Quote:The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Thursday says it will start immediate refund of capital deposit to Bureaux de Change (BDC) promoters with pending applications.

According to a circular signed by Ibrahim Tukur for the Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department of the apex bank, this is in furtherance of the decision to discontinue allocation of Foreign Exchange (FX) to BDC operators.

Tukur urged eligible promoters of BDCs to forward their application for refund in writing to the Director, Financial
Policy and Regulation Department of the CBN.

“The requests should be accompanied with the following documents: “Telex copy of the capital deposit of N35 million; account details for the refund, which should be the same as the account from which the capital deposit originated, including the Bank name, account name and account number.

“Copy of the bank draft/telex for payment of licensing fee of NI million (if any),” he said.

He advised eligible applicants to submit hardcopies of their requests to CBN Head Office, Central in Abuja or the Annex in Lagos, while urging commercial banks to stop processing payments for their customers.

“Softcopy of the request in above may be sent in advance of the hard copy to fprdlicensinq@cbn.gov.ng.

“In addition, all Deposit Money Banks are hereby directed to henceforth stop accepting instructions from customers to transfer capital deposit of N35 million to the designated CBN account for the purpose of applying for BDC licences,” he said.
(NAN)

Police arrest notorious gunrunner in Kaduna, recover weapons (photos)








The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested and recovered weapons from a notorious gunrunner identified as Geoffrey Ayuba of Anguwan Rimi Kafanchan in the Jema'a Local Government Area of the state. 

Dressed in a Fulani attire, the suspect was nabbed with one AK-47 rifle and two packs of pump-action cartridges which were hidden in the bonnet of his Opel Vectra car (with registration number KAF 733 MK).
 

 
Confirming the arrest in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Muhammed Jalige, said: “The Operatives of the Kaduna Police Command attached to Kafanchan Divisional Headquarters on July 28, 2021, at about 1600hrs while acting on reliable information from a good samaritan, intercepted an Opel Vectra vehicle with registration number KAF 733 MK driven by one Geoffrey Ayuba ‘m’ of Unguwan Rimi Kafanchan in Jema’a LGA of Kaduna State.”
 

 
The statement further said that when a careful search of the said suspicious vehicle was conducted, an AK47 rifle and two packets of 12-gauge shotgun shells that were criminally concealed in the engine compartment of the car were recovered.

“Investigations are ongoing as the suspect has provided useful information to the Police that will facilitate further breakthroughs,” the statement said.
 

Lagos police arrest suspected armed robbers and serial phone snatchers







Men of the Lagos State Police Command Special Squad, Ikeja, have arrested three suspected armed robbers who snatched a Lexus car at gunpoint in Ikorodu area of Lagos on July 11.
 
The suspected armed robbers who went for the said operation in their Toyota Camry operational car, had an encounter with the men of Police Mobile Force Squadron 63 Ikorodu, Lagos, after the robbery operation, and were forced to abandon the two cars and fled.

 
Spokesperson of the state police command, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who confirmed the arrest, said the case was transferred to the Special Squad, ikeja, for further investigation and arrest of the armed robbers. He said the men of the Special Squad painstakingly went after the armed robbers and were able to arrest one Omoyemi Jimoh, m, 30, in Ikorodu on 23rd July 2021, while the other two members of the gang, Ademola Michael, m, 31 and Olawale Adewale, m, 29, were arrested on 27th July, 2021 at different locations in Ikorodu, Lagos State.
 

 
Adejobi added that items recovered from them include one locally-made pistol, one expended cartridge assorted charms other dangerous weapons, one Toyota Camry car with Reg. No Reg.KRD 417 GL and the snatched Lexus Car (Reg. No withheld).
 

 
In a related development, the operatives of the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS), on routine patrol and anti traffic robbery surveillance, on Thursday 29th July, 2021, along the ever-busy Obafemi Awolowo way, Ikeja, arrested two members of a notorious syndicate which specializes in mobile phone theft.
 
The two (2) suspects, Abiodun Idowu, (M), aged 40, an indigene of Sagamu-Remo in Ogun State, resident at No 3, Segilola street, Agege, Lagos and Adeleke Adekunle, (M), aged 27, an indigene of Ila-Orangun in Osun state, who resides at No 7, Araromi street, Kola, Alagbado, Lagos, were arrested after dispossessing one Olakunle John, an NYSC Corp member, of his phone.

 
Adejobi said upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to have been in the criminal act of phone theft for a while. He said further credible intelligence is being channeled towards the arrest of their fleeing accomplices. One galaxy A20 model phone and two (2) sim cards belonging to the victim were recovered from them.
 
 

Buratai asked for Igboho to be handed over to him but was told Benin Republic follow the rule of law - Falana







Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana has narrated how Tukur Buratai, Nigeria’s ambassador to Benin Republic was allegedly told that the country follows rule of law when he asked for Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Igboho to be handed over to him after his arrest in the neighboring country. 
 
In an interview on Channels Television on Thursday July 29, Falana claimed that Buratai made the request when he had not submitted his letter of credence to Benin Republic's President. He also said that he learnt there were attempts to throw Igboho in a waiting plane for return to Nigeria.
 
Falana said; 
 

Quote:“In the case of Sunday Igboho, again despite my disagreement with him, I came out to say you cannot just throw him into a waiting plane as we were told, it was attempted. 
“You have to go to court. You have to make a request under international law, under the ECOWAS convention on extradition.
“The government of Nigeria is requested to submit an extradition request to the government of Benin Republic and so when the plenipotentiary, General Yusuf Buratai (retired), who at that time had not submitted his letters of credence asked that Igboho be handed over to him.
“He was told, ‘sorry, we operate the rule of law here’. That is why that matter is still in court.”

Quote:“Personally, I am strenuously opposed to the campaign for the balkanisation of Nigeria because I believe the masses of our people are oppressed by the ruling class and imperialism.


“To that extent, I have a fundamental ideological disagreement with those who are calling for the breakup of the country along ethnic lines.


“If a group of people decides to fight for the breakup of the country, the duty of the government is to try as much as possible to convince them to repose confidence in the corporate existence of Nigeria.”

Police arrest notorious gunrunner in Kaduna, recover weapons (photos)








The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested and recovered weapons from a notorious gunrunner identified as Geoffrey Ayuba of Anguwan Rimi Kafanchan in the Jema'a Local Government Area of the state. 

Dressed in a Fulani attire, the suspect was nabbed with one AK-47 rifle and two packs of pump-action cartridges which were hidden in the bonnet of his Opel Vectra car (with registration number KAF 733 MK).
 

 
Confirming the arrest in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Muhammed Jalige, said: “The Operatives of the Kaduna Police Command attached to Kafanchan Divisional Headquarters on July 28, 2021, at about 1600hrs while acting on reliable information from a good samaritan, intercepted an Opel Vectra vehicle with registration number KAF 733 MK driven by one Geoffrey Ayuba ‘m’ of Unguwan Rimi Kafanchan in Jema’a LGA of Kaduna State.”
 

 
The statement further said that when a careful search of the said suspicious vehicle was conducted, an AK47 rifle and two packets of 12-gauge shotgun shells that were criminally concealed in the engine compartment of the car were recovered.

“Investigations are ongoing as the suspect has provided useful information to the Police that will facilitate further breakthroughs,” the statement said.
 

Woman becomes paralyzed after falling out of bed while waking husband for sex







A woman now needs fundraising after she became paralyzed from the neck down when she fell from the bed while waking her husband for sex.
 
Sophie Rodgers has been told that she would "probably never walk again."

 
The 44-year-old said she "bunny hopped" over sleeping husband Guy Rodgers, 53, back in August 2019 in a bid to rouse him for sex but "misjudged" her jump, fell out of their double bed and became unconscious.
 

 
When she regained consciousness the next morning, she "couldn’t move anything" and was dashed to James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, where she was told the seriousness of her condition.
 
The mother-of-three has since endured "horrendous" nerve pain leaving her screaming each time she was touched, and three operations, including one to fit titanium rods in her neck and to have a stoma fitted.

 
Speaking about the incident, Sophie said, according to Metro.co.uk: "I was mucking about and bunny hopping over my husband on my hands and knees and just being a wally messing in bed as you do, I misjudged a jump and fell off the bed.
 
"He was fast asleep and I was trying to wake him up because I wanted a bit of hanky panky. I tried to wake him up by jumping either side of him."
 
The next thing Sophie knew, she was laying down on the floor and, although she could move her arms at this point, her limbs were cold.
 
Guy, who gets up at 4.30am for work, was fast asleep and didn’t realise what had happened. When he woke up to go to the loo, he helped Sophie get back into bed, not realising the gravity of the situation.

 
Sophie, who had just celebrated her one-year wedding anniversary with Guy, said she asked him to call an ambulance in the morning as she initially thought she had a trapped nerve.

 
She was taken to the intensive care unit and then the specialist spinal unit where days later she was given the devastating news that she was unlikely to walk again.
 

 
Sophie said: "My nerve pain was that bad that I’d scream if anyone touched me because it felt like a hot poker touching me and I constantly felt like my skin was burning – it was the worst pain you could ever feel in your life."
 
She likens the pain to being burnt alive, and says it wasn’t until around a month before being discharged from her three-month hospital stay that she realised how hard her recovery would be.

 
Sophie’s health has since got "worse" since her stoma surgery in May 2021.
 

 
She says: "I’m not the same person – your brain's the same but it’s like you’ve woken up in someone else’s body. It does change who you are. I’m not the same person, my confidence has gone.
 
"It’s like you’re mourning the death of your body. You’re mourning it for a long time."
 
Now Sophie is fundraising for a secondhand motorised scooter and specialist support clothes for stomas to help her "regain her independence."

Quote:The Federal Government has been urged to have a rethink and consider the implementation of the recommendations of the 2014 national conference in order to tackle inse­curity and other myriads of challenges confronting the nation at the moment.

Three delegates to the con­ference, who spoke in sepa­rate interviews with Daily Independent, also believe that the report of the confer­ence, which was convened by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 will go a long way to reducing the disunity and sectional agitations in the country as well as save Nige­ria from disintegration.

Those who spoke with Daily Independent are Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Afenifere na­tional leader; Comrade Joe Okei-Odumakin, president, Women Arise, and Senator Anthony Adefuye, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

While handing over the report to President Buhari in 2015, Jonathan who said he couldn’t implement the report due to shortness of time, had said the document if imple­mented will help smoothen grey areas in the polity.

However, in an interview he granted in 2016, President Buhari said the conference report is for the archives and has refused to implement it since then.

It would also be recalled that before now, the current Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Gam­bari, had at several fora called on President Buhari to imple­ment the report of the confer­ence. He has, however, been silent on the issue since his appointment over a year ago.

Speaking on the signifi­cance of the 2014 conference, Adebanjo said if President Buhari is sincere about find­ing solution to the killings in the country, then he should consider the report, which, according to him, is the pan­acea to the myriads of prob­lems confronting the nation.

He argued that a return to the 1960 constitution and con­sideration of the recommen­dations of the 2014 national conference would help in the desired restructuring of the country and its return to fed­eralism.

Adebanjo, who said that the report was a by-product of the articulated delibera­tions of the 492 delegates to the conference, added that the composition of the con­ference was a true reflection of the country’s structure.
He said rather than con­sign the report to the archives as President Buhari has done, he can remove certain aspects he is not comfortable with and add certain things he feels will be better for the country rath­er than dumping the report in its entirety.

“We discussed restruc­turing at the 2014 national conference and we consid­ered all laws that were in existence in Nigeria. There were 600 resolutions and we agreed to return to status quo. The only challenge is that President Muhammadu Buhari put aside the recommendations.

