AGAIN, INSECURITY FORCES FG TO MARK INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY AT VILLA For the second time, the Federal Government is marking the independence anniversary at the presidential villa instead of the Eagle's square. In a terse statement issued by the Senoir Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity Dr. Reuben Abati, Dr. Jonathan will watch a ceremonial change of guards at the villa to be performed by the Nigerian Army Brigade of Guards. The ceremony will be aired live on Tv and Radio. Billed to attend the event include Vice president Namadi Sambo, Senate president, House of Reps speaker, Chief Justice of the federation, members of the diplomatic corps amongst others. Although no reason was given on why the event will be held at the villa instead of the Eagle's square, but this is not unconnected with the parlous state of security and the activities of terrorists. In 2010, two bombs exploded near the Eagle's square during the celebration of the nation's golden jubilee.

NIGERIA AT 52: JONATHAN TO ADDRESS NIGERIANS President Goodluck Jonathan will by 7:00am on monday october 1 broadcast a speech on the state of the nation as part of activities marking the nation's 52nd independence anniversary. A statement by the Senior Special Advicer on Media and Publicity Dr. Reuben Abati urged television stations to hook up to the NTA while radio stations should do so with RadioNigeria.

GUNSHOT BOOMS, BOMB EXPLODES IN ZARIA An explosion on sunday rocked Tukur-Tukur area in Zaria Kaduna state. The place is close to the Emir of Zaria's guest house. Earlier, gunshots were heard. JTF had intelligence information that terrorists were planning attacks on churches today. It was learnt that the house of a top islamic cleric and some other residential buildings were raided. As at the time of publishing this report, no casualty has been reported as security agencies have cordoned offf the area.

248 PASSENGERS ESCAPE DEATH AS PLANE MAKES EMERGENCY LANDING IN LAGOS An aircraft belonging to Quatar Airways saturday afternoon made an emergency landing at the Muritalla Mohammed International Airport Lagos. This was as a result of low pressure in one of the tyres of the plane. The airbus was carrying 248 people including the passengers and crew members. The aircraft was said to have hovered in the air for about 20 minutes before it landed successfully. Nigerian authorities were not informed of the problem initially, it was gathered that the Nigerian authorities also learnt of the development when the aircraft entered Nigeria's airspace. Rescue and emergency agencies including the fire service, were on ground in case of any eventuality. Source: RadioNigeria

EFCC ARRESTS CURRENCY SMUGGLER EXPORTING $7 MILLION The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) has nabbed a currency smuggler Abubakar Tijani Sheriff. He was arrested at the Muritalla Muhammed International Airport Lagos en route Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He was found with $9 million when searched but he claimed initially that he only had $4.5 million. Tijani, 24, it is believed has been in the business for long. He has been helping people especially fraudsters in taking their monies outside Nigeria. Reports say most of the monies ferried through this way are from illegal and fraudulent practices.

LAWMAKERS DUMP JONATHAN'S BUDGET PRESENTATION The row between the House of Representatives and the presidency yesteday deepened as the lawmakers said they won't be around when President Jonathan presents the 2013 budget next thursday. The lawmakers said they are embarking on a tour to ascertain the level of implementation of capital projects as captured in this year's budget. President Jonathan this week wrote both chambers of the National Assembly requesting for a joint session on October 4th to present the 2013 budget. The implementation of the budget has caused friction between the lawmakers and the presidency. The House of Reps members had earlier threatened to commence impeachment processes if Jonathan fails to implement to a reasonable extent the 2012 budget.

'STANLEY IBEKU ON MONDAY' DEBUTS OCTOBER 1 The column 'Stanley Ibeku on Monday' will make its debut on monday octobe 1st 2012. The column will be written by publisher of Stanley Ibeku Page- a news and views blog- Stanley Ibeku. The column will in a class of its own discuss the issues of the passed week. It will deploy literary terms like satire, paradox, rhetorical questions etc in its style. The column will be short, concise and witty. Also the column seeks to praise, criticise and influence public opinion. The column will be published mondays and will be for now on Stanley Ibeku Page. The link is www.stanleyibeku.blogspot.com

FORMER FCT MINISTER EL-RUFAI ALLOCATED 10 PLOTS OF LAND TO WIVES, FRIENDS-EFCC The last may not have been heard of the land allocation saga rocking former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. At the resumed hearing of the case between him and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC), El-Rufai alongside two others Altine Jibrin and Ismail Iro was accused of allocating plots of land in choice locations in Abuja to family and friends. El-Rufai was alleged to have allocated 10 plots of land to himself, his two wives, Hadiza and Haziya and some friends. He was said to have converted a land meant for PHCN's transmitting and Injection substations to himself. El-Rufai according to Sunday Idowu, a prosecutor commited the acts between 2003 and 2007.

