COVENANT VARSITY SACKS 200 STUDENTS FOR NOT ATTENDING CHURCH SERVICE, SMOKING Authorities of Covenant University, Ota Ogun State has expelled about 200 students for violation of the institution's rules. According to Saturday Vanguard, about 126 students were expelled for not attending 'departure service', four were expelled for smoking marijuana while others were shown the out for other offences. The university authority has refused to comment on the story. Covenat varsity is known to be strict in terms of students' conduct and morality. The school does not allow students to use phone in the school premises.

FAMILY OF KOGI GOVERNOR SNEAKS HIM INTO PRIVATE HOSPITAL, MAY BE FLOWN ABROAD Injured Kogi State governor Idris Wada was yesteday sneaked into Cedar Crest Hospital in Abuja. While Doctors at the National Hospital Abuja waited for his arrival, Wada's family took him to the private hospital. The hospital is said to have the best of orthopaedic surgeons. Wada was involved in a road crash Friday at the Lokoja- Abuja Highway. His ADC died on the spot. The governor according to sources had his leg broken. Some hospitals abroad are being contacted for possible transfer of the governor. Source: PremiumTimes

GOVERNOR WADA FLOWN TO ABUJA, LEGS 'BROKEN' According to PremiumTimes, injured governor of Kogi State Idris Wada has been flown to Abuja by a helicopter. He was receiving treatment at the intensive care unit of Kogi state hospital after he was injured in a fatal motor accident where his ADC died. According to Doctors at the hospital, the governor had fractured femur but there is hope, one of them added. It was learnt also that the governor had broken thigh.

KOGI GOVERNOR INJURED IN ROAD CRASH, AS HIS ADC DIES Kogi State governor Idris Wada is at the intensive care unit of the Kogi State hospital after a fatal road accident that occured friday killing his ADC. Wada is said to be returning to Lokoja from a function in Anyingba.

NIGERIAN ARMY RETIRES 51 TOP OFFICERS The Nigerian Army has retired 51 top officers including 12 Major Generals, 24 Brigadier Generals and 15 Colonel. Director of Public Relations of the Army Brig. Gen Bola Koloeso said the retirement is line with the harmonised 'Terms and Conditions of Service of Officers, revised in 2012. Among those retired is Major. Gem M.D Isah, former Commander of Infantry school Jaji. The Army Council headed by President Goodluck Jonathan recently promoted 59 senior officers.

HOW OBASANJO'S MANSION WAS GUTTED BY FIRE A mansion belonging to former President Olusegun Obasanjo was gutted by fire today at Abeokuta. The fire started around 4:25pm. The incident was said to have been caused by a power surge. Obasanjo was said to have left the residence about 20 minutes before the fire started. He was said to have returned immediately. An enraged son of Obasanjo smashed a blackberry phone belonging to a reporter with PremiumTimes when the reporter tried to take photographs. Source: PremiumTimes

ONE DEAD, 40 INJURED AS EXPLOSION ROCKS LAGOS An explosion Wednesday rocked a building in the Idumota area of Lagos killing one person and injuring about fourty others. The explosion is believed to have been caused by bangers for sale packed in the building. The explosion affected about four buildings mainly 3-storey. NEMA has confirmed the story. Source: PremiumTimes

GUNMEN KILL PASTOR, 4 OTHERS IN CHRISTMAS EVE TRAGEDY According to Aljazeera, gunmen opened fire at a church in Peri near Potiskum Yobe state on Monday night killing the pastor and four others. A senior police official who craved anonymity confirmed the story to Aljazeera. No group has claimed responsibilty for the attack.

EFCC FINALLY ARRESTS WALE BABALAKIN The Economic and Financial Crimes Commision (EFCC) on Monday arrested Businessman Wale Babalakin after he has been on admission at LUTH. He was arrested at the premises of the hospital and taken to EFCC office in Ikeja. A source said he may be granted administrative bail before his arraignment on January 17th 2013. Source: Saharareporters

MANY KILLED, OTHERS INJURED AS GUNMAN OPENS FIRE Today at Bigi village in Bauchi state, a gunman opened fire on people killing many and injuring others. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the number of casualties has not been determined. The police confirmed the incident. Spokesman of the police Abbas Abdulahi said not all that were shot died. The victims have been taken to the University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi. The police said they will soon announce the casualty figure.

