WILL DROGBA BE DISCIPLINED FOR PAYING TRIBUTE TO MANDELA?

The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.

Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela.
The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.


It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension

CHOI: CHOLERA KILLS 15 PEOPLE IN LAGOS

 Since the recent outbreak of cholera last month in lagos, this is the highest death rate recorded. please lets keep our environments clean and drink clean water. Read on to hear what the experts had to say.

 INFORMATION NIGERIA:
15 deaths have been recorded out of 354 suspected cases of cholera Lagos State, according to Dr. Ismail Abdul-Salam, Consultant Public Health Physician and Epidemiologist with the State Ministry of Health.
Speaking, weekend, at a stakeholders’ forum organised by the State Ministry of the Environment, Office of Environmental Services, Abdul-Salam, who presented a lecture entitled, ‘Prevention and Control of Cholera,’ said the figures were obtained from a study carried out following the outbreak of cholera in the state last month.
“The first case of suspected cholera outbreak in Lagos was reported in September 19, 2013 on Lagos Island and later at Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area.
“As at the 12th week into the outbreak, 15 councils had reported at least one suspected case of cholera with 354 suspected cases.
“There are currently 15 labs and 109 Epilink confirmed cases. Fifteen deaths have been recorded. Case fatality rate is 15 by 124, that is 12 per cent,” he said.
Abdul-Salam noted that the results indicated that majority of the patients ate a local salad popularly called ‘Abacha’, while others were infected due to poor sanitary environment. He however said prompt intervention management of cases at secondary health facilities, and availability of cholera kits and other consumables prevented the disease from spreading.

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.

Eboue and Drogba

The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.
It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

OJB RETURNS TO NIGERIA AFTER TRANSPLANT

OJB returned a few days ago with his wife after a successful kidney transplant in india four months ago. We wish him quick recovery, hoping he drops a single for us very soon*eyesroling*.

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.

Eboue and Drogba

The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.
It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.

Eboue and Drogba

The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.
It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.

Eboue and Drogba

The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.
It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

DIDIER Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue face fines from the Turkish FA after displaying vests bearing tributes to Nelson Mandela.
The two Ivory Coast internationals unveiled their personal messages after Galatasaray’s game against Elazigspor on Friday, their first game after the death of South African icon Mandela.
Chelsea legend Drogba peeled off his shirt at the 2-0 win to reveal a tribute which said: ‘Thank you Madiba’ and former Arsenal defender Eboue’s vest said: ‘Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela’.

Eboue and Drogba

The Turkish FA (TFF) are planning to summon the Galatasaray pair to appear before the Professional Football Discipline Committee because they had not sought prior permission to display their messages.
It is in contrast to England where games this weekend have been preceded by a minute of applause in celebration of Mandela’s life and his role in ending apartheid in South Africa and transforming the international profile of Africa.
Plans to discipline Drogba and Eboue are certain to attract criticism and fuel debate in Turkey, where the TFF are trying to keep political imagery out of football as directed by FIFA, although it has proved increasingly difficult in a football-crazy nation beset by political tension.
- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/12/drogba-eboue-face-fines-mandela-tributes/#sthash.7WU1AYjt.dpuf

BELIEVE IT OR NOT: THIS ACTRESS STRAPPED HER BABY TO THE BACK

 
This is really not my style but i love that MJO was actually doing it the old way, is it lovely?

Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie who is currently in the United states decided to go the traditional way by strapping her daughter, Purity on her back on a movie set.
The mother of one who is currently shooting the final part of her Baby Oku movie in America .
Mercy took some of her colleagues by surprise.

THE WORST PRIMARY SCHOOL IN THE WORLD IS IN MUSHIN AREA OF LAGOS

 The photos below are of Ladipo Primary School in Mushin area of Lagos.
Lagos State boasts the biggest internally-generated revenue, with huge allocation from the Federal Government. However, such discoveries of inhuman learning centers are not rare.


Source: infonigeria


If you think you still have worse schools in your locale , maybe those without roof(eyesrolling), you can share with us at reevolution101@gmail.com and we will be glad to share it right here.

