Who are we to judge what is normal and what is odd. Well, let’s just say we’ve seen a lot of weird stuff. “Odd” is a mild term to describe the 17 strange and unusual couples we collected on this list.
A woman dating a shorter man, or a man marrying someone ten years his senior – those are all children play compared to the unique stories you are about to read. Prepare to send all your taboos to the recycle bin and embrace the odd reality of our foul century.
Of course, you should always look at the bright side. This article can also appear as a celebration of love conquering all obstacles and bringing people together despite the obvious differences.

We do warn you! Don’t attempt what you’ve seen unless you are comfortable with people talking nasty things about you and laughing in your face.
1.Sultan Kösen and Merve Dibo

When the tallest man in the world gets married, you can bet we are talking about an odd couple.
Sultan Kösen holds the Guinness World record for the world’s tallest man, standing a phenomenal 251 cm above the ground, Sultan probably had a hard time finding a woman like him, and eventually settled with someone enjoying the air richer in oxygen found at lower levels in the atmosphere.
Merve was introduced to Sultan through a mutual friend and love quickly led to the walk down the aisle. Merve is just 1.75 m tall, and the two look indeed odd together.
At this point, it helps to add that despite his stature Sultan was a shy man who always ended up scaring the women in his life. Things became easier for him once Guinness offered him the title. We wish them the best!

2.Maria, Paul and … Peter

Ever wondered if three-wheeled relationships have a shot at survival on the long term?
Just take a look at Maria and the two men with who she shares her life. The setup is unusual because it did not sparkle the expected rivalry and drama.
The lover and the husband accept each other around the house and details what happens in the bedroom are kept private. Could this be the solution many desperate love triangles seek?
Although heartbreaking for the children at first, they did learn to accept their mother’s inability to choose between the two men. You could see they are one big happy family now.

3.Amy Wolfe and 1001 Nacht

Stop right there! We are not talking nasty bedroom details here. Amy’s unusual love interest is a rollercoaster called 1001 Nachts (nights), for which she fell after riding a record 3,000 times.
How is that even remotely possible? Scientists say “yes, ” and they even have a name for it – objectum sexuality. Amy was most likely a child that faced difficulties while trying to get along with the others, not to mention finding a romantic partner. The ride offered her thrills never experienced before, thus explaining the unnatural connexion.
How is Amy cherishing her love? She has a photo of the fairground ride on her bedroom wall and keeps nuts and screws close by. Amy even contacted Park management and proposed.
4.Sanele and Helen


Look no further than Africa for the next couple that defies all taboos the modern world has regarding romantic relationships. Not only did the marriage was arranged and paid for, but it took place before the eyes of the real husband.
8-year-old Sanele married 61-year-old Helen in a ceremony that went by the book. The two exchanged rings and even shared a kiss, all under the eyes of Helen’s man.
The boy wanted the ceremony to be a way of cherishing and pleasing his ancestors. Don’t even attempt to understand the backbone of this tradition. South Africans might have imported the white wedding ceremony, but their tribal beliefs still thrive.
5.Mangli and Sheru

This poor 18-year-old from Eastern India listened to the village elders and married a stray dog. What’s the explanation behind this strange and unusual human-canine union?
The superstitious folks of rural India were convinced an evil spirit possessed young Mangli and that her first husband will get to suffer. Sheru’s role was to perform a cleansing and prepare her for a real marriage.
Just imagine being a tourist visiting the village while the ceremony was well underway. Your gut feeling would be to run away as quick as possible and don’t look back. Or would you stay, hoping that a Bollywood-like scenario is seconds away from unfolding?
Let’s recap the reasons that make such a marriage not a bad idea. Dogs never cheat and don’t spend the nights down at the local pub. On the other hand, all that they can provide for the family are bones and the occasional dead cat.

6.Jayla Cooper and Jose Griggs

What happens when the doctors give you only a couple of weeks left to live, and you still didn’t start chasing your biggest dreams?
When 9-year-old Jayla Cooper was diagnosed with leukemia in a terminal phase, her biggest regret was that she would never get to wear a white dress and go down the aisle. However, her family walked all the needed miles to make that dream come true.
The hardest part about staging a wedding is finding a groom ready to play his role. During her stay at the Children’s Medical Hospital in Dallas, Jayla befriended Jose Griggs, a kid whose battle with leukemia went the other way.
At this point, it needs to be said that the state of Texas allows marriage with parental consent for teenagers older than 14. That’s why the union between Jayla and Jose was merely symbolical.
7.Zatera and Calvin Spencer

Zatera and Calvin Spencer form the luckiest couple in the history of humanity.
Winning the lottery and enjoying a care-free stroll through life is everyone’s biggest dream. This couple bought a winning ticket three times in just under one month.
Yep, you heard right. Ms. and Mr. Spencer did not settle with winning $1 million in the Virginia Powerball lottery. They kept on playing, and luck smiled back at them again.
A modest sum of $50,000 followed by another million made them confident they can join guys like Bill Gates at the top of the table without doing something revolutionary.
Nevertheless, one should remember all the incredible stories of those who won the lottery in the past and lost the money afterward. “We’re not finished yet.” are the exact words with which the Spencers announced they are not yet ready to give up the habit of picking numbers.
Let’s just hope they don’t spend all their money chasing what most experts consider mathematically impossible to happen.

8.Liu Ye and Liu Ye

You might be over-obsessed with your person and still be light years away from what Liu Ye did.
The 43-year-old Chinese from Zhuhai married himself in a ceremony that raises a couple of interesting paradoxes.
The ceremony in which he “exchanged vows” with a cardboard copy of himself wearing a traditional Chinese wedding gown might be the most absurd thing ever.
Do you count as gay if you marry yourself? How did the Chinese Communist government allow such an abomination to ruin the country’s reputation as extremely ethical and conservative?
“There are many reasons for marrying myself, but mainly to express my dissatisfaction with reality. This marriage makes me whole again.” That was Liu’s toast held in front of 100 guests. 

Source: Pocket news

I love 'Black Panther', But We Need To Also Support Our Own - American Popular Actress

Nollywood popular actress, Belinda Effah, shares her thoughts about the world trending movie "Black Planter", affirming that the movie is indeed good, but it would be good if the same support it received is given to Nollywood movies.

Read her post below;


thomasloaded.com

In our young-and-sexy obsessed society, it has become all too easy to overlook the beauty and glamour of those who are aging gracefully.
So while Hollywood is busy air-brushing, botoxing and face-lifting in a vain attempt to hold back the inevitable march of time, this Russian modelling agency has decided instead to embrace the beauty of ageing in a series of gorgeous photos.
Appropriately named Oldushka, the agency represents models from the age of 45 and above, going up to 85 in some cases. While the fashion industry finally seems to be getting to grips with diversity in model sizes and ethnicity, age is the next barrier to be broken down.

The agency was born from photographer Igor Gavar’s project of capturing the style of retirees for his blog, also called Oldushka. The vast majority of the models on their books are over 60, with only the male model, Sergey, coming in at a youthful 45. “I signed him because he is older than he looks,” Gavar told Vogue in an interview.
Oldushka’s older models are getting plenty of work in Russia, appearing in more mainstream catalogues and advertising campaigns, and bringing a whole new generation into the fashion industry. Will it inspire other countries to do likewise and embrace the glamorous side of ageing? Let’s see shall we.
Scroll down below to see the gorgeous photos for yourself, and let us know what you think in the comments!

1. Sergey Arctica (45 Years Old) And Valentina Yasen

2.Irina Belisheva, 70 Years Old

3.Tatjana Nekliudova, 61 Years Old

4.Victor Sosnovtsev, 73 Years Old

5.Valentina Yasen, 62 Years Old

6.Tatjana Nekliudova, 61 Years Old

7.Sergey Arctica, 45 Years Old

8.Irina Belisheva, 70 Years Old


Source: Pocket News

Popular Boxer Dies Just After Winning A Fight (Photo)

British boxer Scott Westgarth died after being rushed to hospital in the aftermath of his points victory over Dec Spelman in Doncaster on Saturday. 

It was gathered that Westgarth looked uncomfortable as he was interviewed ringside after his points victory over Dec Spelman in Doncaster and was taken to hospital, having deteriorated backstage.

The 31-year-old who had been chasing an English title fight died in Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Westgarth ‘s previous record was six wins, two losses and a draw.

Stefy Bull, Westgarth’s promoter, who confimed the incident, wrote on social media on Monday “God bless Scott Westgarth. To promote a boxing show and a young man doing a job he loves losing his life, I have no words.”

Spelman also reacted to the news, saying “absolutely heartbroken and lost for words: all continue to pray for Scott’s family and the people close to him: rest easy my friend.”

thomasloaded.com

Have you ever encountered men with very strange models of behavior? It’s like they were designed in a secret male laboratory to confuse girls.
This is not going to continue for much longer because we have found out the truth and is going to share it with you.

10. He’s been away for months, and then he returns as if nothing happened.

What happened: He wrote to you or called you after being silent for a long time.
What you think it means: He was too busy and had no time to write to me. He was kidnapped and only escaped this morning. Or he was imprisoned, but he was innocent. And, of course, he used every minute he had to think about me.
What it really means: He is wondering if you are still alive and if you still love him.

9. He starts a conversation, but he doesn’t support it.

What happened: He starts a conversation, and then he disappears.
What you think it means: He has some urgent business to attend to. His battery died. He was abducted by aliens. A bird was flying by and stole his phone. But he most definitely wanted to talk to me.
What it really means: He just wanted to remind you of himself in case you are in a good mood and you have forgotten the past.
8. He doesn’t try to continue communication offline.


What happened: You have been in an online conversation for a long time, but he still hasn’t suggested a meeting.
What you think it means: He is very modest, and he is scared of me saying “no.” He is scared of his own feelings. He is not ready to meet such a wonderful girl. But he will definitely ask me on a date later.
What it really means: He doesn’t want to invite you. He just needs to talk…but not in real life.
7. He uses you in his elaborate schemes.


What happened: You had a great time together, and he suddenly disappeared.
What you think it means: He needs some more time to accept the fact that he now has a treasure like me. He is testing my patience. He has problems at work, and he has no time for love right now. But tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or some other day, everything will be good between us.
What it really means: He is not interested in you as a constant partner.
6. He wants to be a competitor for other guys who are interested in you.

 

What happened: He appears only in those moments when some other guy is interested in you.
What you think it means: He is jealous. Things are going to be different from now on. He has finally realized that there are other men who are interested in me, so now he will be scared of losing me.
What it really means: He needs constant competition. A relationship without it is just not interesting to him.


5. He is looking for a “special” relationship…but not love.



What happened: He suggested staying friends, but he keeps flirting anyway.
What you think it means: He hasn’t realized that he is in love with me. He is afraid of me saying “no.” He can’t resist my charms. He thinks we should become good friends first before we have a romantic relationship.
What it really means: He clearly understands that you are in love with him. And as long as it’s fun for him, he will play along. But he will soon be bored, or maybe he’ll get a girlfriend and won’t need you anymore.


4. He doesn’t spend enough time on you, and he only comes to you when he needs to.



What happened: You meet occasionally after work.
What you think it means: He is so busy. The only free hour he has he spends on a romantic meeting with me. It’s so nice. Sometimes, he even spends the night even though he could go home. Well, I get it. He is so exhausted that he just can’t go home.
What it really means: It’s very convenient for him to have a constant sex partner. But soon, he will have a relationship and a real girlfriend, and his job will suddenly not be as important as it is right now. And you will just ask yourself, “WHY?!”

3. He doesn’t introduce you to his family or friends.



 What happened: You are kind of a couple, but you rarely see his family or friends. Or maybe you don’t know them at all. You spend all the important holidays separately.

What you think it means: He doesn’t want to embarrass me. He is very close with his friends and family, which is why he spends more time with them than with me. He is worried that I might not like them.
What it really means: You don’t matter to him as much as his friends and family do. He doesn’t want them to think that you are his girlfriend or, even worse, his bride. It’s because he doesn’t see you that way.

2. He acts like a friend.



What happened: You communicate online all the time. You see each other often because you know the same people. You have a good time together, but there is nothing romantic about it.
What you think it means: He loves me, but the wounds he got in his previous relationship have not healed yet, so he doesn’t want to push it. I will be his best friend, and then he’ll understand that he loves me.
What it really means: You are a great friend, and it’s nice being with you. But you are not his girlfriend. You are nothing more than just a friend.

1. He doesn’t want to discuss your future together, and he doesn’t want any changes.



What happened: When you try to talk about your future, he becomes very mysterious and gets very angry. And sometimes, he simply says, “I don’t know.”
What you think it means: He is not used to the fact that our relationship is very serious. He wants to propose to me so that it’s a surprise. However, he has some financial troubles, and he doesn’t want me to have them on my shoulders. When he fixes those problems, we will get married.
What it really means: You don’t seem to be the best candidate for his wife and the mother of his children. He likes the way things are between you right now, but he doesn’t want anything more. He doesn’t want to talk about the future because he doesn’t want to change anything.

Can you add any other examples of very strange behavior of men that confuses you a lot? Tell us in the comment section below!  

Source: Pocket News

Aside how to behave during a first date, the issue of how to pay for the outing generates quite a lot of debate.
When men used to pay
For such a long time, it was men who picked up the tabs after first dates. They did so that first time and on virtually every date afterwards.

In that traditional outlook, it did not matter who asked for the date or who extended the invite, the man would always pay. That was the realm older generations operated in.
In this generation and time of the progressive, forward-thinking millennial, there is now an overwhelming support of the idea that he who initiates or asks for the date should pay.
While this sounds like a departure from the norm, there’s really not much difference in practice.
This is because the rising frequency of women shooting their shots, it is guys who ask for dates most of the times, so it is they who fund the fun.
One major problem that has arisen from allowing men pay for dates is the entitlement to sexual benefits
And it is in order to not foster the continuity of this culture that every self-respecting woman needs to really become ready to pick up their own tabs. It should not matter who asked for the date.
Why women should pay for dates

Many guys offer women dates and have no qualms paying. However, they do so with an implied, unsaid condition that some favour – mostly sexual – will be exchanged for the date.
Remember Twitter’s finest, Pablo Ayodeji, whose name everyone sang for days when he trended during the #KeepTheChangeBae wahala in 2017.
The Twitter user, embattled till date, had taken another Twitter user on a date in March 2017, and became angry when the lady turned down his offer for a relationship.

Pablo Ayodeji went on an angry rant after spending #3800 on his date with another Twitter babe in 2017. (Twitter/Pablo Ayodeji )
In that instance, he had hoped to exchange the date for a relationship. In many other cases, it is sex that guys expect after paying for a date. It does not matter that it was expensive or as cheap as #3800.
If there’s any reason why women should offer, and maybe insist on paying for your own food or drinks on first dates, it is to avoid this type of awkward situation.

And it is not enough to just make a show of trying to get your purse, hoping to hear the guy say “don’t bother.”
You should genuinely come prepared with vex money even if the guy had given his word that he’d pay.

Besides, first dates are usually about knowing each other and just getting conversations going.
It does not hurt to give off the first impression of a self-sufficient woman.
That way, the guy gets to know that making yourself available for that date and pursuing that friendship is a well-thought choice, not some hunger-driven endeavour.
While it’s difficult to say no to free stuff and most women just genuinely want to be spoilt [no problem with this to be honest], never forget that there’ll actually be time for other dates if that first one goes well.

There’ll likely be enough opportunities for him to spoil you rotten.
That first time though, let the tone be set, and quite emphatically, that while you appreciate and even delight in your men doing stuff for you and pampering you silly, you can quite do them on your own without a man’s largesse.
That doesn’t sound like a bad idea now, does it? 

Source: Pocket News

6 Honest Illustrations About What It Means to Be Married

Yehuda Devir, an artist from Israel, gets inspired by family life. He draws amazing pictures about his wife, and they are full of love and wonderful humor.
We collected the best works of this artist. Just look at them — you will probably recognize yourself in these comic pictures.

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Eaglees news

Quote:I Built My Hotel With Funds Diverted From Nigerian Maritime Agency - Ex-Acting Director General


A former Acting Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Calistus Obi, on Monday admitted that part of the N331million belonging to the agency which he was alleged to have diverted was used to build an hotel.

He made the revelation during his cross-examination at his on-going trial over the before Justice Mojisola Olatoregun of a Federal High Court in Lagos.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had on April 12, 2016, arraigned Obi, alongside one, Alu Dismas, a former personal assistant to the immediate past DG of NIMASA, Patrick Akpobolokemi, and two firms, before the court on an 8-count charge of converting N331 million belonging to agency for personal use.


Calistus Nwabueze
The two firms involved are: Grand Pact Limited and Global Sea Investment.

While being cross-examined by the EFCC's lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, the witness, who was also a former NIMASA Executive Director, Maritime Labor and Cabotage Service, disclosed that he transferred part of the diverted money to a firm known as Seastroke International, which built an hotel for him in Asaba, Delta state.

He however claimed he has refunded the money when asked to do so by the EFCC.

"I used part of the money to build my hotel constructed by Seastroke International. But the money has since been refunded to the EFCC.

"The hotel is located somewhere in Asaba, Delta state. I can't recollect the address now. The building is completed and is already functioning. The title document of the hotel is being processed, but I have the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and I can produce it before the court", he said.

At this juncture, Obi's lawyer, Wale Akoni (SAN) expressed his disapproval of Oyedepo's questioning his client about the title document of the hotel.

He said: "My lord, I am opposed to this line of questioning by the prosecution's lawyer. The ownership of the hotel is not an issue in these proceedings. The prosecution is only trying to device means of seizing the title document through the back door".

In his response, EFCC's lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, urged the court to allow him continue with his enquiry about the hotel saying the witness had already admitted deploying part of the allegedly diverted money to building it.

"The witness has admitted that part of the funds allegedly diverted by him was used in building the hotel that is now functioning. At the end of this case, the law as it stands today empowers my lord to forfeit property acquired with proceeds of unlawful activity.

"Section 30 of the EFCC's Act empowers the court to forfeits proceeds of unlawful activity. I urge the court to allow us ask questions that will lead to the recovery of the title document so that it can form part of the court's record", Oyedepo said.

In a bench ruling, the court while dismissing Akoni's objections held that "the questions asked on the title document is in order and the issue of the EFCC trying to forcefully seize it does not arise".

Further hearing in the matter has been adjourned to March 7 by 12noon.

In the charge marked FHC/L/148C/16, the accused persons were said to have committed the offence on August 5, 2014.

