condolence but we haven't even spoken in years...._
*Pls look for me now!!*

*''Spend time with every person around you, and help them with whatever you have to make them happy!! your families, friends, acquaintance.....*

*Make them feel Special. Because you never know when time will take them away from you forever''..*

*Love all and Forgive all.*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀.
☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘
*No matter how many times the teeth bite the tongue, they still stay together in one mouth. That's the spirit of*
🍀🍀 FORGIVENESS.🍀🍀
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
*Even though the eyes don't see each other, they see things together, blink simultaneously and cry together.*
🍀🍀🍀That's "UNITY."🍀🍀
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
*May we practise the spirit of forgiveness and togetherness.*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
1. Alone I can 'Say' but together we can 'Talk'. 🗣
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
2. *Alone I can 'Enjoy' but together we can 'Celebrate' 👯*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
3. *Alone I can 'Smile' but together we can 'Laugh'_👨‍❤‍👨*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
*That's the BEAUTY of Human Relations. We are nothing without each other*
👊👊STAY CONNECTED!!👊👊
👍👍 *DestinyAheadCare* 👍👍
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
🍀🍀 *QUOTE OF THE MONTH*🍀🍀

*The razor blade is sharp but can't cut a tree; the axe is strong but can't cut the hair.*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
🍀🍀🍀🍀 MORAL:🍀🍀🍀🍀
*Everyone is important according to his/her unique purpose. Never look down on others unless you are admiring their shoes*
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀

🙏🙏 *Share it with your friends and family* 🙏🙏

It's reported In a court in Congo today of an accused who stood in the dock and addressed the magistrate: 'My lord, I am very sorry for not attending court sittings for the last one month. I was tested positive for Ebola. I was at the isolation center in the village receiving treatments. I have just been discharged. (He then started moving towards the magistrate to show his body to him). The magistrate shouted, "Hold it there. Your case is adjourned to next year. In fact, if you wish, don't ever come here again." When the magistrate looked down, the court was empty🏃🚴🏃🏃 Come and see speed 🏃🏃🏃🏃. Even the prosecutor couldn't afford to wait. Life is more precious than litigation 😂😂😂😂

Laughter is good for health o, but don't laugh alone pass it on.
Welcome to your Season of Laughter.

Do you want to know how they most likely arrived at the new minimum wage?!!

Price of fuel was 87 naira and minimum wage was 18,000 naira.
18,000÷87=206.8965517 litres ( meaning your minimum wage can only buy you 207 litres of fuel)

30,000÷145= 206.8965517 litres (meaning your minimum wage can only buy you 207 litres of fuel) 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 exactly the same amount even to the last decimal point.
My 2kobo!

Funny but true
Do d maths 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Don't Skip this 👇
-----------------------
AS ‘THE NORTH’ GOES UNDER

The visit to Zamfara State in 2014 was at once frightening, sobering and demoralising. Though seated in a sprawling parlour with massive chairs, we were all unconsciously in a huddled position, as the then Secretary to the State Government explained how he abandoned his farm and ranch because of cattle rustling and fear for his personal safety. Zamfara was at the mercy of the elements and it was impossible to deploy law enforcement agents, even for himself, in any meaningful way. He talked about the humiliating experience some of the men were often subjected to by the bandits. They would take a man’s cattle and probably some of his wives and then still make him drive the cattle for quite a distance into the wilderness for them, before allowing him to go back home, alone.

Our visit to the state agricultural and animal husbandry project revealed some of the neatest looking cows and animal any of us had ever seen. There weren’t even animal droppings in the place. Why would cows in a local facility be looking like they came from a car wash? Then it hit some of us: the animals, not more than seven in number, were procured on the day of our planned visit and stationed for our viewing.

We eventually met with the governor. My first question to him before things became somewhat more formal was whether he was related to Sule Lamido, the Jigawa State governor. The physical resemblance was not just striking but totally and mercilessly so. He answered in the negative and observed that he has had to answer that question more times than he could remember. The man did not resemble Lamido in his performance in office, though. A visit to Jigawa State revealed a great contrast. The foresight, robust planning and incredible infrastructural strides of Lamido will leave you with one question: “what was this state before Lamido’s tenure.” But let us not digress.

The Zamfara State governor’s comments about his state and the misfortunes of his people centred around “derivation,” as a lot of gold was mined in the state and carted away while his people were ravaged by poverty. He said that “Abuja people” and other big men and their Chinese collaborators controlled the place. There was also talk about heavy gold hauls on several fronts, including occasional use of helicopters for minor quick evacuations on Thursdays. It was also a sorry tale of lamentations when we met his commissioners, who all seemed not to really have anything to do. It was written all over them. The ones we tried to engage in brief private banter about their portfolios had little to say. Their being called together to meet with our team from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies was like a major international event.

The smell of death hung in the air everywhere at the once-vibrant textile mill in the state. It had enough electricity generating capacity to serve the entire state but, like the textile mill itself, the generators were severely underutilized. It was producing nothing, except for some bales of raw cotton it was milling for some local farmers. Listening to the very professional gentleman who gave the history of the mill, its capacity, its impact on unemployment and the local economy before it went under, left everyone with goose bumps. He lamented the decades of neglect. He also had a detailed breakdown of what it would take to revive the textile mill. But he had no answer to the competition from cheaper imported materials, especially from China and Korea.

The dam in the state was in a grievous state of neglect. It had been for decades. It displaced more people and communities than was anticipated by the original Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) that preceded its construction. But most of such the displaced persons were not compensated. The swathes of lost farmlands, homesteads and local economies wrecked by all this was a matter of indifference to the powers that be, even at the time. There was this eerie air about the entire state, as there were only very few people on the streets at any time of the day. Shops rarely opened before 9.30a.m and would close sometime around 5p.m.

Then we visited Bukuyum, one of the holy lands of Zamfara’s gold production. The place was dull, drab and dreary. The few local people around had an inexplicable wan look about them. You could touch the poverty in the air. Then were taken to the local government headquarters to wait for the local government chairman. He arrived nearly an hour later in a whirl of dust. As he emerged from his impressively brand new Nissan Armada SUV, impeccably well dressed in high profile Agbada and looking every bit like an emperor from some foreign land, I knew that all might not be well with the people of Bukuyum and Zamfara State in general for a long time to come. This man was a stranger here, as defined by his lifestyle, but the people were happy to see him and clear the way for him.

We were well received, but we did not feel well about our reception. There were just too many tattered looking young and not so young adults everywhere. The refreshment we were given was raided partly by some hungry bystanders and by some of those who helped in serving the food. Whatever was available was appropriate for serving the food and some of us were advised to eat rice with our bare hands in the absence of enough spoons. We couldn’t. The scariest element of it all was that it all seemed very normal to the people from the area. Such grinding poverty! Such disconnect from the 21st century! Such shameless leadership! Such reprobate guardians of the commonwealth!

This is the state that registered only 28 candidates for admission into secondary school. Meanwhile only 24 Zamfara students passed the last National Common Entrance Examinations (NECO). Is this how the state will become part of tomorrow’s world? Some other northern states have a better record, with 50 and even more. But how does the total number of registered candidates from the 19 states of the north make sense in an examination that registered nearly 25,000 candidates from 36 states and the FCT?

And the relentless, daily killings are going on in all the northern states, while everyone thinks that power resides in the north today. It does not. Real power is seen in the level of living and social stability. The northern political elite would seem to have been diligently digging its own grave for quite some time now, but without knowing it. They have allowed a new breed of wild youths, not sufficiently socialised even in line with the ‘Ranka dede’ culture to acquiesce in want and deprivation, to become dominant. Drugs, poverty, motiveless criminality and rapacious daredevilry have chased all the northern big men to Abuja. But for how long will they be in exile? Is Abuja itself still safe? Are some high profile estates and exclusive neighbourhoods in Abuja not being quietly attacked these days?

Property rates have crashed beyond measure all over the north. Investors have fled. Local economies have collapsed. Re-desertification has taken over many places, as farmlands and animal husbandry are abandoned. Proceeds of crime have become the new means of livelihood for a new majority, who now pose a threat to the children and peace of mind of those who had the chance to make a difference but failed to do so. No one can see it clearly enough for now, but it is there. A mocking skull and demeaning emptiness! An unchartered malignancy that can best be described as a sickness unto death.

I listened with a mixture of dismay and consternation to a former, very highly respected, National Security Adviser at a stakeholders event he convened in Abuja on the herdsmen and kidnapping menace now plaguing the nation; and particularly North. He told us about his several meetings with kidnappers on various major routes and how they explained to him why nobody could ever come after them in the forest and hope to get out alive. He talked about the ready availability of AK47 rifles to every male as from the age of 14, the fact that kidnapping had become the quickest way of raising money to buy more cattle and improve their social status – since your pre-eminence is closely tied to the number of cows you owned. But the elders in the place were now worried that the younger elders no longer listened to them and were doing things they would not have contemplated themselves. Thus that even their free-band society was collapsing before their very eyes.

What really killed it for the retired soldier was when it was time for the afternoon prayers. Majority of these “Muslims” did not understand why he called for prayers. He also observed that many actually did not know how to pray. That was when a dreadful realisation hit him. The people he had come to see were ethnic Fulanis and lived the traditional nomadic life. But they did not understand the concept of kith and kin beyond their small hunting bands and immediate offsprings. He was horrified. Spread out before him were degenerate marauders who knew nothing about modern statehood, law and order etc.!

And it is in the midst of the foregoing that we are speaking of the abatement of the madness in the land? How? The late Abubakar Rimi would probably still be alive today if he had not encountered his ‘brothers’ on a lonely road in the dead of night. He spoke to them in Fulfulde. He even tried to reason with them about the wrongness of their “line of work”. Did they listen to him? Did they not still rob him? Was it not out of some inverted respect that they spared his life, after warning him to keep his preachment to himself as they were simply trying to “make a living” and feed their families?

The North is in trouble – and the rest of the nation with it. A region that has the highest allocation from oil revenue, the highest earnings from tax mostly paid by other regions, the highest earning from bunkering and the highest earnings from the illegal mining of gold and other natural resources, is ravaged by poverty, underdevelopment and a burgeoning population of unemployable youths. Is this right? Is this normal? Is anyone paying attention – as the North goes under?

(c) Okey Ikechukwu. 17.04.2019
Thisday Newspaper.

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*WHAT'S YOUR FOCUS IN LIFE: YOUR PROBLEMS OR PURPOSE?*

_This testimony has blown me apart. May I live for Him alone not for the things of this world._
_Read it soberly...._
__________

*_--In the interview by *Paul Bradshaw* with *Rick Warren,*_

Rick said:
*--People ask me, What is the purpose of life?*

*--And I respond:*
In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.