IGBO LEADERS MEET TO STRATEGISE FOR NATIONAL CONFAB

 

A cross section of Igbo leaders in the South East geo-political zone met in Enugu on Thursday to build a consensus in preparation for the proposed national dialogue.
Speaking during the Igbo Political Summit organised by the South East Peoples Development Association, the National Chairman of the association, Sam Egwu, said it was to harmonise a common and strong voice at the confab.
Mr. Egwu, a former governor of Ebonyi State, said the summit would also draw a road map for the 2015 general elections.
“We want to come together so that we can have a common voice on issues concerning our zone at the forthcoming national conference.
“We do not want a situation where the zone will have divided opinions.
“Other zones are working tirelessly over this issue so, we want to harmonise the position of the South East,’’ he said.
Also speaking, the President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Gary Igariwe, lamented the lack of cooperation among some Igbo leaders over the conference.
He pledged to work with other stakeholders from the zone to represent the interest of the people.

A frontline politician, Mbazurike Amechi, urged the people of the zone to harmonise their views in fairness, equity and justice.

In a speech, Prof. Uche Azikiwe, the wife of late Nigerian President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, appealed to the stakeholders to represent the interest of women during the conference.
“We must involve women in all the things we are doing especially in the forthcoming conference,’’ she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that issues that were discussed at the summit included state creation, citizenship and state police.
Some of the dignitaries at the summit included former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Okwesilieze Nwodo, the National Chairman of the United Peoples Party (UPP) Chekwas Okorie, and former Deputy Governor of Anambra, Virgy Etiaba.

(NAN)

SOUTH AFRICA AND THE WORLD MOURNS MANDELA

As the world mourns Madiba, a 10 day mourning has been declared in honour of South African icon, Nelson Mandela, after which a befitting State funeral would be conducted to lay his body to the Earth.
According to CNN, plans will unfold over the next 10 days, culminating in a state funeral to be broadcast to millions worldwide and a very private farewell for those closest to him.
Also President Goodluck Jonathan has also declared a  three days mourning for the South African icon.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President, Reuben Abati, an instruction was given that flags are to be flown at half-mast across the country during the period.
President Jonathan also urged all Nigerians to unite in solidarity with the brotherly people of South Africa as they mourn the great liberator, freedom fighter and hero of the black race.

Also, Actors Morgan Freeman and Idris Elba, who both portrayed Nelson Mandela in the movies, were among many figures from the entertainment world who paid tribute to the South African anti-apartheid hero who died on Thursday.
Freeman, who got to know the charismatic Mandela in the 1990s and portrayed him in the 2009 drama “Invictus,” said he was “a saint to many, a hero to all who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind.”
The American actor added: “As we remember his triumphs, let us, in his memory, not just reflect on how far we’ve come, but on how far we have to go. Madiba may no longer be with us, but his journey continues on with me and with all of us.”

Elba, a British actor and rapper, who starred in this year’s biopic “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” said, “What an honor it was to step into the shoes of Nelson Mandela and portray a man who defied odds, broke down barriers, and championed human rights before the eyes of the world.”
U.S. filmmaker Harvey Weinstein, whose company has distribution rights for the film, said he had been “unspeakably fortunate to have been immersed in Nelson Mandela’s story and legacy.” He said he had spent time with Mandela, adding, “I can say his sense of humor was as great as his optimism.”
Oscar-winning South African-born actress Charlize Theron tweeted: “My thoughts and love go out to the Mandela family. Rest in Peace Madiba. You will be missed, but your impact on this world will live forever.”
Bono, the Irish rock star and anti-poverty activist who has campaigned in many African countries, said in a statement: “It was as if he was born to teach the age a lesson in humility, in humour and above all else in patience.
“In the end, Nelson Mandela showed us how to love rather than hate, not because he had never surrendered to rage or violence, but because he learnt that love would do a better job.”
Veteran comedian and actor Bill Cosby and his wife, Camille, said Mandela had “surrounded us with his graciousness, care and respect after we lost our son, Ennis,” who was murdered.
“Moreover, it was an honor to sit alongside him on the bed of his former prison cell; as he triumphantly spoke about his survival and the courage of his supporters,” the Cosbys said.
Soul singer Aretha Franklin said, “Most extraordinary was how he rose above his being imprisoned and exalted himself above apartheid and hatred to unite the country, an unbelievable example of humanitarianism and courage.”
World No. 1 golfer Tiger Woods said: “I got a chance to meet him with my father (Earl) back in ’98. He invited us to his home, and it was one of the most inspiring times I’ve ever had in my life.”

