Tuesday, February 10, 2015
The Rumoured termination of Professor Attahiru Jega as INEC Chairman .... My thoughts BY Femi Gbajabiamila
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In the last few days we have been inundated with speculation about the possible termination of Jegas appointment as INEC Chairman. This may be unfounded but may also have a basis in truth cos you just can't put anything past this government.
From a legal standpoint, I do not think any such attempt can pass constitutional muster.
Firstly I do not consider the Chairman INEC as a civil servant subject to civil service rules same way i as a member of the House of Representatives am not a civil servant. There is a difference between a civil servant and a public servant or officer. Jega falls under the latter. INEC and its chairman are a creation of the constitution. Their operations, rules and regulations are as provided under sections 156 and 160 of the Nigerian constitution which expressly states that only INEC has the powers to regulate its own procedures and cannot be subject to approval of the President or any other authority thereby establishing its independence.
Secondly , "terminal leave" is a form of removal whichever you cut or slice it and section 157 of the constitution is very clear that the removal of the chairman of INEC can only be initiated by two thirds of the senate and not by the President.
The question of who is a civil servant is answered in section 171 of the constitution and the chairman of INEC is not included.
Finally, it will be a violation of section 1 of the Code of Conduct as embedded in Part 1 of the fifth schedule to the constitution to appoint Prof Mimiko, brother to a PDP governor ( if the rumors are indeed true), as INEC chairman. There is an inherent conflict of interest and that will never fly. The section I just referred to states:
" a public officer shall not put himself in a position where his personal interest conflicts with his duties and responsibilities "
This government needs to start thinking for once!!
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Lagos Students Kick Against Election Postponement
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Lagos Students Reject Election Shift
Students in Lagos State reject the postponed election by Independent National Electoral Commission.
The students from all tertiary institutions in Lagos State which are Lagos state University, UNILAG, YABATECH, LASPOTECH, Adeniran Ogonsanya College of Education, Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Michael Otedola College of Primary Education , Lagos State School of Health Technology to, Federal College of Fishers and Marine Technology were led by Olayinka Jubril, a 400 Level Student of Industrial Relations and Personnel Management, Lagos State University: the Acting Chairman National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee ( JCC ), Lagos Axis on a Monday, February 9, 2015 stormed the Governor's office Alausa, Ikeja to submit a protest letter for onward transmission to the Mr. Goodluck Jonathan; the President Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The protest letter which was made available to our correspondent reads in part "we decried the unjust shift in election date. We describe it as baseless, needless rapacious and a plate of pranks on the intelligence of well meaning Nigerian it is also a frightening scenario that constitutes clear and present danger. It is also failure and a huge embarrassment on INEC, NSA, NSC, the armed forces, the Nigerian Police and Federal Government at Large. We regard it as an attempted attempt to re-strategies the rigging plans of the federal Government".
Addressing pressmen, Jubril said "NANS/JCC Lagos is the ideological platform and the only intellectual base of NANS in Nigeria; it is a body comprising the largest concentration of students in the entire sub Sahara Africa"
Speaking further, he said the students have resolved to the following: to do everything to defend our votes,
will resist further postponement with last drop of our bloods,
Prof. Jega should write a separate letter to Nigerians apologizing for his failure to resign after he promised to resign rather than postpone election, encourage her members to roll out in their numbers to get their PVC's as that is the only passport of contribution to the development of Nigeria.
Students in Lagos State reject the postponed election by Independent National Electoral Commission.
The students from all tertiary institutions in Lagos State which are Lagos state University, UNILAG, YABATECH, LASPOTECH, Adeniran Ogonsanya College of Education, Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Michael Otedola College of Primary Education , Lagos State School of Health Technology to, Federal College of Fishers and Marine Technology were led by Olayinka Jubril, a 400 Level Student of Industrial Relations and Personnel Management, Lagos State University: the Acting Chairman National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee ( JCC ), Lagos Axis on a Monday, February 9, 2015 stormed the Governor's office Alausa, Ikeja to submit a protest letter for onward transmission to the Mr. Goodluck Jonathan; the President Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The protest letter which was made available to our correspondent reads in part "we decried the unjust shift in election date. We describe it as baseless, needless rapacious and a plate of pranks on the intelligence of well meaning Nigerian it is also a frightening scenario that constitutes clear and present danger. It is also failure and a huge embarrassment on INEC, NSA, NSC, the armed forces, the Nigerian Police and Federal Government at Large. We regard it as an attempted attempt to re-strategies the rigging plans of the federal Government".
Addressing pressmen, Jubril said "NANS/JCC Lagos is the ideological platform and the only intellectual base of NANS in Nigeria; it is a body comprising the largest concentration of students in the entire sub Sahara Africa"
Speaking further, he said the students have resolved to the following: to do everything to defend our votes,
will resist further postponement with last drop of our bloods,
Prof. Jega should write a separate letter to Nigerians apologizing for his failure to resign after he promised to resign rather than postpone election, encourage her members to roll out in their numbers to get their PVC's as that is the only passport of contribution to the development of Nigeria.
@blackboxupdate
Get yourself shoes and return to Otuoke -David West Tells President Jonathan
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Professor Tam David-West, former Minister of Petroleum Resources, has called on President Goodluck Jonathan to start preparing his hand-over note because his days in office as president of Nigeria are numbered.
The reason, according to David-West who was a monster under Buhari's military regime, is because Jonathan's party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will suffer a humiliating defeat in the hands of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming general elections.
"Jonathan should quickly look for shoes and go back to Otuoke. I have shoes in Ibadan and Abuja, I can give him some if he is in need of shoes.
"Everywhere you go, you see signs that the end of this government, led by Jonathan, is very near. Honestly, I do not have anything against him, but a party and a man that can better manage Nigeria has appeared on the scene, and we have no choice but to save our country from an impending doom."
The elder statesman and Professor of Virology said Nigerians cannot continue to tolerate a government that is evidently confused and incapable of providing leadership. He warned that the drift in almost every sphere of our national life will continue if Jonathan is not shown the way out because, according to him, the president lacks the capacity to lead.
David-West also called on President Jonathan to show Nigerians his doctoral thesis, and end the ragging controversy around his certificate. "I became a professor in 1974, so when I see a scholar I know. I have asked people to look for the PhD of Jonathan but I am yet to find it. I think he owes Nigerians an explanation because he is our president, Professor David-West said.
The reason, according to David-West who was a monster under Buhari's military regime, is because Jonathan's party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will suffer a humiliating defeat in the hands of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming general elections.
"Jonathan should quickly look for shoes and go back to Otuoke. I have shoes in Ibadan and Abuja, I can give him some if he is in need of shoes.
"Everywhere you go, you see signs that the end of this government, led by Jonathan, is very near. Honestly, I do not have anything against him, but a party and a man that can better manage Nigeria has appeared on the scene, and we have no choice but to save our country from an impending doom."
The elder statesman and Professor of Virology said Nigerians cannot continue to tolerate a government that is evidently confused and incapable of providing leadership. He warned that the drift in almost every sphere of our national life will continue if Jonathan is not shown the way out because, according to him, the president lacks the capacity to lead.
David-West also called on President Jonathan to show Nigerians his doctoral thesis, and end the ragging controversy around his certificate. "I became a professor in 1974, so when I see a scholar I know. I have asked people to look for the PhD of Jonathan but I am yet to find it. I think he owes Nigerians an explanation because he is our president, Professor David-West said.