“If he (Buhari) is serious about addressing insecuri­ty in the country, he has no choice than to implement the report. If he is serious that this country must not break under his rule, then he should implement the report”, Ade­banjo said.

Also speaking, Okei-Odu­makin, who was a delegate to the conference alongside her late husband, Yinka Odu­makin, said the refusal of the Federal Government to imple­ment the recommendations has been a major setback to the country.

She said, “The refusal of the Nigerian government to implement the recommen­dations of the 2014 national conference has been a major setback, in the quest for solu­tions to the myriad of our na­tional challenges.

“Today, we live in a country that has become dangerous­ly polarised along religious and ethnic divides, which were some of the key areas, where the conference made far-reaching recommenda­tions, towards its solution.

“The question of true federalism remained unan­swered despite all the prom­ises of the president and his political party before being elected in 2015. Any serious government committed to finding solution to many of Nigeria’s problem, majorly created by the refusal to restructure the country, must consider the recommenda­tions of the national confer­ence, which in my opinion, has the capacity to address some of these challenges, to a reasonable extent”.

Echoing their views, Ade­fuye said the report of the 2014 confab, if considered, will solve most of the problems in the country today.


“If the present National Assembly can access the conference report and dia­logue on it, it will solve most of Nigeria’s problem. If you look at that conference, most decisions were unanimous"


“I am not saying every­thing that is within there should be implemented. But I am very sure that 99 percent of the things there, if implemented will make Nigeria a better place to be”, he said.

EFCC arrests 55 suspected Internet fraudsters in Enugu







Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested 55 suspected internet fraudsters in separate operations in Enugu and Ebonyi States.
 
A statement released by the antigraft agency says eighteen of the suspects were arrested on July 29, 2021, at Agbani Road and Thinkers Corner areas of Enugu, Enugu State following intelligence on their alleged involvement in internet fraud.

 
The agency gave the names of the suspects as John Kennedy, Onochie John Paul, Ilojeme Chiagozie, Ilechukwu Chidiebeube, Ike Ebubechukwu Emmanuel H., Otega Pafe Philip, Uzochukwu Uche Frank and Ezinwa Witness Chimere. Others are Obike William Nwabufo, Ikeja Eyerinsu, Chidindu Victory, Onwuagbaizu Paul, Tomizine Alamco, Great Oluwagbemiga, Kanu Dennis Ifeanyichukwu, Ebere Malachy, James Collins Ewenike and Ilojeme Chiemela.

 
Some of the items recovered from them include laptops and several mobile phones.

 
According to the agency,  the remaining 37 suspects were apprehended on Wednesday July 28, 2021 at Hausa Quarters, Nkaliki, Aboboriga,Abakiliki, Ebonyi State.
 
The arrested suspects include Igwe Chukwudi, Ozoemena Newman, Obinna William, Eze Godwin, George Ezenwa, Onyebuchi Ebuka, Ezediegwu Innocent, Nzubechukwu Obineze, Igwe Ikenna, Ibrahim Falada, Ezra Excel, Chinedu Agu, Oscar Sogidu, Uchenna Onyenweaku, Nwoka Darlington, Ejike Prince, Anuli Obinna, Nwazunkwu Collins and Mba Rocks, Patrick Junior.
 
Others are Amefula Kennedy, Ebuka Okoh, Igboke Chinonso, Ijezie Chibuike, Anthony Delight, Joseph Ahuighnwa, Innocent Chukwuebuka, Chima Ndubuisi, Benjamin Kelechi, Precious Kalu, Anthony Samuel, Christian Valentine, Chukwudi Agbom, Ekebudu Nwabueze, Okoye Arinze, Igwebuike Emeka and Chiemelie Franklin.
 

Quote:PLANE HORROR: Shocking moment three Americans die as plane crashes into house after ‘stunt goes horrifically wrong’

Three American citizens died in the crash, along with the pilot, as the aircraft burst into flames upon impact following a "stunt that went horrifically wrong

The residents of the house, including children, had a miraculous escape, fleeing the devastated building as a fireball ripped through it.

Dramatic footage shows black plumes emerging from the burning home after the aircraft plummeted to the ground near the village of Sheparivts.

Authorities were seen racing to the property as one shell-shocked homeowner filmed the devastation left after the tragic incident.

The four victims of the crash have since been named as Avrohom Fromowitz, Heshy Weiss, Lazer Brill – all of whom are Jewish American citizens - as well as pilot Ihor Tabanyuk, 60.

The group were believed to be visiting holy sites in Europe ahead of Mr Fromowitz’s wedding.

STUNT GONE WRONG

Early witness reports suggest that there is suspicion that the pilot had been doing aerial stunts moments before the crash as witnesses described seeing the aircraft attempt loops in the Ivano-Frankivsk region.

Mr Tabanyuk, who owned a local airfield, was known for performing aerobatic stunts.

His friend Dmitry Komarov, a Ukrainian TV travel host, said: “He was one of the best pilots in Ukraine.

“A man who devoted his whole life, time, strength and energy to aviation.”

Mr Kemerovo also suggested that the crash may have been caused by a failure of control due to a technical issue, a loss of consciousness by the pilot, or a passenger interfering with the piloting.

“It is important to conduct a detailed investigation,” he added.

The crash left the home devastated, as resident Olga Korcheva, 39, reportedly fled the property with her teen children.

Meanwhile homeowner Valery Pomogaev, 67, told TSN: "My eldest daughter with her children, a daughter and son, were inside.

“They heard the explosion.

"First there was an impact, then an explosion, and they rushed out."

His granddaughter, Anastasia Korcheva then posted a video showing damage to the inside of the house and blamed the actions of the “inexperienced pilot".

Quote:The Federal Government has on Thursday reduced gas to power prices from $2.50 to $2.18 with immediate effect.

President Muhammadu Buhari disclosed this while declaring open the 2021 Gas Sector Stakeholders (Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano, AKK Gas Pipeline Project) Forum held in Kano.

Buhari represented by Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, said the reduction have been communicated to the relevant stakeholders for compliance.

According to him, “Following the successful negotiation between the Federal Government and the organized labour unions and the detailed review of the Gas pricing framework in Nigeria, the price of Gas to power has been reduced from $2.50 to $2.18 with immediate effect.

“The outcome of the negotiation and reviews have been communicated to relevant stakeholders,” he stated.

The President said the completion of the project would help in revitalizing the industries and create more jobs opportunities in the benefitting states which include kano, Kaduna and Nasarawa states.

“The project is the focus on facilitating increase Gas Penetration in the Northern part of the country, especially the AKK pipeline corridor of FCT, Kano, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Nassarawa and other
Neighboring states.

“Therefore the forum is geared towards sensitizing the entire northern parts of Nigeria of the upcoming opportunities to bring both new and hitherto moribund companies back to life.

“Kano State alone is dotted with several industrial parks. These and others in other states justify the need to optimize value creation from these industries.

“Experts estimate that it will take at least two to three years to rehabilitate and position these industries for optimal performance. Thus, today’s collaboration with all stakeholders is geared towards kick-starting the required activities that will guarantee full usage of the delivered gas through the AKK pipeline when completed.

“Today’s event reinforces our commitment to realizing the inherent potentials of Gas usage as the National Catalyst for Achieving Economic Diversification from Crude oil and transition fuel from fossil fuels of today to the renewable energy of tomorrow.

“It is this commitment that informed our support and commission of two gas-powered plants, vessel pipeline operated in Kano State in December 2020 in achieving the uninterrupted delivery of over 30 megawatts of power supply to the industrial hubs.

“Our successful collaboration and the completion of the AKK in 2023 will significantly enhance Mr President’s vision and current drive for increase domestic gas utilization as the mainstay for nationalnindustrialization, increase foreign investment, government revenue growth and ultimately provide more job opportunities for Nigerians,” Buhari stated.

On his part, the Group Managing Director, GMD of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mr Mele Kolo Kyari, said they were working assiduously in ensuring timely completion of the project.

Kyari said that some of the equipment has already been delivered to Nigeria from abroad.

He said the AKK project when completed will provide about 1 million jobs.

In his speech, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State said the AKK project will help immensely in reviving over 200 industries in Kano which have been in slumber for a long time.

He said his administration had taken bold steps that would enable the project to be completed successfully, saying the people of Kano State would benefit from the project especially in the aspect of boosting their businesses.

Meanwhile, the stakeholder’s forum was themed “Optimizing the Economic Development Capacity of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano”AKK” Gas pipeline Project”.

Quote:Abba is one of the bravest cops in Nigeria and I will not believe these crazy allegations levelled against him - FFK defends Abba Kyari after his indictment in the Hushpuppi fraud case

Former Minister of aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode has thrown his weight behind DCP Abba Kyari, who has been indicted in the Hushpuppi fraud case by the U.S government.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California, Abba Kyari, a high-ranking Nigerian police officer who has received multiple honours, was one of six people indicted over an elaborate scheme to defraud a Qatari businessperson of more than $1 million, masterminded by celebrity fraudster, Ramon 'Hushpuppi' Abbas.

Femi Fani-Kayode, however, says Kyari is a super cop that has risked his life protecting Nigerians from murderers and terrorist, and that he won't condemn him, unless he sees any evidence to the contrary.

Sharing photos of the DCP, FFK wrote;

Quote:A super cop that has risked his life protecting us from kidnappers, murderers & terrorists all these years& that has arrested more criminals than any other is accused of taking bribes from a yahoo boy & scammer all the way from America & we are expected to believe it? Not me!

Abba is one of the bravest, brightest and best cops in Nigeria and I will not believe these crazy allegations levelled against him or condemn him unless I see any evidence to the contrary.

He has proved himself over and over again when it comes to catching criminals and I do not believe that he is one himself. If he were he would not have such an excellent record in combating crime.

Nigerians seem to take delight in believing and assuming the worse about their best. That is part of our problem: we love and celebrate the evil but we despise, hate and seek to pull down the righteous and good.

As far as I am concerned there are as many crooked, bent & killer cops all over the world as there are good ones & America has its fair share of both.The only people that ought to take pleasure in reading this crap about Abba are the kidnappers and terrorists in our country.

Allegations are a dime a dozen and an indictment does not amount to a conviction: show me the evidence or keep your mouth shut forever. I urge Abba to continue the good work he has been doing and not allow himself to be distracted by his numerous detractors. This is a deep conspiracy to destroy his career and it will not work.

Armed robbers invade Nasarawa Ministry of Finance, reportedly cart away N100m







Gunmen suspected to be armed robbers have reportedly catered away N100 million from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Finance, Budget and Planning. 
 
The robbery incident occurred on Thursday in the premises of the Ministry adjacent to that of the State Accountant General, where there are many security personnel.

 
An eyewitness, who sought anonymity, told Daily Trust that the suspected armed robbers trailed officials of the ministry from a commercial bank in Lafia, the state capital, where they went to withdraw cash to pay casual workers.
 
"But it was in the ministry’s premises that the well-armed gunmen snatched the N100 million from the finance ministry’s officials while trying to dislodge the cash from the vehicle that was conveying it to the cash room," the witness said. 

 
“In the process of snatching the said amount of money, the gunmen shot sporadically in the air that the ministry’s officials carrying the money and other staff of the ministry within the premises laid down low paving the way for the gunmen to snatch the N100 million effortlessly.”
 
He said the robbery was successful because the ministry did not engage the services of security agencies.
 
The State’s Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Planning, Mr Haruna Ogbole, who confirmed the robbery incident in a telephone interview, said investigation was ongoing. 