They were said to have conspired to convert the said sum which is the property of NIMASA, and knowing same to be proceeds of stealing.

The offence is said to be contravention of the provisions of Sections 15 and 18(a) of the Money Laundering Prohibition (Amendment) Act, 2012.

Quote:Shortly after Big Brother Naija housemate, Teddy A told Ebuka during the live show on Sunday that no one in the house can stop what he feels for BamBam, the couple have been captured on camera exploring different styles of sex.

Before now the couple have just been getting kisses from each other before fellow housemates and also under the duvet, however they decided to get some sugar where no one will be watching. Here's the video that captured the moment.

Well our dear BamBam on the other hand, is a church girl.

She is a very committed church worker at Revival House Of Glory International Church.

Quote:
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been spotted by security agents in Ghana, TheCable understands.

There has been controversy over the whereabouts of the IPOB leader who was last seen in public in September 2017 before the military launched Operation Python Dance II — apparently to quell the agitation for the breakaway of south-eastern Nigeria.

Since the military raided his home in Aba, Abia state, there has been speculation that he was arrested and might have been killed.

At some point, Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia state, said Kanu was in London.

His court trial for treason has stalled and Enyinnaya Abaribe, the senator who served as Kanu’s surety when he was granted bail after spending 18 months in detention, has sought to be discharged from the obligation after his disappearance.

However, security sources have informed TheCable that Kanu was ferried to the Niger Delta creeks by militants at the height of Python Dance II, from where he found his way to Ghana by sea.

He is regularly seen at Kenzo Bar and IBG saloon in Accra, disguised in fez cap and usually in company with his wife, Uchechi.

Kanu is said to live at an area called Cantonment, also in Accra, at an estate called “Arabella”.

He regularly patronises suya joints in remote parts of the city, according to the sources.

If confirmed, this will lay to rest speculations on the fate of the IPOB leader.

His brother once asked the military to release his “dead body” if he had been killed.

*Threaten operatives with weapons, threw stones at them 
*It’s a lie; rampaging NSCDC men shot a vigilante member – Youth leader
By Emem Idio

IKARAMA- THE  shooting of a  neighbourhood watch member at Ikarama community,   Yenagoa Local Government Area,   Bayelsa  State,   allegedly by men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, last Tuesday, is generating   controversy in the state.
NSCDC
While some persons in the community claim that NSCDC operative shot a vigilante member, the state Commandant, Mr. Godwin Nwachukwu, said his men neither shot nor injured anybody, adding that oil thieves destroyed a bridge leading to the community to evade arrest.
Report indicated the Anti-Vandal team of NSCDC had gone to the community in search of a suspected oil vandal, but arrested a female suspect in his stead, while a local vigilante member, Perekurofa Odoyibo, was shot in an ensuing commotion between security agents and his group.
The victim supposedly shot on the arm and leg, according to the report, was in a critical condition at an undisclosed hospital in the state capital.
Wife bemoans
His wife, Mrs Rebecca Odoyibo, lamented:   “Look at what they did to my husband who volunteered for the community vigilante work, he is there in pains and we lack the resources offset his hospital bills.”
How they shot vigilante
Narrating what transpired, a youth leader, Mr. Ben Warder said:  “The local vigilante team noticed the NSCDC van at about 3.00 am and was trying to find out why they had to take away a nursing mother with children over an offence purportedly committed by the husband.”
“They shot one of them and sped off with the woman. They came from the oil field in Ikarama, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, and that is why the youths mobilized and blocked the road to the Okordia manifold.
“The youths subsequently mobilized to protest the use of security men to molest oil communities; this is because we learnt that the arrest is linked to an oil spill incident,” he asserted.
I’m not a pipeline vandal- Suspect
However, Mr. Orukari Udoji, the suspect whose wife, Deborah, was arrested and later released by operatives of the NSCDC, denied any involvement in pipeline vandalism.
He said: “I was out in the forest for my timber lumbering work when men of NSCDC stormed my residence and took away my wife. I am at a loss on what to do because I do not even have idea of where they took her to, and as we speak I do not even have money to pay transport to go in search of her.”
“Everybody in this community knows that I do timber work and by the time they came, I was in the forest working and they claimed that there was oil spill in the bush near where I felled some timber.”
It’s unfortunate – Traditional head
Traditional head of Ikarama community, Chief Richard Seiba, told our reporter:   “What the Civil Defence people did was regrettable, they shot the boy twice on the arm and leg, I have just visited him and he is in pains and is currently receiving medical attention.”
Ikarama notorious for oil theft – NSCDC commandant
Reacting to the hullabaloo generated by operations of his men, the state Commandant,  Mr. Godwin Nwachukwu, stated:”Ikarama is notorious for oil theft and pipeline vandalism and the syndicate has always adopted devilish strategies to frustrate the efforts of NSCDC to stop their practices. Despite all the antics of these evil merchants, we have continuously remained resolute to ensure an end to this economic crime.”
“Our anti-vandal team based at Ikarama community responded to a case of sabotage of oil pipelines in the community. The team was only doing its legitimate duty in line with the mandate of the NSCDC.
Community hassle our operatives
“Our investigation into the incident that happened on the said night revealed that our men did not release any single gunshot. Despite all the harassments, insults and other uncivil means unleashed on them to stop them from arresting a key suspect involved in the recent vandalism in the community.   They were professional and fired no shot.
“Though the suspect escaped, they were able to arrest a woman, who works with the man and knew his whereabouts. The woman was quizzed and later released. She made valuable confessional statements, which we are using to continue with our investigation.
Syndicate lays ambush
“Not relenting in their plots to frustrate and blackmail the operations of NSCDC in the war against oil theft in the area, the syndicate whipped up public sentiment and tried to ambush our men,   who returned to the community the next day to arrest the key suspect.
“They demolished the bridge leading to the community the next day, threatened the lives of our men by brandishing all manner of weapons and even hauled stones at them.”

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/02/oil-...ommandant/

Quote:Buhari, Tinubu, Oyegun, Ortom in attendance
By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA – National Caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress, APC, is ongoing at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with President Muhammadu Buhari , national Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and the party’s national Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun in attendance.
Saraki


But the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki is conspicuously absent at the meeting attended by the Speaker of House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara and members of the National Assembly.

Also present at the meeting is the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom who had recently vowed not to attend any political gathering pending the resolution of the farmers/herdsmen clashes.

Ministers, Governors and APC stalwarts from the 36 States of the federation are also in the meeting which is the first for the year and the fourth caucus meeting of the party.

Army admits withdrawing troops before girls’ abduction
Sesan Olufowobi, Olusola Fabiyi, Olalekan Adetayo and Olaleye Aluko

The Nigerian Army through the Theatre Command of Operation Lafiya Dole, the military’s anti-insurgency command in the North-East, on Monday, admitted that troops were redeployed from the Dapchi area before the abduction of the schoolgirls.

It added that the army “handed over the security of the area to the Nigeria Police Division.”

The Deputy Director, Army Public Relations and the Theatre Command’s spokesperson, Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, said the military should not be blamed for the abduction of the schoolgirls as the troops handed over a “peaceful and calm situation” to the police.

Nwachukwu said the troops were redeployed in Kanama, on the Nigeria-Niger Republic border, to combat Boko Haram terrorists who were attacking a military location in the area.

The army spokesman said the military would not engage in a blame game with the Yobe State Government as it was making “efforts to rescue the abducted schoolgirls.”

Nwachukwu said, “Although this headquarters will not attempt to join in any blame game, it is to set the record straight. Several communities and local government areas that were hitherto under siege of the insurgents have been liberated and the insurgents pushed out. While troops continue to decimate the insurgents in the hinterlands, the security of the liberated communities and towns falls in the hands of the sister security agencies.

“Contrary to the comments being circulated, troops earlier deployed in Dapchi were redeployed to reinforce troops in Kanama area following attacks on troops’ location at the Nigerian-Niger Republic border. This was on the premise that Dapchi had been relatively calm and peaceful; and the security of Dapchi town was formally handed over to the police division located in the town. Troops’ redeployment was therefore done in tandem with the exigencies of operation and not as misconstrued.

“We will also like to assure the parents, government and the people of Yobe that we will not rest on our laurels in the search and rescue of the abducted schoolgirls and any other persons held captive by the terrorists.”

Military didn’t hand over to police, says Yobe CP

The Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Sumonu Abdulmaliki, however, said there was no time the military handed over Dapchi town to the police.

He explained that Yobe was a security emergency state being monitored by security agencies.

Abdulmaliki, in a statement he personally signed, said the military neither handed over any location to the police nor informed it of its withdrawal from any area.

He said, “The attention of the Yobe State Police Command has been drawn to a statement that… the security of Dapchi town was formally handed over to a police division located in the town.

“The statement by the military… is not correct, as there was no time that the military informed the police of its withdrawal or handed over its locations in Dapchi town to the police.

“The whole of Yobe State is still under security emergency with the police, the military and other security agencies battling to ensure a lasting peace.”

Buhari pledges release of abducted persons, hosts freed lecturers

President Muhamamdu Buhari on Monday promised that his administration would ensure the safe return of all those abducted by Boko Haram, including the 110 students of the Government Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State.

Buhari stated this at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving three University of Maiduguri lecturers, one policewoman and nine other women rescued from the insurgents recently.

The President, who said he was “terribly saddened” by the separate abductions of his guests and killing of six others in June and July 2017, told them that all peace-loving Nigerian prayed for their safety.

He said their rescue on February 10, 2018, came to him and all Nigerians as a huge relief.

He said their path to freedom was protracted because different groups located in different spots were responsible for their separate abductions.

Buhari said, “Let me say that this government treasure all human lives particularly that of its citizens.

“Following your abductions, the security agencies were directed by me to do everything humanly possible to ensure the safe release of you and other persons under the hold of the insurgents.

“While government was fully aware of the expectations of your families and the general public for your immediate freedom, the path to your freedom was painstaking and protracted. This was because the groups responsible for your abduction were not only different, but based in different locations that if not properly handled could result in dire consequences.

“While thanking the security agencies and all those who facilitated your release, let me clearly reiterate the resolve of this administration to ensure that all persons abducted by insurgents are rescued or released safely.

“This is especially against the backdrop of the recent incident where another group of girls were abducted from Government Science and Technical Girls College, Dapchi, Yobe State.

“I have directed all security agencies to ensure the safety of our schools and students, as well as bring back the abducted girls to their families.”

Apart from working towards the release of those abducted, Buhari said his government would also work closely with all stakeholders, especially the United Nations and other donor agencies, towards rehabilitating and resettling all those displaced as a result of conflicts.

While saying he was mindful of the pains and injury meted out to people by the insurgents, Buhari promised that government would ensure that the insurgents were degraded and peace returned to the land.

The President also directed the National Youth Service Corps to issue certificate of discharge to Jummai Ibrahim, who was a corps member as of the time of her abduction.

She was supposed to have completed her service last year.

The Director General of the Department of State Services, Lawal Daura, took time to introduce the freed persons, including a final year student of UNIMAID.

Daura said based on the President’s directive that all abducted persons be rescued alive, the service chose the path of negotiation which was considered to be the safest.

He also disclosed that the negotiations mostly took place outside the country while the final one was held at the theatre of operation.

He said, “The negotiations took several months and the Department of State Services, with the support of the external elements of the group in the diaspora and support from friendly countries; and liaising with International Community of the Red Cross, made the rescue possible.

“The negotiations centred on conflict mitigation which include the fate of arrested members of the insurgent groups, especially government accepting to free those found not to be culpable in any criminal action.

“It also involved cessation of hostilities, especially the attacks with IEDs on innocent civilians, worship centres, schools and other public places in return for temporary stoppage of air strikes by helicopter gunships.

“Lastly, the negotiation was centred on the possibility of the Federal Government granting amnesty to those willing to surrender and ready to lay down their arms.”

One of the freed lecturers, Dr Solomon Yusuf, who spoke on behalf of others, described their rescue as a confirmation of the fact that the life of every Nigerian is important to the government.

He, however, appealed to Buhari for another job for him and his colleagues, saying going back to their base remained a nightmare for them considering their experience in the hands of the insurgents.

The lecturer said, “If there is an opportunity for us to be relocated and maybe given another job; sir, this is our golden request.

“But we appreciate everything; the sacrifice you have made for us, thank you sir.”

PDP asks NASS to probe Dapchi abduction

The Peoples Democratic Party has urged the National Assembly to open a full-scale investigation into the circumstances leading to and surrounding the abduction of 110 Dapchi schoolgirls.

It said the investigation had become imperative in the face of rising speculations and conspiracy theories in the public space.

The main opposition party said the speculation was fuelled by conflicting reports, alleged attempts at cover-up and disagreements among government officials and agencies regarding the incident.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement on Monday, said the National Assembly must take a critical note of the allegation by Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Geidam, who said the abduction was preceded by the withdrawal of troops guarding the troubled area.

He said, “The governor is the chief security officer of the state and his statement cannot be taken lightly or even dismissed by a wave of the hand by anybody or any government agency under any guise whatsoever.

“The PDP also urges the National Assembly to investigate the various conflicting reports that have characterised the abduction, particularly the initial moves by the Federal Government to deny the occurrence of this incident.

“We must not allow our national ambience to be filled with speculations from conspiracy theorists. Our lawmakers must therefore, in unravelling the matter, question all security agencies, particularly those operating in the area.”

He also urged the National Assembly to urgently come to the rescue of some of the parents of the abducted daughters, who were allegedly arrested and taken into custody for daring to demand to know the whereabouts of their children.

Ologbondiyan added that the Federal Government must be made to live up to the basic responsibility of protecting lives and property and also to be truthful to Nigerians at all times.

Expert advises FG to set up task force

A Lagos-based security expert, Dr Ona Ekhomu, has advised the Federal Government to set up a special task force to rescue the Dapchi schoolgirls.

Ekhomu said the force, which must report to the National Security Adviser, should include accomplished investigative personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the Military Provost, Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Civilian JTF and the academia.

In a statement on Monday, Ekhomu, who is the President of the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria, warned that if the Dapchi abduction was not handled as a “hot pursuit” investigative case, the nation might face huge reputational harm from the incident.

He said, “The Federal Government should adopt sound investigative strategies to rescue the Dapchi girls. It should also announce a reward of not less than N50m for information leading to the rescue of the girls.

“There should be an establishment of tips hot-lines to receive information. Confidential informant numbering system should be used in order to correctly identify and reward the informant who produces the clue leading to the rescue of the girls.”

Ekhomu advised the investigators to debrief the pupils who escaped from their captors.

“These pupils will have important information and clues which could be helpful to detectives,” he added.

NUT seeks 24-hour patrol of N’East schools

The Nigeria Union of Teachers on Monday said it was distressed by the attack on the Dapchi schoolgirls, and the inability of the government to immediately rescue them.

The NUT, in a statement by its Secretary General, Dr Mike Ene, demanded “an urgent upgrade of the security architecture, deployment of security personnel in all schools in the North-East and a 24-hour military patrol.”

Ene said, “The union is distressed by the news of the terrorist attack on the Government Science and Technical Girls College, Dapchi, Yobe State, with the resultant missing of as many as 110 pupils of the school. We are vexed by the security operatives’ inability to gather enough intelligence to avert the situation and their failure to swiftly move in to rescue the pupils.

“With this development, it has become evident that pupils, teachers and the academic activities in North-East Nigeria remain vulnerable.

“We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure the safe return of the Dapchi schoolgirls. The President must seek ways of bringing to an end the criminal activities of all terrorist groups in the region.

“The union also demands deployment of security personnel in all schools in the North-East and a 24-hour military patrol of all schools in the region.”



http://punchng.com/army-admits-withdrawi...abduction/

#BBNaija: Tobi wins head of house, reveals why Cee-c is too dangerous for him

Congratulations to Tobi Bakare, he has won the head of house for the third time in Big Brother House...
He’d be immune for Nomination for possible eviction this week, and he’d have the luxury of spending his nights yet again in the luxury bedroom.
Teddy A and Nina who won the “best pair” in the house, are also
immuned to possible eviction this week.

Big Brother Naija 2018 housemate, Tobi on Sunday said Cee-c is dangerous to him in the house.
Tobi said this to Miracle and Nina while reacting to a threat by Cee-c to report him to big brother if he comes close to her.
In reaction, Tobi said Cee-c is like a girl that comes into your life to spoil all you have built.
He said ”Why will Cee-c be be talking about me like that.
What if people are not watching to hear she is lieing, they will think I am really like that.
[size=undefined]Abeg that girl is too dangerous for me, all this might be her game plan.
”Henceforth I am not going close to her.”

He has used his Head of House power to save Bamco (Bam Bam and Rico) and to replace them with Celo (Cee-c and Lolu). Now with this swap, Tobi and Cee-c may never be friends again.[/size]

[size=undefined]www.wivestownhallconnections.com[/size]

First year student fatally stabs girlfriend for having a sugar daddy, then he attempts

A First year student of the Sang’alo Institute of Science and Technology, Simon Wamalwa stabbed his girlfriend, Mildred Wanyonyi to death during a quarrel.
The police in Bungoma, Kenya are currently investigating the incident, as according to witnesses, the couple were living together in the same room, in a hostel outside of their campus. They gained admission into the institution eary this year.
A student of the school, identified as Sylvia Udoto, said that the boyfriend, had accused his
girlfriend, Mildred of having a “sugar daddy” who was spoiling her with cash gifts.
The student claimed the two engaged in a quarrel, which led to a physical altercation, and led to the death of the female student.
“Wamalwa had claimed that his girlfriend had acquired a ‘sponsor’ who was pampering her with gifts. The girlfriend denied and a quarrel ensued and he stabbed her several times,” she said.
Wanyonyi is later said to have turned the knife on himself in an attempt to commit suicide but was rushed by his colleagues to hospital.

Another student, Sylvester Odhiambo, said they heard a commotion in one of the rooms followed by screams and rushed to the scene.
Odhiambo said on arriving at the scene, they found that Wanyonyi had stabbed his girlfriend and was lying in a pool of blood.
He said they noticed that she heard several stab wounds on her body and was lying lifeless in the room while Wanyonyi was writhing in pain.
“We heard noises coming from one of the rental houses that hosts students and when we got there we saw that the girls had been stabbed severally and was lying unconscious,” he said.
Wamalwa is currently receiving treatment at the Bungoma County Referral Hospital while the body has been taken to the hospital’s mortuary.
Confirming the incident, Bungoma South OCPD, David Kirui, said investigations were ongoing and the suspect will be arraigned in court soon.

