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[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T04:48:05" | null | "2016-03-20T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fstreet-trading-social-justice-morality%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20233547/Obo-Effanga.jpg | en | null | Street trading, social justice and morality | null | null | punchng.com | Obo Effanga
Recently, the Lagos State Government announced its decision to fully implement the provisions of its seemingly forgotten Lagos State Street Trading and Illegal Market Prohibition Law, 2003, which prescribes a punishment of N90, 000 or a six-month jail term, for both the buyer and the seller of any goods or services on the streets. That decision, expectedly, drew a lot of flaks and some commendation from different citizens and groups.
It is apparent that what jolted the state government into the decision to implement the law was the recent incident where irate citizens vandalised mass transit buses belonging to the government on claim that one of the buses crushed a street trader.
Less than two months after, Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State announced last week that his state would not ban street trading but rather regulate it to protect the traders. He was able to win the hearts of a few persons when he stressed that the traders were poor people trying to eke out a living rather than resort to crimes. Ayade’s position shows a sense of compassion for the hard times Nigerians are facing and tries to address social justice.
A few issues, facts and questions are now thrown up by these contrary positions. Some of these questions are: What duty does the state owe its citizens? To what extent could members of the public make demands of the society they live in or draw from the resources of such society? What role is law expected to play in the society? What amounts to law and order and when and how can these be suspended or overlooked, in the interest of citizens or any other group?
I have always held, and this accords with the principles of social justice that the state exists because individuals, as citizens exist. That said, the interest of such citizens should be paramount at all times. Society must therefore operate as to take care of the reasonable needs and expectations of its citizens. It follows therefore that rules of society should not aim to injure or hurt an individual, unless such is aimed at protecting the generality of society.
I can therefore understand why rules need to be made to ensure ease of movement on public highways. This is because the primary reason for public highway is for movement of humans and goods. And the point needs to be made straightaway that the street trading that is injurious here isn’t so much about the person who takes up a spot on the side of the road to trade for people who use the road, either as a pedestrian or commuters in vehicles. It is more about the person who stands on the road, in the right of way of vehicles or on the median, soliciting and selling his/her wares.
This, among other things, adds to the slowing down of traffic movement, confusion to motorists, risk of petty cries like pick pocketing or even mugging of motorists and commuters. This happens especially in busy city roads. This may be a major reason behind this law in Lagos State. That reality is not nearly the same as what would be obtainable in a less densely populated state as Cross River, where Ayade governs. I also think the greater risk to lives and limbs of the street traders is even a more weighty reason for not allowing them on public highways. More so, some of these traders are actually minors. But we need to stop not only traders but also others on the streets such as beggars who also run the same risk as the sellers of wares.
Ayade has argued that many citizens cannot afford the cost of rent in standard shops, hence the justification for them to sell openly on the streets. So rather than stop them, he wants to regulate and protect them. I submit that such protection should not shut out the need to also protect motorists and commuters. Even without official protection from the state, many of the street vendors carry on with a sense of entitlement to be on the road and even take over a whole lane and force vehicles to limit their traffic to fewer lanes, thus causing a lot of traffic jams and confusions on many streets and intersections.
I do not think that the only sympathetic approach to addressing the problem mentioned by Ayade lies in allowing traders the use of streets with protection. What the state ought to focus on is how to provide shops for these traders at easy-to-meet terms. But this is not the case because the state is often more concerned about revenue generation and footing the cost of all its projects as immediately as possible. The state has long jettisoned its social service responsibility to citizens, for which the petty traders form part of.
It rather charges exorbitant costs for such services or allows commercial interests to take over the provision of such services. What we have across the states today are the so called shopping complexes, malls and centres owned by private businesses and charging huge rentals or lease such that the small businesses are technically shut out of access. This explains why these small businesses (petty traders) take up spaces on the streets. The state (and that includes local governments) needs to prioritise the establishment of shops and kiosks to be leased out to small businesses at reasonable costs.
They also need to consider temporary access to petty traders to sell some wares at street corners, as much as the convenience requires, considering the types of wares and the needs of the public. This happens in many cities across the world. But there must be proper regulations not influenced by partisan and sectional interests. Such regulations must take care of times and days of the week the trading may be allowed.
We must however not lose sight of the fact that these traders are involved in their own private businesses, not a public, philanthropic service. So they should ordinarily be expected to invest in it and not exact their cost on the society and the common space meant for all members of the society. This aligns with the same issues raised about the propriety of herdsmen taking over public highways for their cattle to graze. The nuisance values of both may be different, but they still exist.