First photos of Islamic Movement in Nigeria leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky after being discharged and acquitted by Kaduna court







First photos of Islamic Movement in Nigeria leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky has emerged after being discharged and acquitted by a Kaduna high court. 
 
El-Zakzaky who was discharged and acquitted by a Kaduna State high court on Wednesday July 28, was arrested in 2015 following a clash between his followers and soldiers, and was in DSS custody for 6 years. 

 
In the last six years, the IMN leader has always been seen with armed security personnel. Daily Trust reported that he was seen at the Kaduna airport on Thursday evening, July 29, in the company of some of his followers without gun-wielding officers.
 
See the photos below............
 



 
 
 
 

Accountant General illegally withdrew N665.8bn from Special Fund – Senate







The Senate has accused the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation of illegally withdrawing N665.8 billion from Development of Natural Resources Fund and Stabilization Funds and giving it as loans to various government agencies. 
 
The claim was made in a report by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts on the Federation Account which has been investigating expenditures of federal government agencies from 2015-2018 based on an audit report by the Auditor-General for the Federation.

 
The funds were alleged to have been withdrawn between 2004 and 2015 contrary to the established objectives of the fund. Report of the panel's six-month investigation on the Federation Account for the year 2015, was submitted before members of the red chamber went on their annual recess. 
 
The Auditor General was quoted saying when responding to a query on depletion of Special Funds; 
 

Quote:“Amount totaling N455.8 billion were withdrawn from Development of Natural Resources Fund as loans to various beneficiaries between 2004 and 2015, contrary to the established objectives of the fund.
“The purpose of the Development of Natural Resources Fund is to provide financial resources to develop alternative mineral resources to oil and gas.
“Also, various amounts totaling N210.3 billion were withdrawn from Stabilization Fund as loans to various beneficiaries, between 2004 and 2015 contrary to the established objectives of the fund.
“The purpose of the Stabilization Fund is to provide for unforeseen contingencies and economic downturn and the beneficiaries are the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The stabilization fund belongs to three tiers of government.”

b

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES, 

FRIDAY 30TH JULY 2021. 

Pastor Chris



TOPIC: SETTLE IT IN YOUR LIFE

Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89).

Never accept anything contrary to what the Word says about you. Never question the integrity of the Word. Believe, accept and affirm that you’re who God says you are, you have what He says you have, and can do what He says you can do.


Let the Word of God give you a new mentality, a new way of thinking. Don’t say you’re sick just because you felt the symptoms of sickness in your body. To talk that way is to take sides against the Word. The Word says if the Spirit of Him that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you (and thank God He does), that same Spirit shall vitalize your mortal body (Romans 8:11). Your confession, therefore, should always be, “I’m vitalized by the Holy Spirit; divine health is my nature and one of the many blessings I have and enjoy in Christ Jesus.”


If you’re experiencing weakness, doubt, discouragement or lack, don’t accept these anomalies as what your life should be; your life is for the glory of God. 1 Peter 2:9 (AMPC) says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” The Word of God is practicable; when you read a scripture like this, you must respond. You say, “Blessed be God! My life is full of the glory, beauty, wisdom and excellence of the Spirit, and I manifest these to my world!”


The Word says, “All things are possible to a believing one”; respond by saying, “Yes, Lord, because of your ability that’s at work in me, my potentials are limitless; I have an ever-increasing capacity to do more.”


The Word of God will work for you only when you give it the right response. Yes, God’s Word is all-powerful and settled in heaven, but you have to settle it in your life by your affirmations: “He has said…that we may boldly say…” (Hebrews 13:5-6). Hallelujah!


CONFESSION

My life has been fashioned and planned by God for excellence. I walk in divine health, prosperity and in righteousness. Christ is my ability and competence; and through Him, all things are possible to me. I know who I am, what I have, and can do all things in Christ; my potentials are limitless. Hallelujah!


FURTHER STUDY: 

Isaiah 55:10-11 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it.

Mark 13:31: Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.


*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 5:1-11 & Psalms 49-51

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 12:1-12 & Judges 5








#AFFIRMATIONTRAIN 

I affirm that I can do all things through Christ who energizes and infuses me with miracle-working ability! Christ is my competence, wisdom, and ability. 

I am sufficient in Christ sufficiency! Hallelujah. The wisdom of God is at work in me today, and always; therefore, I excel in good judgment, having the right ideas and making the right decisions at all times.

I am filled with the knowledge of God’s will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I am not of this world; I’ve been lifted and transported by the Spirit of God into the glorious and higher realms of life, where I only see and relate with the realities of the Kingdom.


I am seated with Christ in the realms of dominion and glory; far above all principality, power, might and every domain of darkness! 


My life is hid with Christ in God, and as I go forth, fulfilling the will of God, nothing shall by any means hurt me because I and the Lord are one. Blessed be God. Hallelujah!




God bless you

Traditional phone systems defined

As a small to mid-sized business, you are likely approached by numerous phone providers about a variety of phone technologies.  How do you cut through the clutter to select the service provider that is right for you? 

A traditional phone system is also referred to as a legacy system.  It runs on a physical box (“brain”) located at the company’s office, and is connected by wires to each individual phone.  These premise-based devices are dependent on the number of users and the number of outside lines required to make outbound calls.  

They also require multiple cards depending on the number of users and telephone lines used. Companies with multiple locations also need multiple “brain boxes”. If the company grows after the initial purchase, a Technician has to manually upgrade the hardware to add new users.

PBX is short for "private branch exchange." Businesses typically use this type of private telephone network. Once installed, employees share a certain number of lines to make outside calls. To install a PBX system, you must have the PBX console, along with a telephone cord and plug. Once you install the system, you should test it to ensure it works.

Why use VOIP
Cloud PBX
VoIP PBX

Armed hoodlums attack Governor Ayade's former aide who refused to defect to APC







Armed hoodlums have attacked Barrister Mark Obi, a former Special Adviser to Cross River  Governor, Ben Ayade on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
 
It was gathered that Obi was attacked at his country home in Oku, Boki Local Government Area of the state at about 10pm on Wednesday, July 28. 

 
LIB had reported that the top PDP stalwart had refused to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the governor.

 
The 62-year-old lawyer tendered his resignation on June 7, 2021, expressing unwillingness to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the ruling party with Ayade.
 
Obi, who was a two-time House of Assembly member, also served in the administration of former Governor Liyel Imoke.
 




 
 

Quote:A Milwaukee man has been sentenced to 205 years in prison for fatally shooting five members of his family in a massacre that shocked the nation.

Christopher Stokes, 44, has been sentenced to 205 years in prison for fatally shooting five members of his family in a massacre that shocked the nation

Quote:Christopher Stokes, 44, plead guilty to the horrific crimes, which he carried out without explanation in April of last year.

On Tuesday, Stokes spoke to the court prior to his sentencing and stated: 'I don't know what in the world came over me. I woke up and just had blood on my mind.'

He continued: 'Something just wasn't going right. I did the ultimate sin… I deserve to be locked up. I deserve everything I get. I'm not asking for leniency or anything like that. No one in the world should have done what I did.'

Stokes was sentenced to 40 years behind bars for each of the five counts of first-degree reckless homicide and an additional five years for possession of a firearm by a felon. He was also given 105 years of extended supervision.

Stokes' attorney had asked for his client to serve just 35 years behind bars, claiming he had sought out mental health treatment a month before the massacre, but in-person sessions had been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prosecutors said it was important Stokes never be released from prison, given his unpredictable nature.

On Tuesday, Stokes spoke to the court prior to his sentencing and stated: 'I don't know what in the world came over me. I woke up and just had blood on my mind.'

The home where the massacre took place is pictured above. Stokes waited for police on the front steps of the home and immediately confessed to the crime

Quote:On the morning of April 27, 2020, Stokes shot dead his on-off girlfriend Teresa Thomas, 41, and her two children, 16-year-old Tiera Agee and 14-year-old Demetrius Thomas.

He also killed his own son, 19-year-old Marcus Stokes and another relative, 17-year-old Lakeitha Stokes.

Only Stokes' three-year-old grandchild was spared. Prosecutors say the child witnessed the shootings and asked Stokes not to hurt him.

Stokes dialed 911 after the shootings and told the dispatcher that several members of his family had been shot and that the gun was 'still upstairs with the bodies.'

He then called 911 a second time and again confessed to killing his family with the weapon.

When police arrived at the house, Stokes was sitting on the steps. When an officer asked Stokes if he had heard any shots, he responded, 'Yeah, I didn't hear them, I did them,' according to the complaint.

Police discovered a camouflaged 12-gauge shotgun in one of the bedrooms with 12 spent shotgun shells throughout the house.

Victim Demetrius Thomas, aged 14

Victim Marcus Stokes, aged 19

Victim Tera Agee, aged 16

Victim Lakeitha Stokes, aged 17

Victim Teresa Thomas, 41, who was identified as Stokes' on-off girlfriend

Quote:In court on Tuesday, Stokes' nephew Rosemary Turner stated: Losing those many people at one time, including him, hate is a bad word, but we really do hate him for that'.

She added: 'We still love him because he's our uncle, but can we forgive him for what he did? No, we can't. Do we understand it? No, we don't. It's like, we just got to take it a day at a time.'

Stokes had a lengthy rap sheet and a history of domestic violence, according to Fox 6.

He pleaded guilty in 2007 to felony battery, felony bail jumping and felony intimidation of a witness. He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison, prohibited from possessing firearms and ordered to complete a batterers' intervention course.

Five years later, in 2012, he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery with a domestic abuse modifier and drew 18 months in prison with another gun ban.

In 2017, he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor disorderly conduct and was sentenced to a month in jail with work-release privileges.

Stokes was also convicted in 2002 of misdemeanor battery. He was sentenced to probation, ordered to attend domestic abuse counseling and prohibited from possessing firearms.

Distraught friends, family and neighbors are seen outside the home following the massacre last April


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKe2IZ7UFvs

Dailymail US

Woman denied admission into Nigerian University for being too young gets called to the bar at 20






A woman who was denied admission into a Nigerian University for being too young has been called to the bar at 20.
 
Esther Chukwuemeka has been tagged the youngest Nigerian lawyer to be called to Bar.
 
She was called to bar on Wednesday,  July 28, at the age of 20, according to Barrister NG.
 
The girl, from Okigwe, Imo State, finished her secondary school at the age of 13 and got admission into ABSU, but the school denied her the admission citing that she’s underage.
 
Her father then sent her to India to study Law and she graduated in flying colours after which she returned to Nigeria for Law School.
 

 
She wrote the Bar final exam and was among the successful students.
 
She has now been called to bar as a solicitor and advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
 


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One locally made Improvised Explosive Device, various charms, and weeds suspected to be Indian hemp in a bag were exhibits found at the herbalist’s shrine.

Quote:The Imo State police command has arrested a 49 year-old herbalist, Benneth Okoli, accused of preparing charms for members of IPOB/ ESN.

He was arrested after an attack on Omuma Police Station in Oru East LGA of the state by members of ESN.

Imo State police PRO, CSP Michael Abattam said on Wednesday night, that the herbalist was arrested by the command’s tactical team during a discreet investigation after the attack.

Abattam said that after a diligent forensic and technical intelligence gathering, the team was able to trace the location of the native doctor’s shrine.

Benneth reportedly prepares charm for bandits and IPOB members at Akuma in Oru East LGA of Imo State.

He helped them fortify against bullets and knives in the shrine before they go for their operations.