Kirui said the officers were informed of the 4pm incident and were called in to handle the situation. He said Mildred was found lying unconscious on the bed while the suspect was lying on the floor.
“We received a report on the incident in Sang’alo and police were called in and found the suspect lying on the floor in a pool of blood while Mildred was on the bed. They were both rushed to Bungoma County Referal Hospital where Mildred was pronounced dead on arrival,” he said.
Source: Standard Digital/NTV Kenya

Kylie Jenner gifted Ferrari as push present by Travis Scott as they step out together post baby

New mom Kylie Jenner, 20, just received an extravagant gift to celebrate the arrival of her daughter with boyfriend Travis Scott, Stormi, who was born on Feb. 1. Jenner shared a video of a black Ferrari La Ferrari with red interiors and butterfly doors on her Instagram story over the
weekend.
“Push present,” she said while showing off the new whip, a model that starts at $1.4 million and is no longer in production, according to Car and Driver magazine.
The new parents hopped in the luxe ride, with Jenner taking the passenger seat, on Saturday afternoon for a lunch date with friends and family at Nobu Malibu.
The reality star wore a black t-shirt with black pants and carried a red coat while her boyfriend sported a black jacket and t-shirt.
It was the first time the couple has been seen in public together since Stormi’s birth, though they recently posed for a picture on Snapchat. A source revealed  recently that the parents “are a good team” when it comes to taking care of their newborn daughter.
“Travis is able to do his own thing during the day as well, but he helps Kylie out at night,” the insider explained. “He has cut down on work and only has a few shows coming up.”
While the couple are committed to one another, another source told PEOPLE earlier this month that they are in no rush to speed their relationship along, opting to keep separate homes.
“Despite being new parents, Kylie and Travis are still in a new relationship too. Kylie is happy with their living situation,” a source close to Jenner said. “Travis is a great dad. When he wants to work, Kylie is supportive.”
Added the source of the Kylie Cosmetics makeup mogul, “For being so young, she is very chilled out about her relationship with Travis. She isn’t making any huge plans for the future.”
Wow!
www.wivestownhallconnections.com

Woman empties pensions and savings to enjoy life after thinking she was dying soon; doctor later reveals she was misdiagnosed

Nigerian Couple gets evicted over unpaid rent 3 weeks after spending over N3 Million on wedding

Go for a Nigerian carnival wedding ONLY if you can afford it! A Nigerian couple has been reportedly evicted from their home by their landlord over unpaid rent, after spending N3m on their wedding.
According to a twitter user ,Ayokaade, who shared the story on the platform, the said couple lavished N3m on their wedding only to be evicted from their house 3 weeks after.  It was reported that apart from the N3m spent on the wedding, they also spent N300k for additional honeymoon shopping. The couple who had gone out of their way to spend lavishly on the Irish wedding were said to have done so in order to be featured on a wedding blog. Unfortunately, the wedding blog,’bellanaija’ did not feature them and the couple ended up blaming the vendors,make up artist, and the guys in charge of
cinematography.
The twitter user added that though the couple reached out to people to help with their pending debts, they have since gotten no help from all the people they had tried to impress. 
Below is the twitter post...



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Prince Harry invites ex-girlfriends to his wedding

Prince Harry has reportedly invited two of his ex-girlfriends to his wedding which will hold on May 19.
The prince, who’s set to marry actress Meghan Markle, added both Cressida Bonas and
Chelsy Davy to his exclusive guest list. He has stayed friends with both women over the years even after they broke up.

A friend of Harry’s told Daily Mail: “Harry has stayed good friends with Chelsy and Cressida, so they will be there. He made sure there were no hard feelings when they split up. I don’t think Meghan will mind.”
Harry started dating Zimbabwean-born Chelsy when she was a teenager at boarding school in England. They got together again after meeting in Cape Town when Harry visited on his gap year. They dated on-and-off for 7 years before splitting for good in 2011. He stayed friends with the trained lawyer.

After one year, Harry began dating actress and model Cressida after they were introduced by Princess Eugenie. They dated for two years before they broke up. Cressida and Princess Eugenie remain good friends and Eugenie invited her to her autumn wedding.
Meghan, on the other hand, isn’t thought to be bringing along her ex-husband Trevor Engleson to the ceremony. The film producer’s marriage to Meghan ended after two years. Trevor cashed in on his eight-year relationship to Meghan and is set to make a new TV show about an American divorcee who marries into the British royal family.

Would you attend you ex's wedding?

Meet 25-year-old Doreen Moraa Moracha, born With HIV (Photos)

25-year-old Doreen Moraa Moracha, was just 13 when she receved the negative news that she was HIV positive.
This was despite her parents being aware of her status five years earlier.
Doreen opened up in an exclusive interview with TUKO
“My parents knew about it when I was 8. But they informed me about my status when I was 13,” . The question is how exactly did she contract a disease that would otherwise
pass as deadly among most African societies at such a tender age?

Apparently, Doreen was born with the virus to an HIV discordant couple whereby she is the only child among her siblings to have been diagnosed of HIV.
Owing to the stigma that surrounds HIV and the horror of getting rejected by her peers, she was asked to remain silent about her condition through her teenage years.
However, she could not remain silent forever. In 2015, Doreen resolved to go public about her status in a move aimed at offering encouragement and hope for a full life with adherence to treatment to others living with HIV.
She also wanted to use her story to raise awareness about the virus and to help the fight against the stigma HIV still has in her community. This was amid protestation and censure from her father who is HIV negative. “I was doing my attachment at TSC and most of the times we would go out to learning institutions for outreaches and HIV testing and while at the field, that is when I learnt that there was need for more information about HIV out there. My boss then, also pushed me that I should come out and try make a change with my story,” she disclosed.

Doreen however, acknowledges that this was certainly not an easy process and that disclosure took a lot of courage. “I was afraid considering the stigma associated with HIV. The first time my story came out and NTV shared it on their Facebook page and my friends were commenting how they know me and all that, I got scared and deactivated my Facebook account temporarily,” she remarks.
Emboldened, Doreen has been unstoppable ever since. She has been able to share her story at countless conferences, talk shows, and the very latest – the internet. Like many in her generation, she has turned to Facebook to share her 25-year journey with HIV.
In one profound Facebook post, Doreen uncovers how she, alongside her mother traveled over 500km from Kenya to the remote village of Loliondo in Arusha, Tanzania to get a cure for the virus.

At the time, the village had shot to fame with thousands of people flocking the area to get a herbal concoction purported to cure HIV/Aids, cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, hypertension and any other ailment.
Doreen added ;
“I wanted to get well so bad that I convinced my mum that we head to Loliondo for a cup of the herbal medicine. She agreed, but I didn’t get better and this led me to defaulting from taking my ARVs for 2 years which most definitely affected my health,”
“The journey has not been easy but I finally accepted my status and i’m using my story to end stigma related to HIV and to encourage people infected that they shouldn’t let a small virus that cant talk to control their lives,” 
Her posts have since gone viral, with many social media users commending her for being bold enough to share her story. Despite her condition, her beautiful and sassy photos have still attracted potential suitors who would love to get into a relationship with her.
She said ;
“I use my social media mostly Facebook for advocacy and motivational purposes and yes, I do get men sliding into my inbox, some even promising to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) drugs as long as I agree to date them,”.


wivestownhallconnection

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL (MARCH PDF => http://bit.ly/2cuJG6M

*THE BLESSEDNESS OF GIVING .*

Tuesday, February 27th .
Pastor Chris

_*As long as the world exists, there will be a time for planting and a time for harvest. There will always be cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night (Genesis 8:22 GNB).*_

One of the most profound principles in the Word of God that guarantee continuous increase in finances is the principle of giving. Not too many people are as excited to give, as they are to receive; meanwhile, the promised blessing isn’t to the receiver but to the giver. Jesus said, _*“…It is more blessed to give than to receive”*_ (Acts 20:35).

2 Corinthians 9:8 gives us a clear insight about the blessedness of the giver. It says, _*“And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]”*_ (AMP). The previous verse says, _*“…God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, prompt to do it) giver [whose heart is in his giving].”*_

Now this isn’t just about money; Jesus didn’t say “give money,” He said “Give!” Whatever good thing you desire in your life, sow the seed of it into the lives of others and it’ll be multiplied in your own life. Remember His words: _*“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them…”*_ (Matthew 7:12).

Another thing your giving does is that it helps to increase the fruits of your righteousness: _*“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness”*_ (2 Corinthians 9:10). If only you knew all that your giving to the Lord could do for you!It connects you and everything that concerns you with God’s Spirit and gives you results that aren’t only for today, but for tomorrow and for all time.

Each time you have the opportunity to give, be excited. Our lives as Christians should depict the character of our heavenly Father, who gave His precious Son, Jesus, for our salvation (John 3:16).

*CONFESSION*

*Thank you precious Father, for blessing me in all things, and making me a blessing to my world. I declare that I’m mightily blessed today as I seek opportunities to give, for you’ve said in your Word, it’s more blessed to give, than to receive. Hallelujah.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *2 Corinthians 8:9* For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. *||*

*||* *2 Corinthians 9:7* Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. *||*

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Mark 8:14-26,
Numbers 3-4

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Acts 21:40-22:1-10,
Psalm 44-45

*EXTRACT FROM:* http://app.rhapsodyofrealities.org/reader/34

*Act Now!!! Give someone the chance for a new start and fresh hope for tomorrow. Follow this link to Donate at least One Copy:* http://rhapsodyofrealities.org/partner/influencers

*Be A Partner Of Rhapsody Of Realities Today!*
#AFFIRMATIONTRAIN 27TH FEBRUARY.
 affirmationtrainorg l
 Affirmation,
https://wp.me/p9v28c-KS
I affirm that the Word is in my mouth and in my heart today, working in me and producing results in every area of my life. The Word of God has made me wise unto salvation, and the forces of success, prosperity, and divine health are let loose in my life. I am completely yielded to the Lordship and tutelage of God’s Word and the Spirit. The Lord is guiding my heart and leading me in the path of His perfect will for my life. I walk in dominion today because the Spirit of the Lord has mantled my heart and imparted divine courage to my spirit. Nothing in this world can stop or intimidate me from fulfilling my ministry of reconciliation committed to me by God. I am bold and courageous; I manifest the glory of the Kingdom everywhere I go. I am energized and aglow with the anointing today; and the grace and peace of God are multiplied to me through the knowledge of God, as I walk in and with the Spirit to impact my world with the Gospel. Glory to God. Hallelujah!
(SPECIAL GIFT http://bit.ly/2dZqtLQ )
• This is something to shout about. Keep saying it and your life will go in one direction only—upward and forward. You can now reach us on:
• Info@affirmation-train.org
• http://www.affirmation-train.org
God bless you.

110 students unaccounted for, FG says

Quote:By Hamza Idris, Latifat Opoola (Abuja) & Hamisu Kabir Matazu (Damaturu)



Nearly half the girls abducted from their school in Yobe State are said to have been ferried across the border into Niger Republic.

The girls were seized from Government Girls Technical College, Dapchi by suspected Boko Haram terrorists on Monday.

Credible sources told the Daily Trust yesterday the girls were split into two groups; one was left in an enclave in northern Borno State and the other taken to a village in Niger Republic.

It was gathered that the girls were abducted by the Musab Albarnawi faction of the Boko Haram which is loyal to the Islamic State of West Africa.

The group had lost grounds along the shores of the Lake Chad, the same way Abubakar Shekau, the factional leader of the group suffered was sacked from the Sambisa Forest base following onslaught by the Nigerian military.

“The girls ferried across a shallow river and are held in the border town of Duro in Niger Republic,” the source, who does not want to be named, said.

“The second batch has been moved to Tumbun Gini area of Abadam LGA of Borno,” he added.
Abadam, with headquarters at Malam Fatori is three kilometres from Bosso Niger Republic.
The military was not available for comments last night.

FG says 110 Dapchi Girls unaccounted for
Meanwhile, the Federal Government yesterday confirmed that 110 students of the school, are so far unaccounted for.

Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, revealed the figures after a meeting between a Federal Government delegation and representatives of key stakeholders in Damaturu, the Yobe State capita.

Present at the meeting were senior officials of the state government, the college principal, parents of the missing girls and representatives of security agencies.

The minister said, based on briefings from the Principal of the College, Hajia Adama Abdulkarim, and the state Commissioner for Education, Mohammed Lami, 110 have not been accounted for. He said 906 students were in the school on the day of the attack.

The minister also said the Federal Government has directed the police and civil defence authorities in Yobe State to immediately deploy their personnel to all the schools in the state in order to ensure the security and safety of the students and staff.

He said the Federal Government has stepped up efforts to rescue the girls and return them safely to their parents, saying the security agencies are working on many leads regarding the whereabouts of the girls.

A statement from the minister’s office said: ‘’This is the second time in four days that a Federal Government delegation would visit Yobe State since the unfortunate incident.

This is a measure of the seriousness with which we are addressing the issue. The security forces are leaving no stone unturned in their search for the girls.

‘‘We are back here in Yobe as part of efforts to provide some succour to the parents of the girls, to let them know that they are not alone and also to reassure them that we will not rest until we have found the girls. We will carry the parents along on the efforts we are making,’’ he said.

For his part, the Minister of Interior said the delegation embarked on the trip in order to get the facts right ‘’so that the approach to the solution can be correct’’.

‘‘We must get back the girls and also ensure that this does not happen again,’’ he said.

The Federal Government delegation, which comprised the Ministers of Information and Culture as well as that of Interior, Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retired), held an enlarged meeting that was attended by Governor Ibrahim Geidam of Yobe State; members of the state cabinet, the Principal and Vice Principal of the school, representatives of the parents of the missing girls and security agencies, among others.


Military withdrawal aided school attack, Gaidam insists

Yobe State governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Gaidam re-emphasized yesterday that the Boko Haram attack in Dapchi and Buni-Yadi years back were aided by Military withdrawals from those locations.

The governor, who spoke during a sympathy visit paid to him by Borno State governor and chairman, Northern Governors Forum, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, said the military did not notify them when troops were withdrawn.

“I want to put the record straight, there was no military presence at the time of Dapchi attack because we don’t even know that the Military have been withdrawn.

“The Dapchi and Buni-Yadi attacks are similar because both attacks came weeks after the military withdrawal. I want the press to quote me on this” he said.

Governor Gaidam said it was not an accuse for the theatre commander to attribute the military withdrawal to shortage of personnel.

“When I met the Theatre commander on why the military were withdrawn, he said they have shortage of manpower. To me, it is not an excuse because it’s duty bound for the FG to recruit and bridge the gap” he added.

Yobe State government said yesterday that the Military withdrew from Dapchi a week not hours as reported by an online newspaper.

Also a statement by the Director-General, Press Affairs to Yobe Governor, Malam Abdullahi Bego said the report by the medium is erroneous and misleading.

The statement said Gaidam was reported as having told Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State when he came on a sympathy visit to Government House Damaturu that military men were “unexpectedly withdrawn from the town (Dapchi) a few hours before the attack” on the girls’ college in Dapchi.

“We wish to put it on record that His Excellency Governor Gaidam did not say the military were withdrawn “a few hours before the attack.”

“Here is what the governor said on the issue: “The unfortunate situation that I observed and about which I drew the attention of the Theatre Commander who came with the FG delegation to Dapchi and the GOC who is resident here is that there is no justification whatsoever to withdraw the military from Dapchi town knowing fully well that there is a girls’ school there and that the local government area is one of the flashpoint areas. 

They withdrew the military personnel from the town last week which was not even known to us. Within the week following the withdrawal of the military, this incident happened. I drew their attention to that so that they restore the presence of the military personnel. A lot needs to be done even though Mr. President is doing his best to ensure that the insurgency is stamped out”.

“Therefore, the timeline for when military presence was withdrawn from Dapchi as reported by SaharaReporters is erroneous and misleading.

Attacks in Dapchi, Buni-Yadi similar - Shettima
Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State, said yesterday that the attacks on the girls’ school in Dapchi had reminded him of the abduction of Chibok girls because they are similar.

The governor said both attacks occured when least expected. “Nobody expected attack on Dapchi. This reminds us to be on guard”.

Shettima noted that the only difference in the attacks is the APC-led Federal government has responded swiftly in Dapchi without any denial.

“Neither denial, nor conspiracy theory as was done in the case of Chibok girls abduction under PDP-led Federal Government. We should learn to separate politics from human lives” he said.
He said they shared with Yobe people the pain of the unfortunate incidence “I have been in your shoes; I know the trauma and pain you are going through. Parents look up to you”, he said.

The governor advised people in the state to be calm, while expressing optimism that the girls would return to their parents safely.

The Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and Abuja, has expressed sadness over the abduction of 105 girls of Government Secondary School, Dapchi, Yobe State

CAN spokesman in the 19 northern states, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, told journalists in Kaduna, yesterday that the Christian body was deeply concerned about the “return of kidnappings of large number of girls again in Nigeria.”

He called on the Federal Government to do what was necessary to rescue the girls as soon as possible and unhurt.

Hayab said:”CAN is deeply concerned with this development. When we have not yet got back all the Chibok girls, and now another 105 school girls have been kidnapped.

“And sadly, though, the Yobe State government have apologized for its first denial, but that denial made Nigerians more confused because it shows we cannot be truthful when fellow Nigerians are affected.

“The government and the security agencies must situp. The girls must not stay long like the previous ones before they are released.

“The girls must be brought back alive. The young girls are Nigerians. They need the protection of the Nigerian government. These girls can be anybody’s daughters.

“CAN is saying that the Nigeria security agencies must not play the propaganda game anymore. They should go after the criminals that have abducted these girls. The security should take serious action and stop making noise and confusing people.

“This particular abduction is a challenge to government to prove to Nigerians that the huge spending on security is not just a drain on our resources, because when we hear and read stories that billions of dollars is expended for security and we still have issues like this, then it tells us that there is a serious problem in the country.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/02/can-tackles-buhari-over-abduction-of.html

Balarabe Musa, former Kaduna State Governor, has observed that President Muhammadu Buhari remains the best option for Nigeria despite failing to live up to his campaign promises.

The former Kaduna State governor said there is currently no “qualitative and relevant alternative” to President Buhari and that this could lead to his victory, if he opts to seek re-election in 2019.

Speaking with Punch, Musa said, “The performance of President Muhammadu Buhari since he came on board in 2015 has fallen short of the expectations of Nigerians.