--One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the *end of my body*-- but not the *end of me.*

--I may live *60 to 100 years on earth*, but I am going to spend *trillions of years in eternity.*
This is the warm-up act --the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity..

--We were made by *God and for God*, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to *make sense.*

--Life is a series of problems:
*Either you are in one now,* OR *you're just coming out of one,* OR *you're getting ready to go into another one.*

--The reason for this is that *God is more interested* in *your character* than *your comfort;* God is more interested in making *your life holy* than He is in making *your life happy.*

--We can be *reasonably happy* here on earth, but that's not *the goal of life.* The goal is to grow in *character, in the prophet (saw) likeness.*

--No matter how *good* things are in your life, there is always something *bad* that *needs to be worked on.*

--And no matter how *bad* things are in your life, there is always something *good* you can *thank God* for.

--You can focus on *your purposes*, or you can focus on *your problems:*

--If you focus on your problems, you're going into *self-centeredness*, which is my problem, my issues, my pain. *But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.*

--We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?

--Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?

--When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, *I want to know You more and love You better.*

God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill *a to-do list.* He's more interested in *what I am* than *what I do.*

--That's why we're called *human beings*, not *human doings.*

--Happy moments, *PRAISE GOD.*
--Difficult moments, *SEEK GOD.*
--Quiet moments, *WORSHIP GOD.*
--Painful moments, *TRUST GOD.*
--Every moment, *THANK GOD.*

*--If you do not pass it on, nothing will happen.*

But it will just be nice to pass it on to friends...

*Just like I have done now.*

*This cool wonderful morning, the Lord will smile and shine His face upon you. The peace of God will be with you. Your pursuits will not be hindered. Your bountiful harvest starts now. Every negative pronouncement against your breakthrough is crushed in Jesus Christ Mighty Name. You will dig more wells of prosperity. The enemy will not frustrate your efforts to gain leverage by God's special grace. The Almighty God will enlarge your coast beyond measures by His special power.Your expectations will come to fulfillment. Your finances will continue to receive new life. The hands of God will be seen in your life. You will drink from the brook of satisfaction in Jesus Christ Precious name.
*Grace is available for you today & always. Good morning.

*Early Morning Dose(EMD):* Do not rest until you have done your best. Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment. Good morning & remain blessed.

Date:April 26, 2019, 12:27 am

Man Spends 27 Years in Prison, Comes Out With PhDBy Mod - 6 minutes ago - [ Update Must Read ]

A man identified as Clinton Kanu, who was arrested and jailed when he was 30 has been released 27 years later. The man who was unjustly accused and sent to jail for murder has come out vindicated of the crime. The beauty of his story remains that during his 27 years stay in prison he continued his education and got a PhD in the process.

Clinton on getting released has started a campaign seeking the reform of Nigeria's justice system and the prisons.

Nigerians, who signed the amalgamation documents in 1914?

On October 1, 2017, a very brief post lightly circulated on Facebook. I didn’t really take it seriously even though I made some comprehensive comments under some two different names that carried it. However, as days went by, I kept seeing the post re-circulated and shared to the extent of meeting it again in a Whatsapp group.

Initially, I was overwhelmed by the volume of ignorant takes that trailed the post. In fact, in one of the posts where I commented in my effort to educate folks, I was ridiculed but I was firm enough to engage the disagreeing interlocutors and argue my points out.

The said post goes thus:

“If zik was born 1904, Awolowo 1909, Ahmadu Bello 1910, Tafawa Belewa 1912, M. Okpara 1920 who agreed and signed 1914 amalgamation?”

To this, there were two groups of reactionaries. The first were youths in their 20s and 30s — people of my generation. They were expressing surprise and awe at such a “smart” question which nobody can decode or would be a hard nut to crack. Immediately, I saw the devastating effect of their poverty of historical knowledge and consciousness ably facilitated by the Nigeria Establishment over the years through direct and indirect cancelling out of history studies in our formative stages. The second group included middle-aged people who have some appreciable knowledge or answer to the question but are insistent on knowing the “signatories” at the amalgamation. As a teacher, I have the habit of never taking any question for granted or useless because there might be that one person in the crowd struggling taciturnly to know and understand something that might illuminate his/her mind in the process. So, I’m making a few points—mainly to raise more discussions rather than lump my takes—as regards that post in the interest of those who don’t know but are interested in knowing or augmenting the clarity of what they know.

1. “Nigeria” – as a word or a place – was never instituted with the consent of our forefathers when it came into being at the dawn of 19th century (remember the Berlin Conference of 1885-6 that officially gave British the geographical dominance) as well as the beginning of 20th century (creation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates in 1900). Note also that the present core North was formerly called “Western Soudan” until 1900. The people presently answering and have answered “Nigerians” up till today merely inherited a business/colonial empire belonging to the British people and were forced to make a “nation” out of it unlike, say, Americans that wiped off their colonial legacy and were fully involved in renegotiating their country to what THEY WANT! Ever notice how America has quietly yanked off anything “British” in their march through history such that many young Africans are always surprised to learn that the same Britain that colonized them colonized America too?!

2. It is funny how many Nigerian folks see Zik, Awo and Bello as some “old” forefathers. Hello, these men were born at the beginning of 20th century—not so long ago! They were just of the generation of my grandfather and uncles. Such persons need to realize that Nnamdi Azikiwe’s father was a clerk to the British masters who never allowed them acquire education beyond what is equivalent to today’s Primary school studies. Even Zik’s father and his generation (born in the 19th century) didn’t fully appreciate what “amalgamation” implied as they were merely servants of their British masters who were running a business for the Colonial Office in London using a large field called “Nigeria”. By 1920s, Zik himself began to understand the complexity of the world around him and it took him many years between the 1920s and 1930s to acquire the weapon to fight the Establishment. Then another round of 20 years between the 1940s and 1960 to consummate that dream. Same can be said of Obafemi Awolowo. Slightly, same can be said of Bello for he was only a product of the “British affection” for the ‘loyal North’ that doesn’t want to threaten its religious institutions with the influx of Western civilization. One must note that all the British officers who served in the North were all men who had served in the Malayan and Strait States where Islamism was the core culture/religion. They were carefully selected to perpetuate the servility and docility of the Northern Islamic culture in the ‘future interest’ of the British—that is today’s Fulani Hegemony in the Nigerian Political power matrix.

3. There were only 28 persons involved in the so-called “amalgamation” of January, 1914. While 6 persons were Nigerians, the rest were British including Frederick Lord Lugard himself, Lewis Harcourt (the secretary of state for the colonies whose name Port-Harcourt city took after leaving the original “Igweocha/Obumotu”) and other European officers in charge of the two Protectorates. The following were the ONLY “Nigerians” officially involved in the amalgamation signage:

• A lawyer, Sir Kitoyi Ajasa (representing the African community in Lagos as a Legislative Council member of the Colony since 1902). Lagos was mainly for the British. Then the rest were summed up as “African community” which included the returnee slaves of Sierra-Leone, Nigerians themselves, Ghanaians, etc.
• His Highness, Oladugbolu (Alaafin of Oyo)
• Hon. R Henshaw (Obong of Calabar)
• Hon. Maiturare (Sarkin Mussulumi and Sultan of Sokoto)
• Hon. Abubakar (Shehu of Borno)
• Hon. Usuman (Emir of Kano)

Note, from the above, that there was no Igbo traditional ruler involved. Not even the Eze Chima of Onicha those days. The Aro Expedition that was the final conquest of Igboland had happened 12 years earlier between 1901 and 1902 as the British Indirect treachery had been fiercely resisted by the Igbo people in the late 19th century. Again, note that there was more Fulani/Northern presence than any other “Nigerians” in the signage. The “pact” between the British and the Northern Oligarchy had been sealed for over a century and what we complain of today should never be a surprise to anyone who knows history. We are merely slaves living out the dreams and arrangement of unconcerned bourgeoisies—by sheer force!

4. By the time Zik had acquired enough weapons to lead the war against the British continued imperialism in the so-called Nigeria, the whole moribund arrangement had existed for more than 30 years. How many persons had been educated enough at that time? Only a few! Michael Okpara was even just a very young man at the time. The only visible result they could make out of the whole complication was Independence. Today, that Independence is only 57 years old {with over 50 years of nothing to show and 3 years of war from it all}.

5. In conclusion, those who see Zik, Awo, Bello, Balewa, Okpara, etc as some ancestral forefathers and architects of this whole impossible behemoth should realize that these men met an arrangement that had existed for about 40 years—an arrangement far older than them. They spent the rest of their lives trying to make sense of it. That’s all! When people of Nigeria say “I love Nigeria” and all the attendant shallow emotional similarities, do they really know what they love? Do they know its form, origin, the pacts of its workings and its future? Certainly not! No honest person who appreciates these things easily proclaims love for Nigeria. S/he, at best, remains silent. The Colonial Machine it is, has been and still continues. I hope this gives some answer and clarity to the above post and the needless but instructive contentions that trailed it.

©Chijioke Ngobili

Date:April 26, 2019, 6:27 am

Salis, AD File Application To Bar Sanwo-Olu’s InaugurationBy Mod - 15 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

A governorship candidate in Lagos State, Mr Owolabi Salis, and his party, Alliance for Democracy (AD), have filed an application seeking to stop the swearing-in of Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the executive governor of Lagos State on May 29.

Salis and his party file the application on Thursday at the Lagos State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ikeja.

The applicants asked the Tribunal to restrain the Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Opeyemi Oke, from swearing-in the Governor-elect, pending the determination of the petition which was already before the Tribunal.

They filed the application pursuant to Section 6 Subsection (6b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and Paragraph 47 Subsections 1,2, and 3 of the First Schedule of the Rules of Procedure for Election Petitions 2010 (as amended).

The applicants alleged amongst other things that Mr Sanwo-Olu has a criminal record in the United States, and that he was of unsound mind.

They, therefore, asked the Tribunal to disqualify him from being sworn-in as governor.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and INEC’s Resident Election Commissioner in Lagos, were listed as respondents to the application.

Other respondents included the Returning Officer for the Lagos State Governorship Election, the Commissioner of Police in the state, and the Nigerian Army.

The AD candidate was accompanied to the court by the candidate of the Labour Party, Professor Ifagbemi Awamaridi, who also contested the governorship election held on March 9, 2019.

 Date:April 26, 2019,6.40am

US Sets To Bar Chechnya PM Over Alleged Human Rights ViolationsBy Mod - 17 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

The United States said Thursday it would bar the entry of Chechnya’s prime minister for allegedly orchestrating human rights violations in the Russian republic.

