Court stops suspension of Uba, Udeozor, others

• Affirms Andy as PDP guber candidate
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday stopped the suspension of a member, Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Chris Uba, Anambra State PDP governorship candidate, Senator Andy Uba, Benji Udeozor, Ejike Oguegebo and Anthonia Nwakwu from the party pending the determination of the pending suit before it. Read more

Justice A.R Mohammed, who issued the preservative order in favour of the applicants consequently adjourned the case to  September 5, 2013 for the hearing of the motion on notice.The suit itself is a direct fallout of the decision reached by the National Working Committee [NWC] of the party on Thursday suspending the aggrieved party members for their failure to appear before it over their roles in the parallel governorship primaries conducted in the state on Saturday. The NWC had summoned the four to appear before it on Wednesday, so as to explain why disciplinary actions would not be taken against them in line with the constitution of the party, for conducting a parallel primary.
However, all the affected members shunned the invitation and approached the court via a motion exparte seeking to quash their suspension.
In another development, a Federal high court in Port Harcourt has ordered the Ejike Oguebego-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State to submit the result of the party  primary that produced Andy Ubah as the governorship candidate in the state to the PDP national office.
The trial Judge, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa, also ordered the PDP national office, who is the first defendant/respondent in the matter, to accept the result from the Ejike Oguebego-led PDP (Plaintiff and two others), pending the determination of the matter.
The order came following the refusal of the party to obey the court order issued on August 27, this year.
Justice Nganjiwa, who frowned at the manner court order was disobeyed, said the court would not fold its arm and watch people disobey its order with impunity.
He said that the issue before the court was that the first defendant/respondent should restrain from dealing with the other faction or carrying out any action against the plaintiffs pending the determination of the suit, and not on the issue of indiscipline.
The Judge said: “Even if an order is for a day, it must be obeyed. The court will  not fold her hands and watch court order disobeyed. It should be proactive. The court order has not been obeyed.”
The matter was adjourned for September 6, 2013.

Culled from The Sun newspaper

PDP in MAKE-OR-BREAK CONVENTION in Abuja

The police on Friday sealed off the Federal Capital Territory commercial nerve centre, the Central Business District, Abuja ahead of the Peoples Democratic Party’s make-or-break convention today.

The convention is significant to the party in many ways. Its success will go a long way in determining the outing of the party in the 2015 general elections. Read more

The party has been enmeshed in a lot of controversies in the last few months with noticeable divisions among its members. Some of its governors openly spoke against the party.

If the party fails to get its acts right at this convention, it may give the newly registered All Progressives Congress an upper hand in 2015.

A total of 3,500 delegates will decide the fate  of 75 aspirants who are jostling for the 17 available positions in the national leadership of the party at  today’s mini convention.

Hundreds of riot and conventional policemen who were deployed to provide security for the  event blocked all the access routes to the venue of the convention and directed motorists to take alternative routes.

The Force headquarters had on Thursday informed the public that the main access roads  to the Eagle Square will be  barricaded and traffic diverted with effect from 4.00pm on Friday.

It listed the affected roads to include Ahmed Bello Way Fly-over;  Benue Plaza Road; Ministry of Finance junction; Bullet junction; Bayelsa House junction and  Ministry of Foreign Affairs Fly-over.

Our correspondent who went around the city observed security personnel taking strategic positions around the Federal Secretariat and the Eagle Square.

Eagles Square, venue of the mini convention, was wearing  a new look on Friday with different decorations made of red, white and green colours of the party.

Security has also been beefed up around the area, with different security agencies manning all the roads leading to the venue.

Policemen, officers from the Department of the State Security Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp were among the security agencies that had already taken positions in the area.

The Chairman of the Publicity Committee for the convention, who is also the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Emeka Ihedioha, told journalists at the venue of the convention on Friday evening, that the delegates would start voting as soon as President Goodluck Jonathan  is ushered into the place.

He said, “ There are 146 voting units where people can vote and we are expecting about 3,500 delegates.

“Each state would have four voting units. We hope that voting would have concluded by 2.30 pm. We hope to start voting by 10am or as soon as the President comes in.

“We have brought in seasoned administrators, who are members of the party as anchors for the programme.”

Investigations by our correspondent in Abuja on Friday indicated that governors who were elected on the platform of the party, met to consider the possibility of scaling down the list of contenders for various positions.

There are 11 candidates for the position of national publicity secretary, one for deputy national woman leader, six for national youth leader, woman leader has 10 aspirants, four for deputy national youth leader, one for deputy national financial secretary, one for the office of deputy national auditor and  six for national ex-officio.

For the office of deputy national chairman, there are six aspirants, two are to slug it out for the office of deputy national secretary, national organising secretary also has two contenders, deputy national organising secretary also has six aspirants while three are vying for the office of the deputy national publicity secretary.

National treasurer has two contenders, only one person is contesting for the office of deputy national treasurer, national legal adviser has a sole candidate and the deputy as well.

The meeting of the governors, it was gathered, was to make sure that they protect their own interests by making sure that their candidates are voted for.

There was a long queue of motorists  when Saturday PUNCH passed by the Federal Secretariat on Friday.

The police had deployed the personnel of the Police Mobile Force, the Counter-Terrorist Unit, Anti-Bomb Squad and it was learnt that the Police Air Wing would conduct aerial patrol during the event.

In addition, personnel of the Canine section and special operatives of the Force Intelligence Bureau would  be deployed for the operation, according to the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar.

The IG had issued an Operational Order directing the FCT Commissioner of Police, FCT, Femi Ogunbayode to ensure a tactical and well coordinated deployment of personnel and other operational equipment in order to provide a safe and conducive atmosphere for the convention.

The  AIG Zone 7, Sulaiman Abba was directed to personally take charge of the entire operation, to guarantee a seamless command-and-control of the exercise.

Many taxi cab drivers who had got wind of the lock down of the central area were seen turning down passengers who flagged them for a ride to the surrounding areas of the square.

A cab driver, Musikilu Oderinde, told one of our correspondents  that he would not venture near the venue of the convention until Monday, no matter the financial bait from any passenger.

“The moment I heard that the PDP is holding its convention at the Eagle Square, I told myself that I would not move near that area because I know that the major roads will be blocked and security personnel will likely harass anyone that ventures near them,” he said.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba solicited  the support of FCT residents during the convention and advised  commuters, motorists and the general public to use alternate routes during the duration of the event, adding that all blocked routes would be re-opened to traffic and the public as soon as the  activities were over.