“In other words, he has been unable to fulfil promises he made before he got the votes of Nigerians. I can reasonably say without fear that his government has failed.

“Nothing stops him (Buhari) from contesting. After all, every elected public office holder in Nigeria has the right to seek a second term.

“I won’t bother myself too much thinking about that because if today Buhari decides he won’t run for a second term, do you have a better person now in Nigeria who can perform better than Buhari?

“Up to the end of the Second Republic, when (the late Chief Obafemi) Awolowo, Zik (the late Nnamdi Azikiwe), Aminu Kano and so on were there, you could say ‘if not Awolowo, Zik is competent’ and so on. There was, at that time, a clear alternative available for Nigerians; whether you liked it or not, it was a distinctive alternative.

“But today, where is the alternative? We are now in a situation where there is no alternative or it is difficult for the alternative to emerge because this is politics and election in which ‘money power’ plays a leading role.

“So, it is not possible to find a qualitative and relevant alternative to Buhari at the moment.”

http://www.mcebisco.com.ng/2018/02/2019-presidency-why-buhari-remains.html

Quote:By Sylvester Ugwuanyi 


The federal government on Monday assured the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and entire workforce of the country that the new national minimum wage will commence, latest by end of September this year.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, who made this known in Abuja at an event marking the 40th anniversary of NLC, disclosed that the federal government would announce the new minimum wage before the end of the third quarter which is September.

He said, “In furtherance to the determination by the federal government to attain the decent work agenda which involves opportunities for works that are productive and deliver a fair income, security in workplace, and social protection for families; there have been overtime, three minimum wage reviews and currently the tripartite committee on national minimum wage is set to review the current minimum wage.

“Memoranda are being received from relevant bodies are persons to enable the determination of a new minimum wage for the nation. By the third quarter of this year, a new minimum wage will be announced for the country.”

The minister appealed to workers for more time and understanding because the government wants to ensure compliance by all state governments.

“Better late than never because some State governors are still owing and cannot pay the current N18,000 minimum wage to workers, that’s why we are ensuring we bring all stakeholders along and announce the new minimum wage at the appropriate time.

“But I can assure you that the third quarter is the maximum time the new minimum wage will be announced,” he said.

Apostle Suleman Gifts Wife Shopping Mall, Petrol Station And Transport company

The beautiful wife of the founder of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide, Dr Lizzy Johnson Suleman celebrated her birthday on Sunday at the International Headquarters of the church in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.

As usual, Apostle Johnson Suleman surprised everyone with a splendid birthday gift for the wife.


Below is the statement from the Church official Facebook page and video

Apostle Suleman Gifts Wife Shopping Mall, Petrol Station And Transport company.

Apostle Johnson Suleman, is the Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministry Int'l and CEO Hosanna Conglomerate which has vast interests in Oil and Gas, Real Estate and Mining.

The Man of God who is known worldwide for his humanitarian gesture to the needy, orphans and destitute has extended his Touch of Love to his wife; Dr. Lizzy Johnson Suleman on the occasion of her birthday.

Apostle Suleman presented an ultra - modern Shopping Mall, a Petrol Station and a Transport company to Dr. Lizzy Suleman as the Woman of God celebrated her birthday in glitz and glamour.

The Man of God also known as the Restoration Apostle in 2017 presented arguably Nigeria's most affordable British School to her as a birthday gift. The school; Dynamic British International School tutors children with High Standard Learning for as low as #20,000 (twenty thousand naira) tuition fees. Insider Reports say the Man of God subsidises the fees from his own pocket so that every family can afford it, yet get the best of Education, which he says remains 'The only viable vehicle for a better society'.

The presentation of the 2018 gifts which was done in the Birthday Service on Sunday 25th February didn't come as a surprise for the congregation as the man of God has been known for showering gifts and love for all those who are around him,and his wife shouldn't be an exemption.

Earlier, Dr. Lizzy Suleman celebrated her birthday with Orphans, sharing gifts worth millions of naira to different Homes as her culture is. There was also a novelty football match and tennis competition in her honour. The eve of the Sunday Birthday Service saw her being treated to a dinner organised by Pastors Wives of the Ministry with other Partners.

The Birthday celebrations couldn't have ended without Cash and other gift items been presented to people who needed them. She paid tuition and accommodation fees of students under her scholarship scheme to enable them continue their education despite their inadequacies.

More Grace to The Apostle



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McPIyu0Dn4k

https://diasporareporters.com/apostle-johnson-suleman-gifts-wife-shopping-mall-petrol-station-transport-company/

El-Rufai directs prosecution for culprits in Kasuwan Magani mayhem

The Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has directed the prosecution of all persons responsible for the Monday mayhem that occurred in Kasuwan Magani in Kajuru local government area.

The government said that security agencies must investigate this unfortunate incident, arrest and make available for prosecution the perpetrators.

Samuel Aruwan, Governor El-Rufai’s spokesperson disclosed this in a statement issued in Kaduna, shortly after receiving preliminary report of the mayhem.

Aruwan explained that the government condemns the violence, and regrets the wanton shattering of lives. He further disclosed that the government has expressed its sympathy to the victims and their families.

According to Aruwan, the government has directed the State Emergency Management Agency to take inventory of damages and provide relief materials with immediate effect.

The statement added that security forces have been deployed to contain the situation, protect lives and properties and to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

The statement added that the government urges all citizens and communities to reject violence and division, and uphold their neighbours in peace and harmony.

Signed

Samuel Aruwan
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor (Media and Publicity)
26th February 2018


Source:http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/violence-breaks-out-in-kadunamany.html?m=1





Re: Many Killed In Kasuwan Magani, Kaduna As Mayhem Breaks Out (Disturbing Photos) more. http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/violence-breaks-out-in-kadunamany.html?m=1

MEETS PRESIDENT’S CAMPAIGNERS IN LONDON

•TO FOIST WEAK PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE ON PDP

Quote:Lanre Adewole - Abuja


A bi-partisan, bilateral deal to allegedly produce the governor of Gombe State, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwanbo as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential standard-bearer, is reportedly generating intense disquiet in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Sunday Tribune has exclusively learnt.

Interestingly, the governor is not a party to the “loading” arrangement.

He is being worked into it because of his perceived limited national reach and network.

The deal, allegedly facilitated by certain power-brokers pushing the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari, is said to be giving certain chieftains of the ruling party overnight greying hair, with the deal set to compromise their own relevance and influence.

A leading PDP governor in the southern part of the country (name withheld) is said to be cooperating and collaborating with this wheeling-dealing corner of Buhari’s re-election agenda.

The president said last week he needed more time to make his re-election decision.
Various groups have however engaged in open solicitation to him to seek the office for another four year.

Governors elected on the platform of the party have also urged him to run for re-election.

Sunday Tribune gathered that though the president is yet to make an open declaration, his men are already strategising on how to ensure he doesn’t go the way of his immediate predecessor-in-office, President Goodluck Jonathan, by suffering defeat as the sitting president.

With the perceived unfavourable vote arithmetic in three geopolitical zones of South-West, North-Central and South-South which are high voting areas, strategists close to the president were said to have reached out to the main opposition for a deal that could lead to a perceived “weak” candidate, facing the president in February next year.

The thinking, Sunday Tribune learnt, was that despite the plummeting national popularity of the president, he could still coast home to victory with measurable ease, if PDP’s ticket goes to a candidate without national pedigree and political network.

Dankwambo was the nation’s Accountant General before he ran for governor in Gombe, succeeding Danjuma Goje who is now a stalwart and senator of the APC.

A top source in APC, who was privy to the collaboration, confirmed to Sunday Tribune, the meeting between the Buhari campaigners and the top PDP governor took place in London, United Kingdom.

Three top strategists of the president (names withheld but all from the Northern part of the country) who are also believed to have his ears, allegedly coordinated the meeting, but were not physically present at the said meeting.

The governor was reportedly “in town” (London) for a celebratory engagement and later participated in an intellectual jaw-jaw (venue name withheld).

The open events were said to have been used as a cover-up for the high-profile bi-partisan meeting, where encouraging exploratory talks reportedly took place.

Representatives of the president’s self-appointed strategists, according to findings, are likely to again meet the said governor outside the shores of Nigeria to smoothen the alleged grey areas in the deal.

The governor was allegedly targeted for his massive influence on the “current crop of party leaders.”

He is believed to be positioned in a way to influence the outcome of the main opposition’s presidential primaries to meet the aspiration of the president’s men.

Incidentally, the governor has been projected into the 2019 presidential race by bookmakers, though more realistically, as a running-mate to a candidate from the North.

The governor is also believed to be working on an alliance with a sitting APC governor from the North for a joint ticket.

The governor is rumoured to be on his way to the opposition party.

Dankwambo is also getting decent mentioning in the race, as the only second term PDP governor in the entire North.

The other PDP governor in the North, Taraba’s Darius Ishaku, is on his first term.

While the rapprochement was said to have been well-veiled from PDP’s top-shot, it is known to be an open secret to some leaders of the ruling party and a man-Friday of the president, who isn’t part of the deal, is reportedly fuming, alongside his supporters.

The deal is said to be primed in a way that the opposition leader “without doubt will have an edge over him (Buhari man),” Sunday Tribune source volunteered.

The source added, “They (Buhari campaigners) know [the said Buhari’s man-Friday] is a loose canon. He can scatter whatever they are doing without blinking an eye. Wait and see what will happen if what they are doing, continues”.

The scorned and side-stepped colleague of the Buharists isn’t likely to disappoint, Sunday Tribune learnt, as he had fired a broadside to the shadowy figures, believed to be behind the deal.

In an undisguised contempt for what the personalities represented politically, the said Buharist went after them in an unrelated issue, but in a way to mobilise public opinion against them.

Neither the group nor any of its member replied to the anti-development accusation.

Sunday Tribune source pointed out that it was their internal political and campaign war being fought in governance realm.

If the PDP governor receives federal support over his avowed political enemy, the latter, alongside his political family, despite being of the ruling party, may be permanently extinguished from the political space being contested by the duo.
Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Jigawa governor, Sule Lamido are also seeking the PDP’s ticket.

GitMore.com

CNN’s anchor, Isha Isatu Sesay, has faulted President Muhammadu Buhari’s statement on missing Dapchi School girls.

Buhari in a statement on Friday confirming the abduction of the girls described the situation as a national disaster while assuring parents of safety of their wards.

Reacting, Sesay via her tweets said the case of the missing girls was not a national disaster but a national disgrace.

Her tweets read; Nigeria‘s President#Buhari calls abduction of#DapchiGirls “a national disaster.

“That’s an understatement – it’s a national disgrace. More girls taken – again?? Yobe, ChibokGirls.

“I want to live in a world where the lives of the #DapchiGirls are held to be just as important as those of kids in other places.

“A world where everyone is talking about schoolgirls being stolen by terrorists. Is that too much to ask ?Nigeria..”

https://www.gistmore.com/dapchi-missing-...lts-buhari

https://mobile.twitter.com/IshaSesayCNN/...5708844032

Have you ever been frustrated by the nuances and complexity of selling a car that you no longer need?

If you are, you are not alone.

It seems that when you want to buy a car, everybody wants to sell to you but when you want to sell one, the only people interested are those that want to pay half of what the car is worth.

The rigours you will undergo as a private seller will include letting prospective buyers know that your car is for sale, attending to the telephone calls of prospects and allocating precious time to those who will want to test drive your car and the inevitable time wasters that will offer you half of what your car is worth.

You can completely avoid the mentioned hassles by simply handing over your car to a trusted car dealer telling him the price range you want to sell your car for. He will do the marketing work and come back to you with what buyers are offering for your car. The only snag is that he will take a percentage of the sakes price for his efforts.

These few steps will help you sell your car at a good price:

1.
To sell your car yourself, you need to find out what your car is worth.
Online car sale listings will give you an idea of the value of cars that are similar to yours.



2.
Tidy up you car. A good mechanic can help you prep up your car for a modest fee. Of course, major repairs that need a larger amount of money might have to be left for the buyer (you will need to inform the buyer before purchase).



3.
If you can't give your car an ideal clean up, take it to a car care shop and clean the heck out of it. Make sure it's not just clean but clinically clean. It should smell minty-fresh too!



4.
You might want to spend some money to increase the sales value. Consider oil change, brakes, faulty lights, cracked mirrors, faulty locks, wipers and blades, horn, radio... Basically, any minor thing that you can afford to fix should be fixed. It will place you in a better position during negotiations. Make sure your car documents are in order.



5.
Next is to advertise. Take a few clear pictures of the car showing the body, interior and engine.
Good pictures are very important. (You might want to cover the registration plates with paper before photographing or edit them out with a photo-editing app).



6.
Start with friends, family and colleagues. Tell them you are willing to exchange your car for cash. After that, hit the internet. There are various online marketplace that allows you to advertise your car, upload your car-for-sale advert to the more credible ones. Be sure to mention items that will interest a buyer in your description of the car:
Make and year of manufacture. Is the gear manual or automatic, is the air conditioner functioning, what is the mileage, has it been repainted, are the tyres still FRSC valid, was it used sparingly, reason for sale and we'll maintained?
Be clear in your description and use good grammar.



7.
You might be lucky to make a quick sale, but most times you might just have to be patient. Answer all the enquiry calls and respond politely to questions about your car.



8.
When expecting prospects, arrange to meet at a public place. It is not a good idea to have random people you meet online know where you live, At least until you have a very likely buyer.
Schedule inspection and test drives for times that are convenient to you.



9.
When it comes to negotiations, be firm but be reasonable . The buyer wants the lowest price possible, you want the highest. You may have to compromise a little.



10.
As soon as a deal has been made. Demand cash payment. Don't accept a cheque. Walk to the bank with the buyer if necessary to have him deposit the payment in your account.



11.
Sign and hand over the purchase receipt and a letter authorizing transfer of ownership.



Don't forget to like, rate, share and tell us the trick you used to sell your car at a profit.

https://autojosh.com/sell-used-car-profit/Ishilove

Rhapsody of Realities

The Cares Of This Life.

Monday, February 26th .

Pastor Chris

_*And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares (Luke 21:34).*_

The parable of the sower that Jesus told in Mark chapter 4 shows us the reason the Word of God is unfruitful in the lives of some people. These people are overwhelmed by the cares of this life: _*“And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world… choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful”*_ (Mark 4:18-19).

When you find a Christian who isn’t bearing fruits that are consistent with the Word of God, it’s because he or she is encumbered with the cares of this life, therefore receiving the Word amongst thorns. “Thorns” here refers to “the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things.” These things choke the Word of God in people’s lives and make it unproductive, thus resulting in many not living to their potentials in Christ.

1 John 2:15 says, _*“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”*_ Our opening scripture says, _*“…take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting.”*_ God wants your affection and attention set on Him and His eternal Word, on things in heaven and not on things in the earth (Colossians 3:2). He wants you to guard your heart and make it a fertile ground always for His Word to not only be deep-rooted, but also to produce the desired result.

In Proverbs 23:26, He said, _*“My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.”*_ He doesn’t want you chasing after the vain things of life, but rather that you meditate on the Word and let it gain the ascendancy in your life. That way, you’d have a fruitful and productive life: _*“Blessed is the man that…his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper”*_ (Psalm 1:1-3).

*PRAYER*

*Blessed Father, my heart is fixed on you, to serve you, love you, and bear fruits of righteousness. Nothing in the world satisfies as much as the pleasure of knowing you and living for you! My gaze is set on you, to know and walk in your wisdom, fulfilling your will and purpose for my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *Mark 4:14-20* The sower soweth the word. 15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. 18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. 20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive [it], and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. *||*

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Mark 7:24-8:1-13,
Numbers 1-2

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Acts 21:27-39,
Psalm 42-43
Affirmationtrain
# AFFIRMATIONTRAIN 26TH FEBRUARY.
https://wp.me/p9v28c-KS
I affirm that God has confidence in me, and I will never live an empty life. I am a passionate soul winning! I'm God's partner in winning souls. My mind is anointed to think God’s thoughts! With the Word of God in my mouth, I cast down all imaginations of fear, failure, sickness, disease and infirmity! There's no place for evil or negative imagination in my heart! My heart is circumcised by the Holy Ghost and my mind inundated with the Word; with which I prevail over all the fiery darts of the enemy! I have the mind-set of the righteous because Christ has been made unto me wisdom. I function today, and always, in divine wisdom, manifesting the glory and virtues of divinity deposited within my spirit. I am set on the course in which I must follow, to fulfil my divine destiny in Christ! I walk in preordained pathways, for God has structured the course of events in my favour, and I go on to fulfil my divine destiny, to the glory and praise of God's Name. Hallelujah!
(SPECIAL GIFT http://bit.ly/2dZqtLQ )
• This is something to shout about. Keep saying it and your life will go in one direction only—upward and forward. You can now reach us on:
• Info@affirmation-train.org
• http://www.affirmation-train.org
God bless you.

FG through the information ministry said a total of 110 girls remain unaccounted for following the attack in the town of Dapchi.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the kidnap of 110 girls following a Boko Haram attack on students of the Government Girls Secondary School in Dapchi, Yobe State.
On Sunday, February 25, 2018, exactly seven days after the attack, the FG through a series of tweets confirmed the kidnap of the girls.

The FG through the information ministry said a total of 110 girls remain unaccounted for following the attack in the town of Dapchi in the northeastern Nigerian state of Yobe by suspected members of Boko Haram.

The students’ disappearance may be one of the largest such incidents since the jihadist group abducted more than 270 schoolgirls from the town of Chibok in 2014. That case drew global attention to the insurgency and spawned high profile social media campaign Bring Back Our Girls.

“The Federal Government has confirmed that 110 students of the Government Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State, are so far unaccounted for, after insurgents believed to be from a faction of Boko Haram invaded their school on Monday,” the information ministry said in a statement.


Information Minister Lai Mohammed also said police and security officials had been deployed to schools in the state while efforts were being stepped up to rescue the missing girls.

See the statement in these tweets

https://mobile.twitter.com/AsoRock/status/967807186205372416

On Monday, February 19, 2018, the men of the Boko Haram sect invaded a part of Yobe State including the Government Girls Secondary School in Dapchi kidnapping several students and reigning terror on the school and the village.

According to a forum of parents of missing students, the number of girls in captivity have been given as 105.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the girls kidnap saying it's a national disaster.

US condemns kidnap of school girls in Yobe
The United States of America condemned the abduction of over 90 school girls from Government Girls Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe state.

