See what dethroned Nollywood Queen has to say about her removal

Miss Nollywood Culture and Tourism, Grace Okoro Adaeze who was stripped of her title recently has released a statement concerning her ”unlawful” removal, alleging that the organizers were fraudsters who are using the event to promote prostitution among young ladies, adding that they were against her charity works. Grace narrated her ordeal.. Read below… I called the contact phone number which was on the advert page for the Miss Nollywood 2015 / 2016 after filling the online form and making the bank registration payment. Mr Barakumo Odede who picked the call asked me to order for tickets which I will sell like other contestants which is a criteria to be a potential winner of the pageant. I then sold tickets worth #40,000 which I gave to Mr Barakumo. One night during camping, Mr Barakumo told us all that he will interview us but it will be privately done in his room. We went in one after the other. I went in when it was my turn and MR Barakumo was behaving very funny that made me very uncomfortable in that room. Amongst other things, he asked me if I had a boyfriend, and I said yes, and he said that Queens don’t have boyfriends but rich men pays for it. I left the room angrily and upset, I later found out that he asked other contestants for sex too during the one-on-one interview sessions. On one faithful night again, Mr Bara sent me a text to meet him at the corridor, which I did. But he was not there, then I called him and he asked me to open the next room’s door, when I did, I saw him sitting on a chair with a worried look, “Boss, are you OK? I asked him and he replied “Yes, but I am tired and I need lovemaking from you”. I reminded him of my boyfriend. This word got him angry and he then told me that other contestants were begging for it while he is giving it to me for free and I’m rejecting his offer. He pulled off his clothes and tried to get me down then I slapped him, struggled to get away from him and ran to my room immediately. He later sent me a text that he was sorry that he don’t know what came over him and pleaded that I shouldn’t tell anyone about it. On the grand finale, 27th December, 2015 after we have been declared winners, we were surprised to learn that crowns were borrowed from Miss Bayelsa pageant to crown us and immediately after our group photographs, the crowns were returned back to the organizers of the Miss Bayelsa pageant whose pageant was being held same day at a different venue. All the regional Queens were not crowned as a result of this. We were given just flowers and sashes. There was no rules, there was no contract agreement for us to sign, no constitution was read to us, no certificate was given neither did we see the 1million naira star prize for the winners as promised by Bara as he is popularly called. The next day he told us to dress very good and come downstairs to the pool side, when we got there, he introduced us to a man who we latter found out was a politician. That was when it dawned on us that Bara is upto something different, we latter went back to our rooms talking about what just happened. The next morning, Mr Bara asked for N5, 000.00, I told him that I don’t have any cash on me so he begged and took my ATM card to withdraw the money. I was so shocked to receive an alert an N45, 000.00 debits out of the N50,000.00 that was in the account. He withdrew all my money, the cash that I saved for my school fees and left just N5, 000.00. When I confronted him, he pleaded that the organization will pay me back the money later and that the hotel management had asked us to leave because he couldn’t pay the complete deposit for our accommodation and that I shouldn’t sell the company’s secret out. I was confused and wandered what a beauty pageant I got myself into where the organizer begs from his contestants for almost everything. The last of it was when he requested for one of my phones that owner of the one he was using just took it and there’s no way he can communicate anymore. I gave Bara my Techno T470 phone before we all left Bayelsa at the end. After our crowning, Mr Barakumo told me to work very hard that by the first 3 months into our reign, the agency will give me all my benefits. With this, I worked diligently. I am so proud to say that I did very well with the help of my parents no money was given to me by him. Instead I gave Mr Barakumo N15, 000.00 to design two awards plaques which I’ll be presenting to the King of my Community and the leader of our traditional ruling council when I paid them courtesy visit respectively.I have always carried him along in all I do yet he keeps pestering me for money and recharge cards. I called when I wanted to unveil my pet project(the Hope Support Initiative Foundation) and he said he was very proud and happy for me. He even suggested to do all my designs and printing in Bayelsa State, saying that it is cheaper there. I sent him the money he requested for the printing and also specially invited him to the launching of my foundation, with all his expenses on me.( Transport, accommodation, feeding and miscellaneous). He pledged to donate N700, 000.00 (it is on the video tape)Bara asked me to date him I refused. The day I asked him of my certificate as (Miss Nollywood Culture and Tourism) Mr Barakumo got so furious and threatened to dethrone me if I ever ask for the certificate again. That was when I knew he was up to something sinister. Mr Robynz who was aware of the “Bara Saga” approached Mr. Bara and advised to settle all these issues that is responsible for the biff he is having with his queens, from the certificate to the N1million winning prize, Mr Bara took it as an unfriendly gesture, he called him a betrayal for taking sides with ‘his Queens’. Mr Robynz told him that its so sad to see him defraud us. Mr Barakumo told him that it was the duty of our boyfriends or sugar daddies to buy the cars for us then he will claim that he gave us the cars after branding them, saying that this is how it is done. I now understood why he told us in camp never to have boyfriends but rather should date men whom he believes can get us the cars. So, we should go out and sell our bodies for money and that the organization has nothing to give us and that he has given us a platform for us to sell our selves. The attitude of Mr. Bara trying to frustrate our efforts and all that we have worked for gave Robynz an opportunity to manage my foundation. Mr Robynz who was aware of the “Bara Saga” approached Mr. Bara and advised to settle all these issues that is responsible for the biff he is having with his queens, from the certificate to the N1million winning prize, Mr Bara took it as an unfriendly gesture, he called him a betrayal for taking sides with ‘his Queens’. Mr Robynz told him that its so sad to see him defraud us. Mr Barakumo told him that it was the duty of our boyfriends or sugar daddies to buy the cars for us then he will claim that he gave us the cars after branding them, saying that this is how it is done. I now understood why he told us in camp never to have boyfriends but rather should date men whom he believes can get us the cars. So, we should go out and sell our bodies for money and that the organization has nothing to give us and that he has given us a platform for us to sell our selves. The attitude of Mr. Bara trying to frustrate our efforts and all that we have worked for gave Robynz an opportunity to manage my foundation. The last straw that broke the camel’s back was when I was invited for a children’s day party by the wife of KOLGA chiarman and I sent Bara a text to inform him because I don’t want to have issues with him but he didn’t reply. Then surprisingly, on the 25th night he sent me a text message asking me to suspend my trip to Bayelsa and to cancel the children’s day celebration appointment, he said that I’m making the money and sharing it with Mr Robynz and that he will make sure he disgrace and dethrone me if I dare him and that I want to do what the immediate past Miss Nollywood Nigeria 2014(Queen Gwen)did and that he won’t let it happen again. I went to Bayelsa on Thursday 26th May, 2016 with my mum, I went for a courtesy visit to the General Manager of Niger Delta Television. Immediately Mr Barakumo saw the interview on the news he became furious and told me that I want to become popular and famous like the immediate past Miss Nollywood Nigeria and that I am rude consequently, he will dethrone me. Mr. Bara was more furious after he saw my post on facebook about the success story of the Children’s day celebration at KOLGA, Bayelsa State. That’s how he concluded to fabricate all the lies he published and that he has dethroned me. He immediately sent me all the links and blog addresses that he has published it. I HAVE SOME POSERS FOR MR BARAKUMO ODEDE. * Since the primary objective of pageantry all over the world is charity, why then is he against my charity works and rather encouraging me to go into prostitution? We can verify by his resolve to delete all the charity works of the past Beauty Queens from the Facebook official page and website respectively, leaving a few and normal photos and newspaper publications. * Why is he always demanding for the proceeds from his Queen’s courtesy visits? * He should come out to publish the contract documents, memorandum of understanding (MOU) with my signature stating the said rules and regulations he claimed I infringed. * If truly he gave the winners their prizes, he should publish the prizes with photos of all ‘his Queens’ both past and present. * Why did he choose to sell forms for 2017 edition barely 4 months after crowning ‘his Queens’ for the 2016 edition? * Unlike the first edition of the pageant, that produced the pioneer Queen (Queen Gwen) he should come out to show evidences of auditions for 2016 contestants which I am part of. HE SHOULD COME OUT TO REFUTE ALL I HAVE SAID ABOVE WITH EVIDENCES. If he thinks he wants to disgrace me and drag my name to the mud, he has inadvertently succeeded in disgracing and dragging himself to the mud where he belongs, this can be seen vividly by his grammatical “bombing”, which clearly reflect his personality and level of reasoning. Mr. Ebarakumo Odede Solomon and the Miss Nollywood Foundation(MNF)will give an answer in the law court for deformation of character, and be prepared to come out to defend their ‘claims’ with evidences of all the contractual documents that I signed or retract your malicious publication about me within 24 hours with an unreserved apology which shall be published in five (5) national newspapers alongside all the blogs that published your malicious story. Source: Xsouth