OUTRAGE OVER ANENIH'S APPOINTMENT AS NPA CHAIR Several groups and individuals have continued to condemn the appointment of former Works Minister Tony Anenih as chairman Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) by President Goodluck Jonathan. Anenih has been accused of squandering billions of naira when he held sway as Minister. Speaking to StanleyIbekuPage, Edmond Okwunalu, a good governance advocate slammed Jonathan over what he described as ' irresponsible appointment'. He called for the immediate withdrawal of the name of former BOT chair of PDP as NPA chair.

YAKOWA FOR BURIAL THURSDAY AS KADUNA DECLARES 7-DAY MOURNING The remains of the former Kaduna state governor Patrick Yakowa who died in the saturday doomed helicopter will be buried on thursday, according to the newly-sworn in governor Muktar Yero. Also Monday 17th December 2012 has been declared a work-free day and a one-week mourning was also declared by the state government. The mourning period started on Sunday. Also, the Bayelsa state government has declared a 7-day mourning for the late former NSA Andrew Azazi, former Kaduna state governor Patrick Yakowa and four others who died in the helicopter crash.

KADUNA NEW GOVERNOR TAKES THE OATH Following the death of the governor of Kaduna state Patrick Yakowa in a helicopter crash on saturday, his deputy Rahaman Yero was on Sunday afternoon sworn-in as the new governor. The state's Chief Judge Rahman Cudjoe administered the oath on him at the government house at about 1:10pm. The new governor eulogised his predecessor and promised to continue his programmes. He also condoled with the family of the late governor.

KADUNA DEPUTY GOVERNOR YERO, TO BE SWORN IN AS GOVERNOR SUNDAY Following the death of Kaduna state governor Patrick Yakowa yesteday in the doomed helicopter, his deputy Muhktar Ramalan Yero will be sworn in as governor Sunday morning. This is in line with the 1999 constitution. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that already security and protocols are being arranged for a smooth swearing in. Yero was born in 1969 in Zaria local government. He holds a B.sc in Accounting and Masters degree in Business Administration. He is a close ally of Vice president Sambo. He served as Kaduna State Commissioner for finance during Sambo's reign as governor before he was appointed deputy governor in 2010.

KADUNA GOVERNOR YAKOWA, EX-NSA AZAZI, OTHERS DEAD IN HELICOPTER CRASH Kaduna state governor Patrick Yakowa, former National Security Adviser Andrew Azazi and some other political figures whose identities have not yet been verified were reported to have died in a helicopter crash in Bayelsa state on saturday. They are said to be returning from the burial of the father of Oronto Douglas, an aide to President Jonathan. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said it has started rescue operation.

KADUNA GOVERNOR YAKOWA, EX-NSA AZAZI, OTHERS DEAD IN HELICOPTER CRASH Kaduna state governor Patrick Yakowa, former National Security Adviser Andrew Azazi and some other political figures whose identities have not yet been verified were reported to have died in a helicopter crash in Bayelsa state on saturday. They are said to be returning from the burial of the father of Oronto Douglas, an aide to President Jonathan. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said it has started rescue operation.

OKONJO-IWUALA'S MUM FREED Multiple sources say the kidnapped mother of Nigeria's Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iwuala Prof. Emene Okonjo has been freed by security forces in Delta state. As at the time of this post, it's not clear on how she was freed. It is also not clear if any ransom was paid or not. Prof. Okonjo was whisked away on Dec. 9 in front of her husband's palace while attending to her domestic workers.

OKONJO-IWUALA'S MUM KIDNAPPED The mother of Nigeria's Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Ngozi Okonjo-Iwuala was kidnapped at about 1:30 Sunday afternoon. The woman was whisked away in Audi car, witnesses say. 8 gunmen invaded the family house in Ogwashi ukwu, Delta state. Police say they have initiated manhunt for the kidnappers. Source: Premium Times

INEC DE-REGISTERS 28 POLITICAL PARTIES The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has de-registered 28 political parties. This was contained in a statement thursday night. The parties include Rev. Chris Okotie's Fresh Democratic Party, Peoples Redemption party, Action Party, Justice party, New Democrats, amongst others.

SULEJA BOMBERS WERE PROMISED 72 VIRGINS Suicide bombers who carried out attacks in Suleja and Madalla were promised 72 virgins each as reward. An Army officer (name witheld for security reasons) told a Federal High court in Abuja that the four suspects standing trial agreed to the terms. He said the evidence was contained in their cell phones.