“We solicit the understanding and cooperation of the public in assisting the police and other security agencies in ensuring a peaceful, safe and secure convention , as part of conscious efforts by all citizens to nurture democracy and national growth,” he said.

  by Olusola Fabiyi, Abuja and Adelani Adepegba, Abuja
Culled from Punch newspaper

Customs officer’s killing: Police arrest 30 suspects at Seme

No fewer than 30 persons, including Beninoise, have  been arrested  in connection with the killing of a customs officer at the Seme Border, Babagry on Thursday. The suspects, whose identities could not be ascertained as at press time, were arrested separately by soldiers, customs men and the police after the deceased was killed. Read more

A police source said that the suspects would soon be transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Panti Street, Yaba, for further investigations and possible prosecution.
Though, normalcy has started returning to the area, palpable tension still pervades the border town, as the Seme Customs command has increased security presence within and around their facilities, particularly their barracks, not too far from the border post.
Two of the trucks that were set ablaze by the mob were still burning as at 1pm yesterday. Most of the traders around the border area have been asked to relocate, while financial institutions around the area have armed mobile men man their entrances.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Umar Mu’azu in charge of Seme  has since summoned  all the traditional rulers in the area during which he urged them to advise their wards on the need to maintain peace.

 By Christopher Oji
Culled from The Sun newspapper

First Lady’s jamboree: Accident victim still in hospital

Mrs. Ifeanyi Chima was one of Lagos delegates that attended a peace rally organised for women by the First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, in Abuja on August 15, 2013. Read more

The vehicle, which Chima and five other women were travelling in, had an accident at Gwagwalada Road, near Abuja,  when they  were going back to Lagos  the following day.

Chima and four others were lucky to survive the accident, but sustained various degrees of injuries.

Their coordinator, Princess Abigael Adisa, died in the crash. Until her death, Adisa was the Coordinator of the Women for Change and Development Initiative in Ifako/Ijaye Local Government Area of Lagos.

Chima, in an interview with Saturday PUNCH at the Intensive Care Unit of Primus International Super Specialty Hospital (popularly known as Indian Hospital) in Karu on Tuesday,  painted a sad picture of how she almost lost her limbs to the accident.

She called on Nigerian doctors to “sit up” like their foreign counterparts and improve on their relationship with patients.

She said, “I was involved in a fatal accident along Gwagwalada Road after the Women rally in Abuja on our way back to Lagos. We were six women and a driver in the vehicle; five of us had injuries. Our coordinator died.

“Five of us were brought to this hospital. I had a broken left arm and dislocation on my left leg. Mrs. Titilayo Olorunda also had a broken leg. She has been taken to another ward because she was formerly here (in the intensive care unit). But after a surgery she was taken to her ward. When I had the injury, I had some open wounds in my hands.”

Chima also gave a vivid account of her experiences at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in Gwagwalada where, she said, a particular doctor exhibited poor attitude to patients.

“At the specialist hospital in Gwagwalada, instead of treating the skin, they covered it up. It was when they brought us here (Indian Hospital) when I was complaining bitterly that the doctor said they should open it. That was when they started treating the place I had bruises. I had my surgical operation some days ago.

“The doctors and nurses here are wonderful. This is what I want our doctors and nurses in Nigerian hospitals to learn. They should be caring. Human life needs to be taken care of. When you see somebody in pains, take care of that person because that person needs you at that point in time.”

  by Friday Olokor, Abuja
Culled from Punch newspaper

Ayoka crashes out of Project Fame

Contestant Ayoka has crashed out of the ongoing MTN Project Fame West Africa reality show and in the spirit of good sportsmanship; Ayoka commended and appreciated his fellow contestants as he exited the house. Read more

Indeed it was a fun packed evening as the four contestants on probation mounted the stage and once more performed the songs that put them on probation. Jimoh was saved by the viewers at home, Niniola found favour with the judges while Johnny narrowly escaped elimination due to support from other contestants.
Jimoh sang Elton John’s Sacrifice while Roland did a rendition of Careless Whispers by George Michael. Nancy performed Irene Cara’s Flashdance and David performed Maxi Priest’s Close To You. Johnny Drille did James Blunt’s Beautiful and Margaret performed Cher’s Believe among others.
The judges pulled a surprise on everyone. Rather than place four or five contestants on probation, they decided to put all the contestants on probation and allowed the audience to determine who is evicted by voting. Consequently, the five contestants with the least votes will perform next weekend in order to escape elimination.
Commenting, Olumide Akinlabi, Head, Media & Publicity, Ultima Limited, producers of Project Fame said: “The competition is getting tougher by the day and we have put certain measures in place to ensure that it remains the best in the whole of West Africa.”
In the same vein, Okundola Bamgboye, MTN’s Events & Sponsorship Manager, enjoined Nigerians to continue to vote for their favourite contestants. The contestants did a tribute to James Brown and Ray Charles.

Anambra: PDP suspends Andy, Chris Uba, others

The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party on Thursday suspended Senator Andy Uba and his brother, Chris from the party. Read more
Also suspended are Ejike Oguebego, Chief Benji Udeozor and  Mrs. Tonia Nwankwu.

The five men were accused of conducting a parallel state congress for the nomination of governorship candidate in Anambra State on Saturday.

A letter announcing the suspension of the Uba brothers and others had been sent to the affected party chiefs by the acting National Secretary, Dr. Charles Akintoye.

The acting secretary was  directed to write them on their current status having snubbed the NWC which invited them to explain the role they played at the parallel congress.

The letter, dated August 29, read in part,  “The NWC at its 353rd meeting held on Wednesday,  28th August,  2013 reviewed the happenings in Anambra PDP regarding the Anambra Primary election.

“It was noted that you organised a parallel state congress which was unauthorised by the party contrary to section 58 (1) a, b, c, f, h and j of the PDP constitution (2012 as amended).

“As a result of this, you were invited to meet with the NWC on Wednesday 28, August,  2013 for fair hearing,  but you did not appear.

“In view of the seriousness of the issues involved,  you are hereby suspended from the party and the case referred to the appropriate Disciplinary Committee for further necessary action.”

However, sources close to the affected party officers said that the affected party chieftains have obtained a Court order stopping the party from taking and disciplinary action against them but the party had served them with the decision before they got the court order.

Reacting to the suspension, Chris Uba, expressed surprise at his suspension, adding that there was no reason for the action taken by the PDP.

He said, “I was surprised to hear that I have been suspended. I want us to respect democracy and the rule of law. We must protect the rule of law and the judiciary.

“Why the rush in suspending me and the five others? There were more than a million PDP members at the congress. They should have suspended all of us.”

Also, Andy said he had not been served with the suspension from the party and because of that, he would not react to it.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, has assured participants at the National Convention of the PDP and FCT residents  that the police would provide water-tight security during the party’s convention taking place  on Saturday at the Eagle Square, Abuja.

Consequently, the IG had issued an Operational Order directing the FCT Commissioner of Police, FCT, Femi Ogunbayode, to ensure a tactical and well coordinated deployment of personnel and other operational equipment in order to provide a safe and conducive atmosphere for the convention.