Dog rescues Seven-Year-Old From Rattlesnake

A two years old German shepherd is bitten three times by the venomous snake after leaping to the rescue of a seven year old girl and refusing to back down. Floridan Molly DeLuca was playing in the garden with her pet, named Haus, on Wednesday when the eastern diamond back snake suddenly appeared. One of the bites that Haus sustained during his rescue Despite the danger, Haus leapt to Molly's rescue and jumped between her and the snake, which attacked and bit him three times, injuring his kidneys. "She saw him jump back, and go forward, and jump back and go forward," Molly's mother Donya DeLuca told Fox 13. "He was just, kind of, holding his ground. Next thing we know is there's blood and he was limping and crying." The family have taken Haus for anti-venum injections and this treatment costs thousands of dollars. Well wishers have also pledged to come to the rescue of Haus with a donation of at least $44,300. Photo source: Sky News

How to use coconut oil for stretch marks, white teeth

coconut oil is best warmed up or kept at room temperature to be used alone or with other products (in cases where you mix them with other natural ingredients or in your lotions and more) in any case, it works wonders. For beauty,coconut oil is best warmed up or kept at room temperature to be used alone or with other products (in cases where you mix them with other natural ingredients or in your lotions and more) in any case, it works wonders. Coconut oil in its purest form have amazing health, beauty and more benefits that work for almost anything from being used as lotions, as breathe fresher, makeup remover and lots more, check out how to use coconut oil for stretch marks as well as for a brighter smile: «For Stretch marks: - Warm up coconut oil - Gently massage warm coconut oil into affected areas of the skin in short circular motion for about ten (10) minutes - Wipe off with washcloth dipped in hot water, allow this to cool a bit - Cover the area with the washcloth until it cools down. Source: Pulse.ng