FIRST EVER FEMALE BISHOP ORDAINED IN IRELAND & UK

 
The first woman bishop in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland has been installed by the Anglican Church.
The Rev Pat Storey, 53, former rector of St Augustine’s in Derry, made history when she was chosen by the Church of Ireland as the new Bishop of Meath and Kildare.
The married mother of two was ordained at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin during a service led by the Archbishop of Dublin, The Most Rev Dr Michael Jackson.
The Rev Nigel Parker, guest preacher, paid tribute to her.
“Pat, it has been our privilege over the years to see you respond to our Father’s love with love, trust and obedience,” he said to Bishop Storey during the service.
“You have given yourself whole-heartedly to Him and His Church, serving His people as a deacon and priest - teaching the Scriptures and pastoring with that disarming directness, which is your hallmark - a directness, which speaks the truth in love, with a ready laugh and delightful sense of humour.
You have demonstrated your love for the Father in your hard work, impeccable organisation and evangelistic heart, which longs to see people come into the family of God, through the completed work of Jesus Christ.
“You have shown your care and thoughtfulness to many, not least your family, Earl, Carolyn and Luke, and to us, your friends.
“So today (on Sunday), it is our privilege to pray for you, as the Lord Jesus calls you to a deeper life of sacrificial service, calls you to consecrate yourself to Him, His Church and His cause.’
Bishop Storey is married to the Rev Earl Storey - who gave a reading during the service - and they have two adult children Luke, 22, and Carolyn, 25, and son-in-law Peter.
She grew up in Belfast and studied French and English at Trinity College, Dublin, before training at the Church of Ireland Theological College.
She was ordained a deacon in 1997 and a priest the following year, serving a curacy in Ballymena, a team vicar in Glenavy, and as a part-time youth worker co-ordinator.
Bishop Storey was rector of St Augustine’s in Derry since 2004 until her appointment was passed by the House of Bishops in September, four months after the Episcopal Electoral College had failed to elect a successor.

CATHOLICS WILL GO TO HELL, THEY WORSHIP SATAN -SAYS OKOTIE

 
This is what Chris Okotie had to tell his members yesterday , yes he actually said Catholics will go to hell

PM NEWS:
Catholics in the world will go to hell because they worship Satan and are led by an Anti-Christ Pope who is a friend to the devil, Nigeria’s controversial preacher and former presidential candidate, Chris Okotie, told his congregation on Sunday, leaving members bewildered.
 Catholic church is “a counterfeit church set up by Satan” and that Catholics “bow to idols and crucify Jesus every Sunday when they eat bread claiming they are eating Jesus’ body.”
“They are not Christians and have never been,” Okotie told a stunned congregation.
“They don’t know Jesus. They believe that when they eat bread on Sundays, they are eating the body of Jesus. It’s ritual,” Okotie said.
He said Pope Francis is an Anti-Christ who does the job of the devil and that time is fast approaching when the Catholic church will pledge allegiance to Satan.
“The pope is an Anti-Christ and the Catholic church will soon declare for Satan. This is the end of times,” Okotie erupted.

Chris OKotie: Catholics will go to hell

He advised members of his church to come to the rescue of Catholics and evangelise them.
This, he said, was not out of disrespect but out of respect for the word of God.
He said those who know the truth should bring it to those who do not know it in the Catholic Church.
Okotie said one of the Catholic most revered Popes, Pope John Paul 11, surrendered the Catholic Church to Mary, the earthly mother of Jesus Christ, instead of Jesus himself. He said even the current Pope Francis has also done same.
He said Catholics are not Christians and do not worship the same Christ that he preaches in his church, at least the one spoken about in the Bible.
Okotie said he did not write the Bible but it was clear to him that those in the Catholic church were lost and were heading to hell fire.
“They don’t believe in heaven. They believe in purgatory, the purgatory that they invented,” Okotie said.
“That church, the Catholic church has been there for Satan and at the right time, they will declare for Satan,”Okotie said.
Okotie who has been married twice and divorced also twice said a beauty pageant will take place in his church next Sunday to select the most beautiful woman in his church.
He also said his yearly “Grace programme” where he makes donations to charity organisations will also take place next Sunday.
The once rock star turned celebrity preacher and politician has been controversial for years.
He once said it was the devil who told him for the first time that he was going to be a preacher.
He also said Nigeria’s famous preacher Prophet T.B. Joshua is the son of the devil and his followers will go straight to hell.
In recent years, he has been saying that God has anointed him to be Nigeria’s president. That prophecy has not come to pass in two presidential elections that he participated in.

BOKO HARAM ATTACKS AIRFORCE BASE AND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN BORNO

According to news reports, the Composite Group Air Force Base in Maiduguri, the Maiduguri  International and other places in Borno State were attacked in the early hours of this morning by gunmen believed to members of Boko Haram. The gunmen, said to be over 300, attacked with heavy artillery including Rocket Propelled Grenade Launchers.