BY OLUSOLA FABIYI AND ADELANI ADEPEGBA
CULLED FROM PUNCH NEWSPAPER

Ondo guber: Mimiko wins

Jubilation trailed the decision of the  Supreme Court, affirming the judgment of the Court of Appeal that declared Governor Olusegun Mimiko as validly elected governor of Ondo State. Read more
In a unanimous judgment yesterday, the apex court threw out the multiple appeals challenging the election of Mimiko describing it as unmeritorious.

The appellants, Chief Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and his defunct political party, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as well as his counterpart from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olusola Oke, had filed appeals against the decision of the Court of Appeal.

Also, Mimiko and his Labour Party (LP) filed a cross-appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal which was equally dismissed by the Supreme Court.

The development caused  jubilation amongst supporters of the governor, who had thronged the court to keep vigil for the anticipated judgment.

The environment was electrifying  as praise-singers went into work, singing praises to God and for justices of the Supreme Court and the governor.

Delivering his lead judgment in the appeal brought by ACN and Akeredolu, Justice Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta held that the allegations of manipulation of the voters register with respect to the injection of 100,000 names as well as the allegations of substantial non-compliance and infractions against the Electoral Acts were not substantiated by the appellants.

In addition, Justice Ngwuta held that the failure to produce the alleged manipulated voter register for the purpose of comparing it with the one used for the election by the appellants made their case fatal.

He said even if it was proved that the 100,000 voters turned out and voted for the governor and the court proceeded to remove their votes, the governor could still have won given the wide margin between them.

The court held that the evidence of the expert produced by Akeredolu were based on hearsay and therefore inadmissible in law.

“The evidence of the alleged experts lacked credibility and the court is not bound to accept the evidence of an expert especially when the expert witness trade himself as hawking his profession for a fee.

“The court has a duty to treat such evidence with disdain. Afterall, ‘he who pays the piper dictates the tune.”

“Overall, the issues raised in this appeal lacked merit and are hereby dismissed. I hereby affirm the judgment of the Court of Appeal.

Also, the appeal brought by the PDP and its candidate, Chief Olusola Oke suffered a similar fate as it was equally dismissed.

In her lead judgment, Justice Mary Peter-Odili, held that the alleged acts of non-compliance with the Electoral Act as well as multiple addition of names in the election register and non- display or publication of same did not in anyway vitiate the out come of the election.

Besides, Justice Odili held that the appellants, “failed to prove that the alleged injection or additional names into the register substantially affected the outcome of the election.”

In his concurrent judgment, Justice Samuel Nkanu Onnonghen said the register was not produced in court and there was no evidence that those people whose names were injected in the register participated  in the voting at the election.

From GODWIN TSA Abuja
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Crisis: Suntai’s Deputy rejects sack of exco

TARABA State slipped further into confusion yesterday, with Deputy Governor Garba Umar urging the people to disregard Governor Danbaba Suntai’s “dissolution” of the Executive Council.
Also yesterday, 16 members of the House of Assembly said Suntai was unfit and required medical attention. Read more
They urged him to go for treatment and allow his deputy, who acted in his stead for the 10-month period he was away, to continue in the capacity.
Taraba State has been crisis-ridden since Sunday when Suntai arrived from the United States where he had the second leg of his treatment for injuries sustained in a crash in Yola, Adamawa State of an air plane he flew on October 25, last year.
Umar’s Press Secretary, Mr. Kefas Sule, said in a statement in Jalingo yesterday that “the announcement (of the dissolution of the executive council) is a mere attempt by a cabal to hijack the machinery of governance.
Senior Special Assistant to Suntai Mr Sylvanus Giwa announced the dissolution of the executive and the appointment of Secretary to Government and Chief of Staff.
“It is not a directive that was given by the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Governor Danbaba Suntai,” said Sule.
“To this end, bankers are to note that all financial instruments relating to the State Government’s accounts should be honoured only if they are in tandem with the provisions of the law.
“The instruments must contain verifiable signature of the Executive Governor of Taraba, Danbaba Suntai and verifiable signature of Alhaji Garba Umar, the Acting Governor of Taraba State.’’
The statement assured the people that substantial progress had been made to resolve the misunderstanding of the past few days.
It noted the sense of patriotism exhibited by the people in the way and manner they viewed and handled developments.
It said “the moment’’ called for greater restraint and vigilance.
House of Assembly Speaker Haruna Tsokwa ordered Suntai to go back to the hospital for treatment until he is “capable of administering the state”.
In a statement on behalf of the House, Tsokwa said Deputy Governor Garba Umar remains acting governor.
Sixteen out of the 24-member House signed that Suntai should not resume on health grounds.
They are: Haruna Tsokwa (Takum I constituency), Tamko Adamu (Gassol I), Mohammed Gwampo (Yorro), Josiah Sabo Kente (Wukari I), Mohamed Umar (Gashaka), Ibrahim Imam (Jalingo I), Yahaya Abduraman (Gassol II) and Iratsi Daki (Ussa).
Others are: Rashia Abdullahi (Ngoroje), Aminu Jalingo (Jalingo II), Emmanuel Dame (Ardo-Kola), John Bonzema (Zing), AA Jugulde (Gembu), Hamandama Abdullahi (Bali II), Abdulkarim Mohammed (Ibbi) and Edward Baraya (Karim II).
Tsokwa said the House met with the governor on Tuesday, but the governor spoke in a manner that brought more doubt to his authorship of the letter purportedly transmitted to the House.
The Speaker said: “It is no longer news that the Governor of Taraba State, Danbaba Danfulani Suntai was involved in a plane crash on October 25, 2012, whereof, he was flown to Germany for treatment in a condition that made him incapable of transmitting a letter to the Taraba State House of Assembly, informing it of his absence in office.
“The House invoked the provisions of Section 190(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and transmitted power to his deputy to act the office of the governor of Taraba State.
“We are all living witnesses to the way and manner the governor was brought into the state on Sunday, August 25.
“The leadership of the Taraba State House of Assembly has made several efforts to see him since his arrival unitl yesterday (Tuesday) August 28 that they were allowed access to the ailing governor. And their visit revealed that he spoke in a manner that brought more doubt to his authorship of the letter purportedly transmitted to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly”.
“The 16 lawmakers said they were convinced that Suntai is not the author of the letter transmitted to the House.
“Be it as it may, we the undersigned members of the House have unanimously resolved in our meeting that the deputy governor will continue to act, until such a time the governor (Suntai) is capable of administering the state”.
Emmanuel Bello, former Information commissioner in the dissolved executive, said the action of the lawmakers was illegal as according to him, “they are not doctors to order the governor to go for further treatment.”
“All of them were at the governor’s residence yesterday, where they met him and he greeted them, mentioning each of them by their name; I just don’t understand what they want,” he said.
Renowned constitutional lawyer Sebastine Hon (SAN) urged Suntai not to be distracted but to go about his lawful business of governing the state.
He spoke to The Nation yesterday, reacting to the statement by the Assembly, stopping Suntai from returning to office.
Hon said: “Under what law, substantive and procedural, did the Taraba Assembly bring out the so-called statement? It is settled law that the business of the legislature is done through resolutions and law making and not through press-statements.
“And even then, legislative businesses can only be lawfully done during plenary on the floor of the House and not in private or other premises.
“In Inakoju against Adeleke (2007), one of the reasons why the Supreme Court voided the governor Ladoja impeachment was that the Oyo State House of Assembly sat in a hotel, instead of its chambers.”
Hon noted that Suntai has returned and wrote to the House that he is mentally and physically fit to resume office, and has started performing those functions and was seen by all on television doing that. “I will say the man has fulfilled the provisions to the hilt,” he said.
He said the House has no powers, under the Nigerian constitution, to order Suntai about. “They are arrogating to themselves the powers they lack”, he said, adding: “Are they soothsayers who could look at a man that is doing all the things a man of his standing can do and then proclaim, without medical certification, that he is not well?
“Section 189 of the constitution has stipulated the procedure of declaring a governor unfit to perform the functions of his office. The section is couched in very strong, positive mandatory terms, hence must be complied with scrupulously.
“By the Taraba Assembly deliberately refusing to allow Section 189 to take its full course, choosing the path of anarchy above constitutionalism and due process, all well meaning Nigerians must condemn this in clear terms,” he said.