FORMER BANK PHB BOSS ATUCHE USED STOLEN FUNDS TO PAY N45 MILLION CHURCH TITHES The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) yesteday told a high court in Lagos that former Bank PHB Managing Director Francis Atuche used depositors' monies to pay for tithes to two churches. Lead prosecution counsel Pinheiro said the former bank chief gave N35 million to St. Agnes catholic church Ibusa Delta state and N10 million to St. Augustine's catholic church also in Delta state. The counsel made available to the court e-mails directing the bank for the payments. It was learnt that Atuche made the donations in Delta state because he is from the state.

LOKOJA-ABUJA HIGHWAY REOPENS THURSDAY The closed Lokoja-Okene-Abuja highway will be reopened to traffic tomorow(thursday). Minister of works Mike Onolemehen said this wednesday at the state house after the Federal Executive Council meeting. He said this followed the construction of a bye-pass along the highway. The ever-busy highway was closed to traffic last weekend following heavy flooding on the way. The River-Niger overflew its banks and caused heavy flooding along the road.

JONATHAN VISITS BEDRIDDEN FIRST LADY President Goodluck Jonathan has visited his wife Dame Patience Jonathan who is beleived to be receiving treatment at a german specialist hospital. The Nation reports that the president made stop-over in Germany en route United States on sunday for the UN summit. A source told the newspaper that the president visited the first lady before proceeding to the US. The first lady was supposed to accompany the president on the journey to the US for the summit, according to the president's itineray obtained by StanleyIbekuPage. The president's wife has been out of the country since september 1st. She is said to be receiving treatment at a german hospital over food poisoning. But presidential spokepersons denied the charge saying she only went to 'rest'.

INFORMATION MINISTER MAKU TALKS CARELESSLY-MARK Senate president David Mark says Minister of Information Labaran Maku talks carelesslly and doesn't think before he talks. Mark spoke tuesday at the Senate while reacting to the statements credited to the minister after the National Assembly passed a resolution asking the executive to stop the CBN to stop the planned introduction of the N5000 notes. Maku had said that the national assembly's resolution is not binding on the executive. The senate has also cautioned ministers on how they talk about the national assembly and threatened to initiate processes that will lead to the removal of such minister.

NIGERIA CRUSHES AZERBAIJAN 11-0 At the on-going FIFA under 17 Women's World Cup, Nigeria tuesday afternoon swallowed relatively known country 11-0. The humiliation of their opponents puts Nigeria in a good lead to advance in the competition.

FAKE POLICE COMMISSIONER NABBED A fake Deputy Commissioner of Police has been arrested in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. The impersonator identified as Mr. T.A Banjo was nabbed alongside three others at the premises of the Deputy governor's office. The suspects were said to be on their way to the office of the Secretary to the state government. When they were searched, an ID card bearing the rank of a deputy commissioner of police, charms, handsets were seen. The suspects have been detained and may be prosecuted after investigations. Source: Punch

DON'T REVENGE, CAN BEGS CHRISTIANS The Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN) has begged christians not to retarliate over the gruesome attack on a church on a sunday. Bauchi state CAN chairman Rev. Pokti Lewi in an interview with newsmen urged christians especially those leaving in northern states not to act in vengeance. A suicide bomber on sunday attacked St. John's Catholic church in Bauchi state killing three people leaving 49 others injured.

CHURCH BARS WOMEN FROM COMING TO CHURCH WITH HANDBAGS Women at St. Kevin's Catholic parish Jikwoyi in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja have been adviced not to be coming to church with their handbags. The parishioners were also encouraged to cooperate fully with the security men at the entrance of the church. Although no reason was given on why handbags should not be brought to church, StanleyIbekuPage learnt that the directive may not be unconnected to the stringent security measures deployed by the churches and security agencies to forestall any sad occurrence as a result of suicide missions. Attacks on churches especially on sundays have been on the increase in recent times. On sunday, a suicide bomber forced his way into the entrance of St. John's Catholic Church in Bauchi state killing two people and injuring 50 others.

DEATH TOLL RISES TO 6 IN BAUCHI CHURCH ATTACK The number of persons dead in the Bauchi Catholic church attack has risen to six. One of the emergency workers who helped during the rescue mission told Saharareporters. According to the source, the number of those injured is more than 49 and some of them are very critical. A suicide bomber early sunday morning forced his way into the gates of St. John's Catholic church in Bauchi. One person was reportedly killed initially while scores sustained injuries. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that the suicide bomber drove an Opera car popularly used as taxi in Bauchi metropolis. As at the time of this post, no group has claimed responsibility of the attack.

ONE DEAD, 46 INJURED AS SUICIDE BOMBER HITS CHURCH Reports say a suicide bomber on Sunday drove himself into the premises of St. John's Catholic Church in remote part of Bauchi state northern Nigeria killing himself. 46 others are injured as a result of the incident. Police and other security agencies barred journalists and other people from the scene of the blast. Associated Press reports that Bauchi state deputy governor Mr. Stevens confirmed the suicide attack and said the attacker was stopped from gaining entrance to the church. No group has claimed responsibility of the attack. Attacks on churches especially on sundays have been on the increase and the dreaded islamic sect Boko Haram has claimed responsibility of most of them.