Several people were killed by the explosives which the terrorist planted in targeted areas, including the newly constructed trailer park along Damaturu- Maiduguri road, military check points, residential and public buildings. Some Boko Haram members and securities operatives were killed in the attack.

The attack this morning has prompted a 24-hour curfew in the city. Only vehicles on emergency calls and essential services are allowed to move for now.

WE DID NOT MAKE FRESH DEMANDS- ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has denied claims by the Nigerian government that fresh demands were made in a letter written to the government after the November 4 meeting with the president.
On Channels Television breakfast programme, Sunrise Daily, the chairman of the University of Lagos’ chapter of the union, Karo Ogbinaka, said that the content of the letter writing to the government was within the ambience of the agreement earlier reached.
Ogbinaka insisted that the government had not acted on the agreement reached in the November 4 meeting  with President Goodluck Jonathan.
“They said they will release 200 billion Naira (about 1.3 billion dollars) in 2013 for the funding of universities and we only have few weeks to go and they have not released the money. When it comes to implementation, government is always having problem,” he stated.
The lecturers are also demanding that the government should pay them the arrears of four months – the period they have been on strike- and the university lecturer also pointed out that the non-victimisation clause was part of the 2009 agreement.
‘Government Is Insincere’

Source: Channelstv

STELLA ODUAH'S ARMOURED CAR WILL BUY 51 POLICE PATROL VEHICLES- GOV FASHOLA

During the 7th annual Town Hall Meeting on Security held in Lagos, Governor Fashola said the two BMW cars bought for Stella Oduah will purchase 51 patrol vehicles for the Nigerian Police.

"It is sad to know that the Federal Government that allocate three patrol vehicles for one state police command of 370, 000 police men, is unable to resolve how N255 million was used to purchase 2 saloon vehicles for one officer. It is a very grave irony. The cost of average vehicle needed to patrol the state is just N5 million. And with such fund, we will have put at least 51 patrol vehicles on the road, patrolling the streets of Lagos.”

"In spite of all this, they resist the idea of a state police. The money from the fund was in the last one year used to provide vehicles for the Nigerian Prison Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, National Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC and indeed the airport wing of the Nigerian police, is funded from this money. And it is the same aviation ministry that manage the airport that we had this very odious car scandal of N255 million.” (PM News)

SSS NABS VARSITY GRADUATE FOR FORGING NASSARAWA GOV'S LETTER HEAD PAPER TO SEEK EMPLOYMENT

The State Security Services (SSS) said on Friday in Lafia that it had arrested a university graduate (names withheld) for allegedly forging the official letter-head paper of the Nasarawa State Governor’s Office.

Mr Ngobiowei Awoikiega, the Assistant Director (Security) of the service in the state, said that the suspect was a graduate of Business Administration from the Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
He said the suspect was arrested in Akwanga, headquarters of Akwanga Local Government Area of the state by operatives of the service following a tip-off.

Awoikiega alleged that the suspect used the forged letter-head paper and subsequently forged the signature of the Secretary to the State Government, Zainab Abdulmumin, to introduce himself and one other person whose name could not be disclosed with the intent of gaining employment at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi.
According to him, the suspect has made useful statements on the alleged offence. “Unknown to officials of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, the management honoured the letter printed on the fake letter-headed paper from the Governor’s Office by offering a provisional employment to his (suspect’s) client”.
Ngobiowei advised the general public to avoid falling victims of the activities of persons with fraudulent intentions.

Fielding questions from journalists, the suspect admitted committing the offence, saying that he did it because he could not secure employment since 2009 after his graduation from the university. (NAN)

PROTESTERS DSRUPT ODUAH'S AWARD RECEPTION IN LONDON

An award event in London was on Thursday night disrupted by some protesting Nigerian women who kicked against the inclusion of the Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah as one of the recipients of the awards as “shameful and embarrassing”

Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero was also one of the honourees ; while the Aviation Minister was given an award for “Aviation transformation and best performing minister in Nigeria”,

The event, which held at the Radison Hotel, Central London, was organized by the Global Peace Movement to present “Peace, Development and Security” award to Governor Yero; while the Managing Director of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, (NAMA) Nnamdi Udo, was recognized for “excellence” in airspace management.

The chaos started when the citation of Ms. Oduah, who was represented, was being read as prelude to the presentation of the award. Suddenly, a woman who gave her name as Taiwo Akpabio started speaking and shouting, condemning the conferment of the award on Ms. Oduah.