One locally made Improvised Explosive Device, various charms, and weeds suspected to be Indian hemp in a bag were exhibits found at the herbalist’s shrine.

CSP Michael stated that on interrogation, the suspect has made useful statements and is currently assisting the police to arrest the remnants of his gangs presently on the run.

Pictures of five prospective Corps members that lost their lives in a ghastly motor accident, while on their way to the orientation camp in Katsina, have emerged, Newspremises reports.

The NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, Adenike Adeyemi, who confirmed the incident said the fatal motor accident occurred around 2am on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, along the Abaji/Kwali Expressway.

They are said to be graduates of the University of Uyo and Akwa Ibom Poly. One of them has been identified as Miracle Asuquo.

See their pictures below:

Source: https://newspremises.com.ng/pictures-of-the-five-corps-members-who-died-in-auto-crash/

Quote:THE People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has knocked President Muhammadu Buhari for travelling to the United Kingdom to attend a virtual conference.

National Publicity Secretary of the PDP Kola Ologbondiyan described the president’s trip as appalling and a waste of the country’s scarce resources.

He accused the president of “trying to hide his private appointment with his doctors under the virtual meeting apparently in a bid to launder his consistent failure to honour his pre-2015 campaign promise not to embark on medical tourism if elected President.”

He noted that President Buhari had no justification to travel to far-away London since the meeting was virtual, or for a medical checkup, which he could have done at home.

He said that the president’s action had confirmed the stand by the majority of Nigerians that “he is wasteful, thinks only about himself and cares less about millions of citizens, who do not have access to foreign medical treatment, but who are dying daily because the government has crippled our health sector.

“Moreover, is it not atrocious that Mr. President is more interested in going to London for a virtual education summit when hundreds of students, who ought to be beneficiaries of the meeting, are languishing in kidnappers’ dens, with the Buhari administration taking no concrete steps to rescue them and end incessant abduction of students in Nigeria?”‘ he further said.

The ICIR had reported on Monday that the president left the country for the UK to attend the Global Education Summit on Financing Global Partnership for Education (2021-2025), a programme that was supposed to be attended virtually.

The president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Femi Adesina said that Buhari would also use the occasion to meet with his doctors in an issued statement.

Release Nnamdi Kanu, we need Biafra – Edochie

Published
 
on
 July 28, 2021




Veteran Nollywood actress, Rita Edochie has demanded the release of the leader of Indigenous People, Nnamdi Kanu.


Nnamdi Kanu was re-arrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria.
The IPOB leader who is facing trial for treasonable felony was scheduled to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday but could not be produced by the Federal Government.


Edochie speaking on her Instagram page urged the federal government to release Kanu, adding that ‘they need Biafra’


According to her, Igbos need Biafra as they can no longer be third class citizens in Nigeria.


Her post reads: “Free Mazi NNamdi Kanu now to avoid ‘had I know.’

If you don’t do something now, you will have no home to go – Charlyboy charges Nigerians in Diaspora

Published
 
on
 July 29, 2021




A Nigerian controversial entertainer, singer and songwriter, Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, popularly known as Charlyboy has urged Nigerians in the diaspora to take necessary actions against alleged bad governance affecting the youths in the country.


In an interview in London, the 71-year-old music producer said until Nigerians living in foreign countries, proffer solutions to crises ravaging the country, they may have no “home to go back to and that will be so sad”.


According to him, when frustrated Nigerians leave the shore of the country to another man’s land, they prosper and excel, stating that they have projected the country in good image.

He said, “All our hopes hing on Nigerians and I have always maintained that the salvation of this country lies in the hands of these exceptional people.

“But why is the government insensitive when it comes to the welfare of the people? Why is it that when fellow frustrated Nigerians leave the shores of the country, they prosper, they excel, they spread their wings and so marvellously?


“In fact, they are the set and group of people without which Nigeria would really be a shit hole country. But these youths that have left the shore of Nigeria have done so well. So what is it in Nigeria that actually kills the dream of young people?


“The youths are very important. Nigerians in London are always feeling like fish out of water because regardless of how well they do here, they will rather prefer to do well back home.


“But because of how things are, they can’t go back home, so it behoves you guys in the diaspora to see what you are going to do about this or else, you won’t have a home to go back to and that will be so sad.

“You guys can put yourselves together and go to the government of wherever you are and agitate, show them all the proves you have on the genocide of today”.

Quote:The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a former Governor of Nasarawa State and serving senator, Tanko Al-Makura, and his wife, Mairo.

The couples are currently being grilled by operatives of the anti-graft agency at its headquarters in Abuja, sources in the anti-graft agency told PREMIUM TIMES.

Although details of the allegation against the ex-governor and his wife were sketchy as of press time, the sources said their arrest relates to an alleged breach of trust and misappropriation of funds allegedly perpetrated during the former governor’s eight-year administration as Nasarawa State governor.

Mr Al-Makura served as Governor of Nasarawa State between 2011 and 2019 before he was elected into the National Assembly as Senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District.

When contacted, the spokesman of the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren said he was yet to be briefed on the development.

When contacted for his comment, the ex-governor’s spokesperson, Danjuma Joseph, said he was not aware of the arrest.

“His Excellency left Lafia (Nasarawa State capital) for Abuja this morning. I am not aware of such arrest,” Mr Joseph said.

The former governor, until Wednesday, has never been known to be facing EFCC probe.

The EFCC had, in fact, been helpful to the ex-governor’s family when a suspected fake investigator allegedly tried to defraud the then sitting governor in 2018.

The suspect, Mohammed Momoh, was said to have while posing as a “private investigator from the villa” approached Mr Al-Makura’s wife with a proposition to help stop a purported investigation of two accounts belonging to the governor.

Mr Momoh, who was arraigned before an FCT High Court, reportedly claimed that he came across information regarding the two accounts that had been under investigation since 2011 and also intercepted mails of an investigation report purportedly sent to First Bank by the EFCC.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/476229-efcc-arrests-ex-governor-wife-over-corruption-allegations.html

Quote:Popular activist and Convener of Concerned Nigerians, Deji Adeyanju has called for the immediate arrest of DCP Abba Kyari.

Adeyanju’s statements are coming shortly after reports emerged that Kyari had ties to disgraced fraudster, Ramon Olorunwa Abbas a.k.a Hushpuppi. On Thursday morning, unsealed court documents reveal that Hushpuppi allegedly bribed the top cop to arrest an associate in Nigeria.

A US court has also ordered the FBI to arrest Kyari. Adeyanju wrote on Twitter:

“Sack Abba Kyari now.”

“The Interpol should arrest Abba Kyari if he ever goes to Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Europe , etc and hand him over to the FBI.”

Kyari has since reacted to the report stating that he has no business with Hushpuppi adding that he only responded to complaint from the fraudster that someone was threatening to kill his(hushpuppi) family in Nigeria over a deal gone wrong.

He stated that he only helped hushpuppi to get native attires which cost N300,000 and that the money was paid directly to the account of the tailor.

Quote:Bandits from Zamfara State have begun travelling to Borno State to receive training from terrorists.

This is according to an internal memo by the Nigeria Immigration Service marked, NIS/HQ/CGI/943, which was addressed to comptrollers.

The memo obtained by PR Nigeria titled, ‘Movement of Armed Bandits from Zamfara to Borno for Intensive Boko Haram Training’ was signed by Assistant Comptroller General, UA Auna.

The ACG confirmed that the service was in receipt of credible intelligence intimating the agency of movements of bandits from Zamfara to Borno for intensive Boko Haram training.

Comptrollers were directed to ensure the prompt submission of valuable information for the attention of the Comptroller General of Immigration Service as they unfold.

They were also asked to intensify monitoring and surveillance around their areas of jurisdictions with the view to gathering information that would help protect lives and properties.

Last week bandits shot down a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet


Bandits have killed over 300 people in the last four months in Zamfara State despite the Federal Government’s ban on flights within the state’s airspace.

Meanwhile, former Boko Haram terrorists who left for Libya for various reasons were returning to join Islamic State for West African Province, a report by Institute for Security Studies has said.

The institute is an African organisation whose aim is to enhance human security by providing authoritative research.


According to the report, about 80 former Boko Haram fighters in two batches arrived in Nigeria from Libya in April, adding that the first set were based in Shuwaram in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State for verification and later deployed to Timbuktu in Damboa Local Government Area, where fighters from the Lake Chad Islands later joined them.

It added that with the support Islamic State, a terrorist organisation, about 120 more, including Arabs who would be permanently based in the region as part of the leadership, are now expected from Libya.

The report said, “As part of the consolidation, former Boko Haram fighters who left for Libya over the years for different reasons are returning to the Lake Chad Basin to rejoin ISWAP. Interviews with individuals familiar with these movements revealed that about 80 fighters in two batches arrived in Nigeria from Libya in April.

“Among other reasons, some fled after the 2016 Boko Haram split, having been disillusioned by what they saw as the selfishness of leaders in both factions, JAS and ISWAP.


“With support from IS, ISWAP relies on an elaborate network of contacts and routes cutting across West and North Africa (Libya-Algeria-Mali-Niger-Nigeria) to facilitate the movements of fighters. About 120 more, including Arabs who will be permanently based in the region as part of the leadership, are now expected from Libya.”

The report also said the Islamic State was proposing to set up four caliphates in Borno to oversee its activities in the Lake Chad Basin area and beyond.

Man left unrecognizable and put in coma after he's brutally beaten for asking neighbors to lower music







A Florida man was reportedly beaten to a pulp and put in a coma after he asked his neighbors to turn down their loud music.


Frank Penkava, 42, was placed in a medically induced coma at Memorial Regional Hospital with multiple fractures in his face after the brutal beatdown on June 14, NBC Miami reported.


As of Tuesday July 27, he was still hospitalized as doctors wait for him to stabilize before they can operate on him.
 



“My son has a little boy. He is going to be 4 years old — he is beautiful and he may never know his dad,” Penkava’s mother, Joan, told the news outlet.


“We don’t know what damage has been done mentally, let alone all of the physical issues he has. It’s very disheartening,” she added.
 



Doctors are monitoring the man’s brain activity to check on possible permanent brain damage, the station reported.


His sister, Gina Horvath, said he has several broken bones and also contracted an infection at the hospital.

“He continues to fight every day but he’s very, very sick,” she told NBC station WPLG.


Horvath earlier told the NBC station that she believes her brother was attacked when he asked his neighbors to turn down the music. She said someone called 911 but they don’t know who and have had difficulty getting answers from cops. The sister said she was only able to recognize Penkava by his tattoos.


“There is no reason for what they did to him. I understand that people get into altercations all the time and people’s emotions are high, especially over the last year, but there was nothing to warrant what they did to him,” she said.


“He went to work, did his job and paid his bills. He didn’t bother anybody. So for anybody to do what they have done to him, I am seeking justice and I will not stop until I have justice for my brother,” Horvath told NBC Miami.
 

Ghanaian man, 54, jailed for pouring acid on his 22-year-old ex-girlfriend and her mother







A Koforidua Circuit Court in Ghana, has sentenced a 54-year-old man to 9 years and five months imprisonment for attacking his 22-year-old ex-girlfriend Deborah Osei, and her mother with acid at Awukugua in the Eastern Region. 
 
The convict, Nana Yaw Mante launched the acid attack on the victims in December 2020 while they were in their room at Awukugua. Both women sustained severe injuries.

 
The incident occurred few months after the convict was slapped with a fine of GHC1,200 and a compensation of GHC1000 by a magistrate Court in Koforidua for taking and circulating nude pictures of his 22-year-old ex-girlfriend. He was cautioned to stay away from her.
 