ACTOR , ENEBELI ENEBUWA DIES AT 65 Nollywood's actor Enebeli Enebuwa is dead. He died at the age of 65. The actor died in an Indian hospital in New delhi. Enebuwa has been battling illness for long. He has been on admission in a hospital in Abuja before he was flown abroad for more attention.

NIGERIA IS 35TH MOST CORRUPT IN THE WORLD, SAYS TRANSPARENCY INTL 2012 REPORT Nigeria is the 35th most corrupt country in the world, according to the global corruption watchdog, Transparency International. In its 2012 report released at 6:00 am Wednesday, Nigeria scored 27 out of a maximum of 100 marks to clinch 139th position out of 176 countries. The country was rated 143rd in 2011. Togo, Benin, Mali and Niger faired better than Nigeria. Nigeria stinks in graft. The country is a haven for fraud and corruption. The oil subsidy largesse that has seen millions of dollars stolen. The pension scam and other cesspool of fraud. President Jonathan who is also enmeshed in the Malabu Oil scandal has shown enough committment in fighting the scourge that has made the country backward.

JTF IN GUN-FIGHT WITH BOKO HARAM Reports say members of the Joint Task Force (JTF) is battling with men suspected to be Boko Haram members in the troubled Maidugiri, the Borno state capital. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that troubled started in the Lagos street and Gwange area when the suspected terrorists detonated an explosive thereby attracting JTF men. As at 10:19 monday morning, the soldiers and the terrorists are battling in intense gun-fight. The casualty figure is unclear as at the time of this publication.

FUTO GRADUATES SHINE IN MEDIA AWARDS Inspite of their Technological and Engineering background, graduates of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) have continued to come tops in almost every sphere including journalism and media. Last night at the high brow Lekki area of lagos, two of FUTO graduates stood tall among their peers as the guests gave them standing ovation. It was at the annual NBC/COCA-COLA CAMPUSLIFE AWARDS FOR CAMPUS JOURNALIST. Former FUTO SUG PRO Gerald Nwokocha won the overall award- REPORTER OF THE YEAR. Gerald who just completed his NYSC programme beat other campus journalists to emerge the best. His story on 'JTF kills Corps member, mistakes him as Boko Haram member' fetched the prize. Gerald also won another award. His colleague Chisom Ojukwu who just graduated from the Chemical Engineering Department won for the best sports report. Chisom won Reporter of the year for last year. At the inception of the award last three years, Stanley Ibeku, publisher of StanleyIbekuPage who was then a student of FUTO won two awards and one award the next year. Others who won awards last night include Ngozi Emmanuel and Emeka Attah from Unizik. Gilbert Alasa, Uniben; Hannah Ojo, OAU.

TARABA GOVERNOR SUNTAI BRAIN-DAMAGED, CAN'T RECOGNISE VISITORS There are fears that Taraba State governor Danbaba Suntai who is hospilatised in a german hospital is brain-damaged and cant recognise visitors. Saharareporters scooped that a secret presidential team visited him in the hosipatl. Suntai was flown abroad for treatment after he piloted an aircraft that crashed near the Yola Airport on October 25th. It was learnt that a presidential team led by Senate President David Mark visited him. The team also include Kaduna state governor Ibrahim Yakowa, Jonathan's chief of staff Mike Ogiadohme, John Kennedy Opara and Venerable Obioma of the Presidential chapel. The team went for the installation of Cardinal John Onaiyekan at Vatican City but detoured to Germany to see the governor. The governor suffered much much brain damage. But officials of Taraba state government have repeatedly insisted that the governor is recuperating. Since the return of the presidential team to the country, the visitors have refused to comment on the state of health of the governor heighening speculations.

OJUKWU WILLED ESTATES, MONIES TO BIANCA, NEW DAUGHTER DISCOVERED Late Biafran warlord Ikemba Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu willed two of his estates and monies to his widow Bianca. Ojukwu's will was read friday at an Enugu High Court. He willed the Casabianca Estate in Enugu and in Jabi and Kuje areas in Abuja to Bianca. Bianca is also to assume trustee for his company. All these will be provided Bianca remained unmarried. Bianca who is Nigeria's ambassador to Spain welcomed the contents of the will. In the will, Ojukwu mentioned a new daughter Tenny wh he willed a hotel in Jos to. Ojukwu also shared other properties to his other children. None of the other of his children was in court during the reading of the will. Credit: NAN

EXPLOSION ROCKS KADUNA An explosion inside a military facility has been reported. The explosion occurred at the Armed Forces Command and Airforce College in Jaji Kaduna sunday. As at the time of this post, the casualty figure is unknown.