The Spokesperson of the US Department of State, Ms Heather Nauert, at a press briefing on Thursday, said “We are still trying to get all the details about that but we wanted to mention that we condemn in the strongest possible terms the terror attack on a school earlier this week in north-eastern Nigeria.

“The choice of targets including schools, markets and places of worship reflect the brutality of terror organisations.

“The victims in the attacks were girls who were simply seeking an education.”

“We continue to support Nigeria’s efforts to counter the terror group.


“We also support Nigeria’s efforts to enable more than two million displaced in the Lake Chad region to return home safely.

“United States continues to provide humanitarian assistance to those who were affected by the violence,” Nauert added.

British military offers to assist Nigeria in rescuing 105 kidnapped girls
The British military has offered to assist the Nigerian Army in the search and rescue operation launched for the 105 girls kidnapped in Dapchi, Yobe State.

The Guardian reports that the British army led by Major Ian Robertson, the general advisor, British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) in Nigeria, recently made this known.

Condemning the attack and kidnapping of the school girls from Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Dapchi, Robertson lamented the fact that girls’ schools have become soft targets for insurgents.


source :http://www.clintgist.com/fg-confirms-kidnap-of-110-students-dapchi-girls-7-days-after-boko-haram-attack/

Full text of what Atiku said about Buhari govt, killings in Nigeria, restructuring 

Published on February 25, 2018 By Wale Odunsi 

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has again asked the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to work harder to improve the lives of Nigerians.

Atiku, in his keynote speech delivered at the Silverbird Man Of The Year 2017, also spoke on killings across the country.


He lamented the situation stated that security of lives and property must be more guaranteed.

On restructuring, he said if he becomes the nation’s leader, “no state receive less money from the federation account than it currently does.”

Full text of his speech below…

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured to be given this privilege to give the keynote speech at the Silverbird Man of the Year 2017 ceremony.


I know the organizers have collated the votes and this will lead to the emergence of the official Silverbird man of the year. However, my man of the year are also the gallant men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the supreme price to protect us from terrorists and those who desire to divide us.

Our nation is going through a lot of challenges. There are challenges to our unity, economic challenges and most worrisome of all are the security challenges we are currently facing.

These challenges are actually symptoms. They are not the ailment. And as any doctor will tell you, you cannot get genuine long-lasting relief if you treat symptoms. You have to target and treat the root cause of the disease.

What is happening in Nigeria is that as a nation, we are caught up in a modern-day Malthusian Trap. For years, our population has been growing faster than our Gross Domestic Product, bringing us to a point where we have an ever-increasing population competing for resources that are not keeping pace with population growth.


It may sound simplistic, but if Nigeria can assemble a leadership focused on getting us out of this Malthusian Trap by gradually reversing the trend where population growth exceeds GDP growth, many of these challenges we are currently facing will slowly but surely fade away.

Last year, we celebrated the fact that we exited our first recession in 25 years. To me, that celebration was premature.

After contracting for five consecutive quarters, Nigeria came out of recession in the second quarter of 2017 with a GDP growth rate of 0.55%. In the third quarter, we fared better with 1.40%.

While this looks somewhat like we exited the recession, the reality is that when you factor in our population growth rate of 2.3%, which is one of the highest in the world, have we really exited a recession? Technically, yes, but in reality, it is doubtful.

This month of February 2018, according to the World Poverty Clock, Nigeria has just overtaken India as the world’s capital of extreme poverty. There are more extremely poor people in Nigeria than there are in India, a country that has six times Nigeria’s population.

When people do not have jobs and the means to start a business are beyond their reach, they are incrementally much more likely to engage in criminal behaviours like terrorism, kidnapping, militancy and armed robbery.

According to the African Development Bank, in 2017, 18 African countries grew their Gross Domestic Product above 5%. Nigeria, which was number one in 2014, was not amongst these nations. We must figure out what has happened in the intervening years between 2014 and 2018 and fix what went wrong.

What happened to brilliant initiatives like the YouWIN programme which gave Nigerian youths the training and funding to start their own businesses?

Nigeria has a median age of 18.3 years. Our population is young. So when we have successful and laudable initiatives like YouWIN, which according to the World Bank, was two and a half times more effective than Mexico’s similar youth job initiative and ten times more effective than Turkey’s own version, we must continue them even when there has been a change in administration.

We talk of fighting corruption, but let us move beyond sentiments and media trials and look at the facts.

We must try to identify why, though we have been ostensibly fighting corruption for the past few years, Transparency International, the official global anti-corruption monitoring agency, has not increased our Corruption Perception Index rating. The last time we made progress was in 2014.

Not to belabour the point, but we have to kill the snake of corruption that swallows the commonwealth that should lift our people up from poverty. Whether that snake is in a JAMB Office or any other government office, we must kill it or it will kill us.
Einstein said that insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results.

We have been in denial about restructuring, but with a failing economy, worsening insecurity, and negative indices in almost all spheres of the human development index, we can no longer run from the obvious.

Nigeria needs to be restructured. We must embrace restructuring as something that must be done to fix Nigeria’s broken systems and not just a campaign gimmick that we fish out of our magic hats and deny after we have gotten what we want.

Let me say this: The Restructuring that I, Atiku Abubakar, envisions, will see no state receive less money from the federation account than it currently does. I hope that will ease the anxieties of some who oppose restructuring. Restructuring will not cheat you. It will free you.

When I was in government, we reduced recurrent expenditure by introducing the monetization Policy and by privatizing many government enterprises, especially those that were consuming resources without generating revenue. Those policies have been bastardized today and we have seen a ballooning of our recurrent expenditure and shrinkage of our capital expenditure. We must return to the basics.

We cannot spend 70% of our budget on recurrent expenditure at a time Nigeria has more unemployed or underemployed people than the entire population of the Republic of Cameroon.

Many of you in the audience and those of you watching from home may be surprised to know that when I was a teenager, the Saudi Royal Family came to Nigeria for medical tourism and precisely to the University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Can you imagine how I feel that now that I am an adult, Nigerians, and especially our leaders, are Africa’s Number One medical tourists.

We have to enact laws to prevent leaders from diverting public funds from the public health sector to the treatment of the elite in the best hospitals abroad. If you can afford it from your own private resources, then pay for it. But do not make the tax payer pay for it.

We are in critical times, and as I conclude, I want to urge a paradigm shift in Nigeria. Our elite are treated in Europe. Big Brother Naija is being broadcast from South Africa and Nike is unveiling our FIFA World Cup Jersey in London. Is this the extent to which we have outsourced Nigeria? As far as I am concerned, if it concerns Nigeria, it must be done in Nigeria, not abroad. Not abroad.

Finally, let me say to Borno, Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna and now Zamfara, I feel your pains on the recent deaths you have suffered and the time has come for all Nigerians to say together, no more! These senseless killings must end!

As a wise-man once said, that no one’s religious, economic or social interests is worth the shedding of blood.

We must accept that the difference between Nigerians is not North and South, Christian and Muslim or PDP and APC. The difference is between good and bad people and we must demonstrate that the good are much more than the bad.

Let me once again thank the organizers of the Silverbird Man of the Year Award for inviting me to give this keynote speech. Distinguished Senator Ben Bruce, please carry on with your common sense messages.

Thank you ladies and gentlemen and may God bless Nigeria!”

http://dailypost.ng/2018/02/25/full-text-atiku-said-buhari-govt-killings-nigeria-restructuring/

SOUTHERN and Middle Belt Leaders Forum have called on President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to institute a probe into the statement made by the Director-General, State Security Service (SSS), Lawal Musa Daura, that most of the sophisticated weapons being used by herdsmen were from the armouries of security agencies in the country.

The Forum led by Chief Edwin K. Clark for South-South delegation, Chief Ayo Adebanjo (South-West), Chief John Nwodo (South-East) and Dr Bala Takaya (Middle Belt) made the call at a high-powered meeting it held at the weekend in Abuja, saying such occurrence if not properly investigated and addressed had serious implications for the country’s national security.
Daura had reportedly made the shocking revelation at the Senate Security meeting investigating the herdsmen/farmers clashes which had occasioned several deaths in the country, with several others injured while properties worth billions of naira were destroyed.
The leaders, who met to review the Benue crisis and other flashpoints in Nigeria, expressing disappointment that President Buhari had not lived up to the expectations of his office by keeping mute on the killings and visiting neighbouring Nasarawa and Adamawa States while ignoring Benue, equally demanded immediate rejig of the country’s security architecture to reflect the principle of Federal Character.
According to the Forum, which said it was disturbed by the allegation that soldiers drafted to Benue under “Operation Cat Dance” were circulating leaflets calling Tivs cattle rustlerswhich clearly suggested that the operation was ostensibly meant to turn victims into villains and decimate their capacity for self-defense, the current template where 16 out of the 17 security chiefs are from a section of the country is not healthy for a multi-ethnic state and, therefore, violates the principle of Federal Character.
The leaders, while also expressing disappointment with the poor state of affairs at the IDP Camps in Benue compared to other IDP camps around the country, urged President Buhari to immediately stop the killings going on in Benue and other parts of the country.
They said he should do this by disarming all armed herdsmen carrying illegal weapons and fish out culprits of killings in Benue and other places for prosecution.
This was just as they warned against any plot to declare a State-of-Emergency in Benue State as being canvassed by some sponsored group, recalling that such a move in the Western Region had dire consequences in the past.

On the issue of underage voters as cited in Kano during the in the recent Local Government polls in the state, the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum said it was alarmed by what it described as the perverse culture as happened in the recent exercise in the state, describing the development as open rape on democracy.
According to the Forum, the unwholesome development is a carryover of the 2015 elections practice and a clear erosion of confidence in the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct credible elections.
The Forum, while rejecting INEC’s move to probe the incident as that would amount to cover-up, demanded that a Judicial probe of the voters registry be done by a panel to be headed by a retired Supreme Court Justice with members drawn from the Commission, registered political parties, Civil Society Groups and the National Democratic Institute for international representation.
It, however, said the enquiry should be done before further elections are held in the country with the current INEC register.
“Meeting was alarmed by the perverse culture of underage voters which was palpable in the recent Local Government elections in Kano. This open rape of democracy is a carryover of the 2015 elections practice and a clear erosion of confidence in the INEC to conduct credible elections.

“Meeting rejects INEC probe into the incidence as its earlier statement that the cards were used for local elections was an attempt to cover up forgetting we know that it has exclusive right over registration of voters which state electoral bodies only make use of.
“Before further elections are held with the current INEC register, we demand a Judicial probe of the voters registry by a panel to be headed by a retired Supreme Court Justice and members drawn from INEC, registered political parties, Civil Society Groups and the National Democratic Institute for international representation,” the Forum demanded.http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/probe-dauras-allegation-herdsmens-arms-edwin-clark-adebanjo-others-urge-buhari/

2019: What I would have told Buhari – Babangida’s spokesman, Afegbua
Kassim Afegbua, the representative for previous Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, has said that he would have revealed to President Muhammadu Buhari not to keep running in the 2019 race on the off chance that he (Buhari) were his father.

The Babangida's spokesman said he wouldn't draw out his father to be so criticized by Nigerians.

Asked supposing between now and 2019 President Buhari changed his policies to address some of the issues he raised in the statement, Afegbua told Vanguard that it was time the President left the stage for the younger generation.

He said, “If President Buhari is my father, I will graciously advise him. I will say, ‘Daddy, it is time to go home and manage the rest of your life. It is time to leave the stage where people will be abusing you’. I will not bring out my dad to be so vilified if I were to be his son.

“So, it is not about changing policies, it is about the fact that this is the age of retirement, this is the age of having more time for yourself and family than committing to public service. When General Babangida clocked 70, I was one of those who prevailed on him to quit partisan politics.


“I told him, ‘Sir, now you are 70, I do not want any journalist to push you here and there’. We prepared a statement for him; at a public event in Abuja, he announced his retirement from partisan politics. That is the hallmark of a statesman.

“Now, anybody that wants to run for election both in APC and PDP go to him in Minna for advice. So some of us who are saying that President Buhari should not seek re-election are more of his friends than those who are urging him on.

“Now, the President has told us that his doctors told him to eat more and sleep more. But this country needs a President who will be awake when the country is sleeping.

“Or who will be awake when the country is awake. India is awake at night, 24 hours because they want to catch up with lost time. We cannot afford the luxury of having a President who will sleep when we have insecurity everywhere, herdsmen here and there.


“We need a President that has the capacity to go round and preach peace to all the ethnic groups. Nigeria is more sharply divided now more than ever before and that is where some of us expressed huge worry and huge danger.

“We now look at ourselves as strangers occupying the same geographical mass. It should not be, we should be partners in progress and we should be able to own our country.

“We are all Nigerians, we need a President that can speak on these issues, understand the intricate logic of the Nigerian federation, the dynamism of the processes and, at the end, take a decision that will be far reaching and that will be seen to be just and fair to all the ethnic configurations of the country.

“It is not an accident of history that President Obasanjo said this government is nepotistic. There are clear signs; we have seen actions and inactions.

“We need a President that will speak the language of peace, we don’t want people to be cocooned in the Villa and we are just working with body language; that does not help us as a country.”

source-https://www.metrodailies.com/news/2019-told-buhari-babangidas-spokesman-afegbua/

Quote:Samir Nasri has been banned from football following the investigation into the intravenous drip treatment he received at a Los Angeles clinic.

The player's legal representative in the case told the Press Association that a six-month suspension has been imposed on Nasri by UEFA, European football's governing body.

Former Arsenal and Manchester City playmaker Nasri received 500 millilitres of hydration in the form of sterile water containing micronutrient components on December 26, 2016, while on holiday.

At the time, he was on loan from City to Sevilla, and Nasri had reported feeling ill and vomiting before calling a doctor, his Maryland-based former girlfriend Dr Sarabjit Anand who provided an initial diagnosis.

Nasri received treatment from a private medical company, Drip Doctors, in his hotel room and later posed for a photograph with the organisation's co-founder Jamila Sozahdah that drew publicity.

World Anti-Doping Agency rules state there is a 50 millilitre infusion limit per six-hour period for active athletes. A request by Sevilla for a retroactive therapeutic use exemption (TUE) for Nasri was refused in February 2017 by UEFA, whose decision was later upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Spanish sport newspaper Marca reported Nasri has been banned for one year, stating UEFA will confirm that on Monday, however Nasri's lawyer, who wished not to be named, disputed that figure.



Nasri is currently without a club, having left Antalyaspor in January after just six months with the Turkish team.

The 30-year-old former France international played for Arsenal from 2008 to 2011 before moving to City for £25million, going on to win two Premier League titles during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

During his loan spell at Sevilla last season he made 30 appearances and scored three goals.

No fewer than 3,500 strong members and supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have denounced their membership and joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, IDOMA VOICE is reporting.



The mass defection, which was celebrated at the weekend in Otukpa, the headquarters of Ogbadibo Local Government of the state, was not unconnected to the grievances expressed by the people of Benue, over what they described as "federal government's poor handling of the incessant attacks and killings of the people by herdsmen".


Saturday's defection was one of the confirmations of the rumours making rounds that there was a grand plan by the state governor, Samuel Ortom and ppeople of the state to dish the ruling party, to register their grievances to the federal government controlled APC.


Speaking on behalf of the defectors in Otukpa at the weekend, former House of Assembly aspirant under the APC, Hon. Ben Joseph Ebije, said the people had decided to support the PDP in the coming general elections, so as to save lives of innocent farmers, market women and children.


Ebije who is a strong political ally of former deputy Governor of Benue State, Chief Steven Lawani, also accused the APC of "jettisoning internal democracy with reckless impunity".


He said no serious minded person in Benue would drop ballot for the APC come 2019, urging others "who haven't seen the light to quickly queue behind the PDP as better alternative".


Receiving the decampees onbehalf of the state chairman, the PDP Chairman of Ogbadibo chapter, Hon. Vincent Amuche, said more people were already consulting to dump the broom party in Benue.


Amuche said great tsunami would hit the APC in the coming days as the pillar of the party at the state level was set to lead his flock into the umbrella party.


Though it was not established whether Chief Lawani, who crossed to the APC in 2016 after his tenure as deputy Governor would return to his former party soon, but those who spoke to our Correspondent said, the defection of Ebije, a strong associate of his, would cause earthquake in the political dynasty of Lawani.


Others were of the thought that, Ebije and his group may have been acting as an advanced party to the former Deputy Governor as both of them are from the same council ward and family and that it would be matter of days before the "August visitor" would be welcome.

SOURCE>>>http://www.idomavoice.com/2018/02/benue-killings-all-eyes-on-ortom-as.html

Weeks ago BBNaija’s Ifu Ennada alleged that after helping and sponsiring rapper CDQ, he dumped her. Ennada said she was just 17 years old when this happened.

Sunday Scoop contacted CDQ, who admitted they did have an affair but it ended at that.

In his words;

Quote:“Yes, I had sex with her but it was a one-night stand. She came to flirt with me, saying she was a journalist or something like that. We only had sex once. We forgot about everything and lost contact until she had the opportunity to be on TV and tried to take advantage of my stardom to get attention.”

Quote:“It’s bygone already; she has expressed herself. Even though I want to take legal actions against her, our judicial system is not solid enough. I am not saying I don’t know her. I knew her briefly when I was at the Lagos State University in 2008, but I only had an encounter with her once. I just feel she wanted to gain people’s attention by saying such, which is evil.”

Well done good and faithful servant': Motorcade carrying Billy Graham's body travels thru North Carolina

Thousands of people lined city streets and interstate freeways Saturday to pay their respects to the Rev. Billy Graham as a motorcade took his body from the Cove outside Asheville to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte.

People along the road adopted all sorts of postures as the Graham motorcade passed. Most commonly, people simply held up their smart phone to get video or a photo.

But clearly for many people, seeing the hearse carrying Graham’s body was much more than a matter of curiosity.
Graham died Wednesday at his home in Montreat at age 99. The faces of those along the motorcade route made it clear that the evangelist had touched thousands of people in North Carolina, not to mention the lives of millions he affected during crusades around the world.
One woman in Black Mountain held both arms high over her head, her eyes full of tears, and said, “Thank you, God.”

Some held Bibles aloft, some raised an arm with their palm toward the hearse in worship and a couple of people held up wooden crosses. Many people doffed their hats or caps and held them over their hearts, often with a phone or camera in their other hand.
Church was in session along State Street in Black Mountain. People read from Bibles and sang hymns. They quoted scripture and talked about their favorite memories from Graham's crusades. 
An evangelistic Christian men's group of 29 happened to be in town for their annual retreat, which takes place in Montreat. The "interdenominational, inter-generational, interracial" group was honored to say goodbye to Graham, said member Robert Cely.