 
Delivering the latest judgement on Wednesday, July 28, Her Honour Mercy Addei Kotei took into consideration the previous conviction to apply the maximum sentence.
 
According to her, the sentence was set at 9 years and five months instead of ten years because the convict had been on remand for five months. 

 
Nana Yaw Mante was charged for obscenity contrary to section 281(i) B of the Criminal Offence Act, 29/60b in his previous case at Koforidua Magistrate Court “A”.
 

The Prosecutor, Sergeant George Defia told the Court that the convict and the victim, a Senior High School dropout are both natives of Awukugua in the Okere District of the Eastern Region. 
 
According to the prosecuting officer, four years ago, the accused met the victim who had dropped out of school due to financial challenges, and under the pretext of assisting her to go back to school, took undue advantage and entered into a sexual relationship with her.

 
The family of the victim became suspicious and confronted him but he denied having sexual relations with the victim.

 
Due to persistent disapproval from the victim’s family, the relationship hit a snag. However, in 2019, the accused convinced the victim and they reunited.
 
Mr Mante, for fear of losing the victim again, told her that he had taken her to a shrine and the gods were demanding to see her nakedness.
 
In November 2019, the convict lured the victim to Dawu near Adukrom-Akuapem where he recorded a series of sexually explicit videos of themselves.
 
He later sent the videos and pictures of the victim to her aunty and two other men, he alleged were also dating the victim. The videos went viral on social media in February 2020.
 
The victim reported the incident to the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) at the Regional Police Headquarters in Koforidua.
 
Mr Mante was arrested on February 7, 2020, and in his caution statement admitted recording the sexually explicit videos of the victim and sharing same. 

 
The receivers of the videos confirmed to the Police during interrogation that the accused sent it to them but denied circulating on social media.

 
During cross-examination, Nana Yaw Mante who claims to be a businessman told the court on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, that, the victim insulted him and threatened to forward the nude videos and pictures he sent to her privately, to his son and some political rivals.
 
But she denied the allegation during her cross-examination.
 
Again, the accused told the Court that, the then 18-year-old girl forced him to date her.
 
He explained that he reunited with the victim in 2019 after a breakup in 2018 because, the victim begged for the reunion.
 
However, the judge did not take any of his pleas and went ahead to slap him with the jail term. 

 
 




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Hushpuppi Narrates How He Bribed Nigerian Top Cop Abba Kyari In $1.1m Deal

Quote:Ramon ‘Hushpuppi’ Abbas, the infamous Nigerian fraudster who recently pleaded guilty in the United States, has narrated how he bribed Nigeria’s celebrated police chief Abba Kyari, court documents seen by Peoples Gazette said.

Federal authorities in the U.S. have been investigating Mr Abbas and his co-conspirators after their syndicate was busted in Dubai, New York and other top cities last June. Officials said in court filings that Mr Abbas disclosed during interrogation that he paid bribes to Mr Kyari, a deputy police commissioner, to have one of his rivals arrested and jailed in Nigeria following a dispute over a $1.1 million dupe of a Qatari businessperson.

Mr Kyari did not immediately return calls and messages seeking his response to Mr Abbas’ claims when reached by The Gazette on Thursday morning.

Mr Abbas asked Mr Kyari to arrest and jail a fellow fraudster Kelly Chibuzor Vincent after both were locked in a dispute presumably over how to share the $1.1 million loot received from the Qatari businessperson. Mr Vincent subsequently contacted the victim and informed them that they were being scammed by a syndicate involving him and Mr Abbas.

This elicited anger from Mr Abbas, who contacted Mr Kyari to arrest and jail his rival over the dispute. Mr Abbas said Mr Kyari sent pictures of Mr Vincent in jail and subsequently sent his bank account number to Mr Abbas to which a wire transfer should be made having done a good job as sent by Mr Abbas.

“Court documents outline a dispute among members of the conspiracy, which allegedly prompted Vincent to contact the victim and claim that Abbas and Juma were engaged in fraud. After this contact, Abbas allegedly arranged to have Vincent jailed in Nigeria by Abba Alhaji Kyari, 46, of Nigeria.

“According to the affidavit, Kyari is a highly decorated deputy commissioner of the Nigeria Police Force who is alleged to have arranged for Vincent to be arrested and jailed at Abbas’ behest, and then sent Abbas photographs of Vincent after his arrest. Kyari also allegedly sent Abbas bank account details for an account into which Abbas could deposit payment for Vincent’s arrest and imprisonment,” U.S. Justice department said in a statement.

After the $1.1 million fraud was successful, Mr Abbas spent $230,000 on a watch and also bribed officials at St. Kitts and Nevis for his citizenship of that island country.

One Dollar now going for 523 Naira at black market








The naira has slumped further to 523/$ at the black market after trading was closed at the Nigerian Stock Exchange on Wednesday, July 28.
 
The slump comes a day after the Central Bank of Nigeria stopped the allocation of foreign exchange to Bureau de Change operators in the country. After the Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Tuesday, the Governor, CBN, Godwin Emefiele, had accused the BDCs of abusing the privilege given to them and sabotaging efforts to ensure naira stability in the country.


He said, “The facts abound that BDCs have turned themselves into agents that facilitate graft and corrupt activities of people who seek illicit fund flow and money laundering in Nigeria and we will go after all of them.


“Throughout this meeting of the MPC, we extensively debated this matter, and independently with each member of the committee exhibited accurate and deep understanding of issue at stake.
 
“After these exhaustive and extensive deliberations, the management of the Central Bank with the support of the committee reached the following decisions which will take the following effect. Hence, the CBN will henceforth discontinue the sale of foreign exchange to BDC operators.”


As at Monday, one dollar went for 503, then it now fell to 505 on Tuesday, few hours after the CBN made the announcement. Then on Wednesday after trading, the dollar was bought at N515 and sold at N523 according to naijabdcs.com, the official website of the BDCs.



The CBN, however, maintained the official rate of N410.16/$1 on its website.

Before the new regulation, the CBN had been supplying each BDC $10,000 twice a week at the rate of N393.


 

by

Quote:Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has urged Nigerians residing in London to “smoke” President Muhammadu Buhari out.

Omokri urged the 200,000 Nigerians in London to smoke Buhari out because he has not been seen.

He made the appeal in a tweet demanding Buhari’s whereabouts in London.

Omokri stressed that the Abuja House in London was under close watch.

Buhari had on Monday departed Nigeria for London.

The Presidency had said the president is expected to participate in an education summit and also visit his doctors, while in London.

On Tuesday, there were pictorial evidence that Buhari arrived at the Stansted International Airport, London at about 11:20pm (local time).

However, Omokri in a tweet, wrote: “Nigerians in London,

“I am counting on you to help me smoke the tyrant. We are up to 200,000 in this city.

“Does it mean none of us can fish the man out from whatever hole he is hiding? We have 24/7 intel on Abuja House. He is not there. Where is Buhari?”

Quote:APC congresses under threat as S’Court declares Buni’s chairmanship illegal
The judgment of the Supreme Court on the Ondo State governorship election is threatening the All Progressives Congress local and state congresses starting on Saturday, The PUNCH has learnt.

Our correspondent  gathered on Wednesday that although  the APC was going ahead with the congresses, it feared that  some members could challenge the exercises in court since the Supreme Court in its judgment had declared the chairmanship of Mai Mala Buni illegal.

It was learnt that apart from the disagreement over planned consensus arrangement, the Supreme Court judgment  had worsened the party’s woes.

A member of the APC’s national caucus, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, said although the party was going ahead with its congresses, members were worried and divided about the implications of the judgment.

The party chieftain explained that the judgment had “called to question the legality of the caretaker committee.

“We are dealing with a combustible issue. All the seven Supreme Court Justices agreed on the constitutional point that a sitting governor cannot hold the dual elective position of governor and party national chairman.

“Now, it was not only the Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, that escaped being removed by the whiskers due to no fault of his, it was also our party.
“If the opposition had had the presence of mind to join Mai Mala Buni as party to the suit, we would all have been done for. Our aggrieved members and our opponents have surely learnt one of two things from this.

“The next time anyone goes to court to challenge decisions taken by our national caretaker committee the story will be different.”

One of the conveners of The Progressive Youth Movement, a pressure group within the APC, Mohammed Audu, told our correspondent on the telephone, that the party leadership would be putting the party at risk should it go ahead with its move to foist a consensus arrangement on state chapters when ward congresses begin on Saturday.
He said, “We are members of a progressive political party and should lead the way in promoting democracy at all times. The consensus arrangement for us is an aberration.
“Party members must not be muscled out of contesting for party positions under the guise of consensus, let those who feel they are popular and have what it takes to occupy any office be allowed to test their popularity, that is all we ask.”

However, the National Secretary of the party’s caretaker committee, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, while inaugurating congress committees for the state chapters at the APC National Headquarters, on Wednesday, said the caretaker committee had the right to recall them.

Akpanudoedehe said, “I urge you to keep the interest of the party first and foremost within your hearts. The success of this exercise depends so much on you, the unity of our party also depends on the outcome and the outcome essentially depends on your handling of issues and the overall conduct of the exercise.    ,,

“Do not forget that, the CECPC reserves the power to recall the team or any of its members whose conduct is below expectation, after all, he who hires, can also fire.
“You’ve been urged to encourage consensus arrangements, where possible. Article 20 of our party’s constitution and the guidelines for the congresses shall be your guide.”
In what appears to be a subtle threat against party members, the party secretary delivered a message from the National Chairman, Governor Mai Mala Buni.

He said, “May I also offer some words from our National Chairman and Governor of Yobe State Mai Mala Buni for our party faithful, he said that I should remind our party members through this avenue, that a political party is an organisation of persons who have subscribed to the ideals and rules of the group, and such rules include internal mechanisms for handling and solving disputes.

“Therefore, the practice of running to the public space without exploring the internal mechanism of conflict resolutions is not only unhealthy but an affront to the constitution of the party. So, going forward, it should be stopped.”

In response, Spokesperson for the Concerned APC Members, Abdullahi Dauda, advised the party leadership to take a cue from the Supreme Court judgment and quickly convene a national convention to elect a new party leadership.

He said, “Yes, we are happy as party members that we did not lose another governor via the court like we did in Zamfara in 2019 but we cannot deceive ourselves. Illegality cannot take us anywhere.

“The truth is that Buni and members of the APC caretaker committee were not elected but they are occupying elective positions which the Supreme Court today affirmed is illegal.

“We have also seen the grounds on which our members in Zamfara State have gone to court to challenge the dissolution of the state caretaker committee.

“In one of the grounds, they are asking the court to in view of provisions of Article 14.1 of the APC Constitution which lists powers of the National Chairman of the party and the National Executive Committee, determine whether the caretaker committee, a committee set up by NEC can perform a function which even NEC has no power to carry out.
“NEC does not have the power to dissolve any state chapter, it is only the National Working Committee that has such powers.”

In a statement titled, “Why Mai Mala Buni Should Step Down, an Abuja based legal practitioner, Kayode Ajulo, noted that the Supreme Court, while dismissing the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party candidate in the Ondo governorship election, Eyitayo Jegede against Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, by a split four-three decision, held that the APC erred in law by allowing a sitting governor preside over its affairs.

Ajulo said, “Without prejudice to the ratio decidendi of the majority decision of the Court, it is imperative to state prestissimo and very clearly too that with the unanimous position of the apex court that it appears the actions of the APC in permitting a sitting governor as the interim chairman of the party is in violation of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it is my sincere view that the Interim Chairman of the All Progressive Congress should immediately step down.