JONATHAN'S BROTHER DIES The presidency has confirmed the death of the half brother of President Goodluck Jonathan. Meni Jonathan died at the Aso Villa hospital at about 11:45am as he was to be taken to the National Hospital Abuja. Meni was the head of the Otueke Council of Chiefs. He flew in to Abuja last weekend from Bayelsa

FG REVOKES LAGOS-IBADAN EXPRESSWAY CONCESSION CONTRACT WITH BI-COURTNEY The federal government has revoked the concession agreement it entered with Bi-courtney on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Minister of Works Mike Onolemehen announced this today. He said the government had to take the action since the company has showed no enough committment to the project. He also said Julius Berger and RCC have been directed to commence work on the road. The minister said all legal implications of the revokation is being considered.

MY WIFE WAS ILL, SHE IS RECUPERATING- JONATHAN Speaking at the just concluded media chat, President Goodluck Jonathan said that his wife Patience was ill but she is recuperating. The president said this in response to a question. He said the wife joined him and others for church service sunday morning. His statement contradicts the earlier position of the presidency spokepersons who claimed that Dame Patience was taken to Germany for 'rest'.

NO DIALOGUE WITH BOKO HARAM, SAYS JONATHAN President Goodluck Jonathan has said that there is no dialogue going on between the government and the islamic sect Boko Haram. He stated this on the media chat. He said the sect is still 'faceless' and no one is speaking on their behalf.

IT'S TOO EARLY TO SAY IF I'LL CONTEST IN 2015- JONATHAN President Goodluck Jonathan has said that it's too early for him to announce if he will contest for 'second term' or not. He said that announcing such will heat the polity and generate debates. Besides he says the announcement will distract his government. The president said this at the media chat. He said Nigerians should wait till 2014 to know if he will contest again or not.

PRESIDENTIAL MEDIA CHAT HOLDS SUNDAY President Goodluck Jonathan will this sunday speak to Nigerians in the next presidential media chat. The programme will be aired live on the network services of the NTA and RadioNigeria. The programme starts by 7pm.

MTN'S AEROPLANE WINNER MAY EMERGE THURSDAY Barring any last minute change, the much advertised MTN aeroplane promo winner will be announced on thursday november 15th. The promo has generated a lot of controversies bordering on the authenticity of the prize- aeroplane. Most customers believe that the promo prize may not be real considering the prize. But MTN repeatedly assured the public of its sincererity. StanleyIbekuPage exclusively scooped that the GSM giant plans to annouce the winner on thursday. But a development that might change the plan is the ban on GSM operators by the NCC early this week that they stop all promos.

TRUCK DRIVER CRUSHES BARROW PUSHER, AS MOB LYNCHES DRIVER Another jungle justice occurred yesteday, this time in Owerri Imo state as a truck driver was lynched by a group of people after his truck crushed a wheelbarrow pusher whose eyes and other parts of his body splashed on the way. StanleyIbekuPage learnt the driver was reported to have made attempt to report himself to the police but the mob grabbed him and beat him mercilessly before he died. The incident happened at the ever-busy Douglas road.

BOKO HARAM KINGPIN ESCAPES FROM POLICE CUSTODY A Boko Haram kingpin Mohammed Sanni is reported to have escaped from police custody in Abuja. Sanni was reported to have escaped on wednesday night. But police spokesman Frank Mba in a telephone interview with AIT denied that anybody with such name exists in police custody and that nobody was missing. Sanni was arrested in january alongside with Kabiru Sokoto who escaped but was re-arrested.

US STATES APPROVE GAY MARRIAGE, MARIJUANA Voters in Colorado and Washington in the US approved the first statewide initiatives to legalise the recreational use of marijuana as Maine. Washington and Maryland became the first states to approve gay marriage by popular vote. Colorado governor John Hickenlooper said that 'the voters have spoken and we have to respect their will'

RAPISTS DEMAND N5 MILLION FROM VICTIM A middle-aged woman on monday told the police in Gwarinpa Abuja that her rapists are demanding that she pay them N5 million or they will make public the video shot when she was being raped. According to the woman, she boarded a taxi from Gwarinpa to Wuse. She said the driver sprayed an air freshner inside the car, and she woke up the next day in an uncompleted building after she has been raped. The rapists later sent her a copy of the video demanding that she pay in N5 million into an account in a new generation bank or that the video will be made public. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that the police is investigating the matter.