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Tinubu Under House Arrest As Soldiers Lay Siege At Bourdillon Home
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At least 30 unknown soldiers are reportedly laying siege on the Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, residence of the national leader of the All Progressive Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
A statement issued by the former governor's media office said soldiers riding in three patrol vans and army truck have been stationed close to the residence for three days to the consternation of many people in the area.
Their obvious targets, the statement said, include Tinubu himself and perhaps the hordes of politicians and visitors that visit the residence.
The statement said the soldiers were first noticed in the area at about 11.00pm on Sunday.
It said, "They stationed about 500 meters away from Tinubu's gate. Later they moved close to his gate as if they want to enter the premises. The stern looking soldiers were around for hours on Sunday and returned on Monday to continue their surveillance.
"On Monday night about 10.45pm, they returned to the residence in two army vans and were there throughout the night. Some of the soldiers discharged from the van and walked back and forth in front of the house and around the house.
On Tuesday morning, two vans from the army were stationed on both sides of the house with their missions shrouded in secrecy.
"Tinubu remains emphatically resolute and committed to the path of change in Nigeria and the liberating manifesto of the All Progressives Party. Tinubu is an unrelenting critic of the maladministration of the Jonathan-led PDP government. He is credited to have played the most pivotal role in the re-building of the Nigerian opposition and the formation of the APC, Nigeria's most formidable opposition party since independence.
"The exact mission of the soldiers is not known but it fits clearly into a new pattern of intimidation of leaders of the APC and the opposition. The recent massing of soldiers for three days now at Tinubu's gate might be part of a broader plan by the Jonathan Presidency to intimidate Tinubu and his political associates and scare him from making provocative statements or building a broad coalition against the present government as he did during the NADECO days.
"As the scaremongering by the army continues, Nigerians must come to the realization that the military has abandoned its statutory role and have now being dragged into partisan politics. Nigerians and the South West should hold the Jonathan led military responsible if any harm or danger comes to Tinubu and his family. The case of the 'Unknown Soldier' is too recent in our memory."
Meanwhile, the former governor has said he will not be intimidated "by this latest show of strength, intimidation and possible harassment."
He stated this while reacting to the presence of soldiers in places close to his residence.
"I remain resolute in my advocacy and support for the rule of law. Jonathan's government has through the service chiefs staged a coup against Nigerians and the Constitution and now wants to silence his critics. I will not be muzzled through the barrel of the gun. The guns and bullets they should use to defeat Boko Haram are now being turned against the opposition and innocent Nigerians," he said.
A statement issued by the former governor's media office said soldiers riding in three patrol vans and army truck have been stationed close to the residence for three days to the consternation of many people in the area.
Their obvious targets, the statement said, include Tinubu himself and perhaps the hordes of politicians and visitors that visit the residence.
The statement said the soldiers were first noticed in the area at about 11.00pm on Sunday.
It said, "They stationed about 500 meters away from Tinubu's gate. Later they moved close to his gate as if they want to enter the premises. The stern looking soldiers were around for hours on Sunday and returned on Monday to continue their surveillance.
"On Monday night about 10.45pm, they returned to the residence in two army vans and were there throughout the night. Some of the soldiers discharged from the van and walked back and forth in front of the house and around the house.
On Tuesday morning, two vans from the army were stationed on both sides of the house with their missions shrouded in secrecy.
"Tinubu remains emphatically resolute and committed to the path of change in Nigeria and the liberating manifesto of the All Progressives Party. Tinubu is an unrelenting critic of the maladministration of the Jonathan-led PDP government. He is credited to have played the most pivotal role in the re-building of the Nigerian opposition and the formation of the APC, Nigeria's most formidable opposition party since independence.
"The exact mission of the soldiers is not known but it fits clearly into a new pattern of intimidation of leaders of the APC and the opposition. The recent massing of soldiers for three days now at Tinubu's gate might be part of a broader plan by the Jonathan Presidency to intimidate Tinubu and his political associates and scare him from making provocative statements or building a broad coalition against the present government as he did during the NADECO days.
"As the scaremongering by the army continues, Nigerians must come to the realization that the military has abandoned its statutory role and have now being dragged into partisan politics. Nigerians and the South West should hold the Jonathan led military responsible if any harm or danger comes to Tinubu and his family. The case of the 'Unknown Soldier' is too recent in our memory."
Meanwhile, the former governor has said he will not be intimidated "by this latest show of strength, intimidation and possible harassment."
He stated this while reacting to the presence of soldiers in places close to his residence.
"I remain resolute in my advocacy and support for the rule of law. Jonathan's government has through the service chiefs staged a coup against Nigerians and the Constitution and now wants to silence his critics. I will not be muzzled through the barrel of the gun. The guns and bullets they should use to defeat Boko Haram are now being turned against the opposition and innocent Nigerians," he said.
@blackboxupdate
It is A Lie -INEC Denies Jega's Terminal Leave Rumour
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The spokesman for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mr. Kayode Idowu, has debunked reports that INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, would proceed on terminal leave on 1 March this year.
Idowu, who spoke on a TV programme monitored in Lagos, southwest Nigeria, on Tuesday, said Jega's appointment was not guided by civil service rules and so he would serve until his tenure elapses on 30 June this year.
After the postponement of the elections last weekend, there have been reports that President Goodluck Jonathan's next move is to relieve Jega of his job and replace him with a pliant person to conduct the elections.
Idowu also said the ballot papers for Nigeria's presidential election scheduled to hold on 28 March were ready.
He said the ballot papers had been delivered by the printers and that they were being kept in the vault of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He also disclosed that thousands of ad hoc staff were being trained for the elections initially billed to take place on 14 and 28 February but shifted to 28 March and 11 April.
He said the postponement would allow INEC perfect its preparations for the polls, adding that there can never be 100% preparations for an election since things continue to change until the last day of the polls.
But Idowu may not be right after all on reports that Jega may be asked to proceed on terminal leave in March.
A Federal civil service circular, issued by former head of service, Alhaji Isa Bello Sali entitled, 'Three Months pre-retirement/terminal leave' made no distinction as to whether one is a career civil servant or a political appointee.
According to the circular, "It has been observed that the mandatory notice of retirement for officers who are due to retire is not being observed as provided for in the extant rules. Accordingly, it has become necessary to reiterate the provisions of Public Service Rules (PSR) 100238 which states that officers are required to give three months notice of their retirement from service terminating on the effective date of their retirement"
The circular was addressed and sent to the Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Justice of the Federation, all Ministers, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, Chairman Federal Civil Service Commission, the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Others are Heads of extra-ministerial departments, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Auditor-General of the Federation, Surveyor-General of the Federation, Directors-General/chief executives of parastatals and agencies.
Jega's predecessor, Prof Maurice Iwu. Iwu's tenure was due to expire on June 13, 2010. However, on April 28, 2010, then acting President Jonathan, ordered Iwu to proceed on terminal leave.
Former IGP Abubakar's tenure was due to end on July 30, 2014 but he proceeded or was sent on terminal leave on May 12, 2014. Former Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Dahiru Musdapher voluntarily proceeded on terminal leave three months before the constitutional or mathematical end of his tenure.
Idowu, who spoke on a TV programme monitored in Lagos, southwest Nigeria, on Tuesday, said Jega's appointment was not guided by civil service rules and so he would serve until his tenure elapses on 30 June this year.
After the postponement of the elections last weekend, there have been reports that President Goodluck Jonathan's next move is to relieve Jega of his job and replace him with a pliant person to conduct the elections.