by: Fanen Ihyongo
Culled from The Nation newspaper

Mayhem in Seme border, Customs officer killed

There was mayhem at the Seme border area of Lagos State on Thursday after a 35-year-old man, Saturday Joel, was shot by officials of the Nigerian Customs Service. Read more
Eyewitnesses said Joel was hit by a stray bullet while some customs officers were trying to apprehend a motorist who was smuggling a red Volkswagen bus from Benin Republic into Nigeria.

It was learnt that after the shooting, some residents took to the streets in protest. The residents were said to have alleged that customs officials had killed at least three motorists this month under the pretext that they were smugglers.

It was learnt that in the ensuing pandemonium, the customs officials stationed in the area fled. However, a Superintendent of Customs, identified as J. I Motojelu, was said to have been driving by at the time.

PUNCH Metro learnt that in retaliation, the angry mob, led by a community leader, dragged the officer out of his Toyota Corolla car marked ABJ 663 DW, and killed him.

It was learnt that the irate mob, also set the deceased officer’s vehicle ablaze and set up bonfires at the centre of the road.

The culprits were said to have used the opportunity to steal some items that had previously been seized by customs.

A police source said, “Motojelu, who knew nothing about the incident was beaten to death. The mob opened a customs patrol van stationed nearby and took a G3 rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition kept inside it. They then set the vehicle ablaze.”

Sources told our correspondent that some customs officials and policemen later returned to the scene and fired shots to disperse the mob.

Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Razaq Fadipe, said his men attempted to put out the fire but they had to retreat because of the sporadic gunshots in the area.

It was learnt that the victim had been rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

But the NCS Public Relations Officer, Seme Command, Ernest Olattah, said in a statement that the officer was killed while on his way to attend a meeting at the command.

He said, “We announce the gruesome killing of one of our senior officers by some smugglers in the Ashipa area of Seme around 9.50am on Thursday. The deceased officer, while in his official uniform, unarmed, and driving to the command’s headquarters for a routine meeting, was accosted by a mob who forced him out of his vehicle.

“Led by an identified chief of the community, the officer was murdered in cold blood, while his vehicle was set ablaze.”

The customs spokesman said efforts were on to apprehend the culprits adding that the customs had achieved many feats this year alone.

He said NCS operatives, due to their uncompromising stance against smuggling and the protection the nation’s economy, had come under series of attacks by smugglers and some unpatriotic elements that saw smuggling as their rights.

The PRO said, “Customs Area Controller of Seme Border, Othman Abdu Saleh, has in collaboration with sister government agencies including the police, commenced moves to bring the perpetrators of the heinous crime to book. The controller posits that this unfortunate incident will not deter operatives of the command under his watch from carrying out their lawful duties.

‘’This is indeed a sad day for us here in this command, but let me emphasise that we are not relenting in the discharge of our duty as we will not allow the darkness of criminality to dampen the light of our service to Nigeria.”

Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, Ngozi Braide, told our correspondent on the telephone that seven suspects had been arrested, adding that they would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba.

She said, “Joel is recuperating at Badagry General Hospital while the slain customs officer has been deposited at the mortuary.”

Drop 2015 ambition, Nwabueze urges Jonathan

The Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerians, on Thursday met with President Goodluck Jonathan on the state of the nation. Read more
It was gathered that at  the meeting which was  held behind closed doors in the President’s office in Abuja, the  group, led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, renewed  its call for the convocation of a national conference.

A  13-page memorandum  covering issues such as the need for a people’s constitution, the expansion of the agenda for national transformation to include economic emancipation as well as good governance, was presented by The Patriots to the President.

Nwabueze, who took over the leadership of the group from the first Nigerian SAN, the late Chief Rotimi Williams, told State House correspondents after the meeting  that Jonathan  must  shun the urge to seek reelection  in 2015 and concentrate on his transformation agenda.

The legal icon insisted that it  was  practically impossible for the President  to combine efforts aimed at national transformation with contesting election.

He said although the President was eligible to contest in 2015, he could become an instant national hero if he summoned  enough courage not to  do so.

Nwabueze said, “That is not the purpose of our meeting today(Thursday),but that is my  view and I still maintain that view. I still believe that the problem of this country is national transformation;that you cannot combine national transformation with contesting election.

“The two are so different because once you get involved in electioneering, you undermine your authority to lead the nation for national transformation and I said if I were the President,  I would restrict myself  to serving the nation,   transforming this country and  creating a new Nigeria.   These  would be my concern and I would go down in history as a hero.

“So, if Mr. President does that, he would become an instant hero in  this country;  but it is for him to choose. If I were him, I would choose to become a hero to lead the country into transformation and abandon the ambition of a second term. That is what I said and I still stand by it and that is what I would do if I were the President of this  country, but unfortunately, I’m not.”

On Jonathan’s eligibility to participate in the election, he said, “That is not an issue. Mr. President is eligible, nobody is questioning his eligibility, the President is eligible. What makes him ineligible? Nothing, he is eligible, that is a personal decision for him to take.”

On the purpose of the meeting, Nwabueze said he and members of  the group  told the President that the nation was in dire need of transformation.

He said The Patriots  position was that the desired transformation could only be achieved through a national conference of the about 389 ethnic nationalities in the country.

Nwabueze said the conference which should be used to discuss how Nigerians could live together in peace and unity must hold before the 2015 general elections.