“My humble but cosmic review of the judgment comes with an indication that the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, has to vacate his seat, as the Chairman of APC with immediate effect.

“The provision of Section 183 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) is clear and unambiguous to the effect that “The governor shall not, during the period when he holds office, hold any other executive office or paid employment in any capacity whatsoever.”

Quote:An Imo State High Court sitting in Owerri has declared Chukwuma Umeoji as the authentic candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State, asking the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise him as such.

Justice B. C. Iheka made the declaration on Wednesday in the order he issued on the suit filed by Chike Dike against the Independent National Electoral Commission, All Progressives Grand Alliance and Jude Okeke, as the first, second and third respondents, respectively.

A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Chukwuma Soludo, had emerged the candidate of the Victor Oye-led APGA faction loyal to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State.

But Justice Iheka, in his judgment on the case with Suit Number: HOW/543/2021, declared that, “The plaintiff’s claims are hereby dismissed.”

The judgment, a certified true copy of which our correspondent sighted, partly read, “The third defendant is entitled to consequential orders, and I declare and order as follows: that the third defendant is a valid member of the second defendant and, therefore, based on Article 7(4) of the Constitution, the second defendant is entitled to all the rights and privileges pertaining to such membership.

“That the National Convention of APGA held at Owerri, Imo State, 31st May, 2019, is valid, lawful and in accordance with the orders of the court and the law.


Justice Iheka further ruled that, “the suspension of the former National Chairman of the party, Edozie Njoku, is valid and subsisting, and in compliance with the party constitution.”

Buhari promises 50% rise in education budget despite 5.5% allocation in 2021


on
 July 29, 2021




President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged to increase the budget for Nigeria’s education sector by 50 percent over the next two years.


Buhari and other leaders signed a form of commitment on Wednesday at the meeting in London, United Kingdom.
The document was titled ‘Heads Of State Call To Action On Education Financing Ahead Of The Global Education Summit’.


“We commit to progressively increase our annual domestic education expenditure by 50% over the next two years and up to 100% by 2025 beyond the 20% global benchmark”, Buhari said.


The ongoing event is being co-hosted by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta.


It remains to be seen how the President, who last December signed the lowest allocation to education in 10 years, will fulfill his pledge.
For 2021, about 5.5 percent – N742.5billion – went to the sector out of the National Assembly approved N13.588trillion budget.


Just over N615billion will go into recurrent expenditure. Personnel costs will gulp N579.7billion; N35.4billion for overhead costs. The sum of N127.3billion is for capital expenditure.
The Federal Ministry of Education got N65.3billion; the Universal Basic Education (UBEC), covering primary and secondary schools, received N77.6billion.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recommends that 15 to 20 percent of annual budget should be allocated to education in developing countries.

47 Yoruba nation agitators released from police custody









47 out of the 48 Yoruba Nation agitators that were arrested during the July 3 rally in Lagos state, have been released from police custody. 

 

Maxwell Adeleye, the spokesperson for Ilana Omo Oodua, a Yoruba self-determination group, made the announcement in a statement released on Tuesday July 27. He said they were released after meeting their bail conditions. 



 

Among those granted bail are Olasunkanmi Tanimola; Kabiru Lawanson; Chinemerem Emmanuel; RasakiMusibau; Lukman Olalade; Olasanmi Oladipupo; Bashiru Shittu; Taofeek Abdusalam; Olamilekan Abata; Abdullahi Sikiru; Tosin Adeleye; and Babatunde Lawal.

 

The statement read; 

 

Quote:“This is to inform the general public that 47 out of the 48 protesters arrested by the Nigerian Police during the Yoruba Nation Rally held July 3rd, 2021 have been released from detention after meeting their bail conditions."

 

One of the agitators, Tajudeen Bakare is still in custody following a murder charge filed against him by the police. 

 

Bakare was charged for the murder of Jumoke Oyeleke, a 25-year-old trader who was hit by a stray bullet when the police were dispersing the agitators during the rally. The police said Mr Bakare was in possession of a Beretta pistol and two live ammunition and “unlawfully killed” the trader.

 

The agitator was denied bail given the gravity of the charges levelled against him.

Hushpuppi pleads guilty to conspiracy to engage in money laundering, faces up to 20 years at sentencing







Nigerian Instagram celebrity, Ramon Abbas a.k.a Ray Hushpuppi has pleaded guilty to  conspiracy to engage in money laundering of funds from business email compromise scams and other online heists. 
 
Journalist Evan Ratiff who shared copies of the agreement, revealed that Hushpuppi now faces up to 20 years in prison at sentencing. The agreement he entered is limited to United States Attorney's Office and not binding to other federal, state, local or foreign prosecuting authorities. 

 
He will henceforth not contest facts entered in the agreement and abide by all agreements regarding sentencing. Hushpuppi is also expected to truthful at all times with the United States probation and pretrial services office and the court. 
 
The Instagram celebrity will pay close to $1.7m as restitution, but this can change based on facts that come up prior to sentencing.
 
Read the agreement below..............
 


 
















 

Young Nigerian woman allegedly dies in Libya







A young Nigerian woman has been reported dead in Libya. 
 
Light Wilson, a graduate of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, confirmed her death on Tuesday, July 27. 
 
""We Just Lost Our Sister Here In Libya, My sister,My Best Friend,friend Like A sister,may her soul Rest In Peace. I Miss You Sis your little Baby Girl Elizabeth Miss You" she wrote. 
 


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Elephant spotted in Rivers community







An elephant was spotted in Ikuru town in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on Wednesday, July 28. 
 
It was gathered that the elephant came out of the forest briefly and went back in. 

 
"In Ikuru Town Andoni, today witnessed how nature unveiled its deposit, was beautiful. Ikuru Town home of tourism" one Godwin Omayi, wrote.
 

Nigerian national arrested with cocaine at Pakistan airport







A Nigerian national, Simon Chukwunwike, has been arrested with 2 kilogrammes of cocaine in Pakistan.
 
The suspect was arrested by officials of the Anti-Narcotics Force on arrival at the Sialkot International Airport, Punjab on Tuesday, July 26. 
 
According to Urdu Point, a search operation was carried out at international arrival counter of the airport and some 2kg cocaine were recovered from Chukwunwike.
 
Persons violating Pakistani laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
 
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Pakistan are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
 

 

 

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES, 

THURSDAY 29TH JULY 2021. 

Pastor Chris


TOPIC: YOUR MIND: THE INSTRUMENT FOR YOUR TRANSFORMATION


And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:2).


The Word of God is clear on how to have a fruitful, productive and efficient life of success: it’s by the renewing of your mind with the Word. Why is your mind so important? It’s because God has fashioned the mind as the instrument for your transformation.


Your mind is unlimited in its potential to create whatever you desire. When you put your mind-power to work, the possibilities are endless. There’re no limits to what you can achieve, and absolutely no restrictions to how high you can propel yourself in life.


Your prosperity is essentially determined by the content and quality of your mind, because with your mind, you can change anything about yourself: you can establish a perfect structure and administration for your life, and enjoy to the utmost the special life and blessings God has given you.


Open your mind to God’s Word through study and meditation. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Through conscious meditation on the Word, your mind is organized and programmed for excellence, greatness and success. Its contents and processes are synchronized with God’s thoughts and perfect will for your life.


 This is what brings about the transformation.
Who you are today is a function or expression of your mind-work. Through God’s Word, you can work on your mind and change its contents, and that change will show up in your life as an upgrade, reflecting in your character and the results you produce.


PRAYER

Blessed Lord, as I consciously meditate on the Scriptures, my mind is renewed, organized and programmed to produce excellence. My mind is guarded by your Word and completely yielded to the right ideas, thoughts, and messages; I walk in higher levels of glory, victory and prosperity, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.


*FURTHER STUDY: 

Proverbs 4:23* Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.


Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING


1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 4 & Psalms 45-48
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 11:45-54 & Judges 4






#AFFIRMATIONTRAIN 


I affirm that I belong in God’s superior class of divine beings; therefore I look beyond the natural realm of existence to my heavenly rights, blessings, and provisions in Christ Jesus! 


I recognize today and take hold of my divine right to live in health, prosperity, victory, success, dominion, and excellence! I’ve been given the right to reign and rule over the circumstances of life and exercise dominion over satan.



God is at work in me, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Daily, as I meditate and affirm the Word, His power in me is activated to bring forth blessings and miracles.


 I am blessed on every side; my life is like a well-watered garden, and I bring forth fruits; in and out of season. I am super-favored, I live in superabundance because I am connected to God’s unending supply system. Hallelujah.


I am mightily blessed of the Lord and that blessing has brought beauty, honor, acceptability, elegance, loveliness, goodwill, benefits, promotion, glory, and favour into my life. Today and always, I increase in divine favor, I increase in speed and accuracy. 


No weapon formed against me shall ever prosper; for Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. All things are orchestrated for my benefit because the lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places. Glory to God!




God bless you

New song by Elijah Oyelade tagged All Because Of You.  Download below 
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Quote:Justice Gideon Kurada of the Kaduna State High Court has acquitted and discharged the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibraheem El- Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat Ibrahim who have been standing trial in the court for the past four years.

In a judgement delivered on Wednesday, Justice Kurada said the case was not shown nor proven by the prosecutor.

El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat, are standing trial on eight counts bordering on alleged culpable homicide, unlawful assembly, disruption of public peace, among others.

The defendants had pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them.

The couple have been in detention since 2015, after IMN supporters clashed with soldiers in Zaria, Kaduna.

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APC chairmanship candidate shot dead by gunmen weeks to Kaduna LG elections







The All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Cashman Alamkah Dominic Usman, has been killed by unknown gunmen.

 
It was gathered that Usman was shot dead by the assailants along Keffi-Akwanga road in Nassarawa state on his way to Benue state on Monday, July 26. 

 
Until his death, he was the APC flag-bearer in Kachia for the local government council elections set to hold on Saturday, August 14, 2021. 
 
The politician will be laid to rest on Thursday, July 29. 
 
Recall that the election of chairmen/councillors in all the 23 local government areas of Kaduna state was earlier billed for Saturday, June 5, 2021 but was postponed due to non arrival of imported items meant for the conduct of the polls. 
 



 

Cybercrime: Court sends UNILORIN, KWASU, Kwara Poly students to jail

The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, July 27, 2021, secured the conviction of one Abubakar Abdulbashit Opeyemi, a final year student of the University of Ilorin, and two other undergraduate students charged with offenses bordering on love scam and internet fraud.
 
The two other convicts are Alimi Abiodun and Idowu Rasaq Olarewaju, who are students of the Kwara State University, KWASU, Molete and Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, respectively.

 
Justice Mahmood Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin convicted and sentenced the three undergraduates to various jail terms after the court found them guilty of various offenses preferred against them by the EFCC.
 
The three convicts, who were arraigned on separate charges pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against them.

 
In his judgment on the cases today, Justice Abdulgafar while relying on the plea of guilt entered by the defendants and the various exhibits tendered against them held that the prosecution succeeded in proving its case beyond reasonable doubts.
 
Consequently, Abdulbashit Opeyemi was sentenced to six months imprisonment, which shall be suspended for one year. The judge also ordered that the convict's iPhones, HP Laptop which were used as instruments in committing the crime and a draft of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira) which he raised as restitution be forfeited to the Federal Government
 
In sentencing Abiodun, the judge gave him three months imprisonment on count one and one year imprisonment on count two, which shall be suspended for one year. He also ordered the forfeiture of his iPhone and the sum of N352, 000 (Three Hundred and Fifty-Two Thousand Naira) draft raised by him (the convict) to the Federal Government.
 