BOKO HARAM: WE DIDN'T KILL GEN. SHUWAH Islamist sect Boko Haram has said the group has nothing to do with the killing of a retired general over the weekend. Gen. Shuwah was killed on friday by unknown gunmen in Maidugiri Borno state. Mohammed Abdulazeez who says he is the spokesman of the sect in a telephone conference with journalists a while ago said they have nothing to do with the slain general.

CATHOLICS RETURN TO BOMBED KADUNA CHURCH In spite of last sunday's suicide attack at St. Rita's Catholic Church Kaduna, hundreds of worshippers trooped out today for sunday mass. A suicide bomber forced his way into the church last sunday killing some worshippers and injuring many when the bomb he was carrying detonated. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that some of the injured faithfuls came to the church with bandages in different parts of their bodies.

CPC REJECTS BUHARI'S APPOINTMENT BY BOKO HARAM Gen. Muhammadu Buhari's party, the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) has rejected his appointment as mediator for the Boko Haram in the proposed talk between the dreaded sect and the government. Boko Haram had on thursday announced its plans for talks with the government and named Buhari as its mediator.

BOKO HARAM OFFERS CEASEFIRE, NAMES BUHARI AS MEDIATOR Dreaded Islamic sect Boko Haram thursday evening offered ceasefire. The group is asking for dialogue with the federal government in order to stop their attacks. However, the group demands among others, the release of all it's detained members, the prosecution of former Borno state governor Ali Modu Sherif. The group named Former head of state Gen. Muhammadu Buhari as the head of their negotiation team. The group also wants the peace talks to hold in Saudi arabia. Credit: AIT

CHRIS UNIGWE WINS 2012 NLNG PRIZE FOR LITERATURE A Nigerian writer based in Belgium Chris Unigwe was today announced as the winner of the NLNG sponsored Nigeria Prize for Literature 2012. Her entry 'On black sisters street' beat other three books. She is to receive $100 thousand.

TARABA GOVERNOR NOT DEAD Contrary to earlier reports in the media that Taraba state governor Dambaba Suntai and five others died in a plane crash, the aviation ministry and the state government say the governor and others survived survived the incident. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that the governor will be flown abroad for treatment once he is stable to endure a plane trip.

GOVERNOR FEARED DEAD IN PLANE CRASH A northern governor is beleived to have died in a plane crash at the Yola Airport in Adamawa state. StanleyIbekuPage scooped from multiple reliable sources that the aircraft is a small plane and not a commercial one. One account says the governor was flying the plane himself. About 2 persons survived the crash.

POPE BENEDICT NAMES ONAIYEKAN AS CARDINAL Catholic pontiff Pope Benedict the sixteenth has named 8 new cardinals from around the world. In the list includes Nigeria's Archbishop John Onaiyekan. Onaiyekan is the archbishop of Abuja archdiocese. A statement from the Vatican confirmed this. Other new cardinals are from US, Lebanon, India, Phillipines, and Colombia.

SSS ARRESTS MAN WHO CAUSED BOMB HOAX ABOARD ARIK AIR The State Security Service (SSS) tuesday arrested a man Aminu Galadima who caused panic aboard an Abuja bound Arik Air aircraft. The aircraft took off from Maiduigiri, mid air, the man started acted strangely. He was said to have started shouting 'Allahu Akbar' which means God is great. On the suspicion that he may be a suicide bomber trying to blow up the aircraft, fellow passengers rushed and grabbed him. The pilot immediately radioed Airport security. The plane landed safely and the man was arrested by the SSS. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that nothing incriminating was found on him. A statement from the aviation ministry signed by the minister's media advicer Joe Obi dismissed that the man was a suicide bomber.

FG DECLARES THURSDAY, FRIDAY PUBLIC HOLIDAYS The federal government has declared thursday Oct. 25 and friday Oct. 26 public holidays to mark this year's El del Kabir. A statement from the ministry of interior signed by the permanent secretary Mrs. Nwaobia unbehalf of the minister Abba Moro on monday enjoins Nigerians to use the ocassion to pray for the nation.