Under a US law that requires activity against remote authorities over human rights concerns, the United States reported that Chairman Muslim Khuchiyev and his close family will be ineligible for US visas on the off chance that they apply.

The State Department said in an explanation that it had "solid data that Muslim Khuchiyev was engaged with torment."

Chechnya's genius Moscow dictator pioneer Ramzan Kadyrov a year ago raised Khuchiyev, already the city hall leader of the Chechen capital Grozny which was diminished to rubble when Russia pounded two rebel wars that left many thousands dead.

While the Muslim-greater part republic has to a great extent been placated, Chechen specialists have still occupied with unlawful captures, torment and extrajudicial killings, as indicated by a report a year ago by the Organization for Security and Co-activity in Europe.

The open assignment comes in the midst of a large number of cracks among Russia and the United States, which has squeezed President Vladimir Putin over Moscow's help for separatists in Ukraine and claimed obstruction in US races.

 Date:April 26, 2019, 6:32 am

Fatigue and Emotional Stress Responsble for Police Officers' Misuse of Firearms - IGP AdamuBy Mod - 52 seconds ago - [ Update Must Read ]

Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Adamu Mohammed, while delivering a speech at the maiden conference of Heads of Nigeria Police Medical Facilities in Abuja has attributed the misuse of firearms and powers by officers of the Nigerian Police force to fatigue and emotional stress.

“Indeed, arguments have been raised that the resonating incidents of misuse of firearms and extra-judicial actions by police personnel often result directly from work-related stress and emotional conditions which disorient their rationality.

“In consideration of this, I have ordered that with immediate effect, the shift duty structure of the Nigeria Police which is currently a 12-hour, two-shift system be reverted to the traditional eight-hour, three-shift standard.

“This directive is specifically informed by the need to address a major, age-long occupational stress which long hours of duty engenders among personnel in the Nigeria Police Force and which occasions depression and abuse of power and other unprofessional conduct.

“For purpose of clarity, henceforth, no police personnel should be made to perform any duty exceeding eight hours within a space of 24 hours unless there is a local or national emergency.”

Date:April 26, 2019, 6:04 am

Bola Ilori tells Akeredolu To Leave Tinubu out of His woes And TravailBy Mod - 3 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

Bola Ilori, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has accused the Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, of being the “spanner in the cog of wheel” of the state’s chapter of the ruling party.

Ilori, who was a former Commissioner for Regional Integration in Osun State under the Rauf Aregbesola administration, claimed that Akeredolu penchant for vendetta culminated into the unhealthy disunity and disharmony within the state chapter of the APC.

He emphasized that the governor’s travails were not caused by the National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ilori, an indigene of Ondo State, in a statement on Thursday, described the attitude of Akeredolu as too pedestrian, stressing that after two years of emerging as governor, he was still unsettled over the intra-party primary that preceded his tenure.

He maintained that the process that led to the emergence of Akeredolu as the party’s standard-bearer in 2016 was faulty; adding that the party’s Appeal Panel had annulled the primaries that produced Akeredolu due to what he described as “glaring fraud.”

He said, “Some of us could not stand such shenanigan led by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun. We followed the party’s internal mechanism, but it was unilaterally terminated by the then National Chairman.

“Subsequently, we left the party in the expression of our democratic rights on the platform of another party in agitation against the clear injustice. We lost the elections.

“It was well reported on national headlines that Akeredolu organized an attack on me at the venue of an official government assignment in Akure. We were to go to court, but some elders of the party led by Chief Bisi Akande, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Chief Pius Akinyelure and others intervened.

“They appealed to all aggrieved against the gubernatorial election processes to drop all further agitation and return to the party and embrace unity. The Governor thereafter organized a unity rally and I attended.

“Chief Olusola Oke has since been working hard for the success of the party and was the South West Coordinator of the APC Presidential Campaign, while I, who was his Director General in the AD was the Chairman of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (Field Operations) Door – Door Campaign throughout the Country.

“Akeredolu’s anti-party activity would have been justifiable as a payback were it to be that their mischiefs were directed against either Oke or Ilori, but neither of us was on the ballot but President Buhari and our National Assembly candidates. So, it was a deliberate sabotage against the fortune of the party.

“I laugh at how, in their confusion and desperate search for justification, they misguide themselves with falsehood and hope it will turn to truth in an era of Google Search Engine. Let me put it on record; if they are too lazy to Google, I was not holding any position in the party or government six months before and after the 2016 elections, contrary to their claims that I was in Osun Government while in AD, Osun had no cabinet for about 16 months at the time. So, dragging Aregbesola into their justification of treachery is not only based on falsehood but pure mischief”.

The statement added, “I also wish to place on the record that, as the Director General of the Alliance for Democracy campaigns in 2016, I don’t have any record of funding received from Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola or Senator Ajayi Boroffice for the AD. I dare Akeredolu and his team to come up with such fact.

“Let it be noted that neither Asiwaju Tinubu nor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola directed us to the AD nor funded the party. They did not campaign for the party to the best of my record, also. If any of Akeredolu minions is in possession of substantive evidence against any of our leaders let such fellow come forward with it or forever keep their peace.

“We, as adults have rights to our independent actions and Asiwaju never encourage sycophancy, he promotes robust intellectual discuss and don’t see dissent as a crime, yet we voluntarily owe him in high esteem.”

Date:April 26, 2019, 12:31 am

Makinde, Oyo gov-elect promises to make compulsory workers’ welfareBy Mod - 6 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

 The Oyo State governor-elect, Mr Seyi Makinde, says his administration is committed to the welfare of workers.

Makinde said this while congratulating the new executive of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Oyo State.

Mr Dotun Oyelade, the Head of Media and Publicity Seyi Makinde Campaign Organisation, quoted Makinde in a statement he issued in Ibadan as particularly commending NLC for its rancour-free election on Thursday.

This, Makinde noted, indicated that democratic maturity had remained a virtue of the NLC.

Makinde, according to the statement, expressed satisfaction with the level of rapport he had with the NLC during and after the gubernatorial election.

He expressed the hope that this would be sustained as the new NLC executive assumes the mantle of leadership.

The incoming governor further said he looked forward to a progressive relationship with the new NLC executive under the leadership of Mr Bayo Titilola-Sodo.

Journalists gathered that Titilola-Sodo emerged the state chairman of the NLC on Thur



                 

*LESSONS FROM THE WORLD'S MOST PROMINENT MEN & WOMEN.*

1. Dr. Ben Carson said,
"I struggled academically throughout elementary school yet became the best Neurosurgeon in the World in 1987"

*LESSON*: Struggling is a sign that you are on a verge of success. Don't quit yet.

2. Oprah Winfrey said, " I was raped at the age of 9 yet I am one of the most influential women in the World"

*LESSON*: Don't let your past decide your future.

3. Bill Gate said, "I didn't even complete my university education but became the World's richest man"

*LESSON*:
School does not make you rich. School is only supposed to Polish what will make you rich, not make you Rich.

4. Joyce Meyer said & I quote, "I was s*xually, mentally, emotionally and verbally abused by my father as far back as I can remember, until I left home at the age of eighteen, yet I am one of the most influential preachers in the World"

*LESSON*:
Let your past push you, not define or limit you

5. Christian Ronaldo said, "I told my father that we would be very rich but he couldn't believe me. I made it a reality"

*LESSON* :
Your words rule your life. If you mean what you have said, each word will come to pass. You get what you say.

6. Hear Lionel Messi!, "I used to serve tea at a shop to support my football training and still became one of the World's best footballers"

*LESSON*:
Believe in your dream. Don't let your pain tell you how your future will look like.

7. Steve Jobs penned, "I used to sleep on the floor in my friends' rooms, returning Coke bottles for food, money, and getting weekly free meals at a local temple, I later on founded Apple Company"

*LESSON*:
That you are small today doesn't mean you will be small tomorrow. Keep trusting God.

8. Former British PM, Tony Blair said & I quote, "My teachers used to call me a failure, but I became a Prime Minister"

*LESSON*:
Don't let someone else's opinions of you become your reality.

9. Bishop David Oyedepo said, "I started Living Faith Church from A Lawn Tennis Court with three members only & Preach prosperity. Many of my friends criticised me, but today we have the largest church auditorium in the World & two world-class universities"

*LESSON*:
Believe in yourself even if no one does & never think of quitting.

10. Nelson Mandela said, "I was in prison for 27 years & still became president."

*LESSON*:
You can be anything you want to be no matter where you have been or what you have been through.

11. Mike Adenuga! "I drove a taxi to finance my university education but today I'm a billionaire"

*LESSON*:
Don't let your past decide the kind of future you need to have

12. Harland Sanders, Founder of KFC said, "I was on the verge of suicide when an Idea of opening a restaurant hit me after I retired as a cook in the Navy."

*LESSON*:
Nothing is ever too late. "Too late" is a language of failures. Your future can begin at any age. Don't ever let AGE make limit you.

13. Aliko Dangote said, "I worked for my uncle since I was a small boy, people looked down on me. I later on took a loan from my uncle to open a tiny shop. I worked hard to make ends meet. Now I am the Richest Man in Africa.

*LESSON*:
Failures or limitations of the past have no control over the greatness in you. To him that believes, all things are possible.

14. Barack Hussein Obama said, I am a son of a black immigrant from Kenya, I graduated from Harvard and later on became a Senator in Chicago. I was also the President of the Most Powerful Nation on Earth.

*LESSON*:
Never design your life like a Garden where anyone can walk in and out. Design it like the Sky where everyone aspires to reach!

15. Arnold Swarzzenegger said, I traveled to America in search of financial independency when I was 15yrs old. I became the World's Strongest Man 7 times and Mr Universe. I then got my Economics degree, then I became one of Hollywood's best actors before I was voted twice as governor of California"

*LESSON*:
* Don't wait for everybody to believe in your ability and dreams.

GOD BLESS YOU AND HAVE A FRUITFUL WEEKEND! 🙏

@KingstowerChristianCenter.

Date:April 25, 2019, 7:01 am

Team Nigeria Recount How They Travelled For All Africa Games by RoadBy Mod - 6 minutes ago - [ Sport ]

Team Nigeria, represented by 85 athletes and 15 coaches recently returned from Abidjan, Ivory Coast where the All Africa Games was hosted. The team on returning told their experiences at the games. Nigeria finished overall third with medals while also breaking records, but the team have come out to say that the trip to Abidjan was nothing more than a sacrifice for the country.

Team Nigeria who traveled on land for three days to get to Abidjan and took another road trip back to the country stated their disappointments at the country, after it refused to provide them with the necessary funds to travel for the games.

 

“It was sad we left Nigeria for Abidjan without a kobo, but I must commend officials of the AFN, and the governments of Delta and Lagos states for providing some logistics for the team.