Buhari: From dictator to democrat

KAYODE FALADE examines the transition of President Muhammadu Buhari from a military dictator to a democratic president. Read below: "As the country celebrates another anniversary of its return to democracy, one cannot but look at the captain of the nation’s ship, President Muhammadu Buhari, a one-time military Head of State. The 73-year-old former soldier is having a second stint at driving the Nigeria’s ship of state. For his first watch, Buhari clinched the baton of leadership through a coup d’état which ousted the democratically elected government of Shehu Shagari, and bringing to an end the Third Republic. It was on December 31, 1983. In 2003, 18 years after he too was booted out of office in another coup d’état, General Buhari, signified his intention to run for the highest office of the land. This time around, it was through the ballot box. In 2003, he made a stab at the office as the candidate of the All Nigeria Peoples Party. He lost to the then incumbent President Olusegun Obasanjo. In 2007, he made another trial but again lost. This time, he lost to the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua. He repeated his bid in 2011 but now under the banner of the Congress for Progressive Change, a party that he helped found. He lost to the PDP’s candidate, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. Finally, in 2015, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, and the second time against Jonathan of the PDP, Buhari won. A feat, which analysts unequivocally concluded, was unprecedented in the annals of the country’s history. Many Nigerians, nay the world over, were not a little awed by the determination of the former maximum ruler to lead his people again in civil rule. But a year after his emergence as a civilian ruler and a confessed democrat, not a few Nigerians, are having a second thought on his being reborn as a true democrat. In a speech he delivered as a candidate of the APC at an interactive session with the Nigerian Press Organisation, in Abuja on March 17, 2015, Buhari had said, “I have said elsewhere that I cannot change the past. But I can change the present and the future. Dictatorship goes with military rule. However, I am a former–former, note the emphasis on the word ‘former’–military ruler and now a converted democrat, who is ready to operate under democratic norms. “I am not only subjecting myself to the rigours of democratic elections for the fourth time, but even after being elected, I will continue to promote the consolidation of democracy in our great country, Nigeria, by guaranteeing that the media’s freedom is not compromised in any way.” Some Nigerians have been quick to point at a number of issues under his watch which they claim he has handled or he’s still handling like a major-general. Some of these according to the presidential candidate of KOWA in the 2015 general elections, Prof. Remi Sonaiya, are his seeming preference for wanting to do things his own way, working with those he has worked with before, slowness in appointing ministers and constituting the Federal Executive Council and his not-too-keen attitude at engaging the citizenry on his programmes and government policies. Sonaiya said, “He (Buhari) is struggling to be a democrat but maybe old habits die hard especially when one has reached a certain age. You know his training was military and indeed he was once a military dictator in Nigeria. I don’t know whether to say it should be expected that he would have some challenges in running a democratic system. But one has to point to specific instances. “I think for instance his slowness in appointing his ministers is an indication. Also, there may be a little too much of ‘this is the way I work or this is the way I want to do things’ which is not fitting for a democratic setup. Democracy is founded on certain principles and I don’t think he is supposed to give so much room to the manifestation of individual principles in circumstances where you know this is the laid down principle and you should go ahead and just do it. “I also expect in a democracy a lot more engagement and dialogue with the people. Democracy is by the people, for the people; so the standard definition says. Then there must be the consciousness that you are constantly accountable to them. That is probably another issue that pricks the people. We often see him talk more outside the country than he does to us who are in the country and those who voted for him. “I think that sense of ‘I am accountable to the people, I must explain to them where I am leading them, what are my thoughts and ideas on particular aspects of our collective life and so on’ is a bit lacking. “And why is there so much hesitation on his part to come out and say no to some issues like abduction of girls and forcefully converting them to a religion? Herdsmen are killing and raping people and looting farmlands all over and he is silent.” Some political analysts also said the continuous holding of individuals like the former National Security Adviser to ex-President Jonathan, Lt. Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd) and the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu and some PDP chieftains despite court rulings were undemocratic. Prof Onyebuchi Ezeani, of the Department of Political Science, University of Nigeria, Nsuka, however, insisted that the President is a democrat despite some apparent shortcomings on the part of his administration. “He doesn’t have any option but to operate within the rules of democracy. Nigeria has progressed democratically. Despite the shortcomings of some of our institutions, we have made some progress. For instance, the judiciary is working and for the press there is a certain level of autonomy. Under the situation he finds himself, he cannot do otherwise. I will say so far, despite some certain reservations, he has been abiding by the principles of democracy,” Ezeani said. The political scientist dismissed arguments of disobedience of court orders by the current administration, saying, “If you listen to the explanation of the security operatives as to why they have not released the detainees, I don’t think I will lay the blame on the president. In the case of Dasuki, the security operatives are hinging his continued detention on security. So far, despite the reservations, they have tried to operate within the confines and principles of democracy. The issue is neither here nor there. I am not saying that he is perfect in terms of the principles of democracy but so far, I give him a pass mark.” Ezeani’s view, however, contrasted with that of Niger- Delta activist and environmentalist, Ankio Briggs, who said the attitude of the former General Officer Commanding, 3rd Armed Division Nigerian Army, did not portray that of a democrat. According to Briggs, rather than rate an individual, the system as a whole should be evaluated. She stated, “As far as I am concerned the attitude of President Buhari has not really shown him as a democrat as he claims. “Democracy is a process and a system. Is this how it is practised? It is good to fight corruption. And I am one of the greatest supporters of the anti-corruption war. But how can you be saying you are fighting corruption when you are only probing the source of the campaign fund of a particular political party (the PDP)? What about the APC? Why are they not investigating the campaign funds of the APC? How could you refuse to obey court orders that were granted to people standing trial and when they have fulfilled all the bail conditions? How is it that it is a group of people from some particular regions or who had held offices in a particular time that would be under probe?” But Second Republic member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, said Buhari had dumped the toga of dictatorship and adorned himself in the robes of a democrat. He maintained that in transmuting from one to the other, the President had “moved fast and remarkably.” He said, “Yes, Buhari was the head of a military dictatorship. There is no denying the fact that you have to call him a dictator in that incarnation. But you cannot also deny the fact that he has moved on. And he’s moved fast and remarkably so in becoming a born-again democrat. As far as I am concerned, I think rather than shy away from the adjectives, Buhari himself and those around him should be able to accept both statements and accept them as price as it is not easy to transmute from a dictator to a born-again democrat. For him to have done so successfully, he should be applauded. “As far as I am concerned, I am not aware of anything Buhari did that is outside the realm of the rule of law. And democracy cannot be unless there is rule of law. He has been diligent observing the constitution. I believe there are areas that Buhari did not use his democratic powers as the democratic leader of the country because there is a lot that can be taken for granted when you are a man that has won the overwhelming mandate of the people. And he did win an overwhelming mandate. In fact, he has done too well for the good of his party and for the good of his government.” Source: Punch