BISHOP OYEDEPO ACCUSED OF EXPLOITING BRITISH WORSHIPPERS A british newspaper Mail on Sunday today published a report accusing Nigerian richest pastor and general overseer of Living Faith Worldwide also known as Winners chapel Bishop David Oyedepo of exploiting church members in the guise of donations and tithes. An undercover reporter posed as a member of the church and he was being issued slips alongside other church members, for payment of different donations. The church in Uk alone raked in about 16 million pounds through donations. Mail on Sunday wrote that Oyedepo owns private jets, Roll Royce Phantom and other stupendous properties.

ONDO GUBER: MIMIKO LEADING IN 12 LGAS Incumbent governor of Ondo state and Labour party's standard bearer for yesteday's gubernatorial election Olusegun Mimiko is leading in 12 out of the 18 local govt areas of the state. This fact is coming from citizen reporters and through results collated so far. StanleyIbekuPage learnt that the election was largely peaceful. Mimiko needs to win at least 11 Lgas to be declared winner.

FOUR CORPS MEMBERS DIE IN CALABAR Four members of the 2011 batch C NYSC programme died during the service year, StanleyIbekuPage has learnt. This was disclosed thursday by the Cross River State coordinator of NYSC Mrs. Nkeremeke at the passing out parade. She said out of 1,997 members posted to the state, 20 of them distinguished themselves and will receive the state awards.

FIRST LADY'S ARRIVAL: PDP WOMEN FLOOD AIRPORT Ahead of the arrival from Germany of the first lady Dame Patience Jonathan today, scores of PDP women and other party stalwarts are already at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. The women were conveyed in busses to the airport with some of them clutching posters and banners with the first lady 'praises' on them. Dame Patience has been in a german hospital since August for food poisoning cases although presidency officials say she is on 'rest'.

PETER RUFAI SLUMPS, HOSPITALISED Former Nigeria's goalkeeper Peter Rufai slumped at his office in lagos monday night. He was rushed to Toki hospital, off Adeniran Ogunsanya. A Tv journalist Kayode Tijani posted this in his facebook wall. Kayode said he was informed of the incident by Rufai's younger brother. Rufai lost his mother, Christiana lastweek and it is beleived that the unfortunate incident left him devastated. Peter Rufai played for Nigeria between 1983 and 1998.

FIRST LADY PATIENCE JONATHAN RETURNS FRIDAY Impeccable presidential source says ailing first lady Dame Patience Jonathan barring any last minute change of plans, will return to the country friday. The source told Saharareporters that an aircraft will be sent to Germany to fly back the first lady. Dame Jonathan has been away six weeks ago in a german specialist hospital. She is being treated of food poisoning even as the presidency has maintained that she went on a rest. Last saturday President Jonathan visited her in company of his two kids and vicars from the Presidential chapel. A three-minute video was released after the visit apparently to show that Dame Patience is hale and hearty.

BAKASSI GONE FOREVER With expiration of the deadline on tuesday for the appeal against the 2002 ICJ judgment ceding the Bakassi peninsular to Cameroun, the area has now been ceded completely to Cameroun. The Federal Government said, in a statement that the case would be lost if pursued. Attorney-general and minister of justice Mohammed Adoke said considering the time contraint, the case will not be in Nigeria's favour. Protests have greeted the government's decision not to appeal against the judgment. Hundreds of people stormed the national assembly on tuesday protesting the inaction of the government. It was learnt that the government had wide consultations with stakeholders before taking the decision.

UNIPORT KILLINGS: SCHOOL CLOSED, HOUSES BURNT AS PROTESTS CONTINUES Following the killing of four students of the University of PortHarcourt last friday and the violent protests by students of the school tuesday, the university senate has announced the closure of the school indefinitely. Students were asked to vacate immediately. The students were said to have been beaten and burnt alive on allegation that they are robbers. The villagers of Aluu community, one of the communities close to the campus accused them of stealing laptops, phones and terrorising the community. The jungle justice has since triggerred anger and rage in the country as the video of the gruesome execution has since been uploaded on the internet.

WE DIDN'T KILL STUDENTS IN MUBI, SAYS BOKO HARAM Islamic sect Boko Haram tuesday denied murdering over 40 students in Mubi, Adamawa state last week. A man who claimed to be a senior member of the group told PREMIUM TIMES, an online news portal that the group was not responsible for the attacks. Over fourty students were massacred last week monday in Mubi area. While some were shot, others were slaughtered with some having their throats slit, according to witnesses. Boko Haram says it has nothing with the students adding that if they wanted they would have attacked school buildings and properties not the students.