"He was a great evangelist, a great man and a great American," he said. "You can't really be a believer today without having been influenced in some way by Billy Graham, even if you don't realize it."
One man held his palms together as if in prayer. Another appeared to be crossing himself. Many saluted, some wearing uniforms, some not. Some waved. Two women knelt by the side of the road in Black Mountain.
Lynda Davis, 69, a gospel singer who has lived in Black Mountain her entire life, says she met Billy Graham after singing at the funeral of one of his groundskeepers 22 years ago.
Today she came to sing for Billy, she said.
“What a blessing," Davis said through tears as the motorcade drew near. "My heart is pounding. It’s bittersweet, but I know I’ll see him again.”

Some people looked solemn. Others, like Davis, were jubilant. Davis had planned to sing "Just As I Am," one of Graham's favorite songs with which he closed many of his crusades, as the motorcade passed. 
When the people around her began singing "Amazing Grace" instead, Davis joined them.
"I'm not going to holler at him," she said. "I'm going to sing to pay my respect to the greatest preacher who ever lived."

Davis and her husband, Terry, carried with them a neon yellow sign that said Graham's new address was heaven. 
About 250 family, friends and staffers attended a private prayer service Saturday morning before the motorcade left the facility called the Billy Graham Training Center, at about 11:05 a.m. Saturday.

The motorcade passed through both downtown Black Mountain and downtown Charlotte.
Jim Spencer, an employee of Town Hardware in Black Mountain, said he'd never seen so many people lining the streets. Not even the Christmas parade could compete, he said. 
"He was a man that the world loved, that's for sure," Spencer said. 
The crowds were largest in Black Mountain and Charlotte, where Graham grew up, but they were big in most places along the route. It is difficult to estimate the total number of people, but 10,000 is a reasonable guess and the figure could easily be larger.

At one bridge, signs reading "Thank you for preaching in ..." were attached to the side of the bridge. Below hung signs from perhaps a dozen countries around the globe where Graham had led a crusade.

A few people clapped, some gave a thumbs up or flashed a peace sign and many just stood solemnly.
Many American and Christian flags were along the route and there were all sorts of signs: "#Welldone," "We love Billy," "Thank you God for Billy Graham," "Thank you for teaching us to love Christ," and in Charlotte, "Welcome Home."
In Charlotte, a couple and their young children each held a sign with a word from the most common message seen: "Well done good and faithful servant."

It was undoubtedly written on the hearts of many who watched the motorcade as well.
Graham is to be buried at the Billy Graham Library on March 2. His body will first lie in state in the rotunda of the Capitol in Washington, D.C., next week.


https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1289201214557080&id=444807728996437

Quote:The Presidency has said that President Muhammadu Buhari and his deputy, Yemi Osinbajo, care less about reelection.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Investment Programmes, Ismaeel Ahmed, said this at the weekend while briefing State House reporters on the achievements of the SIP.

Ahmed; who addressed journalists alongside the Special Adviser to the President on SIP, Mrs Maryam Uwais; emphasized that Buhari and Osinbajo were committed to serving Nigerians and concerned more about them.

The presidential aide, however, stated that if the president and the vice president had to campaign for a reelection, they had a lot of success stories to tell.

This is even as Uwais disclosed that 80 million Nigerians were poor based on the estimate from the World Poverty Clock.
Asked what the administration would leverage on as one of the biggest successes of the SIP for 2019 election campaigns, Ahmed responded, "I think even though this is a political promise, it came from a manifesto of a political party. 

“The implementation is far from being just political, the implementation is for all Nigerians. When we set out and were campaigning in 2015, we didn’t say what we're going to do is going to be solely for political reasons. 

"The president and vice president are more committed to the electorate rather than elections and are concerned about the future rather than just next one year. 

“So, this is entirely about the country itself and not just for political reasons. But, if you're talking about what we can leverage on, there are a lot of successes in SIP.

“We're engaging 73,000 cooks that are growing rural economy. They're buying from local farmers. Therefore, this is growing the rural economy. 

“They're feeding some 7 point something million children and we've reduced the number of out-of-school children in the last one or two years we've been implementing the school feeding programme and engaging 200,000 young unemployed graduates that are receiving N30,000 a month. 

"Those are successes in it. So, if we're looking for things to leverage on, stomp our chests and storm the political campaigns and say we should be voted again, we have a lot of success stories to tell, but that is not the entirety and essence of this programme. 

The essence of this programme is to reduce poverty and to distribute wealth as much as we can. The president and the vice president care less about the elections, like I said they care more about the citizens."


Details later...

@POLITICSNGR

A Federal Government delegation has arrived in Damaturu, Yobe State, to meet with state government officials, Principal of the Govt Science and Technical Girls College in Dapchi today over the missing girls.

105 girls were allegedly kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists some days ago. The delegation will also be meeting Security officials and other stakeholders, to get an update on the search for the girls.

The delegation comprises the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and the Minister of Interior, Lt - Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retired). This is the second time in four days that an FG delegation would visit Yobe over the issue of the missing Dapchi girls.

https://politicsngr.com/dapchi-girls-fg-sends-delegation-meet-principal-officials-yobe-pics/

Quote:How Boko Haram attack, kidnap of Dapchi schoolgirls occurred – Residents, School staff

February 23, 2018Abdulkareem Haruna

Residents of Dapchi, the Yobe community attacked on Monday, said the Boko Haram gunmen that invaded their community had no other mission than to abduct the female students of Government Girls Science and Technical College, Dapchi.

The grieving parents, relatives and residents of Dapchi, a dusty agrarian community, informed PREMIUM TIMES that the gunmen that invaded their community were strangers who had to force some of the residents to show them way around the town.

“They were total strangers to the town”, said Abubakar Muhammed. “They did not even know where the school GGSS is located even though it is just by the road on the way to Gashua. And when they eventually located the school they moved in, captured many of our daughters and left without any one confronting them”, said Mr. Muhammed in tears.

Dapchi, a town 101km from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, is one of the oldest communities in Yobe State. PREMIUM TIMES reporter arrived Dapchi at noon on Thursday and met a quiet community, in the state of grief.

There was heavy security presence formed by soldiers and police officers all in strategic position as they waited for the arrival of a federal government delegation led by the Minister of Information, Mr Lai Muhammed.

The Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, was already in the town ahead of the visiting federal government delegation. It was also his first visit to Dapchi since that attack occurred. Then, he was away from the state on an official function in Abuja, according to his spokesman, Abdullahi Bego.

The presence of the governor in the attacked town gave residents hope that they would soon be reunited with the rescued schoolgirls whom the state government had the previous night announced had been rescued by soldiers

But before the arrival of the minister, the governor had to address the residents and tell them the truth. There were no girls that had been rescued.

The governor’s message doused the mood of the parents some of whom broke down in tears.

Mr. Gaidam urged them to take heart as the government “is still working round the clock to see that the missing girls were found”.

The Nigerian government has not come clear on the fact that these missing girls were actually abducted by the Boko Haram and the narratives that the girls have fled the attack and are still somewhere in the bush really pissed the members of the attacked community.


PREMIUM TIMES spoke with many of the residents who confirmed that they saw the Boko Haram gunmen taking the missing girls away in their trucks.

Abdullahi Jimuna, a young man who identified himself as a trader, said many of them are yet to overcome the shock of witnessing such invasion, which was the first ever in the community.

“On Monday at about 6.30 p.m., we were about to perform the evening prayer, then we saw about eight Hilux vans and a Tata truck coming into the town the other direction”, said Mr. Jimuna, a lanky fair-skinned man.

“When they arrived the town the vehicles separated in two groups, taking different directions. Then suddenly they began to shoot sporadically. After a while, as everyone was fleeing, then we began to hear the schoolgirls were screaming, we saw some of them scaling the fence and taking to the bush. Then we saw some of them being conveyed in a truck and being taken away.

“We were told on Wednesday night that they have been rescued somewhere near Geidam, but we later found out that it was all lies. It was lies because the governor came here today and informed us that as far as he was concerned these kids were not even abducted and taken away, that they might have ran into the bush.

“So if that is his opinion on the matter, then it means the issue of rescuing them from the Boko Haram does not arise. As I am talking to you now, many of us are traumatised, many are hospitalised due to the incident and abduction of the girls,” Mr. Jimuna said.


CLEAR MISSION TO ABDUCT SCHOOLGIRLS

Usman Na-Katarko, a farmer, told PREMIUM TIMES that he was very sure that the schoolgirls were the primary target of the Boko Haram gunmen whom he said were total strangers to the town.



“It was about prayer time, and we were in the mosque when we began to hear sounds of vehicles moving at unusual speed around the streets,” he said.


“Then we saw some of them driving towards where the security people are stationed. Then we began to hear shootings. From my experience as an internally displaced person from Katarko, I knew that such kind of shooting was not a friendly one. So I told people that this is not good we have to take to safety.

“I told them that these people in military uniform are not soldiers, because on their Hilux vans are inscriptions in Arabic.

“So I had to flee out of the mosque. As I was running towards my house to see if my family had also ran out, I saw a large number of Boko Haram gunmen (marching on) a village head of a nearby community called Dana, asking him to take them to a school; I had to dock and I heard them cursing him and shouting at him that “show us where the school is, show us where the girls school is.” And I think the Village head deliberately took them to a junior secondary near the hospital, where there were no student at that time, and when they were going into the school the village head escaped.

“When they found out that the school was empty they came back asking people to tell them the location of GGSS until they eventually located the school. They were very specific about what they were looking for. In fact they were telling some people in Kanuri language that “go on with your prayers we are not here for you people.” They even shook hands with some villagers to tell them they did not mean harm.

“From all indication, their primary mission was the school and it appeared most of them don’t know much about the town, they were strangers that was why it took them time to locate the school which was along the highway at the outskirts of the town.

“When they eventually found the school, they abducted more than 90 girls, most of them are our friends and brothers’ daughters, and took them away,” he said.

Another resident of the attacked town, Garba Dapchi, said even if the security operatives had arrived Dapchi two hours after the attack they would have been able to intercept the abductors and rescue the girls.

“On Monday at prayer time, they came into the town, they did not beat or harm anyone”, he said.

“All they were interested in was abducting the girls and taking them away. They also looted our wares in shops and then made away with the girls in trucks.

“After a day, we got the information that they have been intercepted in Geidam and the girls were being returned to Dapchi town. We all gathered here to receive them, then the governor came and said the truth was that there were not girls that were found.

“Everyone saw them leaving with our daughters, they took them on trucks and headed east, towards Gumsa village. As they were leaving many of us saw their vehicles breaking down on the way and they were stopping to fix it then carry on; they did not go far from this vicinity up till about 9 p.m. in the night. No one came to chase them; even when the soldiers arrived, they did not give them any pursuit.

“We can only pray that God should intervene and help us rescue our children because it is very clear that government and the security operatives are not ready to protect or help us.”



GRIEVING PARENTS

Our reporter was able to meet parents of some of the missing schoolgirls, who are in different state of grief over the disappearance of their daughters. Many of them who felt disappointed that government lied about rescuing the girls would not want to speak. But some that did speak, expressed their disappointment and asked the government to help rescue the girls.

Aminami Maigoro told PREMIUM TIMES that he could not find his 20 years old daughter, whom he said was also among the missing schoolgirls.


“She was in JSS 3. I am deeply saddened by what happened here on Monday,” he said.

“We live in Jimbam, a village not far away from here and she is schooling here. We came here to take delivery of our daughters after we heard that they were rescued in Geidam. But when we got here we found out that there were no girls that were rescued. We are seriously concerned and worried about government coming out to deny its statement made less than 24 hours ago. We fear they should not play politics with the lives of our children.”

Muhammed Sanusi, another parent, said he could not find his 14 years old daughter when the school management asked those that escaped the attack to go home. He said he was not pleased with the way government was managing the situation.

“When the Boko Haram gunmen came, it was already getting dark and initially we did not know that they had entered the school,” he said.

“It was later we heard the news that the school was invaded and that the students all fled. But in the morning, we were later informed that they had taken many girls away. We all gathered in the school premises as some of the girls that escaped into the bushes were being helped to return.

“At about 2pm, they asked us to come and get our girls; but unfortunately my daughter was not among the ones that escaped. My daughter Aisha Muhammed is nowhere to be found; she is just 14 years old in JSS3.

“We were all excited when the news came to us last night that the girls have been rescued in Geidam; we even commended the government for standing by our side in such a crucial time. But the same government now said no girl has been rescued.

“But the government has a duty to get us our children in whatever means or way that is necessary.”

A VISIT TO THE ATTACKED SCHOOL

Government Girls Science and Technical College (formerly known as Government Girls Secondary School, GGSS) Dapchi is located by the roadside at the outskirts of Dapchi town on the way to Gashua. It has a large perimeter fencing around a dusty plane within which the school is situated. It is obviously an old school that appears to be begging for serious face lift, especially the staff quarters and the dormitory.

Driving within the school premises seemed very difficult as vehicles could easily get stuck in the slippery sands.

There are a couple of neem trees providing shades around some of the buildings.

PREMIUM TIMES visited the school dormitory where most of the girls were at the time the Boko Haram gunmen attacked.

Abandoned wares belonging to the Dapchi schoolgirls Abandoned food in the deserted dormitory.
The dorm was found deserted as the students had to leave for the one week post-attack break. But the students left a tell-tale of the situation they found themselves at the time of the attacks.

The hall was littered with clothing, shoes, books and the air choked with smell of already served but abandoned meals.

Ya’Ari Malam Ari, the chief cook of the school, who was still at the dorm area because the management asked her and her colleagues to report daily to cook for the newly deployed soldiers guarding the school, told PREMIUM TIMES that in her over 15 years of working in the school kitchen, she had never witnessed a situation in which poor little students were so horrified.

“I have been working in this school as a cook for over 15 years, and this is our first experience with such kind of horror,” she said.

She said her daughter was among those that took to the bush at the time of the attack.

“We were all here preparing the students to break their usual Monday voluntary fasting which most of the Muslim students observe, when we began to hear distant shooting and commotion in town. Suddenly we saw men in uniform but who don’t look like soldiers entering our school premises and heading towards the dormitory area.

“Somebody alerted us that it was Boko Haram and we immediately asked everyone to run for safety. When the students were fleeing some of them were deceived to enter the Boko Haram gunmen’s vehicle. Because as everyone was running in confusion, some of the Boko Haram men started calling on the girls and telling them ‘come and let’s help’, ‘come and let’s help you to escape’. So many of them were either deceived or forcefully taken away by the gunmen.

Front view of girls dormitory GGSTC DAPCHI from where the girls were abducted by BHT Signpost of GGSTC Dapchi
“I have a child who is a student here and she was lucky to escape and return home, after I had given up hope that she might have been abducted as well. Her name is Zara Bukar.

“But many of her friends are nowhere to be found. We have not seen Ummi, we have not seen Yaani Fanna, we have not seen Zarau, Kaka, Halira, Zara, Maimuna all of them are yet to be found. I know more than ten girls in Dapchi town who are missing. Even one of my neighbour’s daughter who is in her final year and was already betrothed is also missing,” she said.

KIDNAP FOR RANSOM

Hours after it released a statement that some of the girls had been freed, the Yobe State government recanted on Thursday and said none has been rescued. The actual number of missing girls is also yet to be ascertained. While the police said 30 were missing as at Wednesday evening, the state government said over 50 were missing.

On Thursday, the information minister, Lai Mohammed, said the government was yet to ascertain the actual number of missing girls.

The deliberate target of the schoolgirls by the terrorists may be an indication that they hope to profit from it especially by demanding ransom.

The sect has released scores of kidnapped people, mostly females to the Nigerian government after negotiations. These include scores of schoolgirls who were kidnapped from Chibok in Borno State in 2014.

While the government is yet to officially acknowledge it, many Nigerians believe the government paid huge sums as ransom for the release. On Thursday, many senators including the Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan, acknowledged the ransom payment.

It is not clear how much such ransom payments influenced the decision of the group to target another girls’ school.

For the parents of the kidnapped Dapchi girls, however, all they want is the safe rescue of their wards.

“It is the responsibility of government to get our daughters rescued safely and returned home unharmed because these kids were taken in a facility that is under the care of government,” Mr. Sanusi, the father of the kidnapped 14-year-old student said.

@POLITICSNGR

Chief Ayo Adebanjo, an elder statesman has said that Vice president, Yemi Osinbajo has been turned to the 'worst devil' by 'juju' in Aso-rock.

Adebanjo advised the VP to step down in solidarity with late Chief Obafemi Awolowo's struggle for true federalism. He also said that President Buhari's integrity was gone. In his words;

“When a man who has integrity authorises his AGF to go and meet a criminal in a strange land and then reinstates that criminal? It’s a pity.”

On Osinbajo he said; "Don ’t mind that one. I have told him to remember the son of who he is. His father and I were the followers of (Chief Obafemi ) Awolowo on federalism.

He was born in federalism. And when he was the Attorney General in Lagos, he took Obasanjo to court over local government allocation that was depriving Lagos. He won the case up to the Supreme Court. Now, he is the Vice -President.

It just reminds me of what Reuben Abati wrote that there is something wrong; the moment some people get to Aso Rock, there is a juju there that turns the good people among them into the worst devils.

He should have resigned. I say that without any hesitation. The Vice – President — I know him from his youth — highly intelligent and highly qualified.

A professor who is very sound. He has a job of his own. He is not jobless Why shouldn’t he resign? He went there with the thought to serve, maybe thinking of the West that, if there are any excesses of the President, he would be able to check it.

No ! He was brought into wealth and he was silenced because of office. So, the Vice – President has no excuse. Tinubu has no excuss, particularly the Vice – President , who is a professional in his own right. He knows about all these ills. He has fought against them before. All these things are going on and you are seeing it?"

https://politicsngr.com/aso-rock-juju-tu...-adebanjo/
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According to a report shared by a social media user,a man killed four of his children and their housemaid at Ntueke Street,Awada,Onitsha.It is unclear what made him killed them.The man still shows signs of life in him.

See photos below


Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/man-ki...d.html?m=1





Re: Man Kills His 4 Children And Housemaid In Onitsha (Graphic Photos) by Mztarstrechy(m): 6:03am
Read more. http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/man-ki...d.html?m=1

Dapchi Schoolgirls: Gaidam Blames Abduction On Withdrawal Of Military


The Governor of Yobe State, Ibrahim Gaidam has blamed the abduction of the Dapchi schoolgirls on the withdrawal of security personnel from communities in the state.