“Majority of our athletes must have gained a lot of exposure from the trip because it was the first time some of them traveled outside Nigeria. We finished third behind South Africa and Kenya in the overall medals table, but for us, it was more than the result. Exposure means a lot for young athletes, and that was our major gain from the trip to Abidjan,” Porbeni, an ex-Director of sports in Delta State stated.

Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am

'Time Has Come For The Church To Defend Itself' – Rev Nicholas OkohBy Mod - 7 minutes ago - [ Update Religion ]

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican communion) the Most Rev Nicholas Okoh has said that the time has come for the church to defend itself from further attacks.

Most Rev Nicholas Okoh’s statement was made in reaction to the recent bombing in Sri Lanka which led to the death of over three hundred worshipers.

Rev Okoh said, “The bomb in Sri Lanka is part of terrorism in the world, it is a coordinated effort of evil people, we pray we don’t have it again, but more importantly we should make arrangements to protect ourselves.”

In a similar vein, Reverend Okoh condemned the killing of nine members of the boys brigade in Gombe state during an Easter procession, describing it as unfortunate.

“It is unfortunate that such a thing should happen on Easter Day. It also shows that our country has not arrived, that people tolerate others.

“People are marching, showing joy, showing happiness and somebody decides to crush them and kill so many for no reason.

“We pray that we will not live like that again, and look forward to a better Nigeria; Nigeria that will be transformed, that has hope and a place for everybody, whatever your tribe.”

*Breaking News*

*UN publishes 1st quarter Demography Report 2019*

There are 7.8Billion people on planet. (earth).
The report shows

Women = 5.6Billion
Men = 2.2Billion
So, they advised women to be careful in showing attitudes to any man because out of the 2.2 Billion men:
• One billion are married already.
• 130,000 are in the prison.
• 70,000 are mentally ill.
That means that we have just 1 billion men available for marriage and out of the
1billion:
• 50% are jobless
• 3% are g*y
• 5% are Catholic Priests
• 10% are your relatives
• 35% are above 66years
So, ladies both the married and singles, you have to rethink before treating any man like trash.
For details visit UN demography report

googleweblight.com/i?u=http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/&grqid=zOvihD00&s=1&hl=en-KE&geid=1054

Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am

Abductors demand N70m ransom for release of LG Chairman’s fatherBy Mod - 4 minutes ago - 

The Chairman of Sagbama Local Government Area, Mr. Michael Mgbasia has cried out pleading with the abductors of his father, Wellington, to show mercy and release him unconditionally.

Wellington Mgbasia was abducted from his residence three weeks ago by armed men and whisked to an unknown destination.

The kidnappers were said to have contacted the family and demanded over N200million before finally settling for N70 million at their last call.

A disturbed Sagbama Local Government Chairman, Michael Mgbasia, in an interview with reporters on Wednesday, said there was no way the family could raise the ransom money and there was nobody they can run to for help.

He pleaded with the kidnappers to have mercy on the family and release the aged father whose health, he said, might be in danger.

“They have contacted the family and asked us to pay N70m. Where would I get such amount of money even if I spend 10 years as Local government chairman? Where can I get such money in a system like this where everything is dry?

“I am pleading with the kidnappers to release my father. We are all Ijaw people, I plead with them to release my father unconditionally to me. He is 70-years-old and having leg pains.“ He pleaded.

Mgbasia, who expressed sadness that it was his kinsmen in Ijaw land that were behind the kidnap, lamented that insecurity has taken over Sagbama local government with rampant cases of kidnapping and other security concerns.

He said security operatives have been overwhelmed with the sophisticated weapons kidnappers and other criminal elements have in their possession.

“It is difficult for me to bear that my father was kidnapped by my own people. If the abductors are from outside, it would be difficult for them to take him out of the community.

“It is disheartening and it is not a good thing to experience the kidnap of one’s father or mother. Even my SA on treasury matters his mother-in-law was kidnapped. Kidnap is becoming rampant and it is not good.

“We thought we have gone past it but it is starting all over all again. Bayelsans and Ijaw leaders should come out to fight against kidnapping so that we may have peace.

“These kidnappers are fully armed than the security men. 20 security operatives cannot face two of them because they are covered with bullets. We would know what to do to put the security in proper shape.”

Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am

Plateau PDP Chairman and Deputy Suspended for Stealing IDP FundsBy Mod - 6 minutes ago - [ Politics ]

Chairman of Plateau state PDP, Damishi Sango and Deputy Chairman, Amos Gombi Goyol, have been suspended by the party over suspected siphoning of funds meant for running the 2019 presidential election bid of the party in the state. Among the accusations levelled against them is the diversion of over N9.8 million naira meant for IDPs in the state. A letter signed by 16 members of the party's State Working Committee, stated that Chris Hassan, Vice Chairman, Northern Zone PDP, will take over as the state's party chairman.

A part of the letter reads:

“Sango and Goyol have been suspended because they could not account for the resources sent to the state for Presidential elections.“The chairman concealed the amount sent by the Presidential Campaign Committee and created a fake template used as sharing formula unknown to the state party structure.

“About N5 million raised and saved by the party to help IDPs relieve their pains were also not accounted for up till this moment. No mention has been made of the funds and it is worthy to note that Goyol is the party’s Chairman Committee on IDPs.“Also, about N4.8 million meant for PDP Plateau State retreat was equally not accounted for by the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman,”

Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am

NYSC Cannot Pay N31,800 to CorpersBy Mod - 14 minutes ago - 

Eddy Megwa, a deputy director at the NYSC headquarters in Abuja, yesterday told reporters that the scheme is not aware of any plans by the Federal Government to pay serving corpers the rumored N31,800 allowee.

He stated that the scheme does not pay the corpers directly but the federal government, and that the only fee the body is aware that is being paid remains N19,800.

According to him,

“The NYSC does not pay corps members any sum of money directly as stipends but the federal government does. “Until the government is ready to implement the N30,000 minimum wage, we cannot say what corps members will earn for their service to the nation.

“Disregard any figure you find making the rounds on social media. When the federal government is ready, it will inform NYSC and we will announce it to corps members through official channels



                  

 Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am

FIRS Director Arrested by EFCC for N2.1 Billion FraudBy Mod - 20 minutes ago - [ Crime ]

Coordinating Director, Support Service Group of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Peter Hena, has been arrested by  The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an alleged N2.1 billion fraud.

Nine members of the revenue organization were cross examined by the EFCC in connection to the matter.A source disclosed that Hena reported at the commission's central station in Abuja yesterday.

EFCC's spokesman, Tony Orilade, affirmed the examination, yet couldn't confirm the veracity of Hena's presence.





                  

Date:April 25, 2019, 6:25 am

Telecoms threatens NCAA on demolition of 7,000 mastsBy Mod - 1 minute ago - [ Update ]

Lagos – The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has warned the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) over its threat to demolish over 7,000 telecommunications mast in the country.

The Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo, gave the warning on Wednesday in Lagos, on the sideline of the ”Vanguard Economy Forum on Telecoms.”

Adebayo said that any site brought down illegally and without due consultation would not be rebuilt and the consequences would be felt by all.

He described the move as another way to impose unwarranted taxes on the sector, which was already overburdened with multiple taxation.

”Our association went to see the DG of NCAA about three months ago and that was to discuss the issue of Aviation Height Clearance (AHC) and we concluded on a committee to look into it.

”It sounds very strange, but also very interesting, because it speaks to the fact that our sector has become the subject of attack from agencies.

”So, to the NCAA and the public, I will say if they are going to dismantle those sites, goodluck to them.

”As an industry, we are not going to rebuild any of these sites. So what the NCAA is doing is to throw the nation into telecom blackout.

”And against that I will say there will be criminal prosecution and there will certainly be security crisis,” Adebayo said.

According to him, telecommunications remaines ”infrastructure of infrastructure” because other sectors including aviation, banking, health, transport rely on information and communication technology (ICT) to drive their operations.

He said that when attacked, the economy and the people would feel the impact negatively, as blackout would become imminent.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NCAA has on Tuesday threatened to demolish over 7,000 telecommunications masts erected by Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) providers across the country.

Mr Sam Adurogboye, NCAA Spokesman, said in a statement in Lagos that the authority was compelled to recourse to this line of action due to the failure of the telecommunications providers to obtain the statutory AHC.

He said the NCAA had, therefore, issued a 30-day ultimatum to Glo and other defaulters to obtain the AHC, otherwise their masts and towers would be demolished.

According to him, without Aviation Height Clearance, all these masts and towers constitute danger to safety of air navigation. (NAN)

 Date:April 25, 2019, 7:09 am

Tackling the Exclusion of Women from Nigeria's PoliticsBy Mod - 24 seconds ago - [ Must Read Forum ]

A UniJos Professor,  Prof. Sam Egwu speaking in a round table discussion on “Enhancing Women’s Active Participation in Politics” in Abuja expressed that the dissimilarity among hypothesis and practice brings up key issues of social equity when ladies are most of the electorate but then few are chosen as leaders.He likewise said this would have negative impact on who and what is to come, as progressing lopsided characteristics in equivalent open doors can influence the prospects for social and monetary advancement in the long run.

As indicated by him, numerous nations on the landmass of Africa, including Nigeria, have not given satisfactory open doors for ladies to take part in administration .

Mma Odi of Alliance For Credible Elections stated: "The result of 2015 surveys, consequent off-cycle, and gathering primaries held somewhere in the range of 2015 and 2018 and 2019 demonstrated that ladies performed beneath expectation."She noticed that the present insights show that ladies are horribly under-spoke to in elective and chosen positions, saying, it stands shy of wanted 30 percent by universal models.

"There is have to open political space to suit all gatherings, particularly ladies, to take an interest in dynamic governmental issues and country building and raise the cognizance to work steadily to upgrade it.

 Date:April 25, 2019, 6:46 am



10 Nigerian drug dealers nabbed In ItalyBy Mod - 14 minutes ago - [ Update Crime ]

The Italian police have arrested 10 Nigerian drug dealers in Gallarate city of the country. The Nigerians were nabbed for dealing in marijuana on the streets.

The suspects are said to be between the ages of  21 and 32 and were arrested alongside other African asylum seekers.

The police team through thorough investigation revealed the methods of sale and the places where the drugs were stored by the suspects.

7 African drug dealers were arrested in December 2017, following a survey activity called “African shop.”

” African shop 2 “said to be operated by Nigerians was birthed and again busted by the officials.