While arguing that the 1999 Constitution is a schedule to Decree 24, the legal luminary said the constitution would disappear once the decree is repealed.

He said, “If you read Section 1(1) of the decree, they are all preambles to that Decree and the 1999 Constitution that you are talking about is a schedule to Decree 24.

“Repeal the decree and the constitution will disappear and you enact a brand new constitution which would derive its authorities from the people, that was what was done in 1963, when we adopted the Republican Constitution to replace the Independent Constitution.

“That 1960 Constitution was also a schedule to British Order-In -Council just as the 1999  Constitution isa schedule to the Decree 24. In 1963, we abolished the schedule under Section 2 of the Order-in-Council and made a new Constitution called the Republican constitution. That is what we should do now, abolish the schedule and relieve yourself entirely free to make the people’s constitution.”

Reacting to The Patriots’ call   for a national conference, the  President  said  his administration had no objection to Nigerians coming together to discuss how they  would  continue to live together in peace and unity.

 Jonathan, in a statement by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati,   said although he believed that the issue of Nigerians coming together to discuss their future  was not  out of place, he was constrained by the fact that the constitution had  given that responsibility to the National Assembly.

The President told the group that there had  been constant discussions within government on how to create an acceptable and workable platform for a national dialogue that  would  reinforce the ties that bind the country’s many ethnic nationalities and ensure that  their   diversity continued to be a source of strength and greatness.

“The limitation we have is that the constitution appears to have given that responsibility to the National Assembly. I have also been discussing the matter with the leadership of the National Assembly. We want a situation where everyone will key into the process and agree on the way forward,” he said.

He thanked The Patriots for acknowledging the Federal Government’s efforts to implement his administration’s agenda for national transformation.

“As a government, we are totally committed to transforming this country. Positive things are being done and by the grace of God, we will get to where we ought to be as a nation,” Jonathan added.

 The  Patriots  delegation   included Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Solomon Asemota, Chief  Chris Okoye,  Chief Bola Kuforiji-Olubi, Air Commodore  Dan Suleiman (retd.), Prof. Kimse Okoko and Mr. Michael Orobator.

BY OLALEKAN ADETAYO, ABUJA
CULLED FROM PUNCH NEWSPAPER

French to be part of UTME from 2014 – Minister

Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’I, said on Thursday in Abuja that French language would be part of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination as from 2014 for interested candidates, the News Agency of Nigeria reports. Read more

Rufa’I said this at  a reception held in honour of the French Language Project Manager, Mr. Jean-Phillipe Roy.

She said that being multi-lingual in the 21st Century was essential as it helps individuals to operate more effectively in the international community.

“For Nigeria, the study of French language is quite key, considering the fact that our neighbouring countries are French-speaking. Apart from the English language, French language is one of the major international languages,” she said.

She said Roy came to Nigeria in 2009 under the second Bilateral Agreement between Nigeria and French.

The minister noted that the French had worked hard to ensure that various components of the project received due attention.

Rufa’i lauded his contributions to the reform of the UTME for 2014 in addition to the scholarships awarded to 16 teachers of French language to study in France for one month.

She said the project manager’s contributions included supply of books to schools, award of Master’s degree in French as a foreign language and supply of DVD and CD player to the project office.

The minister lauded the support of the French Government to the Nigerian French Language Village, Badagry, Lagos; and the Regional Network of French Language centres in Africa.

She also commended the Association of French Language Teachers, and noted  the proposed handing over of the project vehicle to the ministry for the monitoring of the teaching and learning of the language.

“Nigeria and France have come a long way in their relationship. It is a relationship built on mutual respect, cooperation and interest. I wish to assure you that the ministry will continue to be committed to the teaching and learning of French Language in Nigeria and sustenance of the cordial relationship,’’ she said.

Roy praised the collaboration between the Federal Government and the French Government.

“Since I have been here, you have shown a lot of interest in what we have been trying to do in terms of decision-making in critical issues and, with your help, we have been able to keep the project on the right track,” he said.

By Agency Reporter

Young Shall Grow boss escapes assassination

Police orderly, two suspects shot dead

Lagos was yesterday spared another high profile killing when assassins attacked the vehicle conveying Chief Vincent Obianodo, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Young Shall Grow transport company to his FESTAC residence. Read more

Chief Obianodo escaped, but his driver and Corporal Ngozi Chijioke attached to Patrol and Guard, were not lucky. They were killed. The transport boss was shot in the hand. Two of the attackers were killed by the police.
The hoodlums were said to have attempted to kill the transporter but were repelled by his police escort .
The suspected assassins trailed him while leaving his office and got him close to his house in FESTAC Town.
The gunmen had fired directly at him, but his driver was on the alert as he sped off and the assassins started raining bullets at his vehicle.
The police escort from Patrol and Guard unit attached to him was said to have engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel.
The Area ‘E’ Commander, Mr. Dan Okoro, who got a distress call, mobilised his men and stormed the scene.
After the shoot-out, two suspects and Corporal Chijioke were shot dead.
A police officer who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Daily Sun that it was an assassination attempt.  “Why we believed so, was that the gunmen fired to kill the man.  If it was a kidnap attempt, the gunmen would not want to kill him.  The way they fired at the man showed that they wanted him dead,” he said.
The state police command’s spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, said the transporter was accosted by some gunmenaround 22 Road Festac Town.
“The hoodlums opened fire at him and his driver was shot dead.  The man was shot on his hand and a police corporal attached to him was also killed,” she said.
According to her, a patrol team that heard the gunshots raced to the scene and on sighting the patrol team, the hoodlums opened fire at the policemen.
Ngozi noted that policemen responded and the scene was turned to a battlefield.  “When the dust settled, the police shot dead two of the hoodlums and others escaped with bullet wounds.
She said the bandits’ Toyota Highlander Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) was perforated with bullets, adding that the police recovered one AK 47, one AK 49 riffles and eight magazines loaded with ammunition.
Braide said the gunmen’s motive was still unknown, noting that, “because we cannot just narrow it down to assassination, kidnapping or armed robbery until investigation is concluded.”
However, the Commissioner of Police, Umar Manko, has appealed to hospitals and members of the public to report anyone with bullet wounds to the nearest police station.