Addressing journalists on Saturday at the Yobe state Government House, he alleged that security check points were withdrawn from Dapchi and other communities, few days before the attack, a development which he believes gave room for the incident.

“There was not any justification whatsoever to withdraw the military from that place, knowing fully well that there is a girls’ school there with about 900 of them and it’s a local government headquarters.

“They withdrew the military personnel last week, which was not even known to us,” he said.

Read Also: Yobe Attack: Parents Form Association, Demand Recuse Of ‘105 Schoolgirls’

This comes days after the state government claimed that some of the girls had been found, only to counter the statement later, as none had actually been rescued.

The hopes of parents were dashed, even as they continue to demand the rescue of their children.

As part of their efforts to drive home their demand, the parents formed an association through which they were able to ascertain that 105 girls were actually still missing.

The students were said to have disappeared from their school, Government Girls Science and Technical College Dapchi, in Yobe state, after gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram terrorists invaded the school on Monday.

Governor Gaidam has, however, promised that the government will stop at nothing to ensure the girls are rescued.

He also noted that he had called the attention of the Theatre Commander who has promised to restore the presence of the military personnel to the state.

https://www.channelstv.com/2018/02/24/da...itary/amp/
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

SUNDAY, 25TH FEBRUARY.

Pastor Chris

TOPIC ✨ HE LOOKS BEYOND YOUR FAULTS✨

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

There’re people who have stopped going to church, because they did something wrong and thought God was mad at them and couldn’t forgive them. I wish they knew the kind of God He is! He is love. He could never turn His back on you. He loves you so much that rather than punish you for your sins, He punished His Son, Jesus. That’s what we read in our opening verse.

God may hate sin, but He loves the sinner. He distinguishes the sinner from his actions and loves him nonetheless. That’s the reason He could look beyond man’s faults and frailties and pay the ultimate price—the death of His Son—to save the world. The Bible says God was in Christ, reconciling the world—the world of sinners unto Himself—not imputing their trespasses unto them (2 Corinthians 5:19). He doesn’t hold your sins against you.

Jesus already bore the punishment and consequences for all your sins. He was judged for your sake: “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). This is part of the excitement and joy we celebrate as Christians; we’re so grateful to God for all He’s provided for us in Christ Jesus. He’s so wonderful! Where would we have been without Him? What would our lives have been like? https://wp.me/p9v28c-RR

Think about a God who isn’t just loving, but is also all love! Even when we inadvertently do or say the wrong things, in His love, He made provision for our automatic cleansing. In 1 John 1:7, He says, “If we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ his son cleanseth us from all sin.” He gave no conditions for the cleansing; so you never have to worry about unknown sins in your life.

Then the ninth verse says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Thus, having been born again, if you do something wrong, and confess it to the Father, He’s loving enough, and can be trusted, to cleanse you, not only from that sin, but from all unrighteousness. How wonderful this is!

PRAYER
I see people the way God sees them. Rather than see their flaws and faults, I see the good in them—that beautiful part of them! Always, I rise above offences as I cover others with the umbrella of God’s love flowing from the castle of my heart, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 5:19-21 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

Romans 5:8-10 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Mark 7:1-23, Leviticus 26-27
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 21:18-26, Psalm 40-41
Affirmationtrain
# AFFIRMATIONTRAIN 25TH FEBRUARY.
I affirm that my words are living and active, they are anointed to produce results. There’s no hopeless situation I can’t change, for my faith is the victory that overcomes every adversity. Irrespective of what I hear, see or feel, my faith in the Word prevails. I walk in health, victory, prosperity and success today and always. Hallelujah! This is my set time to experience the unprecedented favour and manifold blessings in every area of my life. All things are working together for my good because I love the Lord, and I have been called according to His purpose. Everything I require for life and godliness has been delivered unto me, and I am enjoying life to the full. Durable riches and wealth are mine because I am the seed of Abraham! Through my giving and paying of tithes, my finances are sanctified unto the Lord and my prosperity is guaranteed! The adversary and devourer are rebuked for my sake, and I function in increased grace for financial abundance. Glory to God!
(SPECIAL GIFT http://bit.ly/2dZqtLQ )
• This is something to shout about. Keep saying it and your life will go in one direction only—upward and forward. You can now reach us on:
• Info@affirmation-train.org
• http://www.affirmation-tr

Groom Dead, Groom's Grandma Dead, Bride Severely Injured As Wedding Gift Explodes - Photos


A tragic incident in a wedding in India has taken people by surprise. A wedding gift given to a newly married couple exploded just days after the wedding, killing the groom and his grandmother. The explosion has also left the bride in a critical condition and could possibly die.

According to IBTimes UK, the incident took place in the eastern Indian state of Odisha on Friday, 23 February, five days after the wedding, when the family was busy unpacking presents received at the reception. Police said the pair from the Bolangir district of the state got the gift from an unidentified person at their marriage reception on 21 February.

The explosion killed the groom's grandmother on the spot, while the man died later at a hospital. The bride is also said to be in critical condition, and receiving treatment at a government hospital in Burla city, Deccan Chronicle reported.

The identity of the victims has not been revealed yet. Chief Medical Officer of the district, S Mishra, said the elderly woman was declared "brought dead" at the Bolangir district headquarters hospital, while the man "injured in the blast also died at the Ispat General Hospital in Rourkela".

"The family had received a parcel bomb in the guise of the gift packet today which exploded while being opened. The police have collected evidence and an investigation is on," Patnagarh Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Sesadeva Bariha said, adding search operation against the accused has been launched.

More @ http://www.exlinklodge.com/2018/02/groom-dead-grooms-grandma-dead-bride.html?m=1



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_kONdPkyk4

These sculptures seemingly defy the laws of gravity thanks to a spot of ingenious engineering.

MailOnline Travel has scoured the globe for some of the most impressive pieces of art that turn things on their head.




'I make art for myself and for people who wish to come along for a ride through my dreams,' says Italian sculptor Lorenzo Quinn, who created this gravity-defying piece of art, which was installed at the Museum of Modern Art in Shanghai.






http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-5363561/The-worlds-eye-catching-gravity-defying-sculptures.html

: Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The 

Hackney-based Chinneck also crafted this upside-down car and tarmac installation. 

The gravity-defying sculpture, built from a Vauxhall car hanging upside down on a ripped-up stretch of road, popped up in Sheffield last year.


 Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws 
Marcela Romagnoli's sculptures in Puerto Natales, Chile, pay homage to the strong winds that blow through the city. They were installed in 2012 to celebrate 101 years of the city.

 
Adrian Gray's work is predominantly sculpture and photography based on the natural world of balance. 


He is based in the UK and created this sculpture for a couple who built a clifftop house in Wales on Channel 4's Grand DesigThese sculptures seemingly defy the laws of gravity thanks to a spot of ingenious engineering.

MailOnline Travel has scoured the globe for some of the most impressive pieces of art that turn things on their head.




'I make art for myself and for people who wish to come along for a ride through my dreams,' says Italian sculptor Lorenzo Quinn, who created this gravity-defying piece of art, which was installed at the Museum of Modern Art in Shanghai.






http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-5363561/The-worlds-eye-catching-gravity-defying-sculptures.html


Re: Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
Artist Emil Alzamora, who was born in Peru but lives in New York, explores the human form through his haunting figurative sculptures. 

The below sculpture, called Abedo, was created in 




A daytime view of Tower Bridge, with the statue of Girl with Dolphin by the late British artist David Wynne, in the foreground. 

Situated on the north bank of the Thames, the sculpture was installed in 1973.


Re: Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
Gerry Judah is a British artist who has created a number of large scale gravity-defying pieces. 

He built this car-themed structure for the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed in Sussex back in 2009.



Michael Grab exhibits real rocks that he's balanced and photographed in various locations around the world. 

He created the stack above while travelling around Costa Rica in 2015.




Mike Ross is an American sculptor known for large scale public art projects. 

His Big Rig Jig, on display at Banksy's Dismaland in Weston-super-Mare in 2015, was constructed from two discarded tanker trucks.


Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
A daytime view of Tower Bridge, with the statue of Girl with Dolphin by the late British artist David Wynne, in the foreground. 

Situated on the north bank of the Thames, the sculpture was installed in 1973.

: Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
Gerry Judah is a British artist who has created a number of large scale gravity-defying pieces. 

He built this car-themed structure for the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed in Sussex back in 2009.


Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
Michael Grab exhibits real rocks that he's balanced and photographed in various locations around the world. 

He created the stack above while travelling around Costa Rica in 2015.



RIncredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy 
Mike Ross is an American sculptor known for large scale public art projects. 

His Big Rig Jig, on display at Banksy's Dismaland in Weston-super-Mare in 2015, was constructed from two discarded tanker trucks.

Mike Ross is an Argentine conceptual artist who likes to play with space with many of his works on display in public places. 

This ladder and window piece went on display at the Spiral Garden in Tokyo, Japan, last year where it remains.




Take my Lightening but dont steal my Thunder by Alex Chinneck.

Built via the hands of 100 people and installed carefully over four days, Alex’s illusion creates the impression that the roof of Covent Garden Market is literally hovering freestyle above our heads, floating.

As if its upper portion has broken away from its stone base to float in mid air




Incredible Sculptures Around The World That Defy The Laws Of Gravity(Photos) 
These unusual public sculptures, crafted by Polish artist Jerzy Kędziora and installed in Palm Beach, Florida, are held in position in just one or two places.

Michael Jones sculpture.


Michael Jones scored the first try at the first ever Rugby World Cup.

This was photographed by Geoff Dale. 

His sculptress daughter Natalie Stamilla was commissioned by the NZRFU to create a bronze statue that was later erected at Eden Park that was 1 ½ times the life-size image and 1 ½ tonne.



Floating stone by Smabad Abbas.


Coffee Kiss by Johnson Tsang


Trans I Re by Fredrik

The British military has offered to assist the Nigerian Army in the search and rescue operation launched for the 105 girls kidnapped in Dapchi, Yobe State.


The Guardian reports that the British army led by Major Ian Robertson, the general advisor, British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) in Nigeria, recently made this known.

Condemning the attack and kidnapping of the school girls from Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Dapchi, Robertson lamented the fact that girls’ schools have become soft targets for insurgents.

In his words: “Having heard about this particular issue recently, I am still trying to get more information about what is going on, but it is clearly very disappointing that something like this has happened, that the girls have been taken. 



“But let me reassure you, from the British military perspective, that we are monitoring the event quite closely and we are cooperating with the armed forces of Nigeria to see how we can assist.” 

On Monday, February 19, 2018, the men of the Boko Haram sect invaded a part of Yobe State including the Government Girls Secondary School in Dapchi kidnapping several students and reigning terror on the school and the village.

According to a forum of parents of missing students, the number of girls in captivity have been given as 105.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the girls kidnap saying it’s a national disaster.

US condemns kidnap of school girls in Yobe

The United States of America condemned the abduction of over 90 school girls from Government Girls Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe state.

The Spokesperson of the US Department of State, Ms Heather Nauert, at a press briefing on Thursday, said “We are still trying to get all the details about that but we wanted to mention that we condemn in the strongest possible terms the terror attack on a school earlier this week in north-eastern Nigeria.

“The choice of targets including schools, markets and places of worship reflect the brutality of terror organisations.

“The victims in the attacks were girls who were simply seeking an education.”

“We continue to support Nigeria’s efforts to counter the terror group.

“We also support Nigeria’s efforts to enable more than two million displaced in the Lake Chad region to return home safely.

“United States continues to provide humanitarian assistance to those who were affected by the violence,” Nauert added.

111 Yobe school girls unaccounted for

The Police Commissioner in Yobe, Abdulmaliki Sumonu, on Wednesday, confirmed that 111 girls were still unaccounted for following Monday’s attack by Boko Haram insurgents.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the insurgents who attacked the school looted foodstuff, while the staff and students ran into the bush for safety.




http://www.clintgist.com/british-military-offers-to-assist-with-rescue-of-dapchi-girls-id8031509-html/

Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi seems to be nurturing a lasting friendship with the United States House of Representatives Speaker, Paul Ryan. After news broke of their meeting last year, it seems they have continued contact and discussions with the two meeting a few days ago in the United States.

Details of what they discussed were not disclosed by the 2 men but it is safe to assume Nigeria would not be far from the agenda.

It is also an open secret that both men would like to lead their respective countries some time in the future. He definitely helps to have influential friends from around the world.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/peter-obi-meets-paul-ryan-2nd-time-2-years/

Quote:Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace on Friday set a new record with the arrival of its newly acquired Boeing B777-200 aircraft, becoming the first and only Nigerian airline to procure and register the brand of airliner in the country.

The development is coming weeks after the airline took delivery of two Embraer 145 aircraft on January 31 and February 9 respectively and made history with the setting up a subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper to organise its short-haul operations in line with its no-city-left-behind project.


The 274-capacity aircraft, which touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos at about 3.45 pm on Friday, is the first of two Boeing 777 airliners Air Peace recently acquired in preparation for its Dubai, Sharjah, London, Guangzhou-China, Houston, Mumbai and Johannesburg services. The airline is finalising talks to add two more B777 aircraft to its fleet soon.



The aircraft with registration mark 5N-BVE bears “Ifechukwu”, the middle name of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema.

The aircraft, which was flown in by the Chief Pilot of the airline, Capt. Victor Egonu and Capt. Simon Donoghue, arrived to a rousing welcome by an excited team from Air Peace led by Onyema and and enthusiastic crowd of top aviation personnel as well as security operatives.


Speaking on the arrival of the aircraft, Onyema assured that Air Peace, which launched its its Banjul, Freetown and Dakar services on February 19, would soon start flights to Dubai, Sharjah, Guangzhou-China, London, Houston, Mumbai and South Africa.

“Air Peace is ready to begin operations on these routes as soon as we get the cooperation of our aviation agencies, our home governments, and the outside governments of the countries we are going to. As soon as we get their cooperation, we will make it happen, ” Onyema said.


The feats Air Peace had recorded in just three years of its flight operations, he insisted, were a proof that Nigerian airlines could compete with and even outperform the legacy airlines if there was a level-playing field.

His words: “This is the first time a Nigerian carrier is acquiring a B777. What we have had in the past were through leases which were not favourable to the airline operators. So, I don’t believe that Nigerian airlines cannot compete favourably with others. What we have been lacking is the necessary support.

“Within the last three years, we have been able to increase our fleet size to 24 aircraft. That is rapid growth and we are still growing stronger.”

Onyema dismissed insinuations that Nigerian airlines were not safe, stressing that Air Peace spent up to $2.5 million annually in maintaining a single aircraft on its fleet.

“So,” he contended, “in terms of safety, we can assure our guests of the very best because even our technical partner is a firm from the United Kingdom.

“Air Peace cannot be said to be weak or indebted and if there are airlines that are going through that, they should come out and name them instead of generalising.”

The Air Peace boss said he remained opposed to the Single African Air Transportation Market (SAATM) initiative, insisting that Nigeria had little or nothing to gain from it.

Onyema explained that most African airlines that would take advantage of the SAATM window to operate in the country lacked attractive destinations Nigerian airlines would reciprocally operate into.

He added that some of the countries on the African continent were imposing high charges in a bid to discourage Nigerian airlines from operating into their routes.

Gov Fayose of Ekiti state was yesterday given the
Man of The People Award at 2017 Silverbird TV Man of the Year Award ceremony held at Eko Hotels,Lagos.Also in attendance were Atiku Abubakar,Governor Wike Of Rivers State,his wife and others.See photos below


Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/fayose-receives-2017-silverbird-tv-man.html?m=1
2 Likes




Re: Fayose Wins 2017 Silverbird TV Man Of The People Award (Photos) by stephenduru: 12:35pm
Read more. http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/fayose-receives-2017-silverbird-tv-man.html?m=1

Quote:Jesusegun Alagbe


The Nigeria Police Force has said it cannot arrest herdsmen who allow their cattle to stray onto and graze on airport runways in the country.
The Commissioner of Police , Airport Command, Mustapha Dandaura, stated this in an interview with our correspondent on Friday.

He said herdsmen could only be arrested in states where the anti - open grazing law was effective .

However , Dandaura said that all policemen and other security officials at the airports had been instructed to stay on high alert to prevent a situation whereby cows would take over airport runways .

He said , “It ’ s only in states where the anti - open grazing law is in place that herdsmen can be arrested for allowing their cattle to graze on airport runways . Apart from those states , we have not been told to start arresting herdsmen .

“ But we have already alerted our men at the airports to ensure such incident does not occur again. The state police commands have also been carried along and everyone is on the alert .

“ We can ’ t have a situation whereby cows would be straying onto and grazing on airport runways because it is embarrassing . Everyone is now on the alert and it ’ s going to be prevented. ”

Last Saturday , an Air Peace flight from Lagos had been prevented from landing at the Akure Airport , Ondo State as cows took over the runway.

It had taken the efforts of airport security and other aviation workers to clear the runway before the airplane landed .

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria had apologised to the airline affected and suspended the head of aviation security at the airport following the bizarre incident.

A similar incident had occurred in November 2016 when a fully - loaded plane belonging to Air Peace had to abort landing at the Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri, Imo State when the pilot discovered that the runway had been invaded by cows .

Before the Owerri episode, an Air France plane was reported to have collided with cows at the runway of the Port Harcourt International Airport .

Quote:Constitutional lawyer and Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN) on Thursday came down hard on proponents of the agitation of Biafra Republic, saying they are doing so for selfish reasons.

Speaking in a chat with Daily Independent on why the agitation for Biafra became so serious after former president Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure, Sagay said those clamouring for Biafra are doing so in order to intimidate President Muhammadu Buhari into giving the Igbos positions they don’t deserve having rigged themselves out of contention in the present administration.


Describing the Igbos as die-hard loyalists of Jonathan, he said the Igbos who occupied 50 percent of federal positions in the country under the Jonathan administration resorted to rigging for the PDP in the last general elections.

According to him, having lost out due to their lack of principle, opportunism and rigging, the Igbos decided to resurrect Biafra as a ploy to negotiate with the federal government for appointments they don’t deserve.


“I have been studying elections very closely in this country since 2007. The Igbos were committed to Goodluck Jonathan. But they didn’t leave it at that just convince people to vote for him”.

“They decided to rig for PDP and Jonathan. They did that yet, the party still lost out at the federal level. So, they lost out”.