🚒 _ * HOW TO CLEAN KIDNEYS WITHOUT PAIN. * _
_ * GOOD FOR ALL AGES. * _

Clean your kidneys.
The years go by and our kidneys always filter the blood, eliminating salt, poison and all that is harmful in our system. Over time, salt accumulates and requires cleaning treatment.
How to get rid of this?
It is very easy, first take a bunch of parsley ''Ewe Efinrin'' and wash well, then cut into small pieces and put in a saucepan and add clean water (1 liter). Boil for ten minutes, cool, filter into a clean bottle and refrigerate.
Drink one drink a day and you will see that all the salt and poison accumulated in your kidneys begin to appear when you urinate.
_This is recognized as the best cleansing treatment for the kidneys and it's natural! _
_Please send it to all your friends! _

NOTE:

_Do not save this message, send it now! _
_It is for your good and that of others, giving somebody relief is always rewarding.

A good person will always be in my memory, a better person will always be in my dream but the best person, like you, will always be in my heart. That's why I always wish you the best on daily basis. May divine light illuminate your soul today and may God Almighty protect/guide you and your family through the remaining days of this year. Go out in peace and return with testimonies. The blessings of God shall not pass you and His glory shall surely manifest in your life in Jesus name.
Good morning

The Journey Is Short
A young lady sat in a bus. At the next stop a loud and grumpy old lady came and sat by her. She squeezed into the seat and bumped her with her numerous bags.

The person sitting on the other side of the young lady got upset, asked her why she did not speak up and say something.

The young lady responded with a smile:

"It is not necessary to be rude or argue over something so insignificant, the journey together is so short. I get off at the next stop."

This response deserves to be written in golden letters:

*"It is not necessary to argue over something so insignificant, our journey together is so short"*

If each one of us realized that our time here is so short; that to darken it with quarrels, futile arguments, not forgiving others, discontentment and a fault finding attitude would be a waste of time and energy.

Did someone break your heart? *Be calm, the journey is so short.*

Did someone provoke or intimidate you? *Be calm, forgive; the journey is so short.*

Did someone betray, bully, cheat or humiliate you? *Be calm, forgive; the journey is so short.*

Whatever troubles anyone brings us, let us remember that *our journey together is so short.*

No one knows the duration of this journey. No one knows when their stop will come. *Our journey together is so short.*

Let us cherish friends and family. Let us be respectful, kind and forgiving to each other. Let us be filled with gratitude and gladness.

If I have ever hurt you, I ask for your forgiveness. If you have ever hurt me, you already have my forgiveness.

After all, *Our Journey Together is so Short!* God bless you
Have a safe journey!

A newly posted pastor was visiting the homes of his church members. At one of the houses, he observed that someone was at home but refused to answer his repeated knocks at the door. Therefore, he took out his complimentary card and wrote 'Rev 3:20' at the back of the card and dropped it. When the offering basket was going round in the church the following sunday, the pastor found out that his card had been returned. Added to it was this message: Gen.3:10! When the pastor opened his Bible to check out the quotation, he broke down with laughter. Rev.3:20 says behold l stand at the door and knock while Gen 3:10 says i heard your voice but was afraid for i was naked.
😳😳😳😳😳😳
🙆‍♂🙆‍♂🙆‍♂🙆‍♂🙆‍♂🙆‍♂🙆‍♂
😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀
Enjoy the rest of your week jaré....
We could do with a little laughter
Good morning.

Esther 9:25 But when Esther came before the king, he commanded by letters that his wicked device, which he devised against the Jews, should return upon his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows.

Evil decrees are pronounced on a regular basis in satanic coven meetings to ensnare and truncate the glorious destinies of men through evil traps.

NOW LET US PRAY
Every evil plan to waste my destiny on satanic gallows, be roasted by fire in Jesus Name.
Oh Lord my Father, let every evil tongue contending with the gate pass to my Promised Land, be utterly silenced and destroyed in Jesus Name.
I command fire and brimstone of the living God to burn into ashes every principality that has sworn that i would not be decorated in this life in Jesus Name.
Abba Father, let every evil counsel of my enemies turn upon their own heads and backfire a hundred fold in Jesus mighty name. Let your AMEN roar.
Good morning and remain blessed.

 Date:April 24, 2019, 5:39 am

Governor Ayade Donates N1M To Inmate Who Gave Birth To TwinsBy Mod - 5 minutes ago - [ Update Politics ]

Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State donates N1 Million Naira to prison inmate who gave birth to twins and named them after him and the first lady.





                 

Date:April 24, 2019, 6:33 am

World Book Day: NPA, ANA, NCC Wants Piracy To Be Dealt With to boost book industryBy Mod - 16 minutes ago - [ Update Education ]

Stakeholders at the 2019 World Book and Copyright Day have identified the need to end piracy as a means of growing the book industry and the nation’s economy.

Reports have it that stakeholders in the book industry stated this in Ibadan on Tuesday while commemorating the World Book and Copyright Day.

The event was organised by the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) in collaboration with the Association of Nigerians Authors (ANA) and Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).

Mr John Asein, NCC Director-General, who was represented by Mrs Nisi Ogundiran, NCC Zonal Coordinator, South-West, enjoined stakeholders in the creativity industry to collaborate with government to revamp the sector.

He called for partnership that would help to build a copyright system capable of engendering national economic development.

“As we join the world to celebrate the book as an enduring legacy; it is, however, saddening to note the decline in our reading culture.

“This has become a major national concern in Nigeria for its youth population,” he said.

The Executive Secretary of NPA, Mr Emmanuel Abimbola, said the essence of commemorating the World Book Day was to promote reading, writing and publishing.

“There is no education without books; the challenge about reading is that few people read for pleasure due to many factors.

“Let people read and those who have the skills should write, but the government should do more about libraries; when there are equipped libraries, especially at the grass roots, people will read,” Abimbola said.

Emeritus Professor, Femi Osofisan, said piracy must be tackled to encourage creativity.

“Authors should be able to earn a living through their works; the industry should be recognised.

“If people cannot make a living out of writing, then they will not continue, or if they continue, we will just have as we have now; self publishing.

“Piracy is done in the open, it is not hidden because the penalties are so little,” Osofisan said.

Mr Akin Bello, the guest writer at the event and winner of the Wole Soyinka Prize of Literature and author of ‘Egbon of Lagos’, described reading as a veritable way of wholesome development.

Otunba Sunday Obiyinka and Prof. Andrew Ogwilagwe, publishers and guest speakers of the day respectively, emphasised the role of reading culture, especially for the younger generation.

 Date:April 24, 2019, 6:41 am

'The Reasons I Was Soft On Buhari In 2015’ – Wole Soyinka Explains.By Mod - 2 minutes ago - [ Update ]

Wole Soyinka, Nobel laureate, says his generation has failed the country. Speaking on Hard Talk, a BBC programme, the professor said the dreams people of his generation had about the country had not materialised.

Zeinab Badawi, anchor of the programme, had asked the literary scholar: “Has your generation of older Nigerians failed the people?” and he responded, “Yes, I believe so.

“I compare today with dreams and aspirations we had when we all rushed home after studies abroad. We considered ourselves the renaissance people that are going to lift the continent to world standards, competitors anywhere. It hasn’t happened.”

Asked to comment about the 2019 presidential election, he said: “The 2019 election is one of the most depressing elections we’ve been through. Talking for myself, it wasn’t possible for me to make a choice for the simple reason that both candidates (President Muhammadu Buhari and Atiku Abubakar) both had histories— one immediate, one past —which made one look for alternatives.”

He explained why he was soft on Buhari in 2015 when he referred to the president as a born again democrat.

Soyinka said Buhari did not win the 2015 election because the people were endeared to him but for the fact that Nigerians could not continue with former President Goodluck Jonathan in office.

“General Buhari didn’t really win the first election, he won by default. It was impossible to continue with Jonathan (back in 2015),” he said.

“As it happened, yes, I did use that expression ‘born again democrat’. When somebody competes in an election three, four times and persists, he must believe in democracy… the circumstances in Nigeria, the fact that Nigerians have shown the military what a huge failure they were makes it possible for one to identify the possibility of exceptions when they seem to behave like democrats.

“But in any case, I kept emphasising that Nigerians had a very difficult choice and as I said, It was between the devil and the deep blue sea.”

Date:April 24, 2019, 6:39 am

NNPC partners Customs, DPR to restrict cross-border fuel smugglingBy Mod - 9 minutes ago - [ Update Politics Peoples Gist ]

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, and the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, yesterday, entered into an agreement to inaugurate a Joint Committee to tackle the growing incidents of petroleum products smuggling across the nation’s border towns.

In a statement in Abuja, the NNPC said the strategic move to tame the malaise was decided at a meeting at the Customs House in Abuja, and was attended by the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, the Comptroller General of NCS, Col. Hammed Ali (rtd.) and the Director of the DPR, Mr. Mordecai Ladan

The NNPC GMD stated at the meeting that smuggling of petroleum products across the nation’s borders was causing serious loss to the nation’s revenue generation drive and had been subverting government’s efforts to ensure adequate supply of petroleum products in all parts of the country.

Baru explained that the malaise also denied Nigerians the full benefits of the goodwill of the current administration.

He said, “The negative economic impact of smuggling is that it is undermining Nigeria’s economic growth as huge amount of money is spent in terms of under-recovery. This huge loss is draining the treasury. Remember, these are monies that could be used to develop several critical sectors of the economy.”

He said while the NNPC had not relented on its efforts to flood the nation’s petroleum products market and avoid shortages at all times, the activities of unscrupulous marketers remained a major concern as diversion and smuggling seem to continue unabated.

According to Baru, available records showed that there was an upsurge in incidents of petroleum products smuggling across Nigeria’s borders in recent months, which is incentivized by high rate of arbitrage, especially considering the high price of petrol in Nigeria’s neighbouring countries.

While calling for stiffer punitive measures against unscrupulous marketers found diverting and smuggling petroleum products, Baru charged the Customs to intensify surveillance along the identified border communities and other suspected areas to check the activities of petroleum products smugglers.

Earlier in his remarks, the Customs boss, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), said the Joint Committee was necessary in order for the three organizations to collaborate and find a lasting solution towards halting smuggling of petroleum products.

Ali said working with information on real-time basis, the Service would leave no stone unturned to ensure that smugglers of petroleum products are stopped in their tracks.

“We have enough men and resources that can manage the nation’s 4,070km border-line and address this menace once and for all. What we need however is information on real-time basis,” the Customs boss stated.

Also speaking, the Director of DPR, Mordecai Ladan, said the Department was open to collaborations with sister government agencies towards addressing the menace of smuggling.

Ladan, who attributed the surge in smuggling to high arbitrage and culpability of unlicensed filling stations, said his organisation would not hesitate to name and shame the perpetrators in the nearby future.