24 HOURS CURFEW IN DAMATURU, AS HOUSE SEARCH OF BOKO HARAM MEMBERS BEGINS Combined forces of the Joint Task Force(JTF) and the police have embarked on a house to house search for Boko haram members in Damaturu in the troubled Northeast region of Nigeria. A 24 hours curfew has also been imposed by the military. Yobe state police commissioner Patrick Egbuniwe said the curfew was to enable the force conduct thorough search for the Islamist fundamentalists.

ARIK AIR RESUMES OPERATION AS FG INTERVENES Arik Air which suspended its domestic flights on thursday will resume operations immediately following the intervention of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Anyim Pius Anyim and members of the National Assembly. The parties met saturday and resolved some contentious areas. However stakeholders will return to the negotiation table in two weeks to review the progress of the discussion. Passengers have been stranded since the suspension of Arik Air's operation.

EX-POLICE IG EHINDHERO DOCKED FOR N544 MILLION FRAUD Former Inspector-general of police Sunday Ehindero and the commissioner of police in charge of budget under him John Obaniyi were yesteday arraigned at an Abuja High court over a fraud case amounting over N544.4 million. They were arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commisssion(ICPC). They pleaded not guilty. They were granted bail on self-recognition in 10 million naira each. The duo are accused of keeping police cash in fixed accounts where it yielded more than N14 million as intersets.

MINISTER TO SUE ARIK AIR FOR EQUITY ALLEGATION Aviation miniter Stelle Oduah has directed her lawyers to commence legal proceedings against Arik Air for accusing her of seeking 5% of equity in the airline. Spokesman of the minister Joe Obi in a statement said the allegation that the minister wants a 5% equity in the airline is not only baseless but unfounded. The management of Arik Air on thursday alledged that the minister is seeking for a 5% equity in the airline. Arik Air's domestic operations were suspended on thursday following what it calls 'persistent hostility of the Aviation ministry and FAAN. As a result, many passengers have been stranded and a lot more are struggling to board the few available tickets.

ACN, CPC, ANPP TO MERGE IN 2014 Indications are rife that the three leading oppositon parties in Nigeria will merge in 2014, according to investigations by The Punch. The Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN), Congress for Progressive Change(CPC) and All Nigeria People's Party(ANPP) have intensified moves to wrestle power from the ruling People's Democratic Party(PDP). The report says several merger talks have been going on since last year. It was learnt that the talks began 3 months after the 2011 general elections. The talks are focusing mainly on the sharing of the political offices. The parties are to adopt a single name. By law, all mergers must take place before 90 days to the General elections. CPC strongman and former FCT minister Mallam Nasir El-Rufai in an interview to an online news agency Premium Times, said the merger is being perfected.

JTF KILLS TWO BOKO HARAM COMMANDERS The Joint Task Force(JTF) otherwise known as Operation Restore Hope says it has killed two top commanders of the dreaded islamist sect Boko Haram. A statement signed by its spokesman Lt. Col. Sagir Isah says there were killed when members of the force trailed them along Maidugiri road. The two commanders are that of Adamawa and Yobe states. According to the statement, Boko Haram was planning for attacks in the states. Isah said JTF killed 8 members of the sect earlier. A honda saloon car was recovered.

SACK SANUSI, NBA TELLS JONATHAN The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) yesteday urged President Goodluck Jonathan to sack the Central Bank of Nigeria Sanusi Lamido Sanusi over the controversies surrounding the planned introduction of the N5000 notes. President of the association Okey Wali(SAN) said this yesteday in Abuja while speaking on the topic- The Nigerian Bar Association: The past, Present and the future. The lawyer said Sanusi has failed in providing enough reasons why the notes should be introduced. He said Sanusi has rather been insulting people instead of providing reasons. He pointed out how Sanusi insulted former president Olusegun Obasanjo for having contrary opinion on the matter. The N5000 note has generated controversies since the apex bank disclosed plans to introduce it. President Goodluck Jonathan who earlier approved the plan since December 2011 yesteday bowed to pressure and directed the CBN to stop further action on the proposal. Credit: The Nation

N5000 NOTE: JONATHAN BOWS, DIRECTS CBN TO STAY ACTION Apparently weighed down by public condemnation and outrage, President Goodluck Jonathan thursday directed the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) to stop further action on the planned introduction of the N5000 notes into the Nigerian economy. The CBN confirmed the directive in a statement. Dr. Jonathan and the CBN have been under flaks from the public and professional bodies over the proposed introduction of the notes. Both chambers of the National Assembly rejected the policy and directed the executive to mandate the CBN to stop the unpopular policy.