Yet, we cannot also lose sight of the fact that our society has over time granted undue privileges to the elite class or even a class of powerful criminals such as economic saboteurs and terrorists. This happens through negotiations and plea bargains. A society that allows the non-implementation or the suspension of the law in relation to people who deliberately and wilfully breach the law, occasioning violence, death and destruction of the fabrics of society lacks the morality to insist insisting on fully implementing the law to prevent others from eking out a living.
It is in fact a delicate balance to strike as different groups of citizens make demands of the state for their personal interest. In making that decision, let the states weigh highly the need to ensure social justice which would not lead otherwise honest citizens into more heinous and highly-rewarding crimes.
Follow me on twitter @obobef
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/street-trading-social-justice-morality/ | en | "2016-03-20T00:00:00" | punchng.com/e0d43970315d292ea9a68bfb7b30394cfebb195d3d03d20a52a93263039b8805.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-27T02:47:18" | null | "2016-08-27T03:30:49" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fmum-doesnt-like-music-base-one%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/19220759/favicon.jpg | en | null | My mum doesn’t like my music -Base One | null | null | punchng.com | Fast rising rap artiste, Ayomipo Sotunde, better known as Base One, tells Saturday Beats about his career
Your hit song was titled Werey Re and recently, you released Skon Skon. Why do you like giving your songs weird titles?
It is because I am promoting my alter ego; the ‘mad man’ in me, but it’s not literal. It is something poetic, a figure of speech.
What sets you apart from other rap artistes in Nigeria?
I’m a versatile artiste who does the kind of rap that makes people laugh. When you listen to my lyrics, you have to pause and play it intermittently to appreciate my wordings. Whenever I am composing my songs, I think a lot and I use the things that make me laugh to form my songs so that I can also make people laugh. That’s what distinguishes me from every other rapper.
How was the experience working with Fuji legend, K1 De Ultimate?
I feel blessed working with him and for me, that’s a major highlight in my career. The song is really making waves across the country because I infused my rap skills into one of his old songs and made it sound fresh. The song title is ‘Better Dey Come’. We were able to create a bridge that connects both the old and young. All the experience gathered during the recording is worth the positive response it’s getting across the country.
Did you actually set out to be a musician?
While growing up, I used to admire bankers who usually wear nice fitted suits and ride fancy cars. That prompted me to study Banking and Finance in the university hoping that when I graduate, I would also work in the banking sector. But things did not go as planned. I later discovered that most bankers live their lives on loans and I didn’t want to toe that path in life. I also realised that being a banker, I might never have time for myself as the job requires me to wake up early and close late and my weekends are not guaranteed. And as God would have it, I discovered music and I am doing very well.
How did your parents react when you told them that you were choosing music over Banking and Finance?
Actually, my mum detests my music a lot and she does not support it. When I told her that I wanted to do music, she was okay with it. All she said was that the most important thing was for me to finish school. So I had to juggle both my music and studies. By the time I graduated in 2012, I had already learnt few tips in the music industry before I became a part of it fully.
As for my mum, even if we are in the same car driving to church and I play my CD in the car, she will just eject it and throw it out of the window. Even though she is not totally in support of my music career, she still loves me. You know there’s this natural love that mothers always have for their children. Besides, she knows what I am doing is legitimate. It’s not something that is illegal and it’s not that I’m causing any trouble or bringing any problem to the household. So she just loves me naturally, she doesn’t have a choice. If you love me, you’re definitely going to love my music.
A lot of your colleagues are venturing into Nollywood, are you toying with the idea as well?
Honestly, my acting skill sucks. I don’t know how to act. I remember going to PEFTI owned by Wale Adenuga production for an audition and I was paired with somebody. We were given a script to study and after few minutes, we were called to act and present what we had read without the script. Veteran actor, Antar Laniyan, was one of the judges and immediately he shouted action, the other guy I was paired with delivered his line smoothly and when it was my turn, my brain switched off. Right there and then, I knew acting was not my calling. I just told the man, “I’m very sorry sir, thank you very much” and I went away.
Do you have plans working with any Nigerian female act?
For me, the female artiste that I will like to work with in Nigeria is Asa because she’s a legend and a big brand to reckon with. I have always dreamed of working with the likes of Jay-Z, Drake…the list is endless because they have so many talented people abroad.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/mum-doesnt-like-music-base-one/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/37c77da8fc941748c98457ec608b349495815cea989093f00393901d3d5f765a.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-26T16:47:04" | null | "2016-07-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fprophet-trial-giving-false-information%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/26131343/court-e1470747775525.jpg | en | null | Prophet on trial for giving false information | null | null | punchng.com | A self-acclaimed prophet, David Babalola, who gave false information to the police about his landlord, was on Friday docked before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court.