INDEPENDENCE DAY: See the list of Buhari's achievements one year

In a statement titled " factsheet on President Mohammadu Buhari's 1st year in office", the office of the Special Advicer to the President on Media and Publicity has released the achievement of President Buhari in his one year term in office. Below is the list; SECURITY: *.The relocation of the Nigerian Military Command Centre to Maiduguri, since May 2015, contributed to the success in the fight against insurgency in the North Eastern part of the country. *.As at February 2016, the total number of persons rescued by the Nigerian troops during the ongoing operations in the North East came to 11,595 *.Since December 2015, the well-motivated and rejuvenated Nigerian Military have regained all Nigerian territories previously under Boko Haram control. *.Prioritized regional cooperation in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency and violent extremism, through the operations of the 8,500 strong Multi-National Joint Task Force in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, currently headed by a Nigeria military general. *.Nigeria has provided $21million USD to the Task Force since June 2015 and is committed to an additional $79 million USD, bringing the total of Nigeria’s commitment to the Task Force to 100 million USD. *.Cohesive international support in the fight against terrorism and assistance to victims and communities affected by terrorism, following President Buhari’s meeting with G7 leaders and other world powers. *.In May 2016, Nigeria hosted a Regional Security Summit to boost military operations against Boko Haram and forge a global support for the rehabilitation of the IDPs and rebuilding of the North East. *.In June 2015, the United States announced a 5-million-dollar support for the fight against the terrorists in the sub-region. *.In April 2016, during the visit to Ms Samantha Power, the U.S Ambassador to the UN to Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad, the U.S Government further announced an additional $40 million USD for humanitarian assistance in the sub-region *.Recruitment of additional 10,000 persons into the Nigeria Police Force is ongoing. The recruitment will address the manpower gap which currently exists in the Nigeria Police *.Overhaul of the dysfunctional topmost hierarchy of the Nigerian military which resulted in optimal result and degradation of the Boko Haram elements. *.Was able to bring back our hitherto military allies; which saw the United States and UK governments commit their resources to the fight against the insurgents after previously backing out of negotiations with the previous administration. The Israeli government has also indicated interest in the fight against insurgency. *.Introduction of the motor cycle battalion (This is so that the Nigerian Army can travel to remote areas that were not accessible to cars/trucks) *.Realigned our partnership with regional allies by embarking on foreign visits which resulted in bilateral and multilateral agreements to tackle insecurity back home. *.No more roadblocks and curfews, which normally impeded free flow of movement. *.Continuous monitoring of activities in the region of war through the use of satellite images and geographical information system is helping in fighting insurgency and strategizing against the enemy. *.The trips to our neighbouring countries showed the resolve of the President to push Boko Haram elements out of existence by going for the jugular of the group, cutting their arms, food supply routes. Support has thus been mobilized through the Multinational Joint Task Force. *.Another major stride is the Trans National Organized Crime (TNOC) where the president got partnership with regional allies in the fight against the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons. *.As part of the reconfigured military partnership, the United States donated 24 mine-resistant armoured vehicles (MRAP) which had protected the Nigerian troops from the menace of Improvised Explosive Devices. Today we have less causalities. *.Reached out to the G7 countries and achieved the following: intelligence sharing; technical military training; arms deals/donations *.Overhauling of NIMASA. A reversed policy of the past administration where national infrastructural assets were given to militia leaders to protect as against established bodies like the Nigerian Navy was stopped. *.The President Buhari government has drafted the army to partner with other security agencies in ensuring the security of our national infrastructure and this is already yielding the desired INDEPENDENCE DAY: See the list of Buhari's achievements one yearresults. *.A major ring of pipeline vandals in Lagos state were captured recently in a joint operation by security forces led by the army. *.The government has renewed its fight against oil bunkering *.The Nigerian Navy has recorded tremendous success lately in apprehending vessels used by oil thieves. This operation has improved security on our water ways and it has also helped improve the revenue of government. *.Deployment of sophisticated weapons to ensure vandalism is contained by setting up a pipeline security force in stamping out the menace. *.Effective Management of the Separatist Biafran Movement *.Improving the technical capacity of Nigerian Police Force. We now have a forensic lab and GSM tracking device. We now have a more IT integrated Police force. *.Restructuring of Nigerian Immigration to stop cross border crimes. *.NSCDC has become more proactive in the prevention of pipeline vandalization, with arrest of several pipeline vandals. *.Joint operations involving various security outfits in curbing the menace of the herdsmen in the country has been set up. *.The use of surveys and updated mappings across the country as strategies for preventing threats among ethnic groups in Nigeria. CORRUPTION *.Right from the moment he won the Presidential Election in 2015, the impression of the President as a ‘‘no nonsense and incorruptible leader’’ sent a signal to looters of public funds, with many of them returning funds that had been stolen under the previous administration. *.To create a frame work for prosecuting the war against corruption and institutionalize probity, President Buhari set up an Advisory Committee on War Against Corruption. *.The anti-corruption battle is gaining ground with several high profile cases already in the courts. The administration is being guided by the rule of law in the prosecution of corruption cases. *.President Buhari enlisted the support of multilateral institutions like the World Bank and IMF, security agencies, Western countries and other friendly nations to locate and repatriate stolen assets. *.At a London summit on anti-corruption, President Buhari announced that Nigeria will begin the full implementation of the principles of the OPEN contracting data standards. *.In the first quarter of 2016, President Buhari embarked on trips to the Middle East to sensitize the governments on the need to repatriate stolen assets and hand over the looters for trial in Nigeria. In January, Nigeria and UAE signed Judicial Agreements on Extradition, Transfer of Sentenced Persons, Mutual Legal Assistance on Criminal Matters. *.In March 2016, the Federal Government and the Swiss Government signed a Letter of Intent On the Restitution of Illegally-Acquired Assets forfeited in Switzerland. Under the agreement, Switzerland will repatriate $ 321 million USD illicitly acquired by the Gen. Sani Abacha family. *.In March 2016, the Presidential Committee set up to probe contracts awarded by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) from 2011 to 2015 announced the recovery of over N7 billion from indicted companies and individuals. ECONOMY *.Implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) has provided greater visibility of government revenues and cash flows. Between June 2015 and April 2016, the Federal Government TSA collection clocked N3trillion. *.To further instill fiscal discipline, President Buhari directed the closure of all multiple accounts in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, thereby plugging loopholes for leakages with new technology. *.The opaque accounting structure of the NNPC has been reconstructed to be more transparent with the closure of more than 40 accounts. As a corporate entity, NNPC is now accountable and more transparent in operations, publishing its monthly financial reports. *.The President also resolved the lingering shadowy oil swap deals that had cost the country billions of dollars and left it at the mercy of a few rich Nigerians. *.To alleviate the suffering of Nigerians in September 2015, President Buhari directed the Central Bank of Nigeria to disburse N689.5 billion as bailout to 27 states of the federation to pay salaries. *.To stimulate the economy and reduce poverty, in April, 2016, President Buhari approved deferment in the payment of the bailout as states were still reeling under the burden of the fall in commodity prices. *.Records of more than 34,000 ghost workers draining the nation’s resources were expunged from the Federal Civil Service, saving N2.29 billion monthly. *.In 2015, President Buhari ruled out the appointment of a government delegation for pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. By this decision, the government saved about one million U.S dollars and N30m of local expenses *.Enforcement of the Bank Verification Number: Also the BVN has ensured that the menace of “ghost workers” are being identified and dealt with, while looters with multiple accounts can no longer hide their loot undetected. *.Social Protection: Groundwork for social intervention/palliatives for the poor is being put in place as data is being collated by the economic planning office of the VP in conjunction with the World Bank. *.Reorganization/restructuring of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into a focused, accountable and transparent institution with autonomous Units (Upstream; Downstream, Gas & Power; Refineries; Ventures and lean Group Headquarters) *.Reduction of operational deficits in NNPC by over 50% as at March 2016 as a result of Increased Transparency and Commercial focus *.Conduct of NNPC outstanding Annual Audits from 2011 to 2014, and the publication of Monthly Financial and Operations Reports to ensure transparency *.Introduction of third party financing in order to eliminate direct funding of cash calls by the Federal Government *.Renegotiation of existing service contracts under Joint Venture and Production sharing contracts (PSC) Operations by about 30% leading to operational efficiency improvements and cost reductions *.Elimination of the Offshore Processing Agreement (OPA) through the introduction of the Direct Sales and Direct Purchase (DSDP) scheme with reputable off-shore refineries thereby yielding annual savings of US$1 billion *.Resuscitation of Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna Refineries presently producing about 7 million litres of products per/day *.Repair of products pipe lines and the resuscitation of supply of products from Atlas Cove-Mosimi- Ibadan- Ilorin after a six year lull *.Repairs of Escravos/ Warri and Bonny/Port Harcourt crude oil pipe lines *.Introduction of a Price Modulation framework for downstream petroleum product pricing to encourage responsiveness to market dynamics *.Guided deregulation of the downstream sector to allow market forces determine product price and eliminate subsidy payments *.Introduction of the initiative on refinery co-location to increase domestic refining capacity and minimize the drain on scarce foreign exchange for product importation *.Commenced policy reforms for gas monetization, flare out and infrastructure development, to fast track power supply and economic diversification. POWER *.Under President Buhari, the Federal Government agreed to a 50 million Euro (about N11.15 billion) loan agreement with French government for capacity-building and upgrade of power training facilities in Nigeria. *.Nigeria signed a $237 million agreement with World Bank to improve power. *.Chinese solar power manufacturers agreed with the Federal Government to set up solar panel manufacturing business in Nigeria. *.President Buhari has signed an agreement with the Chinese government to improve Nigeria’s power infrastructure ENVIRONMENT *.Presidential approval for the Implementation of United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) report 2010 for the clean-up of Ogoniland with regards to oil pollution and inclusion of stakeholders in the process of implementation. *.Continuation of the implementation of the Great Green Wall project to fight and contain desertification in Northern Nigeria initiated by past administration. JUDICIARY *.Since assumption of office, President Buhari has maintained a clear stance on the rule of law and respect for separation of powers. *.The President has focused on the strengthening of institutions with key appointment of professionals. *.Appointment of 30 new Federal High Court Justices NATIONAL IMAGE *.On assumption of office, the President undertook some foreign trips both within and outside Africa to re-establish Nigeria’s position in the global arena and solicit support for Nigeria and Africa. *.President Buhari has continually pushed the agenda for enhancing Nigeria’s global image by always demonstrating Nigeria’s credentials in the 2015 general elections, which saw the country scoring high on peaceful transition. *.President Buhari strongly supported the emergence of a Nigerian, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, as President of the Africa Development Bank. (NAN)