RIVER NIGER OVERFLOWS, CUTS ABUJA-LOKOJA HIGHWAY INTO TWO River-Niger has overflew its banks in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital. As a result, heavy flooding has occured leaving most of the areas with water. Also the ever-busy Abuja-Lokoja-Okene highway has been cut into two. The pressure from the river was much. Motorists are stranded as they find it difficult to pass. Credit- AIT

JTF CAPTURES BOKO HARAM'S 'KANO HEADQUARTERS' In a statement on Wednesday, the Joint Task Force said it raided the Kano headquarters of the Islamic sect Boko Haram. According to Saharareporters, the operation was successful as arms and ammunition were recovered. 2 AK 47 rifles, 2 pump action guns and 2 AK 47 magazines were recovered. Also recovered were 13 laptops, hand held motorola radios, several rounds of magazines amongst others. It is not clear if there was any casualty both on the side of the sect and the JTF. It was learnt that some members of the sect have fled kano to nearby neighbourhoods. JTF said the raid has foiled plans of the sect in causing trouble in Kano State.

WE ARE READY FOR CEASEFIRE, SAYS BOKO HARAM Islamic fundamentalist group Boko Haram has indicated its readiness to call for ceasefire if the federal government shows seriousness. The group spoke through a spokesman(not Abu Qaga) in hausa. The spokesman did not did not reveal his name. The message which was transcribed expressed willingness of the group towards going into dialogue. It says the government must uphold truth and seriousness. This may be a push the quest for peace by the government.

T.Y DANJUMA DONATED N800 MILLION TO OBASANJO CAMPAIGN

Former Defence minister Lt.Gen. Theophilus Danjuma made a whooping donation of N800 million during the campaign of former president Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999. This revelation was made tuesday by one of the masters of ceremony at the Leadership Newspapers annual lecture and award ceremony in Abuja. Danjuma was awarded the Leadership man of the year. The event was at the Ladi Kwali Hall Sheraton Hotels. After Obasanjo came to power, Danjuma was awarded one of Nigerias lucrative oil blocks which fetches him $1.5billion. He also won another one in Sao Tome. Danjuma was a former chief of army staff.

SEC DG, OTEH MUST GO, REPS INSIST Members of the House of Representatives yesteday insisted on the sacking of the Director-General of the Security and Exchange Commission(SEC) Ms Arummah Oteh. The members berated the executive for not complying with their resolutions. At the resumed plenary tuesday after nearly a 2 month recess, the members mandated President Goodluck Jonathan to sack Oteh as passed by the house. The reps indicted Arummah Oteh in the investigation into the near-collapse of the capital market and subsequently recommended her sack but the federal government after the suspension of the embattled DG recalled her to the office saying she was not found wanting.

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY REJECTS N5000 NOTE Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives have unianimously rejected the proposed introduction of N5000 notes into the nigerian economy. In a motion sponsored by Senator Ita Enang from Akwa Ibom state, the policy was condemned by virtually all who spoke. Senate president David Mark did not mince words when he said that the government should listen to the people. Similarly, at the House of Representatives, the plan was pushed aside as members sided with majority of other nigerians in condemning the policy. The House of Reps also wants an amendment to the CBN act which will make the CBN seek approval from the National Assembly before any policy inplementation.

NOLLYWOOD'S ACTOR JAILED FOR HOMOSEXUALITY Bestwood Chukwuemeka, a nigerian movie actor was on monday sentenced to a 3-month inprisonment by a senior magistrate court in Karu Abuja for sleeping with another man. The 28-year old movie star pleaded guilty to the charges. According to Premium Times, police prosecutor Mohammed Umar told the court that the convict committed the crime in August this year. He first pleaded not guilty when he was charged but later confessed to the crime. According to him, he was under the influence of alcohol when the act was done. He said he came back from a club at night and thought that the guy on his bed was his girlfriend. Homosexual acts are fordidden in Nigeria. Last november, the Senate passed a bill against gay marriages or open display of amorous acts. The practice also contravenes the penal code.

BOKO HARAM KINGPIN NABBED A ranking member of the dreaded islamist sect Boko Haram has been arrested by a smash team of the Joint Task Force(JTF). Although the JTF refused to disclose the identity of the member, sources say it could be the controversial spokesman of the group Abu Qaga. JTF spokesman confirmed the arrest but refused to comment on the identity. Abu Qaga was believed to have been apprehended alongside three other members of the group in an early-morning raid in the group's hideout in Kano. No statement has been issued by the sect confirming the story.

FIRST LADY'S TREATMENT DELAYED Reports say German doctors who are attending to ailing first lady Dame Patience Jonathan has delayed her treatment for one week. Saharareporters learnt that the delay was neccesitated by medical exigencies. The doctors are awaiting test results from her tissues sent to European specialist hospital. The first lady is undergoing treatment in a german hospital, although the presidency has still maintained silence on the matter. She is said to be receiving treatment for foo poisoning, another report says she is being treated for appendicitis.

EX-MINISTER ARRESTED FOR OIL THEFT Former minister of Interior Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho(Rtd.) was yesterday quizzed by officials of Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA) and some personnel of the armed forces over alleged oil hijack and theft. Officials of the agency and security men swarm Integrated Oil and Gas Company headquarters in Apapa Lagos owned by the former minister and arrested some workers of the company. A vessel said to be loaded with oil was hijacked by sea pirates and the vessel was later discovered to be headed to the ex-minister's company's tank farm. Iheanacho was to address journalists at 12 noon yesteday on the matter but the security men disrupted the briefing. The former minister was later taken away by NIMASA officials. It was learnt that he was later taken to the State Security Services(SSS) where he was quizzed and later released. Source: Thisday

POPE BENEDICT IN LEBANON Catholic pontiff Benedict the sixteenth is in Lebanon on a tour of that country in 15 years. The pope is visiting with message of peace. He is expected to meet with political and business leaders over rising tension in the country following crisis that has rocked Syria, a neighbouring country.