“As the industry regulator, we are only aware of 1,900 licensed filling stations. We will, however, continue to provide more information for this Joint Committee to succeed,” Ladan stated.

Date:April 24, 2019, 6:33 am

Lagos Policemen Wail 'Non-Payment Of Election Duty Allowances'By Mod - 7 minutes ago - [ Update Peoples Gist ]

While the Police brutality can't be denied, it can't also be denied that we Nigerian failed to accord the Police with due respect.

THE NIGERIAN POLICE TOO ARE HUMANS

* The Nigerian Police are humans like Nigerians are, the Police officers pays house rent just like you and I does.
* The Nigerian Police pays their children's school fees just Nigerian parents does.
* The Nigerian Police feeds himself/herself just like average Nigerians strive to feed themselves and their Families.
* The only difference between we and the Nigerian Police is the uniform.
* A Nigerian Police faces the same challenges Nigerians faces daily.
* How much are Nigerian Police paid & when do they get paid?
* Is the treatment of the Nigerian Police in the hands of our Government the best?[/b]

[i]Yes! The Nigerian Police are corrupt, they receive bribes in broad daylight, but they are no different from the School "Headmasters, Principals, Rectors, Vice Chanselors" who steals from the Nigerian Purse by receiving salaries of Ghost Workers.

Yes! The Nigerian Police are corrupt, they receives bribes in broad daylight, but they are no different from the Parents who encourages their children into examination malpractices, the Nigerian Police are no different from the Parents who registers their children into the so-called special centres. What do you expect the child to become after graduation? A Patriotic & honest President?
No Doubt! The Police have been Brutal & Corrupt.

Read The Story of my Police Friend, Michael.

I have a friend whose name is Micheal, he's a Nigerian Police Officer, myself & Micheal became friends in the year 2011 when he was serving in my town of Origin "Ilese Ijebu", Ogun State, Nigeria. I was off town when Michael was transferred from Ogun to Kano in the year 2013, as a grown up guy, he started his family whilst his wife and 2 children. Michael did laments during our discussions about how tough it is to sustain his family with the token he receives as a Police Officer. Not too long after, in the year 2016, Michael was transferred from Kano to Lagos within a 24hours ultimatum without provision of shelter and other basic needs for the Officer. Fine, we must survive even though our political setup is bad, within 24 hours, Michael hurriedly left his wife & children for Lagos where he must be on duty by 4pm the next day. Michael made it to Lagos, with no time for him to rest and reboot his system he assumed his duty by 4pm on road checkpoints.

Officer Micheal, who was yet to rest from an unprepared & stressful journey was howled with insults and curses on the road by Nigerians who he was doing his best to serve even in the midst of his own uncomfortability. Just because he was playing his duty by asking for necessary legal papers from car uses, he was ushered with swear words and curses, Michael became furious and tired... to be Continued.

In the case of Michael, what do you expect him to do?
Everyone seems to be victims in our Nation of today, even our Police Officers are victims of trolls and bullies from frustrated and wicked Nigerians.

Cursing and Swearing at the Police Officers won't curb the brutality and corruption reigning in the Force, this myopic and unhealthy reactions by the Nigerian citizens will only deepen the menace carried out by our Police. We must understand their situation before we judge them, you may not understand until you become a Police Officer or meet someone who is a Police Officer who will state his ordeals a Nigerian Police, maybe then you all will understand better.

Date:April 24, 2019, 6:04 am

NCC reveals: Next action for those involved in "fraudulent" registrationBy Mod - 8 minutes ago - [ Update ]

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says that it will henceforth prosecute those involved in fraudulent registration of SIM card.

The commission said it would no longer be business as usual, threatening that anyone caught would be made liable to face 25 years imprisonment as prescribed by the law.

Mr Sunday Dare, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, NCC made this known at the South-South Regional Sensitisation Workshop on the dangers of fraudulently-activated SIM cards in Port Harcourt, Rivers, NAN reports.

According to a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, Dare was represented at the forum by Mr Efosa Idehen, NCC Director, Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement said past efforts to educate and sanction fraudulent SIM card registraion operators had failed to yield results, hence the legal perspective.

Dare added that years of continuous fight against the fraudulent operators started in 2012.

He disclosed that “Since the SIM registration exercise started in 2011, a total of 151,449,837 registration data of subscribers have been processed, with only 55,749,652 records valid, making 63.2 per cent of the total records invalid based on invalid face capturing and fingerprints,” underscoring the importance of proper SIM registration.

According to him, if an agent engages in pre-registered SIM cards and is arrested, the culpability in such a case will extend to other players in the SIM registration value chain including the super agents.

“The Heads of Marketing of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and possibly the Chief Executives of licensees, who illegally benefit from such illegal SIM registration activities to meet their marketing targets,’’ he said.

He insisted that the right thing must be done by the registration agents and their MNOs to curb the dangers posed by the menace.

“Without appreciable compliance by the MNOs and their different layers of registration agents across the country, thereby constituting threats to national security and jeopardising national interest.

He said aside several sanctions provided in the Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations 2011 for improperly-registered SIM cards, others included imposition of N1 million on person found to be dealing with subscriber information.

“The NCC will begin to plead national security and national interests against anybody found culpable of fraudulently-registered SIM cards in the telecom industry,” he said.

In his own personal remark, Idehen made a separate in-depth presentation on dangers of dealing in pre-registered SIM cards and took the participants through the various regulatory interventions already implemented.

He took the participants on other ongoing initiatives aimed at enforcing broad-range compliance with SIM registration rules in the last eight years.

“Unfortunately, despite the level of stakeholder engagements, sanctions so far imposed, arrests made and prosecutions secured through working with law enforcement agencies, among others.

“The level of compliance with the SIM registrations rules by the various players across the SIM registration value chain remains unsatisfactory,” he said.

He said this had necessitated the need for the sensitisation workshop to educate all players in the SIM registration value chain on the dangers posed by fraudulently-registered SIM cards to the country’s national security.

“It is no longer going to be business as usual for all players in the SIM registration value chain. We will no longer allow some deviants to jeopardise our national interest and national security.

“Today, cases of fraudulently-registered SIM cards have been aiding and abating robbery cases, kidnappings, financial frauds and all manners of criminalities.

“Where the anonymity of the registered subscribers makes criminal investigation difficult for the law enforcement agencies.

“That is why we will now be pleading breach of national interest in the prosecution of arrested perpetrators of pre-registered SIM cards,” he said.

He said that aside other requirements, the only four identity cards that should be accepted by SIM registration agents are the national identity cards, the voters card, driver’s licence and the international passport.

He also cautioned the agents that fingerprint capturing of the subscribers must be done properly.

“Agents must ensure that clear pictures of the subscribers are properly captured, finger prints well taken and only four ID cards are recognised for now any of which must be presented and confirmed by the registration agents before registration.

He stressed that MNOs and their agents should accept the mantra: “No valid identity card, no SIM registration.”

Idehen added that NCC had been working with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in the area of ensuring that data collected from the mobile subscribers are in line with the national specifications.

 

In an interview in London for her new memoir "Becoming," former First Lady Michelle Obama delivered a stinging assessment of the state of American politics and, specifically, of President Donald Trump. Said Obama:
"We come from a broken family, we are a little unsettled. Sometimes you spend the weekend with divorced dad. That feels like fun but then you get sick. That is what America is going through. We are living with divorced dad."

The Independent, which reported on Obama's comments, said she offered that assessment in a joking manner. But joking or not, there's some real truth in Obama's assessment of how we got here -- and got Trump.

A look at the 2016 exit poll explains why.
On character trait after character trait, large majorities of the public gave Trump poor ratings. Consider:
* 38% had a favorable opinion of him (60% had an unfavorable one)
* 33% said Trump was "honest and trustworthy"
* 38% said Trump was qualified to be president (61% said he was not)
* 35% said he had the temperament to be president
Those are the numbers, in virtually every past election, of a loser. But Trump won. Why? Because four in 10 voters said the most important character trait in a candidate was someone who could bring real change to Washington; Trump won those voters by 68 percentage points.
Which brings me back to Michelle Obama's metaphor. So, to reset: America is the child of divorced parents. He has been living with the mom for years. He's sick of her rules and doesn't feel like he can have any fun. Enter the divorced dad who seems fun, a little bit reckless and, above all, different. So the kid goes to live with the dad. And it's different -- and maybe even good for the first few months. Dad lets you stay up late. He doesn't care how much "Fortnite" you play. Doesn't check to make sure your homework is done at night. But over time, the differences start to be less appealing. And when he's got the flu, maybe Dad checks on him once or twice but still winds up going out to dinner with some work friends.
Get it? There's NO question that the average American voter had grown totally sick of establishment politicians. Political dynasties left them cold. ("Another Clinton as president???") They wanted something very different. And if there was EVER a presidential candidate who offered something very different, it was Trump. His background was different. His manner of speaking was different. His, well, everything was different.
As the exit poll results make clear, the public was under no illusion about Trump's character. They knew he wasn't a role model -- or even well-suited to be president. But they were so done with the "normal" sorts of people that ran and won the White House that they were willing to look past all of Trump's character flaws to give him a chance. How much worse can he be than what we have had? -- the logic went. (One data point really drives this home: Of the 64% who said Trump was neither honest or trustworthy, one in five voted for him anyway.)

CNN's Chris Cillizza cuts through the political spin and tells you what you need to know. By subscribing to The Point newsletter, you agree to our privacy policy.

Michelle Obama's underlying point is that America has woken up. That spending a few years living with the "divorced dad" has opened their eyes to the idea that having candy for dinner every night isn't as fun as they thought. That the public has already begun to crave the normalcy that they chafed against in 2016 -- and gave us Trump.

I'm less convinced of that. Yes, Trump is deeply unpopular among Democrats. But he's far more popular among Republicans than he was when he won the White House. And while most polling suggests that independents aren't huge fans of Trump's, if the economy is going strong they may well choose not to rock the boat -- looking past, again, the fact that they don't think Trump is, to put a fine point on it, a good guy.
Regardless of what happens in 2020, it's worth keeping Michelle Obama's image of America as a "broken family" led by a "divorced dad" in mind as the campaign unwinds. It's an apt, if depressing, metaphor for where we are at the moment.

edition.cnn.com/2019/04/16/politics/michelle-obama-donald-trump/index.html

Democrats offer divergent takes on impeachment and other top takeaways from CNN's town halls
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In five back-to-back town halls hosted by CNN in New Hampshire on Monday, Democratic presidential contenders broke with each other on whether President Donald Trump should be impeached.
Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren forcefully argued that Trump's actions uncovered by special counsel Robert Mueller merit impeachment. California Sen. Kamala Harris and South Bend Mayor Pete B*ttigieg both also said they support impeachment proceedings.
But Sen. Amy Klobuchar took a much more cautious approach, saying she would wait to see what happens in the House, where impeachment proceedings originate. And Sen. Bernie Sanders said he worries an effort to impeach Trump would distract voters from Democratic policy priorities headed into the 2020 election.