 By CHRISTOPHER OJI
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Rivers crisis: 27 lawmakers condemn expulsion of Exco members

Twenty seven members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have criticised the expulsion of 18 Executive Council members announced on Monday, by the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt. Read more

A statement issued and signed yesterday by the 27 lawmakers loyal to Governor Chibuike Amaechi-led administration, said the Felix Obuah-led PDP lacked knowledge of the party’s constitution.
The lawmakers, among who were the Speaker, Otelemaba Dan Amachree, his Deputy, Leyii Kwanee and Leader of the House, Chidi Lloyd, expressed worry over the plan by the Obuah-led faction to frustrate the reconciliation efforts and deepen the crisis.
“The attention of the 27 members of the Rivers State House Of Assembly, who are also staunch members of the Peoples Democratic Party have been drawn to the purported expulsion and suspension of 14 commissioners (some of whom are non-members of the party, but reputable technocrats) and other aides of our Governor Chibuike Amaechi by the Obuah-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, Rivers State.
“We write as their representatives, that the Obuah-led faction in their unwarranted desperation for power, does not have any idea of the constitution or membership of the Peoples Democratic Party, hence their unguided pronouncements.
They described the action as unconstitutional and a demonstration of political rascality, calling on their supporters to disregard the pronouncements.
“We call on all our constituents to disregard their pronouncements and go about their lawful duties. That the reasons, methodology and procedures that led to these pronouncements are not only unconstitutional by reason of Article 21(4)(5)(6) of the constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party, but also a continuation of the undue political rascality and abject  impunity that is detrimental and injurious  to the character of our party  and democracy.
“We are worried that the undemocratic  and reckless manner that the Obuah-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party have been displaying, threatens not only the ongoing reconciliation efforts but further deepens the factionalisation, fragmentation and threats to the survival of the party.

 From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Gov Suntai speaks briefly on videotape •Tape played on Taraba television • Cabinet dissolved, lawmakers meet gov

The Taraba State Governor, Mr. Danbaba Suntai, finally addressed the people on Wednesday , exactly  four days after  his return from a 10-month medical sojourn abroad. Read more

The brief address was however not live but through a video shown on the state-owned television station in Jalingo.

His failure to do so earlier  and appear before the state House Assembly to formally intimate its  members of his desire to resume work had created suspicions that he was incapable of continuing to function as the state governor.

Before the video was brodcast, he met with  the  lawmakers and  inaugurated the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government, Timothy Kataps,  as well as the Chief of Staff, Mallam Aminu Jika.

The governor, who is recuperating  from injuries he sustained last October when a small aircraft he flew crashed, had earlier dissolved the state Executive Council, leaving only his special assistants.

In the address, Suntai  commended the people of the state  for their prayers and  for standing by him in his moment  of  trial.

“I thank  the people of Taraba State  for standing  by me and my family.I  also thank the commissioners for holding the fort  while I was away. Also enjoin all of you to continue to live in peace,” he said.

Suntai, who  wore  a sky  blue suit  and  a stripe shirt,  also congratulated the people on the  22nd anniversary  of the state which was   on  August 27.

He had while inaugurating  the new SSG and the  CoS  enjoined them  to to work in the interest of the people. The new SSG (Kataps), a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice,  took over from Mr. Garvey Yawe while Jika, who  once served in the same capacity  in 2007, replaced Alhmed Yusuf.

Yawe and Yusuf were among the members of the  sacked state Executive Council. The others are  all the commissioners and  22 special advisers.

The  Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Media, Sylvanus Giwa,  had  at a news conference in Jalingo, said that the   appointments of Kataps and Jika  were  aimed at strengthening the machinery of government.

The governor also met on Wednesday evening with  members of  the House of Assembly led by their Speaker,  Haruna Tsokwa.

The lawmakers had resolved at their sitting earlier on Wednesday to meet with  the governor  to confirm his true state of  health before taking any position on his letter stating his intention to resume office.

Journalists, who were asked to wait at the assembly complex for the lawmakers to meet with the governor, were stunned when they  returned, held a brief closed-door session, and  said  they would  speak to the press on Thursday(today).

Suntai’s Chief Press Secretary, Hassan Mijinyawa, said  the meeting  was “meaningful.”

The Speaker had on Monday alleged that the House leaders were prevented from seeing  the governor.

Our correspondents learnt that the news of the sack of the executive council members  had  worsened the political logjam in the state  as Tsokwa  said  the  governor   had  no right to do so.

Tsokwa   had added that  the assembly recognised   the Acting Governor, Garba Umar, as the man in charge of the affairs of the state.

Also, Umar insisted that he remained the acting governor until there  was a contrary directive from the assembly.

The acting governor,  through his Chief Press Secretary, Kefas Sule, said  the  sacked  executive council was worried that some individuals were bent on fomenting trouble in the state.  He therefore  urged the people to continue with their normal activities.

“We shall definitely resolve this crisis. It is only one government here – the Suntai administration,” he explained, adding that he would address the people of the state on the  development.

Umar   said  since he was empowered in  acting capacity, the lawmakers had the right to ask him to revert to his former position as deputy governor or still continue in acting capacity.

  “I am waiting to hear from them. As I speak to you, if the assembly tells me to revert  to the position of deputy, I will comply,” he  said.

It was gathered that some of the sacked  commissioners and aides  accused    Suntai’s wife, Hauwa, of spearheading  the dissolution of the cabinet.

Our correspondents also learnt that a  faction in the  state assembly loyal to Umar insisted  on Wednesday that Suntai must appear before them to personally tender  the letter he wrote intimating the  assembly of  his desire to resume duty.

 A source close to the faction told The PUNCH that  the assembly  would have no alternative but to initiate impeachment moves against   Suntai  and  save the state from avoidable bloodshed. It was further gathered that some of the legislators close to the acting governor had started collecting signatures preparatory to the governor’s impeachment.

The source, who did not want his name in print,  said the state could not afford any crisis at this point, more so when such  could be avoided.

 “The pro-Umar lawmakers are  collating signatures  to impeach the governor because we  cannot afford this type of  avoidable crisis,” he said.

 Suntai’s  letter seeking to resume duty   had divided the political class   as the Speaker of the state assembly had insisted that the governor  needed  to  address the  lawmakers or allow principal officers of the assembly to have an interaction with him.

But  the Majority Leader, Mr. Joseph Albasu , asked the governor to start work with immediate effect.His  position was shared  by the attorney-general, who said that Suntai  needed not    appear before the lawmakers before resuming work.

  by Jude Owuamanam and John Ameh

Culled from Punch newspaper

Why I sacked Youth Minister –Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan has described as false and baseless, insinuations in the media that the appointment of the former Minister of Youth Development, Alhaji Inuwa Abdulkadir, was terminated because he failed to ensure his preferred candidate emerged as president of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN). Read more

The President also denied that he had a preferred candidate in the elections.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati, President Jonathan remained sincerely and unwaveringly committed to doing all within his powers to promote the credibility and integrity of the electoral process at all levels in the country.
The Presidency stated that it was Abdulkadir’s “regrettable deviation from his presidential commitment in the management of the NYCN elections that led to the decision to relieve him of his appointment as Minister of Youth Development.”
Jonathan said he was very displeased with the mishandling of the NYCN elections in Makurdi and Minna by the Ministry of Youth Development which resulted in the unfortunate fractionalization of the youth council.