NECO BOSS IN N5 BILLION FRAUD SCANDAL A N5 billion fraud case is currently rocking the National Examinations Council(NECO). At the heat of it all is the Registrar of the council Professor Promise Okpala who is enmeshed in the scandal. Prof. Okpala is accused of abuse of office, fraudulent practices amongst others. He is being accused of paying a large sum of money to a top government official to facilitate his re-appointment. In a letter to the presidency obtained by StanleyIbekuPage, a concerned member of the organisation urged the president to order investigation into the matter. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) had at different times probed some dealings at NECO.

MY WIFE IS ALIVE, JONATHAN TELLS AIDES The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has assured some of his senior aides that his wife Patience who is believed to be hospitalised in Germany is alive and doing well according to a report by Saharareporters. The president spoke on the speculations that the ailing first lady's health is deteriorating. The first lady is believed to be undergoing treatment over food poisoning while another report says she's being watched after appendicitis surgery. Saharareporters broke the news of her health excapade last three weeks.

MOVIE ON ISLAM: FG MOVES TO AVERT RIOTS The federal government has placed security agencies on red alert following violent protests in Libya and Egypt over a movie on Islam and Prophet Muhammed. The amateur movie was done in the United States. The movie is said to portray Islam and Prophet Muhammed in bad light. PUNCH reports that the police and other security agencies have placed their men on red alert to avert any protest in the counrty especially in the north. The movie trailer has been uploaded in an online video site. Attacks over the movie in Lybya left US ambassador to that country Christopher Stevens and three other embassy officials dead.

PRESIDENTIAL PARTY FOR PARALYMPIC CHAMPIONS The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan will on saturday 15th September host Team Nigeria in the just concluded Paralympic event in London. The welcome-back party will hold at the state house. Team Nigeria finished 22nd in the world and 4th in Africa with 6 gold, 5 silver and 2 bronze medals.

US AMBASSADOR TO LIBYA KILLED Reports say the United States ambassador to Libya J. Christopher Stevens is dead. He died in Benghazi. The ambassador has been in the forefront of diplomatic relations being the two countries. It's not yet clear whether the ambassador was killed by militant groups.

SANUSI SLAMS OBASANJO, SAYS HE'S A BAD ECONOMIST AND FARMER Central Bank governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi yesteday responded to the comments of former president Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo on the planned introduction of N5000 notes. Sanusi said that Obasanjo is a very bad economist and a successful farmer. He spoke for the first in defense of the N5000 note. Obasanjo had last week criticised the planned N5000 note saying it will kill businesses and production. Sanusi said if any one should be blamed for bad effects of higher notes, it should be Obasanjo adding that it was him that introduced the highest number of denominations. Sanusi said the N5000 note will not cause inflation.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

JONATHAN RETURNS BEFORE ARRIVAL DATE The president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan suddenly returned to the country tuesday evening from his two-nation visit. Punch gathered that the president left some members of his delegation. According to a statement released by Jonathan's spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati on saturday, the president was expected to return on wednesday. The sudden return of the president has heightened insinuations on the health of his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan who is allegedly being treated for food poisoning in a german hospital. Punch's correspondent's chat with Dr. Abati was abruptly ended as the phone was cut off and efforts to speak with the media aide again proved abortive as he did not pick the calls.

BABY GIRL FOR OBIWON Nigerian sensational singer Obiwon and his wife Nkechi welcomed their first baby on September 4th. The baby girl is in good condition. The Onyinye crooner wrote on his facebook wall that the lord has done it. He urged all to join in thanking God for the blessing. As expected torrents of messages have been pouring in to the celebrity and the wife. Obiwon and Nkechi got married in September 2011.

THOUSANDS DISPLACED AS RIVER BENUE OVERFLOWS Thousands of Benue State residents are now counting their losses as the bank of River Benue overflew. The people are relocating to unknown places as the water has taken over plain lands. Residents said they lost most of their properties. As at the time of this report there is no account of loss of life. Benue state governor Gabriel Suswan led other executive council members to the bank of the river. The governor pleaded on the federal government to help as the state government cannot be able to contain the situation alone. Meanwhile emergency agencies have been mobilised to the affected areas.

JONATHAN PLANS SECRET VISIT TO AILING WIFE AT GERMANY Indications emerged last night that President Goodluck Jonathan who is on a 2-day state visits' to Botwana and Malawi may seize the opportunity to fly secretly to a german specialist hospital where his wife Patience is receiving treatment. State house sources say Dr. Jonathan would not like to publicise the visit. Recall that Dame Patience Jonathan has been out of the country for over two weeks. While some section of the media say the first lady is being treated for food poisoning she contracted in Dubai, some others say she is being treated for appendicitis. Presidency spokepersons refused to comment on the whereabout of 'permanent secretary of Bayelsa state' when initially the news broke, but Dr. Reuben Abati, senior special advicer on media and publicity to the president told a bewildered nation that the first lady was on vacation.