Idowu also said the ballot papers for Nigeria's presidential election scheduled to hold on 28 March were ready.
He said the ballot papers had been delivered by the printers and that they were being kept in the vault of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He also disclosed that thousands of ad hoc staff were being trained for the elections initially billed to take place on 14 and 28 February but shifted to 28 March and 11 April.
He said the postponement would allow INEC perfect its preparations for the polls, adding that there can never be 100% preparations for an election since things continue to change until the last day of the polls.
But Idowu may not be right after all on reports that Jega may be asked to proceed on terminal leave in March.
A Federal civil service circular, issued by former head of service, Alhaji Isa Bello Sali entitled, 'Three Months pre-retirement/terminal leave' made no distinction as to whether one is a career civil servant or a political appointee.
According to the circular, "It has been observed that the mandatory notice of retirement for officers who are due to retire is not being observed as provided for in the extant rules. Accordingly, it has become necessary to reiterate the provisions of Public Service Rules (PSR) 100238 which states that officers are required to give three months notice of their retirement from service terminating on the effective date of their retirement"
The circular was addressed and sent to the Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Justice of the Federation, all Ministers, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, Chairman Federal Civil Service Commission, the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Others are Heads of extra-ministerial departments, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Auditor-General of the Federation, Surveyor-General of the Federation, Directors-General/chief executives of parastatals and agencies.
Jega's predecessor, Prof Maurice Iwu. Iwu's tenure was due to expire on June 13, 2010. However, on April 28, 2010, then acting President Jonathan, ordered Iwu to proceed on terminal leave.
Former IGP Abubakar's tenure was due to end on July 30, 2014 but he proceeded or was sent on terminal leave on May 12, 2014. Former Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Dahiru Musdapher voluntarily proceeded on terminal leave three months before the constitutional or mathematical end of his tenure.
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APC Says PDP Now Buying PVC For N10,000
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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised the alarm that some people suspected to be agents of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have resorted to underhand tactics, including the purchase of PVCs and the intimidation of some voters to seize their PVCs, in the wake of the recent postponement of the general elections.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party also said a company, Agro-Allied Communities Service Nigeria Limited, has been formed ostensibly to provide N50,000 loan each to 'empower' women
It said, however, that anyone seeking to get the loan must provide her PVC as 'collateral', which is basically the essence of the establishment of the company that is supposedly a private concern but in reality a PDP front to mop up PVCs, especially in opposition strongholds.
APC said it is now getting clearer by the day what the PDP-led Federal government sought to gain by forcing the postponement of the elections for six weeks – which is to perfect their rigging plans.
The party warned those behind the abhorrent acts to desist from such tactics, which reflect the desperation by some people to hold on to power at all cost, even when it is clear that Nigerians have widely rejected them due to non performance, massive corruption and profligacy under their watch.
It also appealed to its members and supporters in particular, and Nigerians in general, not to sell their PVCs under any guise, saying that is the only power they have to effect a meaningful change that can ensure the deliverance of democratic dividends to them.
"Our members have alerted us to the fact that PDP agents have been operating in all villages between Kobape and Orile-Imo along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway in Ogun State, giving 10,000 Naira to each poor villager and collecting their PVCs. The PDP agents are also promising each villager a monthly stipend of 10,000 Naira if and when their party assumes office in the state.
"Indications are that this objectionable PVC mop-up is being replicated in all opposition strongholds by the frenzied PDP, hence we at the APC have decided to alert the nation to the reprehensible act," APC said.
The party also said that some Immigration personnel, acting under the guise of arresting illegal aliens with voter cards, are dispossessing a lot of unsuspecting locals in the northern part of the country of their PVCs. These unsuspecting people are arrested and their cards seized, all in an attempt to disenfranchise them.
"This act of desperation is totally unacceptable and must stop forthwith.
Every voter should be allowed to exercise his or her franchise in accordance with his/her conscience, without intimidation or inducement," it said."
We hope this is not part of the reasons that the PDP relentlessly campaigned for a postponement of the elections, so it can engage in PVC purchase and the disenfranchisement of innocent Nigerians through harassment and intimidation."
In a statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party also said a company, Agro-Allied Communities Service Nigeria Limited, has been formed ostensibly to provide N50,000 loan each to 'empower' women
It said, however, that anyone seeking to get the loan must provide her PVC as 'collateral', which is basically the essence of the establishment of the company that is supposedly a private concern but in reality a PDP front to mop up PVCs, especially in opposition strongholds.
APC said it is now getting clearer by the day what the PDP-led Federal government sought to gain by forcing the postponement of the elections for six weeks – which is to perfect their rigging plans.
The party warned those behind the abhorrent acts to desist from such tactics, which reflect the desperation by some people to hold on to power at all cost, even when it is clear that Nigerians have widely rejected them due to non performance, massive corruption and profligacy under their watch.
It also appealed to its members and supporters in particular, and Nigerians in general, not to sell their PVCs under any guise, saying that is the only power they have to effect a meaningful change that can ensure the deliverance of democratic dividends to them.
"Our members have alerted us to the fact that PDP agents have been operating in all villages between Kobape and Orile-Imo along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway in Ogun State, giving 10,000 Naira to each poor villager and collecting their PVCs. The PDP agents are also promising each villager a monthly stipend of 10,000 Naira if and when their party assumes office in the state.
"Indications are that this objectionable PVC mop-up is being replicated in all opposition strongholds by the frenzied PDP, hence we at the APC have decided to alert the nation to the reprehensible act," APC said.
The party also said that some Immigration personnel, acting under the guise of arresting illegal aliens with voter cards, are dispossessing a lot of unsuspecting locals in the northern part of the country of their PVCs. These unsuspecting people are arrested and their cards seized, all in an attempt to disenfranchise them.
"This act of desperation is totally unacceptable and must stop forthwith.
Every voter should be allowed to exercise his or her franchise in accordance with his/her conscience, without intimidation or inducement," it said."
We hope this is not part of the reasons that the PDP relentlessly campaigned for a postponement of the elections, so it can engage in PVC purchase and the disenfranchisement of innocent Nigerians through harassment and intimidation."
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Fashion Designer Killed In Gruesome Manner In Lagos
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Some yet-to-be identified gunmen have killed a 38-year-old tailor, Oluwasegun Adegbenjo, in Oke-Abiaye, in the Alagbado area of Lagos State.
PUNCH Metro learnt that Adegbenjo was shot dead in an uncompleted building where he had gone purportedly to meet someone.
Our correspondent gathered from a source that the killers did not steal anything from the deceased. His jeep, which he drove by himself to the site, was also left untouched at the scene of the murder.
The incident happened on January 28, around 11pm.
The source said, "Adegbenjo is a popular tailor who had a shop in the Ikotun area of Lagos. He was also into fashion designing. He lived with his family in Iju-Ota, Ogun State.
"On the fateful day, which was January 28, around 11pm, he had closed from shop and driven down to Oke-Abiaye in Alagbado. The place is a deserted area and people don't live there. But you could find some uncompleted buildings around.
"He parked his jeep and came out before he was shot dead by some unknown persons. There was no stain of blood in his car and nothing was stolen."
A police source told PUNCH Metro that Olagbenjo, who was married with kids, was found in the site after his family declared him missing.
He said the police had yet to establish any motive in the murder, but might be working on the theory that he was killed by some business partners.
He said, "The family started searching for him when he could not be found and he was not picking his telephone. That was how they found him there. His wife could not bear the shock of the tragedy and had since been hospitalised.