They also split on whether people currently in prison should be allowed to vote. Sanders argued that they should -- even as he acknowledged CNN's Chris Cuomo's point that critics would accuse him of supporting the Boston Marathon bomber's rights. Harris didn't oppose Sanders' argument, saying that "we can have that conversation."
B*ttigieg, though, said, "While incarcerated? No, I don't think so."
Here are the top takeaways from each candidate's hour-long appearance:
Amy Klobuchar
Riding the caution lane
Perhaps more than any other Democratic candidate, Klobuchar has staked out the moderate lane in this crowded race for the party's nomination in 2020. That was immediately evident in her CNN town hall Monday night when she essentially declined to answer questions about whether the Mueller report offered grounds to impeach President Donald Trump.
In her dodge, she said Trump should be held accountable and called some of his behavior detailed in the report "appalling," but wasn't exactly clear about what the consequences should be -- beyond congressional hearings and bringing Mueller before the Senate to testify.
Klobuchar noted that impeachment originates in the House, and that the Senate's role is that of a jury. In measured tones, she noted that she is waiting to see all the evidence as a former prosecutor, and said Americans could see justice through the varied investigations that continue into Trump's conduct. Closing the loop, she said the third way to hold Trump accountable "is by defeating him in the 2020 election -- and I believe I can do that."
She won't win the hearts of the most ardent (and enraged) Democratic activists with that answer, but she's staking out a position that would put her on safer ground with independents and moderates who will be key in the general election.
'I have to be straight with you'
Klobuchar continued to tack to the center when she cast college tuition and student loan debt forgiveness proposals from other candidates as unrealistic.
Instead, she offered a narrower set of proposals, including expanding Pell Grants, allowing students to refinance their loans and pushing for free community college.
"I wish I could staple a free college diploma under every one of your chairs. I do. Don't look. It's not there," she told the audience in New Hampshire. "I wish I could do that, but I have to be straight with you and tell you the truth."
Purple state cred
Klobuchar highlighted her history of winning big in a purple state -- including last year, when she said she won 40 of the counties that Trump had won in 2016 when he came within two percentage points of victory in Minnesota. She said she earned voters' trust by "going not just where it's comfortable, but where it's uncomfortable" -- including farms and small-town cafes.
The approach makes sense: Polls have consistently shown Democratic primary voters are much more focused on their candidates' electability than they have been in previous presidential races.
But does it inspire?
"Every single time I have run, I have won every single congressional district in my state, including Michele Bachmann's, OK?" Klobuchar said.
When the comment was met by silence, she coaxed out applause by adding: "That's when you guys are supposed to cheer, OK?"
Elizabeth Warren
Tackling that student loan price tag
With her sweeping student loan forgiveness proposal, Warren is making a strong play for young voters who Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders won over during the 2016 election.
If the response the Massachusetts senator got at CNN's town hall with young voters was a good barometer, it's going over very well so far with students. "This is about opportunity for everyone," she said to applause Monday night.
But the bigger question for Warren going forward is whether she can defend the stunning $1.25 trillion price tag of the proposal. She offered a pretty clean, understandable explanation of how she would do that Monday night by detailing one of the first policies she rolled out: the "wealth tax" or the "ultra-millionaire's tax." She explained that it's "two cents on every dollar of the great fortunes above $50 million dollars. So your 50 millionth and first dollar, you have to pay two cents on all the dollars after that."
"Here's the stunning part," she said. "If we put that two cent wealth tax in place on the 75,000 largest fortunes in this country -- two cents -- we can do universal child care for every baby, zero to five, universal pre-K, universal college, and knock back the student loan burden for 95% of our students and still have nearly a trillion dollars left over."
'That's what girls do'
Asked how she'd overcome the barrage of s*xism that faced Hillary Clinton in 2016 and could await a female nominee against Trump in 2020, Warren recounted her decision to run against Republican then-Sen. Scott Brown in 2012 -- a race many Democrats who urged Warren to run thought she was likely to lose.
"All I can say is, Democrats, get a better message," she said.
Warren said that every time she saw a little girl while on the campaign trail, she kneeled to talk to them. "I would say 'hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I'm running for Senate because that's what girls do,'" she said. Then she asked the girls to pinky-promise they'd remember it. She's used the same line as a presidential candidate.
Warren said women face similar headwinds as presidential candidates.
"One might say you persist," she said. "Organize, build a grassroots movement, fight for working people. And that's how I'm going to be the first woman elected president of the United States."
Warren defends call to impeach Trump
Warren made waves last week as the first Democratic presidential candidate to call for impeachment proceedings after the release of Mueller's report on the Russia probe. On Monday, she pushed back against Democrats who have argued now -- 18 months from another presidential election -- isn't the time for Trump's impeachment.
"There is no political inconvenience exception to the United States Constitution," she said.
The Massachusetts senator argued that "if any other human being in this country had done what's documented in the Mueller report, they would be arrested and put in jail." She said how lawmakers react to the Mueller report will affect the health of American democracy during future presidencies, too.
And, she said, there isn't much left to investigate.
"If you've actually read the Mueller report, it's all laid out there. It's not like it's going to take a long time to figure that out. It's there," Warren said. "It's got the footnotes, it's got the points, it connects directly to the law. But this really is fundamentally: I took an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and so did everybody else in the Senate and in the House."
Warren also said she thinks the Department of Justice position that indictments cannot be brought against sitting presidents is "wrong."
Bernie Sanders
Giving the Boston Bomber the vote
As criminal justice has moved to the forefront of the increasingly progressive Democratic agenda, there are some proposals that middle America may find hard to swallow -- and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders tackled one of them Monday night.
A student asked whether he really believed that incarcerated Americans should be allowed to vote, including the Boston Marathon bomber. Showing Democrats the kind of direct, straightforward rhetoric that helped him win over so many voters in 2016, he answered with an unequivocal yes.
The Vermont senator said he wants to see America have the highest voter turnout on earth, and part of that is preserving the right to vote even for the most "terrible people."

"If somebody commits a serious crime -- s*xual assault, murder -- they're going to be punished. They may be in jail for 10 years, 20 years, 50 years, their whole lives. That's what happens when you commit a serious crime," Sanders said. "But I think the right to vote is inherent to our democracy. Yes, even for terrible people, because once you start chipping away and you say, 'Well, that guy committed a terrible crime; not going to let him vote. Well, that person did that; not going to let that person vote. You're running down a slippery slope."
CNN's Chris Cuomo noted that Sanders was essentially writing a 30-second opposition ad against himself "by saying you think the Boston Marathon bomber should vote."
"Well, Chris," Sanders answered, "I think I have written many 30-second opposition ads throughout my life. This will be just another one."
'Rightfully criticized' on foreign policy
Sanders conceded that his decades of consistency on economic issues does not extend to his approach on foreign policy.
"I was rightfully criticized the last time around because I didn't pay as much attention as I might," Sanders said. "The economy issues, whether people have health care and whether they have decent paying jobs and deal with climate change is enormously important but we have to look at the United States' role in the world as well."
He specifically pointed to Yemen and the recent passage of the War Powers Act, a bipartisan effort led by Sanders in partnership with GOP Utah Sen. Mike Lee that was ultimately vetoed by Trump.
"Probably a few years ago I would not have been as involved as I have recently been in demanding and helping in the Senate to pass a resolution to get the United States out of the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen," Sanders said.
Caution on impeaching Trump
Sanders rang notes of caution on Democrats pursuing Trump's impeachment, just an hour after Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren argued forcefully for it.
"Here is my concern: At the end of the day, what is most important to me is to see that Donald Trump is not reelected President and I intend to do everything I can to make sure that that doesn't happen," Sanders said.
"But if for the next year all the Congress is talking about is 'Trump, Trump, Trump,' and 'Mueller, Mueller, Mueller' and we're not talking about health care and raising the minimum wage to a living wage and we're not talking about climate change and s*xism and racism and homophobia and the issues that concern ordinary Americans -- I worry that works to Trump's advantage," he said.
Sanders said there should be a "thorough investigation" of Trump's actions in the House and the Senate, but that he won't hold his breath for Senate Republicans to probe the president.


Kamala Harris:
Harris backs impeachment
Harris delivered her clearest answer yet on how Democrats should proceed after Mueller's report on the Russia probe was revealed.
"I believe Congress should take the steps towards impeachment," she said.
Harris said Mueller's investigation had produced evidence that Trump and his administration have "engaged in obstruction of justice."
The California Democrat added that she is a "realist" who has watched Senate Republicans defend Trump, and said Democrats must be "realistic about what might be the end result. But that doesn't mean the process shouldn't take place."
It was the clearest answer yet on impeachment from Harris, who has previously said her focus was on getting Mueller to testify before Congress. She joins Warren in calling for impeachment proceedings to go forward.
'We should have that conversation'
Voters listening to Harris' CNN town hall in New Hampshire might have noticed a go-to phrase for everything that falls into her "maybe" basket: "Let's have that conversation" or "I believe we should have that conversation."
Harris gave that answer Monday night to questions about whether she'd give the vote to the most heinous criminals, like the Boston Marathon bomber, who are incarcerated. And whether she'd like to see 16-year-olds get the right to vote. Oh, and also reparations.
Harris said she supports Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee's bill to study reparations. But then she was pressed by CNN anchor Don Lemon: "Senator, yes or no, do you support financial reparations?"
"I support that we study that," she replied. "We should study it and see." In other words, let's have that conversation.
Pete B*ttigieg
Short on policy?
B*ttigieg's campaign website is missing a policy section -- an omission that CNN's Anderson Cooper pointed out is glaring after Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, in particular, had delved deep into policy specifics earlier Monday night.
B*ttigieg responded that while policy is important, Democrats need to communicate their values without drowning voters in "minutiae."
"I've been pretty clear where I stand on major issues," he said, citing "Medicare for All" as an example.
"We'll continue to roll out specific policy proposals, too," he said. "But I also think it's important we don't drown people in minutiae before we've vindicated the values that animate our policies. We go right to the policy proposals and we expect people to be able to figure out what our values must be from that."
"I expect it will be very easy to tell where I stand on every policy issue of our time. But I'm going to take time to lay that out, rather than competing strictly on the theoretical elements of the proposals themselves," he said.
B*ttigieg also said he planned to soon unveil a tool that would make it possible for people to pull up videos of him discussing specific policies and issues by entering a search word or phrase on his website. Minutes later, that feature was live.
"We're in the second week of my campaign being official and we'll continue building our website accordingly, too," he said.
A break from Sanders on prisoners voting
B*ttigieg said prisoners should not be allowed to vote. "While incarcerated? No, I don't think so," the South Bend mayor said.
His position was a break from Sanders, who had advocated voting rights for incarcerated Americans, and Harris.
"I do believe that when you are out -- when you have served your sentence -- part of being restored to society is that you are part of the political life of this nation," B*ttigieg said. "And one of the things that needs to be restored is your right to vote."
But, B*ttigieg said, those convicted of felonies and imprisoned have to forfeit their rights. "It does not make sense to have an exception for the right to vote," he said.
B*ttigieg backs Trump's impeachment
B*ttigieg backed impeaching Trump in the wake of Mueller's report, saying the President has "made it pretty clear that he deserves impeachment."