The accused, 43, who claimed to be a minister with the Presence Redemption Ministry, is facing trial on a charge of false testimony.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
The prosecutor, Insp. Cousin Adams, said that the accused committed the offence on Nov. 4, at No. 13, Folorunsho St., Off Ajayi Road, Aguda-Ogba.
He alleged that the accused gave false information against his landlord, Joseph Agaga, which led to his arrest and detention at the police station.
He said, “The accused had falsely given information that his landlord wanted to forcefully occupy the land where his church was located.
“Upon investigation by the police, it was discovered that the land actually belonged to Agaga.”
Adams said the offence contravened Section 95(C) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.
Section 95 (C) prescribes seven years imprisonment if found guilty.
Counsel to the accused, Mr O. Quadri, urged the court to grant bail to his client, saying that, as a man of God, he would not evade trial nor tamper with evidence.
Quadri also informed the court that he would stand as surety for his client in the case.
The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Helen Omisore, granted the accused N200,000 bail with one surety in like sum.
She said that the surety must provide evidence of tax payment to the state government and adjourned the case till Sept. 14 for mention.
NAN | http://punchng.com/prophet-trial-giving-false-information/ | en | "2016-07-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/c5dfd4089f3bbf94b8ef9683c78bc2ddd23e16869a77bced5fb940171fc83119.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-27T04:47:24" | null | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fproceeds-next-album-will-cabasa-9ice%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/27043916/9ice.jpg | en | null | Proceeds from my next album will be for Cabasa -9ice | null | null | punchng.com | It seems popular singer, 9ice, is in a charitable mood as Saturday Beats exclusively gathered that all monies from his forthcoming album titled, ‘ID Cabasa,’ which is to be released in October, would go to his long-time friend and producer, ID Cabasa.
In a telephone conversation with the artiste who is currently in the UK, he explained his reasons for dedicating his forthcoming album to ID Cabasa. He explained Cabasa was the first person to believe in him and he would forever remain grateful.
The singer said, “I am currently working on an album that would come out in October and I would title it ‘ID Cabasa’. I am dedicating the album to ID Cabasa and all the remuneration and profits from the album would go to him. All the money I make from the album would go to Cabasa because of all the work he has done for me from the time of ‘Gongo Aso.’ When I was nobody, he was there for me; there is a difference between someone believing in you and someone encouraging you. ID Cabasa believed in me and encouraged me through his platform. Cabasa is going to produce some of the tracks on the album and he welcomed the development.”
While commenting on his collaboration with Ruggedman after six years of controversy between both parties, he said he was glad they finally have a song together. “I am happy that I collaborated on a song with Ruggedman. I am moving ahead in life; there is a point in life where you have to look back at where you are coming from and where you are going to. While we are going up the ladder of success, there are people who are part of our success. Ruggedman was part of my success story so there is no point for us keeping malice. That is the reason we came back together,” he said.
The ‘Gongo Aso’ crooner told Saturday Beats that the collaboration was long overdue but did not happen till now because of rumour peddlers in the industry.
“It took long for us to have this collaboration because there have been a lot of speculation flying around about both of us. I have always said it that I did not have any problem with Ruggedman but people were always misconstruing things. It was all a misconception within the entertainment industry and people began to peddle rumours against us. That was what led to the misunderstanding between us but I thank God that we are back together,” 9ice said.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/proceeds-next-album-will-cabasa-9ice/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/b42ae330a7cb7fe3690f8978ddcfa0cfd8cdbc7dfe4b95822152f545cf4956ab.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T00:48:30" | null | "2016-03-24T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fwike-cant-impeached-rivers-pdp-tells-peterside%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/24001315/PDP-Logo.jpg | en | null | Wike can’t be impeached, Rivers PDP tells Peterside | null | null | punchng.com | Chukwudi Akasike, Port Harcourt
THE Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has said that the tenure of the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, is not under any threat of impeachment.
The state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Samuel Nwanosike, said on Monday that the governor would serve his tenure, adding that the people of the state would continue to support his administration.
Nwanosike spoke in Port Harcourt while briefing newsmen, in reaction to a statement credited to the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the 2015 general election, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.
Peterside had predicted that the regime of the governor would soon come to an end, adding that the people could not be deceived with lies and propaganda, no matter how well crafted the lies were.
But Nwanosike explained that the state House of Assembly had majority of the PDP and wondered why Peterside, who is the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency, would make such a statement.
“Dakuku Peterside should know that the governor cannot be impeached because in the state House of Assembly, the PDP is in the majority. The issue of the governor’s regime coming to an end cannot come up.