From JULIANA TAIWO-OBALONYE, Abuja
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Confusion as flood sweeps away nine-year-old boy

Fear and uncertainty has enveloped Oke-Ekoro, Sango area of Ogun State, over the whereabouts of a nine-year-old boy, Gbenga Gbadamosi, who was seen being swept away by flood on Tuesday. Read more

It was learnt that the community had experienced a downpour before the incident occurred.

When our correspondent visited the area on Wednesday, youths and other members of the community were seen draining the water in a gully in the area   with the hope of retrieving the body of the youngster. As of 12noon when the exercise was completed, no body was found there.

 Our correspondent learnt that Gbenga fell into a canal in the area while attempting to pick his sibling’s slippers which had fallen into the water. It was initially believed that the water in the canal swept Gbenga into the gully.

The community leader, Emmanuel Keshiro, told PUNCH Metro that although the rain fell for a short time, it was quite heavy.

He said, “Gbenga and two of his siblings were coming from their mother’s shop after the rain. They were walking by the edge of the canal, when the slippers of one of them fell into the canal.

“Gbenga, being the first  child, wanted to pick it, but his leg slipped into the canal and the flood swept him away.

“The two siblings were only crying, so nobody knew what happened until they ran to the shop and told their mother. She was the one that raised the alarm.”

Our correspondent visited the scene and observed that the canal passed through the community to connect with another town. Weeds and grass cover up the surface of the gully, which also has sharp pointed edges.

Gbenga’s father, Agunbiade, a driver, said he was at his place of work when he heard the news.

He said his wife had earlier informed him of the rain and he told her to hurry home to look after the children.

“When it was evening, I began to dial her line to know her whereabouts. I discovered it was switched off. Someone later called to inform me that flood had swept my son away. I was shocked.

“Gbenga is my first child and he was a well-behaved and gentle child. I love him so much because even everybody in the area knows him for his quiet conduct. I can’t still believe what is happening now.”

He decried the attitude of the police and the fire service to the situation, which he described as nonchalant.

A resident, Bomi Akintade, said the police merely put up appearance at the community on Tuesday and left the residents to grapple with the crisis.

He said the residents started rescue efforts at 4pm on Tuesday till late into the night and resumed 6am on Wednesday.

He said, “We have employed all means to no avail. This water came from Joju, a neigbouring town. It is unfortunate that the government has not been helpful. It was even the landlords’ association that constructed the bridge over the canal. We will continue to search for the boy.’’

Another resident, Lawal Mansour, said it was the second time in three years, that such tragedy would befall the community.

He appealed for the intervention of the Ogun State Government to help in building a safe water channel.

The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the incident. He said, “The case was reported at Ota division.”

 by Samson Folarin

Culled from Punch newspaper

Fake CNN correspondent nabbed in Bayelsa

A 36 years old man, Paul Yempe parading himself as the correspondent of the Cable News Network (CNN) in Bayelsa State was yesterday arrested in the office of the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Energy. Read more

His arrest was made possible by the Chairman of the Bayelsa State chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr Tari Akono.
Yempe, who was handed over to officials of the State Security Service (SSS) is undergoing interrogation about his activities in Bayelsa State.
As of the time of arrest, Yempe was in possession of the identification card of the Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation known as Radio Rivers and a fake identification card of the CNN.
Checks indicated that Yempe, who has been targeting top government officials, had swindled top members of the State Executive Council over claims that he was shooting a documentary on the activities of Governor Henry Seriake Dickson.
While a Commissioner was said to have parted with huge sum of money, another top official of the government was said to have lodged Yempe in high-brow hotel and processing the approval of a large sum of money to finance the CNN documentary.
Akono, who explained how Yempe was nabbed, said his insistence that he works for CNN led to the fake CNN ID card in his bag.
“The attempt by the fake journalist to affirm his genuineness led to the discovery of a fake CNN Identification card in his bag. He came to the office of the Energy Commissioner claiming to have come for an interview as part of a documentary he is working on for the state. I asked the Commissioner to allow him in and apprehended him. I asked him for his camera but he said he is using his mobile handset as a recorder.”

From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Stowaway gets scholarship, NCAA probes Arik pilots, FAAN

Aviation industry regulator, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has started probing the ArikAir pilots and officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria over alleged security breaches that led to the arrest of a 15-year-old stowaway, Daniel Oikhena, at Lagos Airport on Saturday. Read more

This is even as the boy on Wednesday landed a scholarship to study free to university level and fulfil his dream of flying to the United States of America.

The pilot, The PUNCH learnt, might lose his licence or be fined huge sum of money if ongoing investigation by the regulators found him guilty of not aborting the  flight for safety checks, following the alleged passenger’s report of presence of a strange boy some metres from the plane.

Already, the regulatory authority has commenced full investigation into the matter, the Director-General, NCAA, Captain Fola Akinkuotu, disclosed to our correspondent on Wednesday.

Although the NCAA boss declined to specify the nature of penalty it would impose on Arik Air, its pilot or the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria if they were found guilty, he however said, “If at the end of the day we discover that somebody has not done what it should do, then the appropriate sections of the law will take its full course.”

Akinkuotu stressed that there were penalties and sanctions for breaches in the sector’ and assured that the regulatory agency would not shy away from upholding safety and security regulations in the aviation sector.

On the blames being traded by Arik and FAAN, the NCAA boss said the investigation would reveal whoever was liable.

He said, “Arik might say that FAAN did not provide adequate security, but safety challenges are assuming new trends everyday. The responsibility of any flight lies with the operator. Arik too has responsibility. It was reported that a passenger raised an alarm. If there is merit in that, it means there was a possibility of doing something about it. All these our investigation will unravel.”

The NCAA boss however said that the agency, in the meantime, had put in place measures to stop future re-occurrence.

“Every aircraft that is departing will be followed until take-off. FAAN security will follow them. On our part, we have to continue to monitor everything. There will be greater monitoring at the perimeter fence and access control now.”

Akinkuotu said that the issue of stowaway was age-long and not peculiar to Nigeria and the aviation sector.

 “Stowaway has been age-long since the time when ship was invented; those with criminal intent will also be looking for ways to break the law,” he said.

Aviation security expert and former Military Commandant of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Group Captain John Ojikutu, retd, said the Benin incident had shown that the NCAA needed to audit and investigate the Arik Air security programme and the Benin Airport security programme.

Ojikutu said, “That boy could have been a courier for terrorists. The NCAA needs to find out how the boy knew part of the aircraft and where to enter. How are we sure somebody did not assist him. If the Benin Airport access control and perimeter fencing is not porous, how did he get into the aircraft.”

Meanwhile, Oikhena has been offered a scholarship by the De Raufs’ Volunteer Group, a group of supporters of Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The Director-General of the group, Amitolu Shittu, in a statement on Wednesday, said the scholarship was offered to the stowaway to enable the boy to achieve his target of travelling through the air.