But B*ttigieg also signaled that he won't be pushing Trump's impeachment on the campaign trail.
"I'm also going to leave it to the House and the Senate to figure that out," he said. "My role in the process is trying to relegate Trumpism to the dustbin of history, and I think there's no more decisive way to do that -- especially to get Republicans to abandon this kind of deal with the devil they made -- than to have just an absolute thumping at the ballot box for what it represents."




edition.cnn.com/2019/04/23/politics/democrats-impeachment-cnn-town-hall-takeaways/index.html

Six people are dead after a twin-engine plane crashed in Texas on Monday morning.
The incident occurred before 9 a.m. near Kerrville Municipal Airport, according to Lt. Jason Reyes with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The victims include the plane's pilot, 65-year-old Jeffery Carl Weiss, as well as Stuart Roben Kensinger, 55, Angela Webb Kensinger, 54, Mark Damien Scioneaux, 58, Scott Reagan Miller, 55, and Marc Tellepsen, 45, all from Houston, Texas Department of Public Safety Sergeant Orlando Gus Moreno told CNN.

A Beechcraft BE58 was getting ready to land at Kerrville Municipal Airport when the accident took place, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
Kerrville is about 65 miles northwest of San Antonio.
Wreckage was found about six miles northwest of the airport. The flight had departed from West Houston Airport outside Houston, the FAA said.
The FAA said its investigators are headed to the site and the National Transportation Safety Board will be in charge of the probe.

DPS officials have secured the scene, Lt. Reyes said.
Correction: An earlier version of this article included a photo from a different Texas plane crash. The photo has been replaced.

edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/us/texas-plane-crash/index.html

When she arrived in the US, the West African girl was just five years old, but she soon was responsible for caring for a Texas couple's children, cooking, cleaning and mowing the lawn. She was abused and neglected for 16 years -- until she escaped, according to a criminal complaint against the couple.
The pair has now been sentenced to seven years each in prison and nearly $300,000 in restitution, according to a Monday news release from the Justice Department.
Mohamed Toure, 58, and Denise Cros-Toure, 58, were convicted in January of forced labor, conspiracy to harbor an alien and alien harboring.

They both are citizens of Guinea -- where the young girl was taken from -- and lawful permanent residents of the US, but may lose their US immigration status and be deported to Guinea, the Justice Department said.
"I hope that today's sentence brings some measure of justice and healing to the victim, who suffered untold trauma as a result of the defendants' heinous crimes," Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband said in a news release. "The defendants stole her childhood and her labor for years, enriching themselves while leaving her with pain and an uncertain future."
The couple had faced a maximum sentence of 20 years for forced labor, 10 years for conspiracy to commit alien harboring, and 5 years for alien harboring.
An attorney for Toure said the couple was pleased with the lighter sentence, but maintain that the girl's story was fabricated.
Leaving home
Investigators claim the young girl initially lived in a one-room, mud hut with her family in Guinea. She was still young when her father, who worked as a farmer, urged her to go into the city to work. She soon began working for Cros-Toure's family in Guinea, according to the complaint.
In January 2000, the young girl -- who was not named in the criminal complaint -- was flown to the Toure residence in Southlake, where her first job was to care for the couple's youngest son, who was about two years old at the time, the 2018 complaint says. She did not speak English when she arrived and was not enrolled in school.
Girl alleges years of abuse
The child's workload eventually increased to include cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, mowing the lawn and gardening. Her day began around 7 a.m., when the couple's children left for school and continued until they went to sleep at night, the complaint says.
She didn't eat with the couple and their five children and slept on the floor, investigators said. The couple kept her at home, isolated her, forced her to do housework and care for their children with no pay and made sure she was entirely dependent on them, according to the


Scott Palmer, Cros-Toure's attorney, says the couple didn't pay the girl for her work because she was like family.
"They didn't pay her, but you don't pay family members to clean your own house," he said. "She lived there, like anyone else did." He said that the couple wanted to adopt the girl.
But the Department of Justice says the couple "physically, emotionally and verbally punished her," each time she disobeyed them or "did not perform the required labor to their liking."
They would call her a "dog," a "slave," "worthless" and an idiot, the Justice Department said in Monday's news release, citing evidence presented at the couple's trial. They choked her, whipped her, sometimes pulled on her hair -- and other times shaved it, the Justice Department said.
Toure's attorney, Brady T. Watt III said those stories were fabricated in the girl's attempt to stay in the US. Watt told CNN, the girl made the claims after her family asked that she be returned to Guinea.
"We know why this came about because this was her route to get a T-Visa," Watt said. "She wasn't a slave. She was charting runs on her Fitbit, doing modeling shoots."
She escaped after 16 years
By the summer of 2016, the girl had confided to people who knew Cros-Toure and Toure about the abuse and had tried to run away, but she was always returned home, according to the criminal complaint.
In August of that year, with the help of a few former neighbors, she waited until Cros-Toure was gone from the house, and fled, taking with her a duffel bag, a backpack and her travel documents.
"Forced labor trafficking cases are notoriously difficult to prosecute -- in part because victims are often afraid to speak out," US Attorney Erin Nealy Cox said in a news release. "I want to commend her, as well as the witnesses who helped shine a light on her circumstances."
"If we want to wipe out human trafficking, we need to remind witnesses to speak up, and ask the community to remain alert."

The sentencing should send a message to those who abuse and exploit others, Jeffrey McGallicher, Special Agent in Charge of the DSS Houston Field Office said.
"You will be held responsible for your vicious acts," McGallicher said.

CNN's Laura Koran, Dave Alsup and Laura Jarrett contributed to this report.

edition.cnn.com/2019/04/23/us/texas-couple-west-african-girl-enslaved/index.html

President Donald Trump contended Monday that none of his underlings routinely defy his commands, despite numerous examples contained in Robert Mueller's report showing aides ignoring or refusing his dictates.
"Nobody disobeys my orders," Trump said during a walkabout on the South Lawn for the annual Easter egg roll.
He was questioned by CNN's Kaitlan Collins about whether he was worried some of his staff were shrugging off his requests, as depicted by Mueller, whose full redacted report was made public last week.

The document contained anecdote after anecdote of aides refusing to carry out some of Trump's demands to short-circuit the special counsel's investigation. The trend was so marked the report's authors made note of it in their assessment.

"The President's efforts to influence the investigation were mostly unsuccessful, but that is largely because the persons who surrounded the President declined to carry out orders or accede to his requests," the report read.
The report paints a picture of aides repeatedly ignoring or brushing aside Trump's dictates -- both in the interest of guarding the President from his own worst instincts and of protecting themselves from further legal implications.
That included acts by Trump's former White House counsel, his former chief of staff, a former staff secretary and multiple other formal and informal advisers.
According to White House officials, that dynamic has been a constant undercurrent to Trump's presidency, including on matters of policy like immigration and trade.
Aides have consistently worked privately to forestall or prevent Trump from taking actions deemed unwise or worse, relying either on diversionary tactics or the belief Trump would eventually forget his commands.
Trump, meanwhile, detests the impression that he is managed by aides, and spent part of the weekend stewing at the report's assessment that some of his staff regularly ignored what he told them to do. He has been seeking assurances from his current staff that his orders are being treated like those of a president, not like suggestions.

On Monday, Trump also proclaimed himself unconcerned about the prospects of impeachment proceedings, which some Democrats are now calling for in the wake of Mueller's report.
"Not even a little bit," he said when asked about impeachment worries.

edition.cnn.com/2019/04/22/politics/donald-trump-staff-mueller-report/index.html

Dubai-based Nigerian big boy and owner Bureau De Change, gifts himself new Lamborghini Aventador Roadster LP700-4 which cost $360,000 (N130million).

According to report by MediaHelm NEWS, this is the fourth exotic car he bought this year after acquiring Rolls Royce Wrath, Bentley Bentayga and 2019 G-Wagon.

Source: www.mediahelm.com.ng/2019/04/dubai-based-nigerian-millionaire-mompha.html

Bishop Obinim who had long taken up the title of 'Angel', has destroyed the images of Jesus Christ in his church, as he further stated that it not the real one.Bishop Obinim, the Founder and Leader of the International Godsway Church who destroyed all images of Jesus Christ which he said was fake, also promised to replace them with his. The Ghanaian Pastor further disclosed that he will soon put up a statue of himself, because he is an original person who can be seen and felt by many and visit others in their dreams just at the press of a B*tton.

“We are not getting the real pictures of Jesus Christ that is how come we keep using this. I destroyed the ones in Kumasi and Accra because this man is an Italian who acted in a movie. You can never get the picture of my father the messiah anywhere. I should make my statue and pictures because I value the gifts he has given to me”, he told his congregation in Tema.

Here is the video below;


unclesuru.com/2019/04/23/bishop-obinim-destroys-images-of-jesus-christ-in-his-church-replaces-with-his/

An Omega Fire Ministry branch in Dubai has congratulated Apostle Johnson Suleman on the acquisition of a private jet for the propagation of the gospel.

On its maiden trip, the jet was used to fly Apostle Suleman to Enugu yesterday for the Open Heaven Crusade.

The Dubai church stated:

Join us as we congratulate our FATHER, The Restoration Apostle, GOD's General, GOD's own Oracle...#APOSTLE_PROF_JOHNSON_SULEMAN on his brand new private jet for the propagation of the Gospel of CHRIST to Nations of the World with His Undiluted Word of Power, Signs, Wonders, Deliverance, Healing & Restoration and the Prophetic. (Mark 16:14 - 18; Luke 4:17 - 23).

He has paid his dues.As you rejoice with him, whatever you are believing GOD for shall manifest in a hurry!Daddy Sir, you belong to the air, keep SOARING..

Courtesy: OFM Dubai


lailasnews.com/omega-fire-ministries-dubai-apostle-sulemans-private-jet/