Children's Day: Buhari assures on right to education, good health and more

President Mohammadu Buhari has assured Nigerians on his plans to ensure the over-all well being of children, reminding them that they have fundamental right to qualify for qualitative education, good health as well as other necessities for a good life in a peaceful and secured environment . He promised Nigeria that all these will be mere dividends of nation hood soon making them his top priority during his administration. Buhari gave this message during the Children's Day occasion, 2016. He further stated that he has demonstrated his strong commitment in this regard with the allocation of N12.6 billion in the 2016 budget for vaccines and programmes to prevent childhood killer diseases such as polio, measles and yellow fever. "Other measures in the 2016 budget, such as the school feeding programme for children at a cost of N93.1 billion, will ensure that more children go to school and enjoy the fun of learning and growing together with their peers" he said. He assured all Nigerians and friends of the country that his administration will not rest on its oars until the ungodly terrorist sect is totally eliminated from the country. He implored Nigerians to imbibe and exhibit in greater measure, the virtues of hard work, diligence, discipline, honesty, prudence, selflessness and patriotism which are essential for the actualisation of the vision of a truly great nation.

Not Again! Militants Bomb Chevron Crude Pipeline in Warri

Niger Delta militants again bombed Chevron’s crude oil pipeline at Abiteye in Warri South West LG of Delta State. This is the company's major trunk used to convey oil for export. Reports had it that the militants, who arrived the spot about 10pm in two boats, bombed the crude oil pipeline. Army and Navy personnel deployed in the area, according to sources, put up no resistance to the attack. Reliable sources disclosed that the attack was a major blow to the operations of Chevron, adding that the company might systematically reduce its activities as a result of the incident. No group has, however, claimed responsibly for the attack, but it is believed in security and industry circles that it was carried out by the Niger Delta Avengers. Yesterday’s incident was the third in three weeks by the militants on Chevron facilities.

How I got my funny accent –Falz

Comedian cum singer, Falz, got more fans than foes when he came into the entertainment industry with his unique funny accent. In a recent chat withSaturday Beats, he revealed what made him to have such funny accent. “Ever since I was in secondary school, I have had this fake accent. I started with making fun of people and my siblings but as soon as I got into the university, I began to focus on my music and I decided to apply the brand in my music. After university, the brand began to grow bigger so I decided to branch out and I began to do short and funny videos. Now it puts food on my table,” he said. A lawyer and son of activist, Femi Falana, Falz said that he had practised his law profession and even represented some clients in court before delving into music. “I actively practised for about two years after I was called to the bar in 2012. I was always going to court. It was not easy keeping my alter ego in check but I had to. I had to restrain myself from not being funny. Those that surrounded me at the time knew as well that I was trying my best to be ‘sane’ because it would have been catastrophic if I had allowed my alter ego to take over. I had to control everything from within. Falz doesn’t see himself taking over his father’s popular chambers. “I cannot take over my father’s law chambers because it is a law firm and not a family business. There are so many lawyers there that are capable of continuing the legacy; so it is not something that I necessarily have to do,” he said.