PROTESTS IN LAGOS OVER N5000 NOTE Angry Nigerians Monday matched in Lagos- Nigeria's economic capital- over the planned introduction of the N5000 notes to the economy. The people under the group, Joint Action Forum matched around Agege area chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards with inscriptions such as 'We don't need N5000 note', Sanusi, no to harsh policies, Jonathan, don't listen to Sanusi' amongst others. The protesters were led by Comrade Declan Ihekaire and Ade Richards. Ihekaire used the protest to mark his 44th birthday. This may be the beginning of protests to come against the unpopular policy. The CBN has defended its plan saying the N5000 notes will not lead to inflation. President Goodluck Jonathan had since December 2011 approved the policy.

NEMA ORDERS IMMEDIATE EVACUATION OF RIVER NIGER RESIDENTS From the National Emergency Management Agency(NEMA) came an alert Monday evening urging residents of River Niger plains to vacate their houses and seek for refuge elsewhere as dams have crossed their water levels in 29 years. The implication of this is that flooding may occur in a short while. States affected are Kwara, Niger, Kebbi, Anambra, Delta. Agency reporter says that NEMA has informed the affected states. The agency says it has despatched officials to the areas should any unforeseen event occurs.

CYNTHIA'S CORPSE NOW READY FOR BURIAL The remains of Cynthia Osokogu who was murdered by her facebook 'friends' will be buried any time the family decides as the Police say they have concluded autopsy and other laboratory examination on her body. Cynthia's remains was to be interred last Friday but the police couldnt release her body saying they were still conducting autopsy. At the commendation service held for her in Jos, the family admonished the sympathizers not to weep for Cynthia but for her killers.

AERO, AIRNIGERIA MAY MERGE Indications have emerged that Aero contractors may merge with Air Nigeria to rescue the airline industry. This is a proposition coming from AMCON, Thisday reports. Air Nigeria has been engulfed in crises owing to debt management, workers' rife with the management etc. The pilots of AirNigeria earlier this year went on a strike protesting poor remuneration and conditions. Last week, the management of the airline announced the suspension of its flight operations from today September 10. According to Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim, the suspension became neccessary due to disloyalty by the staff of the airline and unfavourable business environment.

DANA AIRLINE IS ONE OF THE BEST, SAYS AVIATION MINISTER Aviation minister Princess Stella Oduah says Dana Air is one of the best airline companies in Nigeria. Princess Oduah was speaking at the weekend on Channels television breakfast show. The minister said the suspension of the airline was done hastily as not much process was followed. She said a comprehensive check would have been done by the ministry before the action was taken. Operations of Dana Air was suspended after one of its aircraft crashed on June 3rd killing all 153 on board and about 10 people at the ground. The suspension was lifted last 2 wednesday after the government said it is satisfied with the audit of the company's aircraft and operations. The minister justified the lifting of the suspension saying that 'the airline(Dana Air) is in fact one of the best in the country.

NIGERIA DRAWS LIBERIA 2-2 In the first leg of the Africa Cup qualifier concluded Saturday night at Monrovia, Liberia's capital, it was 2-2 for both Nigeria and Liberia. The second leg will be in two weeks time in Nigeria. Nigeria needs at least a draw in their next match to be sure of proceeding.

CYNTHIA'S CORPSE MISSING AT FUNERAL The remains of the late Cynthia Osokogu could not be interred yesteday as earlier planned. Although sympathizers thronged at their Delta State residence and at the church for the requiem mass and final burial rites, the funeral could not be concluded as Cynthia's remains could not be released by the Police. The Police said that they are still conducting autopsy on her body and that the corpse can only be released for interment after all laboratory works have been concluded. No new date has been given for the burial.

OBASANJO REJECTS N5000 NOTE, SAYS IT WILL KILL SMALL BUSINESSES Opponents of the introduction of N5000 notes into the Nigerian economy got a strong supporter yesteday as former President Olusegun Obasanjo condemned the policy saying that the new N5000 note will kill production and small businesses. Obasanjo spoke at a forum in Lagos. He cautioned the Central Bank of Nigeria against the move. He said that the way the CBN is fighting inflation is not good. He advocated for more opportunities for small businesses to thrive. Footnote: Punch.

UNN ADMISSION'S LIST OUT SATURDAY The merit admission list for the 2012/2013 academic session of the University of Nigeria Nsukka(UNN) will be released on Saturday September, 8th, StanleyIbekuPage has learnt. The Post-Utme was held last month after the earlier one was cancelled due to leakage of examination questions.