"The police are still on the case and hopefully, his telephone, which was not taken away, could provide useful hints on what happened to him.
"But we are working on a theory that he went into a business deal with someone who then decided to kill him. He must have been into a deal, which is still under investigation."
Our correspondent learnt that the matter was reported at the Alagbado Police Division.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, said, "Yes, it happened. The man was killed and no suspect has been arrested yet.
"The case, as we speak, has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department."
PUNCH Metro learnt that Adegbenjo was shot dead in an uncompleted building where he had gone purportedly to meet someone.
Our correspondent gathered from a source that the killers did not steal anything from the deceased. His jeep, which he drove by himself to the site, was also left untouched at the scene of the murder.
The incident happened on January 28, around 11pm.
The source said, "Adegbenjo is a popular tailor who had a shop in the Ikotun area of Lagos. He was also into fashion designing. He lived with his family in Iju-Ota, Ogun State.
"On the fateful day, which was January 28, around 11pm, he had closed from shop and driven down to Oke-Abiaye in Alagbado. The place is a deserted area and people don't live there. But you could find some uncompleted buildings around.
"He parked his jeep and came out before he was shot dead by some unknown persons. There was no stain of blood in his car and nothing was stolen."
A police source told PUNCH Metro that Olagbenjo, who was married with kids, was found in the site after his family declared him missing.
He said the police had yet to establish any motive in the murder, but might be working on the theory that he was killed by some business partners.
He said, "The family started searching for him when he could not be found and he was not picking his telephone. That was how they found him there. His wife could not bear the shock of the tragedy and had since been hospitalised.
"The police are still on the case and hopefully, his telephone, which was not taken away, could provide useful hints on what happened to him.
"But we are working on a theory that he went into a business deal with someone who then decided to kill him. He must have been into a deal, which is still under investigation."
Our correspondent learnt that the matter was reported at the Alagbado Police Division.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, said, "Yes, it happened. The man was killed and no suspect has been arrested yet.
"The case, as we speak, has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department."
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Youth Corper Says: His Manufactured Drone Can Help Monitor Nigeria's Porous Borders
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A member of the National Youth Service Corps, Mr Olaolu Ayoola, has said that the drones he manufactures would be able to monitor Nigeria's porous borders.
Olaolu Ayoola studied Computer Science, from the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, and is currently serving in a secondary school in Osun State.
In an interview with Punch on Monday, Olaolu said that his drone could assist the military to monitor the kind of persons and activities going on at Nigeria borders.
According to him, the drones which are manufactured and fitted with camera with the capacity for live recording can be deployed and officials would be watching event as they are
happening on the ground.
Ayoola, who is an indigene of Ogbomoso in Oyo State, said the massive killings and willful destruction of property by the insurgent could be tackled with technology backed up by military personnel and by addressing the cause of the crisis.
He said, "It is difficult, if not impossible to have our borders covered with close circuit television therefore drones such as this can be programmed to patrol our borders independently and notify security agents whenever it detects strange activities such as illegal immigrations, human trafficking at our borders.
"This will most certainly be more effective in terms of results and cost when it is combined with the existing infrastructures and personnel.
"This one can fly as high as 200m and it can stay in the air for 20 minutes. The beauty of it is that it can be improved upon to fly higher and stay longer and even with greater capabilities.
"There is no limit to how far we can push it. I just think the Nigerian Government has not been exploring the potentials in this nation. I think the government and the private sector should invest into technologies like this and many others the Nigerian youths come up with.
"This will develop our nation's Science and Technology, reducing our dependency on foreign countries. This will also lead to diversification, reducing our dependency on oil."
The corps member said that his drones could also be used to monitor the nation's pipelines adding that this would ensure that security agencies were notified promptly anytime vandals were about breaking the pipes to ship on oil.
The young graduate, who said that the drones could be useful in many more ways stated that farmers could use them to monitor happening on their farms.
He explained that drones could be deployed in large expanse of farm to know what was happening at every point and move to address the issues on time.
Olaolu Ayoola studied Computer Science, from the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, and is currently serving in a secondary school in Osun State.
In an interview with Punch on Monday, Olaolu said that his drone could assist the military to monitor the kind of persons and activities going on at Nigeria borders.
According to him, the drones which are manufactured and fitted with camera with the capacity for live recording can be deployed and officials would be watching event as they are
happening on the ground.
Ayoola, who is an indigene of Ogbomoso in Oyo State, said the massive killings and willful destruction of property by the insurgent could be tackled with technology backed up by military personnel and by addressing the cause of the crisis.
He said, "It is difficult, if not impossible to have our borders covered with close circuit television therefore drones such as this can be programmed to patrol our borders independently and notify security agents whenever it detects strange activities such as illegal immigrations, human trafficking at our borders.
"This will most certainly be more effective in terms of results and cost when it is combined with the existing infrastructures and personnel.
"This one can fly as high as 200m and it can stay in the air for 20 minutes. The beauty of it is that it can be improved upon to fly higher and stay longer and even with greater capabilities.
"There is no limit to how far we can push it. I just think the Nigerian Government has not been exploring the potentials in this nation. I think the government and the private sector should invest into technologies like this and many others the Nigerian youths come up with.
"This will develop our nation's Science and Technology, reducing our dependency on foreign countries. This will also lead to diversification, reducing our dependency on oil."
The corps member said that his drones could also be used to monitor the nation's pipelines adding that this would ensure that security agencies were notified promptly anytime vandals were about breaking the pipes to ship on oil.
The young graduate, who said that the drones could be useful in many more ways stated that farmers could use them to monitor happening on their farms.
He explained that drones could be deployed in large expanse of farm to know what was happening at every point and move to address the issues on time.
@blackboxupdate
Real Madrid Promises To Return To Winning Ways Following Embarrassing Loss To Atletico
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Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has told the team that they have his confidence and support following the 4-0 thrashing to Atletico Madrid , but that they must use the disgrace as
a turning point for their season
Perez addressed his players at the Valdebebas training complex amidst rumblings of staff discontent, both at the performance on
Saturday and Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to host a lavish 30th birthday party that night, from which pictures and images were leaked
to the press. Fans responded badly too, with some waving a banner saying 'your laughter – our shame' in clear reference to their biggest
star's partying antics.
While Goal 's Madrid sources revealed that the club remained calm about events on and off the pitch , Perez felt compelled to address the
team on Monday after their alarming slump in form since La Liga restarted in January came to a head at the Vicente Calderon.
"I trust you," Perez told the players, Goal can reveal. "We will return to greatness. There is much of the season ahead, and there is nothing
that cannot be fixed with hard work."
Perez also pointed to Madrid's remarkable 22-match winning streak earlier in the season, which came after defeats to Real Sociedad and
Atletico.
But with Barcelona and Atletico finding their best form, Real have to arrest this worrying run of results – which coincided with their return
from a winter trip to Dubai, and Ronaldo's Ballon d'Or victory on January 12. Source goal.
Yemme_blaq
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has told the team that they have his confidence and support following the 4-0 thrashing to Atletico Madrid , but that they must use the disgrace as
a turning point for their season
Perez addressed his players at the Valdebebas training complex amidst rumblings of staff discontent, both at the performance on
Saturday and Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to host a lavish 30th birthday party that night, from which pictures and images were leaked
to the press. Fans responded badly too, with some waving a banner saying 'your laughter – our shame' in clear reference to their biggest
star's partying antics.