Yekini’s kids to convert father’s house to museum

The two children of ex-Super Eagles striker Rashidi Yekini say they want to turn the house of the fallen footballer into a museum as part of their efforts to immortalize him. Yekini had two property — one in Ibadan and another in his hometown Ijagbo, which is occupied by his mother — before his demise on May 4, 2012 his children Yemisi and Omoyemi hope to use the house to honour their father, even though most of the laurels he won as a player were allegedly stolen from the house by family members just before he died. Here is what they said at a media briefing with The Punch...“I and Omoyemi come from a great home; we both have great mothers and a great father, so we are not money-hungry children. We are not here to sell the house or get the money. What we both want is the house in Ibadan, which we (with Omoyemi) shared with our father. That is the one we want,” ...“We are not bothered about the money; we’ve been able to look after ourselves. I had the idea of turning his house in Ibadan to a museum. Mr. Olanrewaju Jibril (Yekini’s lawyer) told me that when he went to the house, everything was gone: all his trophies, his pictures, awards all gone. And that’s very sad because that’s something we would have used to remember our father,” she added. However, Yekini’s lawyer, Jibril Olanrewaju, said there was pressure from the late footballer’s family to sell the house in Ibadan. Family members allegedly abducted the 1993 African Player of the Year few days before his death, claiming he was mentally unstable, and carted away his property. Olanrewaju assured that Yemisi and Omoyemi had the right to possess the property of their father in Ibadan, adding that the children were also planning a testimonial game for their father.

Kaduna to purchase CCTVs, drones

The Kaduna State Government on Wednesday said plans were afoot to purchase Closed-Circuit Televisions as well as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to tackle crime in the state. The Coordinator of an anti-crime initiative, “Operation Yaki”, Col. Yakubu Yusufu, who said this in Kaduna while briefing newsmen, explained that security operatives would be trained in the fresh onslaught against crime in the state. He said the fresh onslaught would check crime and give the masses a sense of security, thereby enhancing socio-economic activities. This is just as the Kaduna State Police Command said it has busted a syndicate that specialises in snatching expensive vehicles and selling them in neighbouring countries. Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Mr. Adamu Ibrahim, said the suspects arrested in connection with the crime would be prosecuted. He also said the police recovered 403 rustled cows within the last one month and that the recovered cows would be handed over to the committee on recovery of stolen livestock in the state. He disclosed that some criminals suspected of supplying arms and ammunition to kidnappers had been arrested. Yusufu said said the provision of modern crime-detecting devices was necessary because crime was getting sophisticated. Source: Punch

BREAKING NEWS: Court dismisses Metu’s request for medical trip to UK

Court has dismissed Metu’s request for medical trip to UK for further treatment. National Publicity Secretary, PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh has been battling for his health and case in court. Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled on Wednesday (today) that he lacked jurisdiction to release Olisa Metuh’s passport. Updates will be brought to you as they unfold… keep your fingers crossed.

FG Introduces Automated Payment Of Salaries, Allowances

The federal government is alarmed that it is spending N165 billion every month on salaries and allowances of workers across the country. To find a way of reducing the huge wage bill, President Muhammdu Buhari has directed the compulsory automation of payment of workers’ salaries and allowances as a means of reducing the cost of governance. Adeosun then lamented that the government spends N165 billion every month on payment of salaries and allowances a development which has now made it necessary to automate this payments. With regards to capturing the biometric details of members of the military and other security agencies, the finance minister disclosed that the military has been asked to design a road map for securing their information and assured other security agencies that their security dates will be adequately protected. The Ministry of Finance’s Director of Special Projects, who is in charge of the continuous audit exercise, Mr. Mohammed Dikwa said the essences of the automation of the payment is that there is need to look carefully to make sure that all those areas of leakages are blocked, in order to ward off ghost workers

Pastor Chris & His Wife Reportedly Back Together?

Speculations are flying out from sources in Christ Embassy where reports have it that Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and his beautiful wife, Anita, who had followed through with her decision to divorce him, have settled their issues privately away from the court and are back together. Pastor Chris had refused to follow his wife to court and had distanced himself from all the divorce process. In one of his reactions in the heat of the saga in the media, Naijaloaded.Com gathered that he said he was sure that she would realize her mistakes [it was about roles and positions], and relax. Latest reports indicates that Pastor Chris and Pastor Anita are back together. There is already a sign in the social media that they have settled their differences. Pastor Chris and Anita were said to have jointly attended a reunion service, hugging and holding hands. A Facebook user who attends Christ Embassy had uploaded the photo above on his page with a caption which read “Thank You Jesus. Glory!”, supporting the claim that the popular pastor and his wife are back. That man smiling behind Pastor Chris was the main reason his wife was mad at him. I have the exclusive but there is no need to go into all that anymore, especially if their reconciliation is true. We are hoping that they are truly back together as a couple, wishing them well!

FG Declares Monday May 30 Public Holiday

The Federal Government has declared Monday, May 30 as public holiday to celebrate the 2016 Democracy Day. The Minister of Interior, Rt Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau made this declaration on behalf of the Federal Government on Wednesday in Abuja. A statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Bassey Akpanyung, quoted the minister as wishing Nigerians happy democracy day celebration in advance.

Did you know that 50 million Nigerians openly defecate?