“If you look at Jonathan’s government, the Igbos were in almost 50 percent of positions in this country. But they lost out because of their rigging and opportunism and lack of principle”.


“And now they want to take it out on Buhari by resurrecting Biafra. They want to intimidate Buhari so much. They will now want to negotiate with them and start giving them things and positions they don’t deserve. That is intimidation and threat for no just cause”

“In summary, they rigged themselves out of contention in the present administration and they are not prepared to accept the consequence of their own actions” he said.

Quote:

Amina Mallam Usman is only 15 years old and a light weight in stature.But when the occasion demanded, as it did on Monday night, Amina put up the courage and fighting spirit of many people who are much older and twice her size.

She was one of the dozens targeted by the terrorists and about being packed into their vehicles for a journey into an uncertain future.
She had only a few seconds to break away from the terrorists who were out to ruin her life.

With one heavy jerk, belying her little frame, Amina broke loose from her captor, leaving behind her hijab, lest it became a hindrance in her escape bid.

Amina ascribed her escape to the grace of God.
She prayed that God might protect her friends and mates and guide them back home.

She said: “When Boko Haram came to our school, we thought they were soldiers because they dressed like soldiers.

“We ran, and then one of them called us. One of them asked me to come to the car.

“I got close to the car, and then one of them started laughing at me.

“I moved closer to them, thinking they were soldiers.

“I soon realized that they were not soldiers. As I made to run away, one of them tried to grab me. I dodged him but he got my hijab. 

I quickly removed my hijab and left him with it and ran away. I thought I was dead.

“They entered our hostel again, but some of us ran into the bush. I ran up to five kilometres and hid in one Fulani settlement called Miligia.

Asked how many students she saw in the invaders’ vehicles, Amina said: “There were many students in the vehicles.. They were up to 50 that were in the vehicles.”

She said she felt like the angels should take her soul the moment she realized the men were Boko Haram terrorists.

She is not psychologically prepared to return to the Dapchi school.

http://thenationonlineng.net/dramatic-escape-15-yr-old/
Re: Dapchi Girls Abduction: My Dramatic Escape - 15-Year-Old Girl Recounts (Photo) 
Insinuations/Theories:

1. The fresh Dapchi 120 kidnap was staged for the following reasons:
(a) Justify the request of GMB's $1Bn to fight the BH terrorist. (Fund could be seriously needed to fund next electioneering & campaign)
(b) Keep the girls for few days and release in order to claim 'super hero' compared to the last administration that was rubbished by Northern 
elders.
© Use the script as a propaganda of effectiveness during the next campaign, being a failed government itself.

2. Boko Haram needs to be granted amnesty with a monthly share from Nigeria resources, having fulfilled their original aim. How do you explain the continuous release of the terrorist by Nigerian Army and the continuous ransom negotiation by this government?

3. Boko Haram are still very active as against the fraudulent lies of this administration to have 'technically and finally defeated BH. 

4. Some wicked souls in high places who are gaining BIG from the terrorism fight will never want the fight to end. Hence, the fresh kidnap in another state, (Yobe).


Whatever the case, it shows the issue of BH is not yet over, and it can never be over in as much as General Mohomodu Buhary failed to name their sponsors.

Who are those sponsoring Boko Haram? Alh. Lie Mohammed, Presidency & Buhary, over to you.

If Buhary's administration and APC cannot tell Nigerians now their sponsors, it means terrorism is here to stay permanently in the NORTHERN Nigeria.

The names of 105 girls allegedly abducted by Boko Haram has been released.The girls were declared missing after an attack by terrorists on a school in Dapchi, Yobe State, earlier this week.

Parents in Dapchi, in Yobe State, said they had set up a support group after Monday’s raid, which has revived memories of the 2014 abduction of more than 200 girls in Chibok.

“Our first step was to compile a comprehensive list of all the missing girls. So far, we have compiled the names of 105,” said Bashir Manzo, the chairman of the newly created group.

Heavily armed jihadists stormed the boarding school in the remote town, forcing terrified students to flee into the surrounding bush.

PoliticsNGR has gotten the list of names of the missing girls published in The Nation, see the screenshot below;

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-names-105-missing-dapchi-schoolgirls-full-list/

Quote:Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi
State on Friday triggered a fresh controversy about his status as a registered voter when he obtained a Temporary Voter Card (TVC) at his Okene Ward.

Mr Kingsley Fanwo, the Director-General, Media and Publicity to the Governor, confirmed this in a statement he issued and circulated among media houses in Lokoja. Fanwo said that the issuance of the TVC to Bello was sequel to a form he filled, seeking the transfer of his Permanent Voter Card (PVC) to Okene.

“The governor had been on the issue of the transfer for long. He is excited it has finally been done by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Yes, his card has been transferred to his polling unit at Okene. The governor is a law-abiding leader who will continue to follow due process,” Fanwo said in the statement.

The issue of Bello as a registered voter before the 2015 general elections has been a subject of public interest and currently in court for decision. It would be recalled that Bello had registered afresh in Lokoja, Kogi State, on May 23, 2017, but INEC swiftly described the governor’s action as illegal and unconstitutional.

INEC alleged that Bello was involved in double registration, claiming that the governor had earlier registered at Wuse, Zone II, on Jan. 30, 2011. For their involvement in the governor’s alleged illegal registration in 2017, a senior official of INEC was retired compulsorily from service while two other personnel were summarily dismissed.

Attempts to get the State INEC office to comment on the governor’s latest action proved abortive as many calls to the mobile phone of the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof James Akpa, did not connect. However, The Director of Publicity and Voter Education, Mr Ahmed Biambo, when contacted, promised to call back but failed to do so.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged INEC to explain the mystery surrounding the collection of a TVC by Bello. Mr Dickson Achadu, the PDP Director of Research and Documentation in the state, in a statement, insisted that the governor was culpable having registered twice in Abuja in 2011 and in Lokoja in 2017.

“INEC must come clear with what is happening and the circumstances surrounding the governor’s double registration, most especially that the governor has been dragged to court, having allegedly registered twice as even being alleged by INEC.

“INEC must reassure citizens of its readiness to conduct a free, fair and credible poll in 2019 as the governor’s action is making it lose public confidence.

It is unimaginable that having confessed to not being able to transfer his permanent voter card before 2015 and the governor’s second registration held in Kogi Government House, Lokoja, INEC can still participate in the drama that took place at INEC office in Okene today,” the statement said.

A police officer and a former Russian diplomatic official are among those arrested after authorities seized a large cocaine shipment at the Russian embassy in Buenos Aires.

Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said that 860 pounds (389 kilograms) of the drug were hidden inside diplomatic luggage.

The investigation began after Victor Koronelli, the Russian ambassador to the South American country, and three members of the Russian federal security service, reported to Bullrich that they had suspicions about the luggage found at a school annex of the embassy.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/feb/23/russian-embassy-cocaine-buenos-aires-police-arrests?_e_pi_=7%2CPAGE_ID10%2C1226610077

GistMore.com

Thai police working with the US Drug Enforcement agency have arrested a Nigerian man who they say is an international drug dealer in cocaine.

Emmanuel Okwudili Ilichukwu was arrested in Suksawat Soi 26 on two warrants on Thursday, February 22.

A force led by deputy tourist police commissioner Surachet Hakpal raided his property where they found a quantity of ganja in a food cupboard.

Surachet told the media that the Thais had been working with the DEA to arrest the Nigerian. He had been on their radar but managed to avoid capture before.

He had made frequent trips from Bangkok to Nigeria and was involved in packaging cocaine in plastic and hiding it in electrical appliances.
The drugs found their way to Australia and New Zealand.

He was using Bangkok as a base and also dealing drugs in the Thai capital. He has been charged with possession and intent to distribute a class 2 drug (cocaine).

https://www.gistmore.com/photos-nigerian-international-cocaine-dealer-arrested-bangkok

@POLITICSNGR

Governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-rufai has filed a N2 billion lawsuit against Senator Shehu Sani for defamation, PoliticsNGR has gathered.

El-Rufai filed the suit at the Kaduna State High court on Friday, seeking reliefs for injuries allegedly suffered as results of “malicious statements” in the media by Senator Sani.

The Kaduna governor claims that Sani made malicious statements through the media to humiliate and defame him adding that Sani called him a "drunk, loose cannon and an embarrassment to President Muhammadu Buhari".

El-rufai demanded a public declaration from Sani that the terrible remarks made against him were false. Speaking to reporters at the court premises after filing the suit, counsel to El-Rufai, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), dismissed insinuations that the governor, by virtue of his position did not have the constitutional right to sue any citizen.

https://politicsngr.com/el-rufai-files-n2-billion-defamation-suit-shehu-sani/

Quote:President Muhammadu Buhari says Itse Sagay, chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Anti-corruption, is stepping on many toes in the bid to defend his administration.

He said this when he received Ogiame Ikenwoli, the olu of Warri and some prominent Iteskiri sons, including Sagay, at the presidential villa in Abuja on Friday.

The president described Sagay as a man of conviction whom, he emphasised, was doing an exceptional job.

‘‘Thanks for producing a man like Prof. Itse Sagay, who is defending us robustly and stepping on many toes in the process. If he’s not a man of conviction, he couldn’t have done that,” he said.

‘‘What he is doing is exceptional. Despite coming from a minority area, he’s showing overwhelming influence at the centre.

‘‘Prof, I never had the opportunity to thank you personally for all you’re doing. Thank you very much.”

He assured the people of Niger Delta that his administration would continue to support rapid development in the region by consolidating on all ongoing projects and initiating new ones to create more economic opportunities and jobs for the people.

The president reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Niger Delta for economic and social activities to thrive.

According to him, developing the region remains a priority for his administration, adding that under his watch every region in the country would witness increased investments in critical infrastructure.

He promised to look into some of the concerns raised by the delegation including the dredging of Escravos bar for Warri and Koko ports, the gas revolution industrial park and EPZ project in Ogidigben, the ecological challenges in Ode-Itsekiri, Ugborodo, Orere/Yanagho and Ogheye-Eghoroke, among others.

The Nigerian government on Friday said the low ranking of the country on the latest Transparency International Corruption Perception Index is out of tune with concrete and verifiable achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari's administration achievements in the anti graft war since it came into office in May 2015.


The Global anti-corruption watchdog ranked ranked Nigeria low in its 2017 Corruption Perception Perception Index (CPI) released on Wednesday. 

Nigeria was ranked 148th position out of 180, the lowest score of the country on the index in recent years and a figure lower than the average in the Sub-Sharan region.

"The government is still wondering the criteria or facts used by the anti-corruption watchdog to arrive at its very misleading and unfair conclusions in its assessment of the federal government’s efforts in this anti-corruption crusade," the Nigerian presidency said in a statement in which it described the ranking as misleading.

In the statement signed by Mr. Shehu Garba, Senior Special Assistant to the President on media and publicity, the presidency also listed various initiatives of the Buhari government to disprove the TI rating.


President Muhammadu Buhari
Indeed, the presidency not only disagreed with the ranking of Nigeria, it also insinuated that some patrons of TI in the country may be the brains behind the low rating to distract the President.

"In the end, this whole episode may turn out to be just a political distraction, given the strong views some of TI’s patrons have expressed against the Buhari Administration," it noted.

The two Nigerians associated with TI are former President Olusegun Obasanjo who is a member of Advisory Council of the Berlin based anti corruption watchdog and former minister and co-convener of Bring Back Our Girls Advocacy group, Dr Oby Ezekwesili.

Ezekwesili was co-founder of TI and served as one of the pioneers directors of the organisation. 

Ezekwesili and Obasanjo have been outspoken in their criticisms of the Buhari administration in the past few months.

In an open letter last month, Obasanjo asked the President not to contest the 2019 election to seek for a second tenure of office as he alleged that his government has already ruined the Nigerian economy, performed poorly in its anti- corruption war among other failings in its about three years in power.

In the same vein, Ezekwesili has been outspoken about the various failings of the Buhari administration, especially lack of will by the government to act on allegations of corruption against members of the cabinet. 

But the insinuations that Obasanjo and Ezekwesili may hàve influenced the TI rating aside, the presidency noted in the statement that on assumption of office, Buhari demonstrated the will to fight corruption with 'extra ordinary courage" by going after high profile looters, including former military service chiefs and Judges who were formerly believed to be untouchable.

"It was once unthinkable to touch or prosecute the ‘‘big men’’ for corruption in Nigeria but President Buhari has ended impunity for corruption," the presidency.

"Today, the Buhari administration has made accountability the bedrock of governance and corruption is no longer fashionable because it attracts consequences," the presidency noted.

The presidency also regretted that AI failed to acknowledge efforts of the Buhari administration in blocking siphoning of public funds through the rigid enforcement of the Treasury Single Account.

The presidency added that the sucess of the Buhari's administration fight against corruption can also be seen in the amount of funds recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC for being proceeds of corrupt practices in the past two years.

"Figures published by the EFCC, the anti-corruption agency, reveal that N738.9 billion was recovered in just two years of the Buhari administration and this impressive and unprecedented record is worthy of mention and acknowledgement by anybody genuinely looking at the larger picture of the country’s progress in the war against corruption.

"During the 7th session of the Conference of State Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in Vienna, Austria, the Chairman of the Agency, Ibrahim Magu, noted that the figure represents $2.9 billion dollars," the presidency said even as it also noted that EFCC has recorded more than 140 successful prosecutions.

In addition, the presidency noted that the federal government has signed international agreements to recover the proceeds of corruption and to block the laundering of stolen assets abroad by public officials as a further demonstration of its determination to fight graft.

"Anybody who knows where Nigeria was coming from would not believe that corruption is worse under the Buhari administration.

"We wonder where they got their facts from. At a time, they are alleging increase in the incidence of corruption under this government, the whole of Africa is applauding by choosing President Buhari as the continental Champion to lead the fight against it.

"Nothing can be more eloquent than this.

"This notwithstanding, facts are facts, and those facts won’t cease to be facts even if you don’t care to pay attention to them," the presidency concluded in the statement.


http://saharareporters.com/2018/02/24/transparency-international-rating-buhari-govt-blames-obasanjo-ezekwesili

Quote:National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun has assured former Lagos state governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his full support in the reconciliation efforts within the party.

Oyegun, in a letter dated February 23, 2018 was however silent on the issues raised by the APC leader in his letter.

The Nation learnt that Oyegun’s letter was written after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential villa on Friday afternoon after Friday prayers

A copy of the two paragraphed letter sited by The Nation reads: “I thank you for your letter dated February 21, 2018, for your prayers and good wishes for my health. I wish you the same and pray that our good God keeps you strong and grants you His peace.

“Let me once again formally congratulate you on the peace making assignment Mr. President has entrusted you with. It is most challenging but I believe you will ultimately justify the confidence reposed in you by Mr. President. In this you have my fullest support.

“Be assured, dear Asiwaju, of my highest regards now and always”

Tinubu had, in a well publicised letter accused the APC national chairman of frustrating reconciliation efforts by taking decisions regarding some state chapters the party.

Also, the Cross Rivers state chapter had accused the national leadership of undermining the reconciliation efforts by ordering a Congress to elect a chairman for the party in the state barely one month to the end of the tenure of the present executive in the state.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL (FEBRUARY PDF => http://bit.ly/2cuJG6M

*BEYOND REPROACH .*

Saturday, February 24th .
Pastor Chris

_*And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight (Colossians 1:21-22).*_

How inspiring and comforting this is! God chose you before the foundation of the world to be holy and without blame before Him in love, and predestined you to be accepted in His presence (Ephesians 1:6). Long before He laid the foundations of the earth, He had you in mind. He knew you, accepted you and settled on you to be the focus and object of His love.

This had nothing to do with your good works; it’s purely the result of His grace. He reconciled you to Himself, justified you and made you righteous. Now you’re beyond reproach, beyond condemnation. There’s no judgement against you; you’re free from all accusations: _*“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus…”*_ (Romans 8:1). Following the sacrifice of Jesus on your behalf, sin and its consequences shall not have dominion over you. You’re free to serve the Lord and live for Him, in righteousness and true holiness.

Someone might ask, “How about when I do something wrong, am I still righteous, holy, blameless and irreproachable?” Yes, you are! First, understand that Christ is your redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30), meaning that He’s your riddance. In other words, He rids you of trouble and takes responsibility for your faults.

Secondly, you aren’t holy or righteous because of your actions, but because you live in the presence of God, and have His nature of righteousness. He gave you His righteousness as a gift (Romans 5:17); therefore, you have right standing with Him. Moreover, His presence in you sanctifies; that is, makes you holy.

This is what gives us boldness and confidence to pray and expect answers. It’s the reason we can speak and expect things to turn out the way we said they should, because we have a right of hearing in His presence. He qualified us to live in His presence, and become partakers of the divine nature, associates of the Godkind. Blessed be God!

*PRAYER*

*Blessed Father, I thank you for your love and your grace, and for the gift of righteousness, which gives me boldness and right standing in your presence. What joy thrills my soul to know that I now stand justified in your presence, holy, acceptable, and beyond reproach, because Jesus paid the full penalty for my sins. Now, I reign and rule with Him forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *||* *Romans 5:17* For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) *||*

*||* *Ephesians 1:3-4* Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: *||*

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Mark 6:30-56,
Leviticus 25

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan:* Acts 21:10-17,
Psalm 38-39

*EXTRACT FROM:* http://app.rhapsodyofrealities.org/reader/34

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I affirm that the glory of God is risen upon me, and I manifest that glory today, everywhere I go. My future is assured! My success in life is guaranteed and unstoppable because I have made the Word of God my contemplation and meditation. The Word of God is my life, and it’s exalted in my heart, above every thought, desire, aspiration or belief today! The Word has gained the mastery over my spirit, soul, and body, giving me a formidable mind-set—the mindset of the just! I experience victory, success, health, and abundance today and always because I live in the Word, by the Word, and through the Word! My strength is renewed today, and my whole being is invigorated because the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in me, and I am conscious of His presence in me and mindful of His power that is at work in me mightily. Blessed be God! -SEE VIDEOS-
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A Nigerian prophet has been trending after photos emerged that he practises both Islam and Christianity.The Kogi state prophet from Igala land ministers to both Muslims and Christians in his church.This is the first of Nigeria's ChrisIslam Prophet.
See photos below and watch the videos above 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qm1IYLnVDIU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKMON4ZVLYk



Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2018/02/meet-nigerian-prophet-who-practises.html?m=1





Re: Prophet Who Practises Both Islam And Christianity In Kogi (Photos, Videos)