JONATHAN DONATES N17 BILLION TO FLOOD VICTIMS In a national broadcast tuesday morning, President Goodluck Jonathan donated N17 billion to states affected by flood. The president assured the victims that the government will do everything in its power to ameliorate their sufferings. The states were categorised. Some will recieve N500 million, some N400 million while others will get N3000000, N2500000 and N2000000 respectively. Already, about 147 people have perished while some others especially farmers committed suicide as a result of the floods.

MARTINS OLOJA APPOINTED ACTING EDITOR OF THE GUARDIAN

One of the nation's best journalists, Martins Oloja was on friday named the acting editor of  Nigeria's most influential nespaper- The Guardian by the Board of Directors of the company. Oloja was before now the paper's Abuja bureau-Chief. He will be taking over from Debo Adesina who has been the newspaper's editor for 14 years.
Oloja is a product of the University of Lagos. He is a former Bureau-Chief of Abuja's premier newspaper- ''Abuja Newsday'' where he rose as the editor.

GUNMEN KILL 35 POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS Unknown gunmen monday night invaded off-campus residences at the Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa state killing about 35 people suspected to be students of the polytechnic. As at the publishing of this report the school is yet to make statement. No group has claimed responsibilty of the gruesome attack. Emergency and security agencies have been mobilised to the scenes of the incident. Source: Saharareporters.

BOKO HARAM DECLARES WAR ON EMIRS, GOVERNORS, NORTHERN LEADERS The dreaded islamic sect Boko Haram has declared war on Emirs, northern governors and other leaders from the northern extraction. In a video posted on Youtube, the group said the leaders have messed up and so will be visited. The message was delivered in Hausa language. The group acknowledged that their members have been killed by security agencies. They specifically mentioned that JTF has targeted their female members, the group therefore vowed to attack female members of the security agencies. The group also debunked the allegation that their spokesman Abu Qaga was killed by the JTF. In the video, they said Abu Qaga is alive and so also members of the sect's leadership.

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.

ASSAULT ON PHOTO-JOURNALIST: SUSPECT ARRAIGNED IN COURT Mr. Abiola the mortuary attendant at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital(LASUTH) who assaulted Benedict Uwalaka, a photo-journalist with Leadership Newspapers on August 9 while covering the release of the bodies of The Dana plane crash was today arraigned before a magistrate court in Lagos. The accused was however granted bail. Journalists in Lagos had enbarked on protest match against the growing harassment of some of their colleagues.

NIGERIA TO PLAY USA IN FIFA WOMEN'S SEMI-FINALS The Falconets will on tuesday play the USA in the on-going FIFA World Cup competition. USA friday afternoon beat Korea 2-1 to qualify for the semi-finals. The coming match is considered crucial as Nigeria's bid to play the finals of the competition rests largely on the outing.

ANAMBRA NOW NIGERIA'S 10TH OIL-PRODUCING STATE Anambra State yesteday was proclaimed an oil-bearing state by the Federal Government of Nigeria. At the inauguration of Orient Petroleum facility at Aguleri President Goodluck Jonathan decried the over-dependence of the nation's income on oil and harped on the need to diversify with a special eye on Agriculture. Orient Petroleum is also building a refinery which will help reduce the importation of refined petroleum products into the country.

SSS'S SECRET DETAILS LEAKED, POSTED ON FOREGIN WEBSITES There is palpable tension in Nigeria's Secret Service agency the State Security Service(SSS) as details of the agency's personnel have been posted in some foreign websites. The details include names, addresses, bank details of both sreving and retired members of the agency. The Boko Haram sect is being suspected to have had hand in the case.

PROF. BARTH NNAJI DIDN'T COMMIT ANY OFFENCE- JONATHAN. President Goodluck Jonathan personally spoke on why Power Minister Prof. Barth Nnaji lost his job. The president said that 'Prof. Nnaji didnt commit any offence'. He remarked that Nnaji is a world-class professional and professor of Robotic Engineering. Dr. Jonathan spoke at the town hall meeting in Onitsha Anambra state as part of his one-day visit to the state. He said since the country is privatizing credibility neede to be ensured. 'For credibility to be ensured, someone has to go, he added. He assured that another competent person will be appointed as power minister.