For Idowu, Justice Abdulgafar sentenced him to six months imprisonment, which shall be suspended for six months. He also ordered the forfeiture of his (the convict) 2014 Toyota Venza, 2 iPhones, HP Laptop, the sum of N404, 414.93 (Four Hundred and Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Fourteen Naira, Ninety Three Kobo) in his First Bank account to the Federal Government.
 
“The sentences are without option of fine”, the judge added

Quote:No fewer than 9,100 corps members have been mobilised to the seven states in the North-West amid rising insecurity in the region which has led to the murder of at least 189 persons and the abduction of 376 persons in Zamfara and Kaduna states alone.

Across the country, however, at least 430 persons were abducted while 344 were killed in the last four weeks, The PUNCH has learnt.

The states in the North-West include Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Kano, Sokoto, Kebbi and Jigawa states.

Other states affected by a spike in insecurity in July but are not part of the North-West include Benue, Niger and Adamawa.

The insecurity has led to the closure of schools in Kaduna and Zamfara states. Incidentally, most corps members are posted to schools for their primary assignment.

The PUNCH had reported last week that an average of 1, 300 corps members would be deployed in each state while another set would be deployed in late August.

The figure on the killings and abductions was obtained through a manual tally by The PUNCH and the Nigeria Security Tracker, a project of the Council on Foreign Relations’ an American think tank. The NST report is edited by a former United States Ambassador to Nigeria, John Campbell.

In Zamfara State where a war plane was shot down by bandits recently, about 49 persons were killed in Maradun on July 8 while three were abducted in Bakura on July 11. On July 16, no fewer than 150 people were abducted while one person was killed in Shinkafi. On July 18, 13 policemen were killed in Bungudu while on July 23, bandits killed seven and kidnapped 14 in Maru. On July 25, at least 11 persons were abducted along Sokoto-Gusau Road, according to the police.

This implies that between July 3 and July 25, bandits killed 70 persons and kidnapped 178 persons in Zamfara State despite the ‘no fly’ order declared over the state’s airspace by the Federal Government four months ago.

In Kaduna State where Governor Nasir el-Rufai has shut down schools due to the insecurity and ongoing military operation to wipe out bandits, about 198 persons were kidnapped in the last four weeks while 119 were killed. The most affected local governments in the state include- Chikun, where 140 students of Bethel Baptist High School were kidnapped; Zangon Kataf, Maradun and Kajuru.

No fewer than 140 students were kidnapped at Bethel Baptist School, when bandits attacked the school on July 5, but the hoodlums only succeeded in taking 121 away as others escaped.

About seven soldiers were killed in Arewa, Kebbi State while in Jibia, Katsina State, two immigration officials were killed.

In Niger State where two police officers and two civilians were killed in Mariga on July 9, there was a decrease in killings and abductions in July although bandits held on to the 136 students abducted from one Islamic school in Tegina since May.

Adamawa State in the North-East, witnessed one major attack on July 7 when Boko Haram killed 24 persons in Hong, while in Plateau State, gunmen killed seven herdsmen in Jos South. Kidnappers also killed two persons in the same state on July 22. Herdsmen killed three in Bali, Taraba.

On July 15, bandits killed two soldiers and kidnapped 20 civilians in Sabon Birni, Sokoto. In Benue State, herdsmen killed five persons in Logo and 10 in Guma on July 18. On July 20, herdsmen killed 13 also Guma. The suspected herders killed 13 in Guma while 30 lost their lives in a communal clash in Konshisha. Also, kidnappers abducted two in Toto, Nassarawa on July 10.

Southern Nigeria witnessed a few incidents. On July 19, kidnappers abducted eight in Akuku-Toru, Rivers State. A soldier was killed by pirates in Delta State on July 19. On July 13, gunmen killed three police officers and two civilians in Idemlili North, Anambra. On the same day, gunmen killed six soldiers in Uzo-Uwani, Enugu. Cultists killed two police officers and eight others in Awka, Anambra on July 15 while one Amotekun leader and three others were killed in Ibarapa North, Oyo on July 16.

NYSC allays fears, says agency partnering security agencies

The Director-General of the NYSC, Brig. General Shuaib Ibrahim, in an interview with The PUNCH, allayed fears over security of the corps members.

He stated, “We do partner effectively with the security agencies on the security of prospective corps members and corps members. We had webinar meeting with prospective corps members and were also advised accordingly.”

In Benue State, the Public Relations Officer of NYSC, Benue State, Mrs Victoria Ogwuche, said potential corps members would not be admitted into the camp without being certified free of COVID 19.

She added that another round of test would be carried out before they (corps members) were admitted into the hostel.


Ogwuche stated, “They (new corps members) are being tested for COVID 19 and the results come out within 10 minutes, no corps member goes into the hostel without being tested. ,,

“In fact, nobody comes to camp without being tested, it is only when you are certified free that you enter the camp, all the over 70 people tested were certified okay.

She added, “As soon as the result is out they are admitted into the hostel.”

The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Joseph Ngbea, in an interview with The PUNCH, said three people tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, Chikwe Ihekweazu on Tuesday, tasked state Mministries of Health to expedite action on contact tracing of persons who had had contact with those infected with COVID-19.

He said this in response to enquiries from The PUNCH, in Abuja. The NCDC through its Director of surveillance and Epidemiology, Elsie Ilori, had on Monday, disclosed that the country had identified 10 cases of the Delta variant of coronavirus disease in Nigeria.

According to Ilori who spoke during a media parley with selected journalists, the cases were discovered at the point of entry into the country.

Although she declined comments when asked to identify specific countries where the infected persons came in from, she stated that the NCDC was able to discover the cases after it carried out genomics sequencing on the test results after testing samples collected from inbound passengers.

In response enquiries from The PUNCH as to what the NCDC was doing about contact tracing, the NCDC DG, Ihekweazu, reiterated that contact tracing was the responsibility of the various state ministries of health.

He said “Once a positive case is detected, contact tracing is done by the state ministry of health irrespective of the variant detected. We will continue to carry out sequencing to detect variants, and use this data to guide our public health action.”

Man allegedly murders his employer, flees with her valuables in Oyo







A female politician identified as Mrs Bolaji Agunbiade, has allegedly been murdered by her employee in Ibadan, Oyo State. 
 
It was gathered that the suspect, Dare Rotimi, who hails from Ile Oluji in Ondo State, allegedly killed the woman in her home located in the Ologun-Eru area of Ibadan around midnight on Sunday, July 25. 

 
"There was an incident that happened to a politician in Ibadan three days ago. The woman was a native of Ile Oluji in Ondo State. We got a report that her driver killed her. She was a politician in Ile Oluji town,” a source told Sahara Reporters. 
 
The daughter of the deceased, Olasedidun Elizabeth Agunbiade, who confirmed the incident to SaharaReporters, said Dare used to work for her grandmother but stopped in 2018.

 
She said later in 2019, he worked for her aunt in Abuja and fled after stealing her N250,000, laptop, and phones.

 
Elizabeth, the first child of the late Mrs Agunbiade, said Dare later showed up in Ibadan in 2020 to beg her mother for forgiveness, noting that the suspect helped with the construction of their house and had spent almost 3 months there.
 
"He showed up in 2020 in Ibadan to beg my mum for forgiveness. He told my mum to help him beg her sister (my aunt) for forgiveness, which my mum did. It was the time my mum was building her house in Ibadan, Dare helped in building the house. After spending almost 3 months with my mum, Dare ran away again with my brother's iPad and other belongings in the house."
 
Elizabeth said she warned her mother not to accept his apology and let him go when Dare returned in March 2021. She said that her mum disagreed, saying she would not send Dare away if he were her son.

 
"Dare came again in March to seek forgiveness. I was around at the time, I was angry and I warned my mother not to accept his apology this time and let him go. But my mum refused, saying would she send him away if Dare was her son. So I left Ibadan in anger and returned to Ondo State where I stay. My aunt went to see my mum in Ibadan, and my mum told Dare to leave the house because she knew that her sister could not stand him.
 
"Dare came back on Sunday (July 25) with a friend around 7 pm after my aunt had left. My daughter who was staying with my mum opened the door for them, and my mum welcomed them. She gave them a foam to sleep on.
 
"In the morning, my daughter discovered that my mum had not come to wake her up, as usual, so she went to check on her by peeping through the window because her door was still locked, but she was not in bed. She also discovered that our television was missing and the gate was open.
 
"She then raised an alarm, the neighbours came and forced the door open. My mother was found dead in the bathroom. Her hands were tied and her mouth was covered. We later discovered that Dare went away with our two flat-screen televisions, money, and other valuable items," she said.
 
Meanwhile, the case has been reported at Eleyele Police Station, while the remains of the deceased have been taken to University College Hospital, both in Ibadan, for autopsy. 
 

Nasarawa community begs the government to 'rescue' them from Fulani herdsmen







Barmo Community in Wamba Local Council of Nasarawa State has appealed to the government at all levels to come to their rescue from the hands of Fulani herdsmen.
 
The appeal comes after 30-year-old Samuel Monday was killed on Monday, July 26, by men believed to be herders.

 
The community members said Fulani herdsmen had continued to terrorise the area, snatching motorcycles and destroying farmlands.

 
According to Guardian, the community members made the plea when the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dogo Shammah, visited the bereaved family and Barmo Cement Community yesterday, July 27.
 
Barmo Village Head, Chief Yakubu Sarki, disclosed that the once stick-wielding herdsmen had taken to criminality.
 
He said: "I am a victim of herdsmen’s attack. Recently, two Fulani men, well armed, attacked me in my farm."
 
The royal father confirmed that one of the herdsmen, who killed Monday and snatched his motorcycle, was arrested by youths of the community and handed over to the police in Wamba.

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"I'm the last of the males," Obi Cubana writes as he shows off his elder brothers







Obi Iyiegbu,  aka Obi Cubana, has revealed that, contrary to popular belief, he is the last son of his parents and the second to the last child.
 
He made this revelation while showing off his elder brothers.

 
Obi Cubana's name was on the lips of most people before, during, and after his mother's burial, giving some the impression that he's the first son. But he has said this isn't so.

 
He revealed that his parents gave birth to 5 children, 3 sons and 2 daughters, and he's the 4th child and last son.
 
He showed off his brothers - the first son named Sir Nnamdi Chu Iyiegbu and the second named Ike Iyiegbu.
 
See below. 
 

7 naval officers abducted in Edo







Seven officers of the Nigerian Navy have been abducted in Edo State, while travelling to Delta from Kaduna. 
 
The officers who are reportedly from a Naval Base in Kaduna state were abducted on Sapele-Warri road.

 
5 of the officers were rescued after the police acted on an intelligence report. The State Command’s spokesperson, SP. Kotongs Bello confirmed the incident. 
 
Bello said; 
 

Quote:“We rescued five and two others are yet to be rescued. That is the one I am aware of."

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES 


WEDNESDAY 28TH JULY.



THE HOLY SPIRIT—YOUR ADVANTAGE


But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you… (Acts 1:8 AMPC).


In your life, career, ministry, business, job or academics, are there limits you want to break? Are there new records you want to set? Do you want to chart new vistas? What is it you want to achieve? The Holy Spirit in you is your advantage! There’s something about His power and grace that causes you to do the extraordinary and unimaginable!


If you were tasked with any project or assignment, maybe in your school, place of work or an evangelical assignment in your local church, execute it by the power, wisdom and guidance of the Spirit. Become conscious that you’re up to that task because of the greater One who lives in you; working in, and through you.