 By Oyetunji Abioye and Sodiq Oyeleke 

Culled from Punch newspaper

Female student pours hot water on lover

A 19-year-old female student of the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, simply identified as Yetunde, is cooling off in the custody of the state Police command, Osogbo, for allegedly inflicting injuries on her lover, Adelana also a student of the polytechnic. Read more

Also arrested along with Yetunde, was her father, who was said to be assisting the Police in their findings on the matter.
Yetunde allegedly poured hot water on Adelana, a Higher National Diploma (HND) student of the polytechnic during a disagreement between them, a day after Adelana’s birthday celebration in Iree.
The National Diploma student of the polytechnic was said to have disagreed with her lover  before the birthday ceremony and stayed away from the celebration.
The ugly incident according to findings, happened at the Miracle Hall, located close to the Baptist High School where both Yetunde and Adelana reside.
It was gathered that Adelana celebrated his birthday with other friends, including ladies and this did not go down well with his girlfriend, who allegedly attacked him with hot water.
It was gathered that Adelana’s chest, neck and right hand were severely affected and he was rushed to a private hospital in the town.
When contacted, the Media Relations Officer of the institution, Mr. Tope Abiola said that the management could not do anything about the incident because it took place outside the campus of the institution .
He said “It’s very unfortunate and we sympathize with the victim and his parents.
“It’s a criminal act; the school does not have power over it. It all happened in Iree town, so, there is nothing the school can do about it.  “Notwithstanding, we urge the law enforcement agency to investigate the matter.”

 FROM BAMIGBOLA GBOLAGUNTE, Osogbo
Culled from The Sun newspaper

Sabina Umoren celebrates nine years on stage

“I am happy that you are all here to celebrate with me and my band, Perfect Realm. I celebrate all the people living in my neigbourhood, fans, friends and family members and you should expect the best from us.” Read more

These are the  words of On-Air-Personality (OAP), Sabina Umoren on Sunday when she held her concert tagged, Still Standing at Grace Assembly, Yard 158, First Bank bus stop, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State.

Sabina, (a.k.a Naija Pastor) said, “Perfect Realm brings to people the perfect blend of feet stomping praise and spirit filled, heart melting worship. Whether you are a radical worshipper or gentle worshipper, we represent a platform of lead worshippers that will make you experience the unstoppable sweat of praise and the sincere tears of worship.”

The gospel diva recalled that she won the Best On Air Personality, Crystal award (Nigeria) and the Radio Programme of the Year Award (United Kingdom) recently.

MC Abbey, the master of ceremony, kept the audience reeling in laughter as he dished out various jokes. Artistes present were Koffi, Grand Komanda, Henri Soul, Tim Godfrey, Ebele, the flutist, World Dance Troupe, Grace Assembly Chorale, Essence, Pastor Femi Paul of Grace Assembly among others.

Sabina got a standing ovation when she mounted the podium to sing tracks like Jesus le,Gidigba, Na you hold me, from her album entitled, Beautiful.

3 killed, 5 injured as NNPC tanker explodes

…6 Civilian JTF members shot dead

Nine people died in separate incidents in Oyo and Borno States yesterday. In the Ibadan, Oyo State tragedy, three people died with five others injured from burns when a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) petrol tanker trying to offload fuel suddenly exploded and caught fire at Orogun Junction on Ojoo Expressway.  Read more

The three victims were said to have been burnt to death as the fuel flew into the area and exploded, it burnt property and human beings found along its path.

Two Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and about eight shops in the area were also torched by the raging inferno.

The situation got out of hands when the state’s fire service that arrived at the scene ran out of water and had to wait for another vehicle for replenishment.

While still waiting for water, the fire went wild and engulfed the surrounding shops and some other houses around including some vehicles parked along the road.

The five people who sustained serious burns were rushed to hospital in an Oyo State ambulance.

The incident occurred beside Energy Filling Station at Orogun junction along Iwo Road/Ojoo Expressway around 11.30am.

Heavy smoke covered the area as most shops and car owners who parked their vehicles in some perimeters close to the scene made frantic efforts to remove them.

An eyewitness, Dr. Ayo Osisanwo, told newsmen that the tragedy started when an NNPC truck was offloading fuel from another NNPC truck which had mechanical fault and had broken down in the middle of the road.

According to him, the inferno started in the process of technical transfer of the fuel to an empty tanker when the loaded tanker suddenly caught fire.

The situation caused heavy traffic snarl as only one lane was used by motorists, just as policemen and Civil Defence operatives had difficult time controlling the traffic.

Hoodlums also took advantage of the situation to steal property of victims who had fled the scene to safety.

Another eyewitness who does not want his name in print, said:”An NNPC tanker was trying to offload fuel from the other one that fell off by the roadside. Suddenly, the loaded one caught fire and the driver tried hard to drive it away from the one already burning. He hurriedly abandoned the vehicle after the rescue”.

Meanwhile, six members of the youth vigilance group (a.k.a. Civilian JTF) were yesterday killed in a border town in Borno State by Boko Haram insurgents.

Sources said the youths were shot dead at about 1.30am yesterday at Damasak, headquaters of Mobbar Local Government in a house where they slept after the day’s business. They were said to have gone to the town, about 187 kilometres from Maiduguri to sell jewelleries on Monday, being the market day.

“They  decided to spend the night since it was late, but unknown to them, their assailants were close by. They were shot on the head and chest while sleeping,” a member of the Civilian JTF said.

Five of the victims were said to have chartered a cab belonging to one of their colleagues also killed by the insurgents. Emotion was high among friends and relatives of the deceased when their bodies were brought to Maiduguri yesterday through Baga Road. The names of the deceased were given as  Ismail Alhaji Bunu,36,Malam Goni,27, Buzu Bukar, 27, Mohammed Modu, 20, Aliyu Jibrin,30 and Bukar Bako,20.

A member of the group, Kariyama Mohammed, who also went to Damasak but did not sleep in the same house with the victims, said he learnt of the tragedy yesterday morning when they were supposed to return to Maiduguri.

“We travelled together to Damasak to trade in necklace but I did not sleep in the same house with them. It was in the morning that I learnt of their death.”

Sources said the assailants were four and had shot their victims dead “when they were fast asleep,” adding that there is no trace of their whereabouts yet.

Leader of the Civilian JTF on Baga Road, Bakura Adamu, expressed sadness over the incident, noting that the youths were members of the group who worked tirelessly to defend the state against the insurgents.

Damasak is located on the Nigeria-Niger border with high commercial activities especially jewelleries, clothes and gold. Security sources said many of the insurgents that fled their Karenuwa, Marte camp following the offensive by the Special Forces in the early days of the state of emergency, may have hid in some villages around the border areas.

From GBENGA ADESUYI, Ibadan and TIMOHY OLANREWAJU, Maiduguri

CULLED FROM THE SUN NEWSPAPER