While Goal 's Madrid sources revealed that the club remained calm about events on and off the pitch , Perez felt compelled to address the
team on Monday after their alarming slump in form since La Liga restarted in January came to a head at the Vicente Calderon.
"I trust you," Perez told the players, Goal can reveal. "We will return to greatness. There is much of the season ahead, and there is nothing
that cannot be fixed with hard work."
Perez also pointed to Madrid's remarkable 22-match winning streak earlier in the season, which came after defeats to Real Sociedad and
Atletico.
But with Barcelona and Atletico finding their best form, Real have to arrest this worrying run of results – which coincided with their return
from a winter trip to Dubai, and Ronaldo's Ballon d'Or victory on January 12. Source goal.
Yemme_blaq
@blackboxupdate
Three People Now Confirmed To Run Against Blatter For FIFA President
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BY MOSES ADEYEMI
The world football governing body has confirmed that four candidates will be contesting for the post.
Incumbent Sepp Blatter has been in the role since 1998, but his reign has been overshadowed in recent times by allegations of corruption throughout the organisation.
After a series of integrity checks, Blatter's place on the list was confirmed on Monday alongside former Portugal international Luis Figo, chairman of the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) Michael van Praag and current Fifa vice-president Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein.
"Following the required regulatory assessments, the Ad-hoc Electoral Committee has today (Monday, 9 February 2015) formally admitted and declared the candidates eligible for the election of the office of FIFA President at the FIFA Congress in Zurich on 29 May 2015," a
Fifa statement read.
"The candidates admitted and declared are Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland), HRH Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein (Jordan), Luis Figo (Portugal) and Michael van Praag (The Netherlands).
"Each of them underwent an integrity check by the investigatory chamber of the independent Ethics Committee in accordance with article 8 par. 1(e) and article 15 par. 2 of the Electoral Regulations for the FIFA Presidency ("Electoral Regulations").
"Annexe 1 of the FIFA Organisation Regulations outlines the provisions according to which such integrity checks are conducted."
Yemme_blaq
BY MOSES ADEYEMI
The world football governing body has confirmed that four candidates will be contesting for the post.
Incumbent Sepp Blatter has been in the role since 1998, but his reign has been overshadowed in recent times by allegations of corruption throughout the organisation.
After a series of integrity checks, Blatter's place on the list was confirmed on Monday alongside former Portugal international Luis Figo, chairman of the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) Michael van Praag and current Fifa vice-president Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein.
"Following the required regulatory assessments, the Ad-hoc Electoral Committee has today (Monday, 9 February 2015) formally admitted and declared the candidates eligible for the election of the office of FIFA President at the FIFA Congress in Zurich on 29 May 2015," a
Fifa statement read.
"The candidates admitted and declared are Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland), HRH Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein (Jordan), Luis Figo (Portugal) and Michael van Praag (The Netherlands).
"Each of them underwent an integrity check by the investigatory chamber of the independent Ethics Committee in accordance with article 8 par. 1(e) and article 15 par. 2 of the Electoral Regulations for the FIFA Presidency ("Electoral Regulations").
"Annexe 1 of the FIFA Organisation Regulations outlines the provisions according to which such integrity checks are conducted."
Yemme_blaq
@blackboxupdate
Atletico Dealt Another Blow As KOKE Sustains Injury Again
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BY MOSES ADEYEMI
Atletico Madrid have announced that midfield ace Koke suffered a hamstring injury in Saturday's Liga win over city rivals Real.
The 23-year-old hobbled off just 10 minutes into the derby clash at the Vicente Calderon, clutching his left thigh as he exited the field.
Koke's condition was assessed at the FREMAP clinic in the Spanish capital in Monday and it was subsequently revealed that he is now facing an unspecified stint on the sidelines.
"The test results confirm that the home-grown player suffered a grade 2 muscle injury on the hamstring of his left thigh," a statement on
Atletico's official website read.
Koke's injury is an undoubted blow for Atletico, who drew back to within four points of Liga leaders Real by routing Carlo Ancelotti's side
4-0 at the Vicente Calderon.
However, Rojiblancos boss Diego Simeone will take heart from the fact that Saul Niguez, who came on in place of the injured Koke on
Saturday, had an excellent derby, netting the home side's second goal.
Atletico continue the defence of their Spanish title with a trip to Celta on Sunday, while they face Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16 of the
Champions League later this month.
Yemme_blaq
BY MOSES ADEYEMI
Atletico Madrid have announced that midfield ace Koke suffered a hamstring injury in Saturday's Liga win over city rivals Real.
The 23-year-old hobbled off just 10 minutes into the derby clash at the Vicente Calderon, clutching his left thigh as he exited the field.
Koke's condition was assessed at the FREMAP clinic in the Spanish capital in Monday and it was subsequently revealed that he is now facing an unspecified stint on the sidelines.
"The test results confirm that the home-grown player suffered a grade 2 muscle injury on the hamstring of his left thigh," a statement on
Atletico's official website read.
Koke's injury is an undoubted blow for Atletico, who drew back to within four points of Liga leaders Real by routing Carlo Ancelotti's side
4-0 at the Vicente Calderon.
However, Rojiblancos boss Diego Simeone will take heart from the fact that Saul Niguez, who came on in place of the injured Koke on
Saturday, had an excellent derby, netting the home side's second goal.
Atletico continue the defence of their Spanish title with a trip to Celta on Sunday, while they face Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16 of the
Champions League later this month.
Yemme_blaq
@blackboxupdate
Buhari, APC Reject Court Order Seeking GMB's Disqualification
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The All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, have opposed the orders of a Federal High Court in Abuja, directing that they be served through substituted means in a suit challenging Buhari's eligibility to stand for the March 28 poll.
Justice Adeniyi Ademola had, in two separate suits challenging Buhari's eligibility to contest in the election, last week granted ex parte orders permitting the plaintiffs to serve the defendants in the suits through newspaper publications.
The court had also granted an order of abridgment of time within which the defendants must respond to the suits.
The plaintiffs in the separate suits are Chukwunweike Okafor and Max Ozoaka. They were represented in court by their lawyers on Monday.
Apart from Buhari and the APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission is a defendant in the two suits.
On Monday, Buhari and his party, through their lawyers, told the court that they would file applications challenging the competence of the suits and the entire steps taken in the suit so far, including the orders of service through substituted means.
Though, both Buhari and the APC had yet to file any papers in the suit, their lawyers – Chief Wole Olanipekun and Lateef Fagbemi – urged the court to adjourn the matter to enable them to file all the necessary documents.
Fagbemi also urged the court to set aside the order of abridgment of time within which the defendants must file their responses, arguing that the granting of the order hinged on urgency, had already been diminished with the postponement of the poll from February 14 to March 28.
The judge then adjourned till February 23.
There are at least three other suits seeking an order directing INEC to disqualify Buhari from participating in the poll because he among other things, failed to attach evidence of his academic qualifications to the form he submitted to the electoral body.
The plaintiffs are in their separate suits contending that the INEC FORM CF 001 submitted to INEC by the APC candidate submitted to INEC was incomplete and therefore urged the court to declare the form as incompetent.
They further stated that the failure of Buhari to accompany the INEC Form with evidence of his educational qualifications and evidence of his birth certificate or affidavit of declaration of age had altogether rendered the form inchoate.
Ozoaka, in a supporting affidavit to the originating summons, stated that the INEC Form submitted by Buhari did not meet the requirements under sections 31(1)(2) & (3), and 31( of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).