Rural dwellers’ silent revolution against killer-diseases’ If you reside in a village where you consume brown, muddy water drawn from a pond shared with cows and goats, with your surroundings enveloped in repugnant smell from open defecation, you are already a candidate for diseases and death. Even, if you keep neat surroundings but indulge in gulping water from questionable sources, you need no physician to tell you that your health is already compromised. These were the stark realities in most Nigerian communities as a result of unwholesome hygiene habits, dearth of safe water, compounded by ignorance, until about two years ago when new improved sanitation and hygiene practices started gaining momentum. From generation to generation, open defecation in rural communities was a non-issue. The young and the old relished in it, for they never linked its consequences to the prevailing diseases killing children, and even the adult, especially women. ‘’We defecated openly in surrounding bushes because that was the way our forebears lived and out of ignorance, would run to native doctors when diseases struck,’’ recalls 54-year-old Chief Akanmu Karimu, head of Oke Akeju village in Opeji community, Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, south-west Nigeria. ‘’Our source of drinking water was a river which traverses our village, and although we usually kept its surroundings neat, upstream villagers defecated in it while cattle also drank from it.’’ Experts say ingesting a gramme of faeces deposited by houseflies on uncovered food is like eating 10 million viruses, one million bacteria, 1,000 parasite cysts and 100 parasite eggs. This can cause typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, polio, pneumonia, fatal worm infestation, trachoma, stunted physical development and impaired cognitive functions. Statistics also indicate that diarrhoea kills at least 150,000 children yearly, while under-five mortality is high in Nigeria where 157 out of 1,000 babies born die before they celebrate their fifth birthday. No wonder, villagers’ participation in economy, politics, sports as well as schooling activities are greatly hampered when much of their time and money was spent attending to diseases and deaths. They are now saying, ‘Enough is enough’. Consequently, a silent revolution has started sweeping across. From Sokoto to Cross River, from Adamawa to Ogun and Ekiti, in Benue and in Akwa Ibom, villagers are fast removing the toga of dirt, and wearing the immaculate dress of cleanliness. Villagers are being introduced to Community-Led Total Sanitation, or CLTS, an approach which discourages open defecation but promotes proper hand washing with water, soap or ash as well as building pit latrines and maintaining neat surroundings. Communities are encouraged to own the programme through the establishment of Water and Sanitation Committees or WASHCOMs whose members spread the health messages in each community. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which plays a vital role in advancing the implementation of CLTS across the country, says 50 million Nigerians openly defecate while more than 100 million others are without access to improved sanitation. It notes that more than 66 million people are relying on unsafe water, with water and sanitation coverage as low as 58 per cent and 31 per cent respectively. UNICEF and the European Union, in partnership with each state government, are providing water and sanitation facilities in villages, schools and even in camps of Internally Displaced Persons across the country. Consider the reality at Ilu Omooba, a peasant community in Ekiti State in South-West, where the life and ambition of 12-year-old Timilehin Fayomi could have been truncated but for the introduction of the simple hand-washing practice in his primary school. Prior to the introduction, Timilehin took ill, apparently from the dirty hygiene habits at school which was surrounded by open defecation by nearby residents, as well as at home. The top-flight boy missed classes and could no longer cope academically. His head teacher, Mrs Victoria Fatoyinbo, remarks: ‘’In 2014, my school participated in a hand-washing programme organised by UNICEF. Following that, we established a Health Club where health messages were internalised in the school and shared among community members, including the Parent-Teacher Association. ‘’Timilehin’s family members were beneficiaries of the health programme, and today, the boy has bounced back academically. For us, the improved sanitation and hygiene practices are the best that has happened to our school of 349 pupils, as we are now open-defecation free, complemented by the sinking of a borehole in the school.’’ In Mbanabe community in Fufore LGA, Adamawa State in the north east, engaging in water, sanitation and hygiene practices have extricated the villagers from these barbaric and odious practice of open defecation while a bore hole has replaced the pond which had over the years, served as their main source of supply. The village head, Malam Musa Isa says: ‘’one noticeable observation is improvement in health status of children who often broke down and would not take the cattle for grazing. Now school attendance has risen and hospital attendance has tumbled in the community.’’ They also believe that with adequate supply of safe water, bilharzia diseases which had been the unwanted companion at a nearby Wurobiriji community for many years, will be on its way out. Full attendance and high intellectual performance are guaranteed in Sabongari Gilrs’ Primary School in Fufore, hitherto shunned for lack of safe water, especially when many of these girls are in their monthly periods. Complemented by latrines and a bore hole, these girls now dream of luxuriously-pampered ambitions because of the conducive learning environment. Of striking importance in rural water provision in Adamawa State is the ever willing communities to give their counterpart contributions, as narrated by community heads in Fufore Local Government Area and corroborated by the Programme Manager of the state rural water and sanitation agency, Malam Halilu Mohammed. ‘’When you ask them for their contributions, they produce the money the following day. This act has helped in procuring water to the 21 LGAs, while many of the 372 communities are fast assuming open-defecation status,’’ Mohammed says. Even persons with disabilities in Shendam and Riyom communities in Plateau, in north central are not left out of the campaign for improved sanitation and hygiene practices. ‘’For me, the health of my people is paramount, and if my community has to progress from my disability, I will give it all,’’ says 36-year-old Danladi Dambo, whose loss of a leg will not dissuade him from being a natural leader and member of WASHCOM in his Tigi Community of Riyom, Plateau State, since 2014 when the programme was introduced. The villagers are saying that if provided with half of the opportunities that abound in urban communities, the sky will be their limit. Undoubtedly, provision of potable water and improved sanitation and hygiene practices is expected to give rise to a healthy rural population. With the health revolution spreading like wild fires, life in rural communities is becoming enviable, hoping to halt rural-urban migration, and enhancing social, political and economic development, but most of all, adding value to the survival, protection, development and participation of children

Man stabs sleeping twin brother to death

A 27-year-old man, Mfom John, has stabbed his twin brother, Israel John, to death on Olorunkemi Street in the Somolu area of Lagos State. PUNCH metro gathered that Mfom stabbed the victim more than 70 times in different parts of the body on Monday. Although no one could state the immediate cause of the incident, relatives and residents told our correspondent that the suspect had always threatened to kill Israel whenever they had disagreements. He was said to have carried out the threat around 6am while the victim slept and a third occupant of the room, Christopher, was in the kitchen. The Akwa Ibom State, indigene reportedly stabbed his brother in the neck, head, armpit and stomach till he died. He was said to have fled to Ogunbadejo, a neighbouring street, to report to an uncle that his brother had sustained serious injuries during a fight. Our correspondent gathered that he followed the uncle and his wife to the house around 7am, as a team of policemen from the Pedro division, were removing the corpse. Christopher, who was being interrogated at that moment, reportedly pointed out the culprit to the police, leading to his arrest. A neighbour, Bidemi, said that the two brothers had danced together on Sunday night after they bought a generator. He said, “The room where they stayed was formerly occupied by their elder brother, and he passed it on to his sister. The sister, after living there for some years, passed it to them. “The two brothers were working in a restaurant owned by their brother in the Abiodun area. While Mfom cooked the food, Israel washed the plates. “On Sunday when they returned from work, they had a party to celebrate a new generator they bought. Around 6am on Monday, while Israel was sleeping, Mfom got a knife and stabbed him all over the body. At a particular spot, he stabbed him more than 15 times. There were more than 70 stab wounds on him.” A relative, who did not identify herself, said after killing his brother, the suspect went to his uncle’s house, where she also stays, Source: Punch

12 Indonesians die after drinking bootleg alcohol

12 Indonesians die after drinking bootleg alcohol A man suspected of selling the alcohol has been arrested in Bantul, which is in Central Java, and 81 bottles of liquor confiscated. This came after twelve Indonesian men died after drinking bootleg liquor, police said Tuesday. this is the latest deaths in the Muslim-majority country caused by homemade alcohol. The victims died in Bantul district in the main island of Java in recent days, said local police spokeswoman Anny Pudjiastuti. Four other people are in hospital after drinking the liquor, she said. A man suspected of selling the alcohol has been arrested in Bantul, which is in Central Java, and 81 bottles of liquor confiscated. “The suspect could be charged with causing death and could be jailed for 15 to 20 years,” said Pudjiastuti. Police said they were still investigating what the bootleg liquor contained. There have been several cases in recent years of people dying after drinking bootleg alcohol. In February 26 people in Sleman district – next to Bantul – died after consuming locally-bought homebrew. Indonesia is home to the world’s biggest Muslim population, but most practise a moderate form of Islam and alcohol is available in big cities. However in rural areas, where few drink, getting hold of alcohol can be difficult and people sometimes turn to potentially dangerous home brews. Source: punch