JONATHAN'S TENURE ENDS 2019, SOUTH-SOUTH ELDERS The ensuing debate as to the faith of President Goodluck Jonathan after 2015 got a bite yesteday with prominent leaders from his zone endorsing him for another tenure in 2015. It was at the Southsouth Peoples' Assembly(SSPA) hosted by the Delta State governor Emmanuel Uduaghan at Warri. In attendance were elder-statemen and political collossus. Chief Edwin Clark former Information minister and Mike Okiro former Inspector-general of police spoke for Jonathan's comeback. Chief Clark said the region wants true federalism. Okiro said the north must rise and find solutions to the Boko Haram menace.

DON'T WEEP FOR CYNTHIA, SAYS FAMILY As the remains of Cynthia Osokogu is laid to rest today in Delta State, the family says people should not weep for the late girl rather for the killers. Mr. Ralph Monye who spoke unbehalf of the family at the service of songs held for Cynthia said 'But as friends and relations, I will tell you not to weep for Cynthia; you rather weep for his killers because they have committed crime that cannot be compounded...' Cynthia was killed in a hotel in Lagos by her 'facebook cum Blackberry friends' after they drugged and dispossesed her of her belongings.

NIGERIA'S GOLD AT PARALYMPICS RISES TO 6 Nigeria is still topping other African countries at paralympic games holding in London. Grace Anozie late Wednesday lifted 162kg making the number of gold medals 6. Nigeria already has 5 silver and a bronze medal. In Africa, Nigeria is closely followed by Tunisia with 4 gold, 4 silver and 2 bronze. South Africa has 3 gold, 5 silver and 7 bronze.

SACK CBN GOVERNOR SANUSI, GROUPS Following the outrage that greeted the proposed introduction of the N5000 notes to the Nigerian economy, President Goodluck Jonathan has been urged to fire the Central Bank governor Mr. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. The Nigeria Medical Association(NMA), the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) and the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties. The groups in separate statements condemned the planned move. But the introduction of the notes got official support even as the CBN in a statement defended the plan, saying it will not cause inflation.

FG RESTORES DANA AIR'S LICENCE The federal government of Nigeria Wednesday evening lifted the suspension on the operations Dana Air. With this development, the airline is to resume operations. A statement from the ministry of Aviation assured that neccesary steps were ensured before the suspension was lifted. Dana Air's operating licence was suspended after its aircraft crashed at Iju-Ishaga, a Lagos surbub killing about 152 on- board and about 10 others in the ground.

PETROLEUM MINISTER DIEZANI ALLISON-MADUEKE IN LONDON HOSPITAL Saharareporters, the online media agency that blew the lid open on the hospitalisation of first lady Dame Patience Jonathan in Germany says petroleum minister Diezani Allison-Madueke is in a london hospital for an undisclosed diagnosis. The report further says that the minister may be receiving treatment for a cell-related issue. Another version of the story quotes a close aide of the minister that the case is 'potentially serious'. It was gathered that the minister did not tell anyone that she was going the hospital rather she said she was going to see her children off to school in London. No official statement has been released as to whereabout of the minister.

PETER OKOYE SURPRISES LOVER WITH BIRTHDAY BASH Peter Okoye, one half of the musical duo Psquare at the weekend treated his son's mother Lola Omotayo to a surprise birthday party. Lola has been living with Peter for 4 years. They already have a son Cameron and are expecting another baby. Peter Okoye hosted family relatives and few friends to a bash at their Ikoyi residence.

N5000 NOTE STAYS, SAYS FG The proposed introduction of N5000 notes into the economy by the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) will go ahead, the Economic Management Team told state house correspondents yesteday. The meeting was chaired by President Goodluck Jonathan. Minister of National Planning said the policy was proposed by the CBN, signed by the President and endorsed by the Economic Management Team. He said it is the prerogative of the CBN to make such policy. The minister said the planned introduction will not cause inflation as expressed by many Nigerians.

AIR NIGERIA SUSPENDS OPERATIONS, SACKS WORKERS AIR NIGERIA has announced that from September 10 it will suspend all flight operations. Chairman of the company Jimoh Ibrahim said at some points organisations need to re-strategise. He attributed the development to disloyalty by the workers and harsh business environment. AirNigeria also sacked majority of the workers and regretted the development. It was gathered that only 50 workers were retained. AirNigeria first suspended domestic and regional flights earlier in the year when its pilots embarked on a strike.

FIRST LADY CONTRACTED FOOD POISON IN DUBAI- PRESIDENCY A source in the presidency says first lady Dame Patience Jonathan contracted the rumoured food poison in Dubai when she went to the country late August. The source told The Nation reporter that efforts to make the first lady to respond to normal by presidency medical team proved abortive before they were advised to fly her to German specialist hospital. Saharareporters had on Sunday blew the lid open when the online news portal said Patience Jonathan is hospitalised in Germany over food poisoning. Dame Jonathan according to investigations was airlifted by a presidential jet and not in an air ambulance as earlier reported. Presidency spokepersons on Monday denied that first lady was hospitalised, they said she only went for a 'moment's' rest.