Justice Adeniyi Ademola had, in two separate suits challenging Buhari's eligibility to contest in the election, last week granted ex parte orders permitting the plaintiffs to serve the defendants in the suits through newspaper publications.
The court had also granted an order of abridgment of time within which the defendants must respond to the suits.
The plaintiffs in the separate suits are Chukwunweike Okafor and Max Ozoaka. They were represented in court by their lawyers on Monday.
Apart from Buhari and the APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission is a defendant in the two suits.
On Monday, Buhari and his party, through their lawyers, told the court that they would file applications challenging the competence of the suits and the entire steps taken in the suit so far, including the orders of service through substituted means.
Though, both Buhari and the APC had yet to file any papers in the suit, their lawyers – Chief Wole Olanipekun and Lateef Fagbemi – urged the court to adjourn the matter to enable them to file all the necessary documents.
Fagbemi also urged the court to set aside the order of abridgment of time within which the defendants must file their responses, arguing that the granting of the order hinged on urgency, had already been diminished with the postponement of the poll from February 14 to March 28.
The judge then adjourned till February 23.
There are at least three other suits seeking an order directing INEC to disqualify Buhari from participating in the poll because he among other things, failed to attach evidence of his academic qualifications to the form he submitted to the electoral body.
The plaintiffs are in their separate suits contending that the INEC FORM CF 001 submitted to INEC by the APC candidate submitted to INEC was incomplete and therefore urged the court to declare the form as incompetent.
They further stated that the failure of Buhari to accompany the INEC Form with evidence of his educational qualifications and evidence of his birth certificate or affidavit of declaration of age had altogether rendered the form inchoate.
Ozoaka, in a supporting affidavit to the originating summons, stated that the INEC Form submitted by Buhari did not meet the requirements under sections 31(1)(2) & (3), and 31( of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).
@blackboxupdate
Fulani Herdsmen Invade Ogun Village, Gangr*p*, Kill Mother Of Three
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A mother of three, Mrs Ayesi Balogun, was allegedly raped and killed on Saturday by some suspected Fulani herdsmen at Asa village, in the Oja Odan area,Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The victim was said to have been killed after being raped on her farm.
This damning revelation was contained in a statement made available to our correspondent in Abeokuta on Monday by Ketu Advancement Front.
It was signed by its Coordinator and Secretary, Kunle Abiose and Joseph Bankole respectively.
The statement, which had been sent to relevant security agencies in the state, read in part, "For the umpteenth time, we members of Ketu Advancement Front want to register our strong protest with the Government of Senator Ibikunle Amosun over its callous abdication of its constitutional responsibility of ensuring the security of lives of Ketu People from wanton killing by marauding herdsmen.
"We are sad to announce that Mrs Ayesi Balogun, a poor mother of three, was raped and hacked to death on her farm in Asa, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State over the weekend by Fulani herdsmen.
"On sighting her entering the farm, the killer-herdsmen, who had taken over her farm, pounced on her, probably gang raped her before hacking her to death."
According to the statement, Balogun's case brought to 25, the number of innocent and poor people, who had been sent to their early graves in agonising and dehumanising circumstances.
It added, "The latest in the series of the ceaseless murder cases had been reported at the Oja-Odan Police Station for anybody to confirm."
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the corpse of Balogun was found in the bush, adding that it had not been established that she was killed by Fulani herdsmen.
He argued that it might be a reprisal killing by the Fulani herdsmen.
"A few days ago, the corpse of a Fulani man was found in the bush in the same axis," he said.
The victim was said to have been killed after being raped on her farm.
This damning revelation was contained in a statement made available to our correspondent in Abeokuta on Monday by Ketu Advancement Front.
It was signed by its Coordinator and Secretary, Kunle Abiose and Joseph Bankole respectively.
The statement, which had been sent to relevant security agencies in the state, read in part, "For the umpteenth time, we members of Ketu Advancement Front want to register our strong protest with the Government of Senator Ibikunle Amosun over its callous abdication of its constitutional responsibility of ensuring the security of lives of Ketu People from wanton killing by marauding herdsmen.
"We are sad to announce that Mrs Ayesi Balogun, a poor mother of three, was raped and hacked to death on her farm in Asa, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State over the weekend by Fulani herdsmen.
"On sighting her entering the farm, the killer-herdsmen, who had taken over her farm, pounced on her, probably gang raped her before hacking her to death."
According to the statement, Balogun's case brought to 25, the number of innocent and poor people, who had been sent to their early graves in agonising and dehumanising circumstances.
It added, "The latest in the series of the ceaseless murder cases had been reported at the Oja-Odan Police Station for anybody to confirm."
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the corpse of Balogun was found in the bush, adding that it had not been established that she was killed by Fulani herdsmen.
He argued that it might be a reprisal killing by the Fulani herdsmen.
"A few days ago, the corpse of a Fulani man was found in the bush in the same axis," he said.
@blackboxupdate
Truck Driver Arrested For Killing Bystanders In Lagos...they were reading newspapers by the roadside
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The police in Lagos have arrested the driver of a truck, Friday Egbe, for allegedly crushing two pedestrians to death in a fatal accident along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway area of the state.
It was learnt that Egbe, who drove the truck with number plate XV 523 SMK, swerved off the road and crushed the victims to death at about 8pm on Thursday. The victims ─ three males ─ were said to be glancing through newspapers at a newstand.
Our correspondent gathered that Egbe, a resident of Mafoluku area, Oshodi, was arrested by policemen from the Makinde Police Division, while his truck was reportedly towed away to the compound of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority.
According to a resident, who claimed to be an eyewitness, Mr. Sola Shodipo, Egbe would have been mobbed by angry pedestrians, but for the intervention of the police.
He said, "The driver was coming from Bolade, Oshodi, and was heading towards Apapa. Just a few minutes before the accident, policemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad, asked the people standing by the roadside to read newspapers to move back from the expressway. If not for their instructions, the truck could have crushed more victims.
"In a moment, the truck just swerved off the road and ran over two persons. One pedestrian died instantly while the other's leg was broken before he died. The driver was about to be mobbed by the crowd, but the RRS police rescued him from their hands.
"They stripped him and brought him inside their armour tank for questioning. Later when the police from Makinde arrived, they handed him over to them."
Our correspondent learnt that apart from the two corpses, the truck also injured another male, Nura Mohammed, who was presently recuperating in a hospital, and damaged a commercial bus with no passenger.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the arrest.
He added that Egbe would be charged to court on Tuesday (Today.)
He said, "The suspect drove a Mack Truck container. The male corpse is yet to be identified, but he has been deposited at a hospital in Yaba for autopsy.
"The truck driver hit another commercial bus driven by one Okechukwu Ayanboso. Meanwhile, the suspect will be charged to court on Tuesday."
It was learnt that Egbe, who drove the truck with number plate XV 523 SMK, swerved off the road and crushed the victims to death at about 8pm on Thursday. The victims ─ three males ─ were said to be glancing through newspapers at a newstand.
Our correspondent gathered that Egbe, a resident of Mafoluku area, Oshodi, was arrested by policemen from the Makinde Police Division, while his truck was reportedly towed away to the compound of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority.
According to a resident, who claimed to be an eyewitness, Mr. Sola Shodipo, Egbe would have been mobbed by angry pedestrians, but for the intervention of the police.
He said, "The driver was coming from Bolade, Oshodi, and was heading towards Apapa. Just a few minutes before the accident, policemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad, asked the people standing by the roadside to read newspapers to move back from the expressway. If not for their instructions, the truck could have crushed more victims.