ANAMBRA GOVERNOR OBI IN BREWERY SCANDAL Anambra State governor Peter Obi is enmeshed in a brewery-ownership scandal. The governor is accused by a former House of Representives member Chudi Offodile of having a substantial shares in a company that partnered Sabmiller company of SouthAfrica in building the Sabmiller Breweries due for commissioning in Anambra State today by President Goodluck Jonathan. Offodile said the governor owns the company and that he(Obi) used State's funds to finance the project. Governor Obi said that he had resigned as a Director in the said company prior to his electioneering campaign. Offodile called for the governor's resignation. President Goodluck Jonathan is due in Anambra state thursday 30th August 2012 for a one-day visit where he is expected to commision both government and private projects.

FALCONETS BEAT MEXICO In a match considered tough, Nigeria's female football team the Falconets Thursday morning beat the Mexican team 1-0 in the on-going FIFA Womens' Cup. Gloria Oparanozie scored the goal at the 109th minute. Nigeria is now through to the last four of the competition.

SENEGAL'S PRESIDENT WANTS SENATE SCRAPPED, AND MONEY DIVERTED TO FIGHTING FLOODING Senegal's President Marky Sall Wednesday advocated the scrapping of the country's Legislative arm The Senate. He wants the money-about 12 million Euros- budgeted for the Senate to used to check flooding in some parts of the country. Mr. Sall was on an official visit to South africa when he was informed that flood has ravaged some parts of his country. The Senate of that country is yet to comment on Mr. President's statement. There may be clash between the lawmakers and the President over the comment.

BANK MANAGER KIDNAPPED IN ANAMBRA A bank manager Mr. Tochukwu Nnadi was Wednesday morning whisked away by suspected kidnappers at Iyiagu Estate in Awka the Anambra state capital. The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the incident happened at about 7:30 am. The manager was kidnappped as soon as he arrived his office. Men wielding guns were already waiting for him at his office building in Chrysler and Honda Civic cars. As at press time, no contact has been made with the kidnappers and the Police says the matter has not been reported. President Goodluck Jonathan is due for a one-day official visit to the state on thursday 30th August 2012.

SINGER FLAVOUR IN PLAGIARISM MESS, DRAGGED TO COURT. Nabania crooner Chined Okoli popularly called Flavour is in deep crisis as he has been accused of stealing intellectual property. Ghananian's musical duo Wutah said Flavour stole virtually all the contents of their 2008 hit Wutah. Flavour was said to have used their work in his new single korikpo(?).

HOW JONATHAN FORCED MINISTER OF POWER BARTH NNAJI TO RESIGN! The resignation of the minister of power Prof. Barth Nnaji yesteday was influenced by the president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. Prof. Nnaji told Thisday that he had met Mr. President tuesday afternoon when he(the president) told him that his link to some of the companies participating in the bidding of the successor companies of the PHCN is a setback to the privatization processes. Nnaji said after the meeting he decided to resign. Prof. Barth said he had earlier informed the president that he has power companies and that he had resigned his appointment and sold his shares to a blind trust in Geometric Power- a company he has shares. It was learnt that companies linked to Prof. Nnaji submitted bids to buy Afam Power plant-one of the most viable- and Eastern distribution.

MINISTER OF POWER BARTH NNAJI RESIGNS! Professor Barth Nnaji who was untill tuesday 28th August 2012 minister of Power resigned his appointment. According to a statement by Presidential spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati, the president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan accepted the resignation and thanked him for his services. No reason was given for the resignation. Prof. Nnaji has been under pressure lately as he has been having running battle with staff of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), they accused him of not paying them the correct amount of their severance benefits. They also alleged that the minister toyed with some power contracts.

PSQUARE, BEZ, WIZKID, DAVIDO OTHERS TOP 2012 HEADIES AWARDS! Sensational pop crooners Peter and Paul Okoye popularly called Psquare alongside Bez had the highest nominations(6 each) in the Hip Hop Music Award- the headies 2012 sheduled for Eko Hotel and Suites Victoria Island Lagos on October 20 2012. Other singers who had more nominations include Whizkid, Davido, D-banj. The event will be hosted by MI and Omawumi.

DROGBA, ANELKA IN TROUBLE AS CHINESE CLUB PLANS TO SELL THEM. For the two great footballers, this may not be the best of time for them as their club Shenshua of China plans to sell them. Drogba moved from Chelsea just last month. No reason has been given yet on why the club want to sell them.

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Senate Rejects N5000 Note! The senate yesteday rejected the introduction of the N5000 note by the CBN.

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