PATIENCE JONATHAN ON VACATION, NOT HOSPITALISED, SAYS PRESIDENCY As controversy continues to trail the whereabout of Nigeria's first lady Dame Patience Jonathan, Presidency sources say Mrs. Jonathan is on a moment's rest in Germany. Her spokesman Ayo Osinla said the news making rounds that the first lady is hospitalised is a rumour. Saharareporters first blew the lid open on sunday tha Mrs. Jonathan was airlifted with an air-ambulance midweek to Germany. The online news agency also said that Dame Jonathan was being treated of food poisoning. Also, Presidential spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati debunked the rumour. Background story- Punch.

ABIA TO HOLD LGA ELECTION JANUARY 2013 Abia State governor Dr. Theodre Orji says the state will conduct the local government area polls in January next year. Gov. Orji told reporters that all political parties will be given a level-playing ground. He assured that the elections will be free and fair. He said the election will have to take place since the level of insecurity in the state has died down. The governor just returned from a controversial trip abroad. While many believe that the governor went for state functions, some say he went to visit his daughter who delivered a baby recently. Yet, others say he was held by foreign security agencies for some shady deals. But the governor insists that he met some investors who are willing to invest in the state.

PATIENCE JONATHAN HOSPITALIZED IN GERMANY FOR FOOD-POISONING Nigeria's first-lady Dame Patience Jonathan may be undergoing medical treatment in a german hospital, reports say. Saharareporters say the first-lady was airlifted lastweek to Germany by an air-ambulance. Mrs. Jonathan is said be receiving treatment over food-poisoning. Dame Patience has not been seen in the last few days in public functions. Presidency officials have refused to comment on the issue as reporters say none of the aides picked calls placed to them.

NIGERIA JAGAJAGA CROONER EEDRIS TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE TITLED 'OBASANJO NA MY FRIEND' Nigerian rap-king Eedris Abdulkareem who sang the hit-song 'Nigeria jagajaga' in 2004 is set to release a new single with the title 'Obasanjo na my friend' soon. Eedris made this known in his twitter handle while responding to Obasanjo's last Tuesday's attack on him for the song. General Olusegun Obasanjo had lastweek at a forum organised by the Nigeria Leadership Forum blasted Eedris again for singing that song, adding that Eedris does not believe in the future of Nigeria. Obasanjo had at the release of 'Nigeria jagajaga' in 2004 lambasted Eedris for the song saying that 'Na him papa jagajaga. Eedris said that Obasanjo should go on and make him popular. He also called Obasanjo a mugu.

VARSITY OFFERS COURSE ON MICHAEL JACKSON A university in the United States of America Clark-Atlanta is now offering a course on the late pop-singer Michael Jackson. The course, Michael Jackson- The business of Entertainment is targeted at students who wants to make something out of entertainment. The course will focus on Michael Jackson's life, business, tours amongst others.

RONALDHINO, FOOTBALL STAR NOT DEAD Earlier today, some foreign websites reported that Brazilian's Ronaldhino was dead. But reports say the news is unfounded as the Barcelona's star is hale and hearty. Few broadcast stations in Nigeria had also included the false news in their bulletin.

DRUG SUSPECT HIDES COCAINE IN ROASTED CHICKEN Drug-dealers are getting smarter by the day, but the 'smartness' of Vincent Chinweuwa couldn't deceive officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) as he was arrested at the Lagos Airport. He concealed 2.655kg of cocaine in roasted chicken. This was discovered during the inward clearance of passengers on a turkish airline from brazil. Vincent, an auto-technician said life has been unbearable for him since 2006 when he travelled to Brazil as he cant even visit his wife in Nigeria. The suspect will be charged to court according to the NDLEA.

NIGERIA WINS 3RD GOLD IN PARALYMPICS, SHATTERS WORLD RECORD Nigeria's quest for more medals gained momentum this afternoon as Esther Onyema won gold in Women's -48kg power lifting category making the medal count 3 golds and 2 silvers. Esther also broke world record. As at saturday afternoon, Nigeria is 8th on the medal table.

UBA DENIES $15 MILLION 'IBORI BRIBE' CASH Senator Andy Uba fingered by businessman Achigbu as the person he gave the $15 million to give former EFCC chairman Nuhu Ribadu has denied the accusation saying he merely allowed Ibori to use his house for the transaction. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu had accused former Delta State governor James Ibori as having attempted to bribe him in order to let go of money laundering charges against him(Ibori) by the EFCC in 2006. Ibori has since denied the claims. A federal high court has since declared that the owner of the money should come claim. Delta state government has laid claim to the cash until a businessman came up with his own story that the money was meant for the 2007 Presidential poll.

KILLER-PHONE NUMBER: POLICE DISMISS RUMOUR, ARREST MESSAGE ORIGINATOR The sms circulating in most parts of the country that the Boko Haram sect is using a particular phone to kill members of the public is all ruse, the Police has said. The Police said that the owner of the phone number and the originator(a boy) of the message have been arrested. People have been sending panic message urging their loved ones not to receive calls from a certain phone number. The message also claimed that so far the killer-number have killed 5 people in Kwara state, but the Police dismissed this.