"In a moment, the truck just swerved off the road and ran over two persons. One pedestrian died instantly while the other's leg was broken before he died. The driver was about to be mobbed by the crowd, but the RRS police rescued him from their hands.
"They stripped him and brought him inside their armour tank for questioning. Later when the police from Makinde arrived, they handed him over to them."
Our correspondent learnt that apart from the two corpses, the truck also injured another male, Nura Mohammed, who was presently recuperating in a hospital, and damaged a commercial bus with no passenger.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the arrest.
He added that Egbe would be charged to court on Tuesday (Today.)
He said, "The suspect drove a Mack Truck container. The male corpse is yet to be identified, but he has been deposited at a hospital in Yaba for autopsy.
"The truck driver hit another commercial bus driven by one Okechukwu Ayanboso. Meanwhile, the suspect will be charged to court on Tuesday."
@blackboxupdate
President Jonathan's Aide, Omokri Tackles Buhari On 'Failed Nation' Statement
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The Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on New Media, Reno Omokri, has faulted claim by the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Major Gen Muhammadu Buhari, that Nigeria has been reduced to a failed state.
Omokri argued that there are challenges confronting the country but Nigeria is not a failed state, stressing that it is unfortunate that a former Head of state and a presidential hopeful will speak ill of his country.
"With due respect sir, Nigeria is not a 'failed state'. Yes, we do have some challenges but true leaders do not condemn their nation to the world, "he said.
Omokri reminded Gen. Buhari that Nigeria is making giant strides that place it among the respected countries in the world.
"Do failed states defeat Ebola, be the world's 3rd fastest growing economy, be investors' destination and the largest economy in Africa?" Omokri queried.
Recalled that Buhari in an interview on Al Jazeera, Sunday, said that the "government has failed in its principal duty of protecting life or property of all beings inside its territory".
Although there is no general consensus on the definition, a failed state is a state perceived as having failed at some of the basic conditions and responsibilities of a sovereign government.
Some of the characteristics of failed state are loss of control of its territory, or of the monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force therein, erosion of legitimate authority to make collective decisions, inability to provide public services and inability to interact with other states as a full member of the international community
Omokri argued that there are challenges confronting the country but Nigeria is not a failed state, stressing that it is unfortunate that a former Head of state and a presidential hopeful will speak ill of his country.
"With due respect sir, Nigeria is not a 'failed state'. Yes, we do have some challenges but true leaders do not condemn their nation to the world, "he said.
Omokri reminded Gen. Buhari that Nigeria is making giant strides that place it among the respected countries in the world.
"Do failed states defeat Ebola, be the world's 3rd fastest growing economy, be investors' destination and the largest economy in Africa?" Omokri queried.
Recalled that Buhari in an interview on Al Jazeera, Sunday, said that the "government has failed in its principal duty of protecting life or property of all beings inside its territory".
Although there is no general consensus on the definition, a failed state is a state perceived as having failed at some of the basic conditions and responsibilities of a sovereign government.
Some of the characteristics of failed state are loss of control of its territory, or of the monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force therein, erosion of legitimate authority to make collective decisions, inability to provide public services and inability to interact with other states as a full member of the international community
@blackboxupdate
Cult Clash! Police Nab 5 For Killing 23-Year Old Rival
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The Lagos police have arraigned five men before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate's Court in Lagos State for allegedly killing a 23-year-old man, Damilayo Ayodele.
The defendants, Emmanuel Eguku (23), Adefemi Qudus (24), Odukoyo Deji (23), Hoteyin Oladeji (29) and Emeka Ekenjoku (32), were arraigned on Monday on three counts of belonging to an unlawful society and murder.
It was learnt that the men were members of the Aiye Confraternity.
The first three suspects were said to have had a meeting on December 7, 2014 to plot how to kill another suspected cultist in the Eiye Confraternity, a rival group.
Our correspondent was told that no sooner did they finish the meeting and left, than they met the victim passing along the Oriokuta Road, Imota, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos.
One of them was said to have shot him in the neck, killing him on the spot.
Police investigations, however, led to the arrest of the suspects.
The Investigating Police Officer, Corporal Felix Usogu of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, in a remand application he submitted to the court, said the police recovered exhibits and fingerprint evidence from the suspects.
He added that Eguku, Qudus and Deji confessed to be among the killer-gang, while Oladeji and Ekenjoku were members of their group.
The police arraigned the first three suspects for conspiracy to commit murder and cultism, while the others were charged with cultism.
The charges read in part, "That you, Emmanuel Eguku , Adefemi Qudus, Odukoyo Deji, and others at large on December 7, 2014, at about 1.30pm, at Oriokuta Road, Imota Ikorodu, Lagos, in the Lagos Magisterial District, did unlawfully kill one Damilayo Ayodele, aged 23 years, by firing him in his neck with a locally-made pistol."
The representative of the police prosecutor, Inspector Ali Uwesuri, said the offences were punishable under sections 231 and 221 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, Nigeria, 2011.
No plea was taken for the capital offence, but the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge of belonging to an unlawful society.
Uwesuri said, "The first three defendants are being arraigned for murder. We apply for their remand in prison for the first 30 days, pending the release of legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. The period will also enable us amend the charge sheet to reflect other development."
The defence counsel, Hassan Olanrewaju, applied for the bail of the last two defendants.
He said, "A quick look at count three indicates that the alleged offence is a misdemanour, which is a bailable offence. I therefore apply for the bail of the fourth and fifth defendants in liberal terms."
The Chief Magistrate, Mr. Tunbosun Abolarinwa, granted the police request to remand Eguku, Qudus and Deji in prison, but granted bail to Oladeji and Ekenjoku in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
The matter was adjourned till March 19, 2015 for legal advice from the DPP.
The defendants, Emmanuel Eguku (23), Adefemi Qudus (24), Odukoyo Deji (23), Hoteyin Oladeji (29) and Emeka Ekenjoku (32), were arraigned on Monday on three counts of belonging to an unlawful society and murder.
It was learnt that the men were members of the Aiye Confraternity.
The first three suspects were said to have had a meeting on December 7, 2014 to plot how to kill another suspected cultist in the Eiye Confraternity, a rival group.
Our correspondent was told that no sooner did they finish the meeting and left, than they met the victim passing along the Oriokuta Road, Imota, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos.
One of them was said to have shot him in the neck, killing him on the spot.
Police investigations, however, led to the arrest of the suspects.
The Investigating Police Officer, Corporal Felix Usogu of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, in a remand application he submitted to the court, said the police recovered exhibits and fingerprint evidence from the suspects.
He added that Eguku, Qudus and Deji confessed to be among the killer-gang, while Oladeji and Ekenjoku were members of their group.
The police arraigned the first three suspects for conspiracy to commit murder and cultism, while the others were charged with cultism.
The charges read in part, "That you, Emmanuel Eguku , Adefemi Qudus, Odukoyo Deji, and others at large on December 7, 2014, at about 1.30pm, at Oriokuta Road, Imota Ikorodu, Lagos, in the Lagos Magisterial District, did unlawfully kill one Damilayo Ayodele, aged 23 years, by firing him in his neck with a locally-made pistol."
The representative of the police prosecutor, Inspector Ali Uwesuri, said the offences were punishable under sections 231 and 221 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, Nigeria, 2011.
No plea was taken for the capital offence, but the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge of belonging to an unlawful society.