Nigeria Labor Unions Call off Strike Over Fuel Price Hike

The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) has called off its nationwide strike commenced last week to force President Muhammadu Buhari to revert to the old price of gasoline. A communique issued after a national Executive Committee of the NLC today commended Nigeria, who participated in the strike last week. The communique stated that the union would resume dialogue with the Nigerian government to explore possibilities of reversing the fuel price and other palliatives that would ease the suffering of Nigerians. See Full Communique Below: THE COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE NIGERIA LABOUR CONGRESS ISSUED ON SUNDAY, MAY 22, 2016. An emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) held today, Sunday, May 22, 2016, at Bolton White Hotels, Abuja on the on-going protest action against the increase in pump price of petroleum products and hike in electricity tariff. NEC reviewed the protest action and its impact across the nation, noting the sacrifices of its members, response of the generality of Nigerians, government’s attitude and the brutality of the police in some states. NEC took special notice of the Ebonyi State Police Command where our members were intimidated, harassed, arrested and detained unjustly. After an exhaustive deliberation, NEC noted its protest action was informed by the twin issues of the unjustified and illegal hike in electricity tariff and increase in the pump price of petroleum products. NEC adjudged the protest action to be a success in spite of both internal and external challenges. NEC reiterated the correctness of its position on the twin issues of electricity tariff hike and the astronomical increase in the pump price of PMS and the hardship they portend for Nigerian masses. NEC also acknowledged that the temptation to compare the strike action with that of 2012 could be compelling but that the scenario had changed as both the actors and the terrain were different. NEC said before it had embarked on the action, it had anticipated a probable outcome and therefore was not surprised by government’s negative response. Nonetheless, it felt fulfilled by having the presence of mind and courage to identify its mission and fulfilling it, stressing that if a similar situation arises again, it will still rise and stand with the people. NEC, therefore, commended those who took part in the action in one way or the other and reaffirm its commitment to the struggle. The action, it reiterated was taken in the best interest of the poor and the weak and in drawing government’s attention to the dangers of relying on the importation of petroleum products as a sustainable strategy for making available petroleum products. It expressed the belief that in the days ahead, time would prove its position right. Congress singled out for commendation, its state councils, affiliates and other patriotic Nigerians who at very short notice picked up the gauntlet for this struggle. Congress commends the leadership of the National Assembly and All Progressives Congress led by Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu. In consideration of the above, NEC after due consultation with its constituents resolved to suspend with immediate effect, the action it commenced on Wednesday, May 18, 2016. The action is thus at this moment is suspended. Congress will resume negotiations with the government on the twin issues of the hike in electricity tariff and an increase in the pump price of petroleum products and any other issue that may arise thereof. It similarly remains committed to genuine dialogue within the framework of internationally established and recognized principles of representation. The Congress will continue to resist wrong legislations, policies, and programmes and will always act in the best interest of Nigerians as it remains the only pan-Nigerian organisation not affected by religion, region, creed, partisanship or primordial sentiments. The Congress urges the government to play by the rules of its engagement with its constituent parts, stakeholders, and non-state actors as proof of its commitment to deepening our democracy and also in acknowledgment of the well-worn credo that what goes around, comes around. The Congress also urges the citizenry to be vigilant at all times as the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. The Congress commends all Nigerians for their understating and support. 1. Comrade Ayuba Wabba, President 2. Dr. Peter Ozo-Eson, General Secretary Source: Sahara Reporters

Jeeez- Jealous Girlfriend Allegedly Baths Boyfriend’s Private Area With Acid

A girl has been alleged to have poured acid on her boyfriend's private part. aaPolynews.com has it that the girl suspected her boyfriend of cheating on her. To confirm her fears, she checked through his phone call history, sms and all and voila! her suspicions were confirmed. The tigress in her was brought out and she devised an evil scheme on how to repay him for his transgressions. You would expect maybe a showdown or even hiring thugs to beat up her man but no, Jezebel (please permit me to call her so) had a better (terrible) plan instead. She purchased substance suspected to be acid which she concealed. Lured the unsuspecting boyfriend into some sort of kinky love making? that involved his hands been tied to the bed post – sort of scenes that you see only in movies. It is not known yet whether the act took place at all or maybe it did before the interrogation began by ‘Jezebel’, because when the victim was found, he was not gagged. No one can say for sure what transpired but ‘Jezebel’ allegedly poured the substance she had bought on her boyfriend’s privates and it was his eerie and heart wrenching scream that drew the attention of neighbors who came to his rescue but the damage had already been done. Was the lady in question apprehended, we don’t know yet but soon as more details unfold, we will keep you posted.

IG approves deployment of helicopter to combat kidnappers in Kogi

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, has approved the deployment of a helicopter and more policemen to Kogi to check the increasing rate of kidnapping and armed robbery in the state. Punch newspaper reported this. Here are the details of the report- "Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, while addressing newly-deployed policemen in Lokoja, on Tuesday, said the helicopter was for aerial surveillance. Among the deployed policemen were members of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and four detachments of riot policemen. He said the police had been provided sophisticated arms and that the helicopter had since commenced aerial surveillance of suspected criminal hideouts in the state. Bello said that it was hoped that kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes in parts of the state would soon be history. He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and the IG for their intervention in the state. The governor said that kidnappers and other criminals would not be allowed to operate in the state as the security agencies had been directed to go after criminals and fish them out. He also said that local governments in the state had been directed to constitute security committees to support the efforts of the security agencies. Bello said that the committees, to be made up of traditional hunters, ex-servicemen and other relevant groups, would assist in intelligence gathering. He said the government would soon embark on job creation programmes in agriculture in order to check youth restiveness and divert youths’ attention from crime. Bello promised that security of life and property would continue to be a priority of his administration and urged Kogi residents to assist by reporting suspicious movements and people promptly to security agencies." He futher added that the helicopters will aid in the tracking down of kidnappers and armed rubbers across the state.