Speaking at the top of her voice, Ms. Akpabio said it was shameful and insulting for the organizers to give an award to the minister after series of air mishaps in the country under her watch, which resulted in loss of many lives, as well as the alleged scandal in the purchase of the bullet-proof BMW cars involving the minister.

Chaos and confusion descended on the venue for sometime as all efforts to calm down the protester failed. Insisting that she had the right to speak out and criticize the insensitivity of the organizers, Ms. Akpabio had to be dragged out of the venue by security officials of the hotel.

As Ms. Akpabio was being bundled out, another protester who gave her name as Maryam Awolowo took the floor and rained invectives against the organizers for giving an award to Ms Oduah. She too was dragged out of the venue of the awards event. Both women asked rhetorical questions, including how much the organizers were paid to give the awards to the recipients.

It took a while before normalcy was restored and the event continued with the presentation of the peace and security award to Governor Yero.

GOVT OPENS BID ROUND FOR 31 MARGINAL OIL FIELDS

The Federal Government has announced the opening  of  the second  marginal oil field licensing round, promising transparency and accountability in the process.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who declared the bid round open at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday,  said it was aimed at deepening the participation of indigenous oil companies in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

This, she said, was also aimed at generally increasing exploration and production activities in the oil and gas sector.

Giving details of the licensing round, Alison-Madueke stated that a total of 31 fields were on offer with 16 of them located onshore, while the remaining 15 were in the continental shelf.

She said the Federal Government was committed to transparency in the bid process and would  encourage companies interested in the assets to form a consortia that would enable them to leverage upon each other’s strengths.

She said, “Over the next two weeks, the Department of Petroleum Resources will undertake a road show in different parts of the country about the programme. This will be followed by a three-and-a-half months of competitive bidding process in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to openness and transparency in the conduct of business activities in the country.”

Giving an update on the last marginal fields bid round, which held in 2001, the minister stated that of the 24 fields that were allocated to 31 indigenous oil companies in that exercise, eight were already producing while the others were  at various stages of development.

Alison-Madueke noted that the marginal field operators, currently accounting for about one per cent of the nation’s production, had also recorded huge discoveries in excess of 100 million barrels to the nation’s reserve base.

She added that of the eight assets that had so far been divested by the international oil companies, at least four were held by active marginal field operators, who had continued to demonstrate a remarkable technical ability in operating significantly larger assets.

Alison-Madueke said, “In their operations, the companies have addressed corporate social responsibility as a critical element, by providing for stakeholder participation as part of their success factors. In addition, their development strategy is in line with the nation’s gas flare policy and global environmental guidelines on green house emissions, by ensuring full utilisation of their associated gas. Indeed, one of them has established a modular refinery for diesel production, which is the first of its kind in the country.”

According to the minister, the Federal Government is encouraged by the modest achievements of the marginal field operators in line with the objectives of the local content policy to kick off the marginal field licensing round.

On the proposed sale of the refineries, Alison-Madueke reiterated the government’s stance to move away from managing major infrastructure, adding that the government was going ahead with the original plan to rehabilitate the refineries to be able to get a premium price from their sale.

The minister maintained that adequate room had been made in the privatisation time-table for engagement with all stakeholders to resolve all labour issues to ensure a win-win situation for all.

Source: www.punchng.com

EKO ONI BAJE: CONSTRUCTION OF 4TH MAINLAND BRIGDE TO BE FINANCED BY PRIVATE SECTOR

The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Lagos State, Mr. Ben Akabueze, has said the private sector in the country is to finance the construction of the 4th mainland bridge with N220 billion.
Speaking at the 2013 Seminar/Luncheon of the Financial Services Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Akabueze stated that the federal or states government would not be financing the 4th Mainland Bridge as private sector investors have made plans to invest N220 billion in the construction of the bridge.
Akabueze also noted that the state requires a much larger budget than it currently operates, adding that inadequate revenues constitute the principal impediment to achieving a larger budget.
“Lagos State has consistently recorded good budgetary performance, more than any other state government in Nigeria. We have tried to make the people to own the budget, and make it work for them because effective budgetary systems and implementation have contributed significantly to socio-economic development in Lagos.”
According to him, investment in infrastructure simultaneously tackles a number of challenges such as job creation, poverty reduction, lower cost of operations for manufacturing and commercial enterprises.
“Empirically-proven correlation between investment in infrastructure and economic growth (a World bank study of 39 African countries covering 1990-2005 shows that if our infrastructure was developed to standard of Mauritius (best infrastructure in Africa) GDP growth would rise by about 2.5 percent per annum.
“Percentage allocated to sectors reflects government’s priorities and sustenance of past trend highest priority goes to Economic Affairs Sector. In line with the policy thrust of government, infrastructure, health and education sectors are being gradually notched up to meet global benchmarks,” he said

Source: infonigeria

IGP ASSURES ADEQUATE SECURITY IN UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES, ANAMBRA SUPPLEMENTARY ELECTIONS

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered immediate provision of adequate security in and around university campuses nationwide.