Uwesuri said, "The first three defendants are being arraigned for murder. We apply for their remand in prison for the first 30 days, pending the release of legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. The period will also enable us amend the charge sheet to reflect other development."
The defence counsel, Hassan Olanrewaju, applied for the bail of the last two defendants.
He said, "A quick look at count three indicates that the alleged offence is a misdemanour, which is a bailable offence. I therefore apply for the bail of the fourth and fifth defendants in liberal terms."
The Chief Magistrate, Mr. Tunbosun Abolarinwa, granted the police request to remand Eguku, Qudus and Deji in prison, but granted bail to Oladeji and Ekenjoku in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
The matter was adjourned till March 19, 2015 for legal advice from the DPP.
@blackboxupdate
Buhari Meets Commonwealth Election Observers...maintains 'no debate' stance
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The Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd), has warned that further postponement of the March 28 election by the Independent National Electoral Commission will amount to "a civilian and military coup."
While advising INEC to take note of its constitutional limitations, he also ruled out participation in any election debate following the postponement of the elections.
The former Head of State, sounded the warning in an interview with journalists on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy call on him by the first elected President of Malawi and Leader of the Commonwealth Election Observers Group, Dr. Bakili Muluzi.
He said, "We told them about the change in the dates of elections and the constitutional limitations of INEC. That is the last card for INEC and they cannot delay the elections anymore. So, it is up to the government to facilitate a free, fair and credible election.
"If they fail to do that then, they will be indulging in a civilian and military coup because the constitution is very clear that certain days to the swearing in, there must be an election which will usher in a new government. So, there are no more excuses. INEC has given a document that they are ready for the election.
"They said they had trained their personnel, acquired equipment and have been distributing voter cards. But the security chiefs wrote INEC and demanded six more weeks.
"Okay, they have been given six weeks and that is the end of it. So we are getting ready for the election of March 28.
"Our enormous support has grown; we have visited 34 out of the 36 states in the country. It remains two states and Abuja and that will complete it. We are now conducting town hall meetings with interest groups, business people, the elite and youths. I appeal to our supporters to remain calm."
Asked if he would participate in further debate due to the shift in presidential election date, Buhari said, "We are having town-hall meetings and the party (APC) has taken a superior position."
Muluzi had while thanking Buhari for receiving his team, said that he had discussions with INEC.
He said, "I am from the Commonwealth and we are about 11 members who have been drawn from Commonwealth countries to observe the elections with some members of staff from London.
"We arrived here on Saturday and we normally arrive in any country in which we want to observe election five days before, just to interact with stakeholders and the leadership to understand the situation on the ground. It was only on Saturday night that we were informed that the election will now hold on March 28.
"We met with INEC this (Monday) morning and we raised some questions and they also answered the questions. We also thought that there should be an opportunity to meet the leadership. INEC has postponed the elections for six weeks.
"I just want to appeal to the Nigerian people, especially at this time, to remain calm. This is why I do congratulate him (Buhari) because he has asked his supporters to remain calm until the election is held on March 28.
"It is very important, Africa is still very important. We still have to create employment for our people. And if we are going to create chaos in our country, we will be unfair to our people who are looking forward to the leadership for employment. And therefore peace becomes very important. I will have to appeal to Nigerians to remain calm."
Muluzi also said the delegation would meet with President Goodluck Jonathan to make the same appeal so that he must appeal to his supporters to remain calm.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III-led Jama'atu Nasir Islam, has warned politicians against jeopardising the nation's democracy with the postponment of the elections by INEC.
In its reaction to INEC's decision to delay the polls, the body also asked politicians to fear God in their actions.
The apex Islamic body said on Monday that political gladiators should not jeopardise the already tensed situation in the country.
A statement by the JNI's Secretary-General, Dr. Khalid Abubakar-Aliyu, in Kaduna on Monday, however, asked Nigerians to remain calm by not further heating up the polity.
It said, "The JNI, under the leadership of its President-General, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and his lieutenants, after listening to the shift in dates of the 2015 general elections by six weeks, as announced by INEC, is watching with keen interest the uproar the decision is currently generating in the country and therefore calls for caution by all political gladiators.
"They should, in the name of God, not jeopardise the already tensed situation of grief and anxiety."
While advising INEC to take note of its constitutional limitations, he also ruled out participation in any election debate following the postponement of the elections.
The former Head of State, sounded the warning in an interview with journalists on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy call on him by the first elected President of Malawi and Leader of the Commonwealth Election Observers Group, Dr. Bakili Muluzi.
He said, "We told them about the change in the dates of elections and the constitutional limitations of INEC. That is the last card for INEC and they cannot delay the elections anymore. So, it is up to the government to facilitate a free, fair and credible election.
"If they fail to do that then, they will be indulging in a civilian and military coup because the constitution is very clear that certain days to the swearing in, there must be an election which will usher in a new government. So, there are no more excuses. INEC has given a document that they are ready for the election.
"They said they had trained their personnel, acquired equipment and have been distributing voter cards. But the security chiefs wrote INEC and demanded six more weeks.
"Okay, they have been given six weeks and that is the end of it. So we are getting ready for the election of March 28.
"Our enormous support has grown; we have visited 34 out of the 36 states in the country. It remains two states and Abuja and that will complete it. We are now conducting town hall meetings with interest groups, business people, the elite and youths. I appeal to our supporters to remain calm."
Asked if he would participate in further debate due to the shift in presidential election date, Buhari said, "We are having town-hall meetings and the party (APC) has taken a superior position."
Muluzi had while thanking Buhari for receiving his team, said that he had discussions with INEC.
He said, "I am from the Commonwealth and we are about 11 members who have been drawn from Commonwealth countries to observe the elections with some members of staff from London.
"We arrived here on Saturday and we normally arrive in any country in which we want to observe election five days before, just to interact with stakeholders and the leadership to understand the situation on the ground. It was only on Saturday night that we were informed that the election will now hold on March 28.
"We met with INEC this (Monday) morning and we raised some questions and they also answered the questions. We also thought that there should be an opportunity to meet the leadership. INEC has postponed the elections for six weeks.
"I just want to appeal to the Nigerian people, especially at this time, to remain calm. This is why I do congratulate him (Buhari) because he has asked his supporters to remain calm until the election is held on March 28.
"It is very important, Africa is still very important. We still have to create employment for our people. And if we are going to create chaos in our country, we will be unfair to our people who are looking forward to the leadership for employment. And therefore peace becomes very important. I will have to appeal to Nigerians to remain calm."
Muluzi also said the delegation would meet with President Goodluck Jonathan to make the same appeal so that he must appeal to his supporters to remain calm.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III-led Jama'atu Nasir Islam, has warned politicians against jeopardising the nation's democracy with the postponment of the elections by INEC.
In its reaction to INEC's decision to delay the polls, the body also asked politicians to fear God in their actions.
The apex Islamic body said on Monday that political gladiators should not jeopardise the already tensed situation in the country.
A statement by the JNI's Secretary-General, Dr. Khalid Abubakar-Aliyu, in Kaduna on Monday, however, asked Nigerians to remain calm by not further heating up the polity.
It said, "The JNI, under the leadership of its President-General, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and his lieutenants, after listening to the shift in dates of the 2015 general elections by six weeks, as announced by INEC, is watching with keen interest the uproar the decision is currently generating in the country and therefore calls for caution by all political gladiators.
"They should, in the name of God, not jeopardise the already tensed situation of grief and anxiety."
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