The Bible says, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). Zechariah 4:6 says, “…Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.” That same Spirit is in you today, and has brought the glory of God into your life, giving you guidance and direction, with the wisdom and ability to walk through “walls” and blaze new trails. He’s filled you with supernatural ability to do things that can’t be humanly explained.

2 Corinthians 3:5 AMPC says, “Not that we are fit (qualified and sufficient in ability) of ourselves to form personal judgments or to claim or count anything as coming from us, but our power and ability and sufficiency are from God.” Blessed be God! Every day, tell yourself, “I can do all things by the Holy Spirit who lives in me!”


Take advantage of the person, power, grace and ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life! He’s your advantage. He causes you to see, think, say and do things ordinary men can’t.



PRAYER

Blessed Holy Spirit, how I love you! I acknowledge you as my advantage; the One I need to be an absolute success in life. Thank you for your ability, strength and wisdom that are mightily at work in me. I walk in health, victory, strength, prosperity and glory, as you perfect your will in me, causing me to do of your good pleasure, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.


FURTHER STUDY


John 14:16-17 AMPC; Colossians 1:26-29

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Romans 3:1-31 & Psalms 42-44

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 11:37-44 & Judges 2-3





#TALKINGSESSION 



I thank You gracious heavenly Father for the excellent life that I have in Christ! I am planted on the rock that is higher than I am, Christ Jesus! Therefore, I am not moved by circumstances. 

I am a victor forever because Christ is my riddance. He rids me of any trouble and leads me triumphantly from glory to glory. I have the fullness of God; I am complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power.
 I have the capacity to contain the fullness of the Spirit; I carry God’s maximum load. I am unconquerable.


I am not ordinary; my humanity has been supplanted by the life and nature of God. I am God’s living tabernacle; when I move, the Spirit of God moves in me. 


My hands have become His hands, and my fingers, His fingers; I am completely immersed in Him and He in me. He sees through my eyes, talks through my mouth, and moves with my body. 


He changes lives through me. Hallelujah! Of His fullness have I received, and grace for grace. Everything that is of deity in Christ Jesus; in quality and potentialities has been granted to me. 

I have received all of His power, glory, might, strength, knowledge, and wisdom – everything that He represents, everything that is contained in Him.



 I live every day with the consciousness that I am replete with God; full of Him. I am an associate of the God-kind. As He is, so am I in this world. 


Thank You blessed Father, for the wonderful privilege to be filled with Your fullness and receive of Your ability, wisdom, grace, power, and strength! It’s such an honor to be the carrier and dispenser of eternal verities. I impact my world with the power and dominion of Your righteousness that I bear, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. Hallelujah!




God bless you

Quote:Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has dragged the Nigerian and Kenyan governments to the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, to demand accountability for his extraordinary rendition.

Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, revealed this in a statement on his Facebook wall late Monday.

Ejimakor said jurisdiction lies with the Commission because Nigeria and Kenya are state parties to the African Charter.

It reads: “A few days ago, I commenced a continental legal action against Nigeria and Kenya before the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, demanding accountability for the extraordinary rendition of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

“Jurisdiction lies with the Commission because Nigeria and Kenya are State Parties to the African Charter; and Nigeria even took a step further to domesticate the Charter, thus making it part of her municipal laws.

“Both countries also have extradition laws that prohibit this sort of reprehensible conduct that saw Kanu to Nigeria.

“More particularly, extraordinary rendition is expressly prohibited under the African Charter, where It provides in pertinent part that “A State may not transfer (e.g. deport, expel, remove, extradite) an individual to the custody of another State unless it is prescribed by law and in accordance with due process and other international human rights obligations. Extraordinary rendition, or any other transfer, without due process is prohibited”.

“A victim of extraordinary rendition is entitled to remedies mandated by the Charter.

“Therefore, among many other reliefs, I requested that Kanu be restored to his state of being before the rendition, which state of being was that he travelled to Kenya on his British passport and was duly admitted as such and as a free man.

“Further, that no valid territorial jurisdiction can issue from an act of extraordinary rendition because Kanu is, technically speaking, still in Kenya.

“And that the Nigerian bench warrant standing against Kanu is, in the absence of any successful extradition proceedings in Kenya, invalid to arrest in Kenya.

“I also requested the Commission to adopt other urgent measures as the Commission sees fit in the circumstances to protect Nnamdi Kanu in the interim. A fact-finding visitation to Nigeria is also in reckoning.

“In my previous press briefings, I had said – with much confidence – that Kanu’s trial will be a trial within trial. To those who didn’t fully grasp what it meant, this extant continental legal action will give you a clue. And this is just the beginning.

“To be sure, any nation that dabbles in extraordinary rendition has unwittingly brought impediments to her territorial jurisdiction. So, Nigeria, whether it admits it or not, has triggered a hornets nest that has, for the first time, brought the international legal order to bear on the matter of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”

Sound Sultan: "I hope we don't loose another life before Paul and Peter Okoye realize its their turn to bury the hatchet"- Music executive, Ayo Animashaun







Ayo Animashaun, has urged former PSquare duo, Peter and Paul Okoye, to settle their differences. 
 
The music executive shared a photo of members of the defunct Platashun Boyz; 2face Idibia, Blackface and Faze, making peace at the Night of Tribute held in honor of singer Sound Sultan in Terra Kulture, Lagos state on Sunday, July 25. 


The singers were called upstage and urged to make peace in honor of Sound Sultan who was their blossom friend and colleague. They agreed, made peace, and even performed their classic songs together.

 
In a post stage on his Instagram page this evening, Animashaun pointed out that he hopes it doesn't take the death of another person for the brothers, Paul and Peter Okoye, to bury the hatchet.
 
He wrote

Quote:''My picture of the month….I hope we don’t loose another life before @iamkingrudy and @peterpsquare realise it’s their turn to bury the hatchet''

9-Year-Old Girl Who Set Fire In Ebeano Supermarket, Watched With Her Mum As The Fire Went On (Photo, Video)

A CCTV footage that has been released online shows the 9-year old girl who started a fire in Ebeano supermarket Abuja standing outside the building with her mother as the fire ravaged the supermarket, IgbereTV reports.

The fire incident happened on Saturday, July 17, destroying goods worth over N5 billion in the supermarket located at Lokogoma, Abuja.

During interrogation, the girl said she came to the supermarket with her mum.

Watch the footage below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M3ad_sexiw

Below is the video of how the little girl put the fire and her interrogation.


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

https://igberetvnews.com/1396524/9-year-...oto-video/

AMCON takes over NICON Insurance and Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation







The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has taken over the major interests in NICON Insurance Limited and the Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation (Nigeria Re) which are assets seized from businessman, Jimoh Ibrahim, over a N69.4 billion debt.
 
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 27, AMCON said it is working in partnership with the Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE) to bring the much-needed stability in the operation of the organisations.
 
AMCON also listed members of the new board for the organizations. The agency added that the list was approved by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). 

 
For NICON, Lamis Shehu Dikko was appointed as chairman; Henry Uko Ationu, managing director/chief executive officer,  John Abuh Oyidih, executive director, finance & administration, Alexander Ayoola Okoh, the Director-General of Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE) as Non-Executive Director and Ahmed Dahiru Modibbo FIBA ACIS as Non-Executive Director (Independent). 
 
Directors for Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation include Mela Audu Nunghe, chairman; Olugbenga Falekulo, managing director/chief executive officer, Olusegun Ilori, executive director, finance & administration, Alexander Ayoola Okoh, the Director-General of Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), comes in as Non-Executive Director while Yvonne Isichei MIoD, FCIB joins as Non-Executive Director (Independent). 
 
The statement added; 
 

Quote:“The reconstitution of the board and management team of two insurance institutions in Nigeria is to ensure that the firms continue in their quest for transparent and accountable management of insurance in the country, and continue to deliver value to its stakeholders.”

CBN bans sale of Forex to Bureau De Changes, says they have turned into 'money laundering agents’







The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has banned the sale of foreign exchange (FX) to Bureau De Change (BDCs) operators in the country.
 
The CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, announced this at the end of the monetary policy committee meeting in Abuja on Tuesday July 27. According to Emefiele, the apex bank receives about 5,000 applications every month for BDC registration and that these BDCs have become a conduit for illegal financial flows working with corrupt people to conduct money laundering in the country.
 

Quote:“They have turned themselves away from their objectives. They are now agents that facilitate graft and corruption in the country. We cannot continue with the bad practices that are happening at the BDC market.”he said

Quote:“Several international organizations, embassies patronize BDC through illegal forex dealers to fund their institutions. We will deal ruthlessly with Nigerian banks that deal with illegal BDCs and we will report foreign organizations patronizing them.”he said

Quote:The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said Germany will repatriate to Nigeria in October over 7,000 artefacts plundered from Benin Kingdom by the European country.

The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, announced this at the inaugural Nigerian Cultural Show exhibiting the nation’s diverse cultural heritage, sites and traditional festivals at the Cultural Centre of Nigeria House in New York, United States of America (U.S.A).

Aduda also said the reparation of the artefacts would go with building an ultramodern museum in Edo State and the training of some curators to man the artefacts.

He said Nigeria had reached an advanced stage of discussions with Germany to return thousands of different pieces of Benin bronzes back to the country.

The Nigerian official said the ministry had been at the forefront, alongside relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), to facilitate the repatriation of thousands of Benin artefacts from the Republic of Germany.

“We are working with relevant MDAs. We have had several high-level meetings with the Republic of Germany and we are at a stage where thousands of art works are to be returned to Nigeria,”

“There are over 7,000 different pieces of artefacts that Republic of Germany wants to give back to Nigeria,” he said.

Aduda added: “We have talked deep into this that the reparation is not only at giving back, but they are coming to put a modern-day museum in Edo State. They are training 25 curators who will man the museum for sustainability.

“We have gone far and we are thinking that this will be concluded in October this year.

“We are hoping it will be a window to reach out to other European countries to return to us what was taken from us years back,” he said.

Quote:Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone was bursting with pride as he showcased his three stunning daughters on Instagram.

The proud dad, 75, showcased his muscular form and bulging biceps in a fitted navy blue t-shirt.

Taking centre position, he smiled with his arms folded in front allowing his beautiful daughters to lap up the limelight.

The legendary Rocky actor was joined by his glamorous daughters Sistine, 23, Scarlet, 19, and Sophia, 24.

He took to social media to share the family snap with his adoring legion of followers.

His caption read: "I am a very very lucky man to have such wonderful, loving children who brought me nothing but joy.

"Now I wish they would stop growing so tall!"

Millions of likes and thousands of compliments were dashed beneath the post.

One person joked: "Bro let me come over for supper one night and meet the fam lol."

Another added: "Imagine your dad being Rambo and Rocky at the same time," while a third said: "You all look beautiful champ. Your daughters are stunning."

While a fourth penned: They are beautiful and smart and they love their parents. A huge blessing. Well done Sly and Jennifer."

The Stallone clan had joined forces to attend the premiere of his middle-daughter Sistine's new movie.

In support of Sistine's starring role in Midnight In The Switchgrass, they all stormed the red carpet together, showing their unity as a family.

Sylvester and wife Jennifer Flavin, who is 23 years his junior, first began dating in back in 1988.

But after meeting Janice Dickinson he ended his five-year relationship with Jennifer in the form of a handwritten note via FedEx.

In 1995, he'd realised he'd made a mistake, calling things off with Janice and gaining Jennifer's forgiveness.

The pair were married two years later and then went on to have three beautiful daughters together.