This is contained in a statement issued by CSP Frank Mba, the Force Public Relations Officer, on Thursday in Abuja.
The statement said the measure was designed to secure life and property in the institutions and provide enabling environment for lecturers, students and other members of staff to go about their lawful businesses without hindrance.
“The directive is a proactive and confidence-boosting measure designed to ensure that nothing untoward happens in our academic communities,” it said.
The statement directed all Command Commissioners of Police to personally oversee the intensification of surveillance in universities in their states.
It ordered them to “take all necessary security measures needed to provide for the safety and security of members of staff and students as well as property within the various Campuses”.It urged lecturers, students and Nigerians within the institutions to remain law-abiding and go about their legitimate businesses without fear of molestation or intimidation from any quarters.
It will be recalled that the Federal Government on Thursday gave universities lecturers, who had been on strike since July, one week ultimatum to resume academic activities.

        Meanwhile, the IGP has urged officers and men of the force, who would be involved in the supplementary election in Anambra supplementary election on Saturday to remain steadfast.
He said they should be focused and neutral, as well as exhibit the highest level of professionalism.
He reassured the people of adequate security in the state during the election, promising that the force would continue to maintain optimal presence in Anambra till the end of the election.
The police boss called on the people to cooperate with the police and other security agencies in ensuring an atmosphere of peace and order throughout the election.
Abubakar also urged politicians, traditional rulers, and opinion leaders in the state to play by the rules and help in educating their followers on the need to allow INEC and other government agencies to conclude the election. (NAN)

JONATHAN DENIES SENDING PRIVATE JET TO PICK ASARI DOKUBO

 

The presidency has described as mischievous and blackmail, reports that a presidential jet was used to convey Asari Dokubo to Abuja following his release in Benin Republic.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati said that there is no truth in the reports describing it as an attempt by people to package lies as truth. He told State House Correspondents that it is sad that some people play politics with anything believing that gullible people will believe them.
According to him, an aircraft is not a ghost in the air, the movement of an aircraft is well documented and people will see the aircraft if it lands anywhere, particularly the presidential aircraft.
He added that Asari Dokubo has not told anyone that he was brought to Abuja with a presidential jet insisting that President Goodluck Jonathan did not send any presidential jet to Benin Republic.

ASARI DOKUBO RELEASED AND FLOWN TO NIGERIA

 
The leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, who was arrested yesterday in Cotonou, Benin Republic has been released.
Mr. Dokubo was released after President Goodluck Jonathan personally intervened on his behalf with the Beninoise President Yayi Boni.
Festus Keyamo, a civil rights activist and personal attorney to Mr. Dokubo confirmed his release to Saharareporters.
Dokubo, who once bragged openly that his arrest will lead to the demise of Nigeria spent 36 hours with the Beninoise gendarmes before his release around 1 AM Nigerian time today.

President Jonathan reportedly deployed a jet to ferry Mr. Asari to Abuja a few hours after his release.

DO YOU NEED HEALING? HEALING WATER IN NIGERIA

Healing water discovered last week in Nachi, Oji in Enugu State
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I came across this story on Nairaland, so i decided to share. HMMMMM!!! Healing water in Oji River

The healing river was discovered in Nachi Oji River in Enugu state. A mystery to the people of Nachi for decade,. nick named the “Pool of Bethsaida” and appears every 20 years, as confirmed by the indigenes, this year the pool was discovered by fulani herdsmen who were on their way to feed their cattle, according to them, they passed the spot where the water usually came from and there wasn’t any water, but on their way back they discovered the whole place has been covered with water.

According to the oldest man in the community, the water appears every 20 or 30 years, they first saw it in 1971.
He also confirmed that various diseases and ailmenst have been cured at the pool.
Most people who visited the area gave testimonies on how they received healing from the water.
The water stays for 1 to 2 weeks then dries up, as at today(yesterday) the water is 2 week s old, but is said to be visibly decreasing.
Do you believe in miracles? do you need healing? this may just be what you are looking for