“Governor Wike is using the resources at his disposal to develop the state and that is why he will continue to enjoy the support of the people. They can try as much as they can, they cannot do anything to Governor Wike,” the state PDP publicity secretary said.
He explained that there was no controversy surrounding the position of the state governor, since the Supreme Court had given its verdict in Wike favour.
“Rivers State is PDP. We have got up to the Supreme Court and we won. So, to say that Wike’s administration will soon come to an end does not make any meaning to us,” he added.
Reacting, the state Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Chris Finebone, disagreed with Nwanosike, saying that Rivers remains an APC state.
He described the claim that the state belonged to the PDP as an empty talk, adding that the people of the state were aware of how the election was handled in the state.
“Rivers State is not PDP. People were saying Nigeria was PDP, until APC won. It is sheer empty talk to say that Rivers State is PDP. Rivers belongs to the APC and will remain APC,” Finebone said.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/wike-cant-impeached-rivers-pdp-tells-peterside/ | en | "2016-03-24T00:00:00" | punchng.com/61bb5325d3b6384c5e792e834dd6bfd879c8858c087be1dc81824fe142c3387c.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye",
"Jaiyeola Bagbansoro"
] | "2016-08-27T00:47:38" | null | "2016-08-27T01:17:48" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fasuu-berates-fgn-paucity-funds-varsities%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/19220759/favicon.jpg | en | null | ASUU berates FGN over paucity of funds in varsities | null | null | punchng.com | The Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities has blamed the paucity of funds being experienced by public universities on the introduction of the Treasury Single Account, saying it is gradually grinding the schools’ operations to a halt.
The body equally berated the Federal Government over its reluctance to implement the 2009 agreement it reached with ASUU.
The union also said according to a Memorandum of Understanding it signed with the Federal Government in November, 2013, the government is required to provide the sum of N1.2tn for the rehabilitation of decaying infrastructure in public universities between 2013 and 2019 (N220 billion annually).
But ASUU claimed that the government has released only N200bn out of the agreed sum meant for the rehabilitation.
It faulted the government over its insensitivity to implement key issues reached in the 2009 agreement and its reluctance since 2012 to renegotiate the 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, saying the action was already getting its members increasingly worried and frustrated.
Dr. Augustine Ndaghu, North East Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, during the week, reminded the Federal Government of the need to revisit the 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement.
He said government implementation of the agreement will help to address the financial crisis being experienced by public universities.
He said, “With the operation of TSA, federal universities find it extremely difficult to discharge their core responsibilities of teaching, research and community services, as well as engaging in international academic networking due to inadequate access to budgeted funds.
“TSA is incompatible with the autonomy of the universities and universities should be exempted from its implementation on account of their peculiarities.”
He noted that from December 2015, public universities have been experiencing drastic reduction in the funds meant for capital grants and workers’ salaries, describing the current practice as totally unacceptable to the zone and its members.
He said, “Sadly after releasing N200bn in 2013, the Federal Government has failed to release the 2014, 2015 and 2016 tranches.
“Many universities now pay fractions of salaries or are unable to pay salaries outright at the end of every month. State universities hardly receive subventions from their state governments.”
ASUU expressed surprise that in furtherance of the financial crisis in the universities, the Federal Government went ahead to shut down all staff schools and sacked their staff.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/asuu-berates-fgn-paucity-funds-varsities/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/f22621c6c411b1184c84bbd0d6fe1e750fec2f25746bd2e2298db68cfc263cd9.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T00:48:01" | null | "2016-03-23T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fdickson-bayelsa-apc-clash-alleged-missing-4-6m%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/23011903/Bayelsa-State-Governor-Seriake-Dickson.jpg | en | null | Dickson, Bayelsa APC clash over alleged missing $4.6m | null | null | punchng.com | Simon Utebor, Yenagoa
The invasion of the home of Mr. Richie Etonye, an accountant attached to the Bayelsa State Government House by the police, has triggered a war of words between Governor Seriake Dickson and the All Progressives Congress in the state.
Policemen numbering over 50 had last Tuesday, August 23, 2016, invaded the home of the governor’s aide over missing money belonging to the government which was put in the region of $4.6m.
Dickson had in a statement on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, condemned the invasion of his aide’s residence and wanted the policemen involved in the raid prosecuted.
The governor, who described the invasion of Etonye’s home as an “an act of irresponsibility”, alleged that the invasion was conducted on the instruction of leaders of the APC in Abuja.
Dickson had said that since the APC won the Presidential election, its leaders in Bayelsa had been manipulating the federal security agencies to harass, intimidate and invade the homes of innocent citizens and non-APC members to settle political scores.
According to him, the invasion of the residence of the governor’s aide was a classic example of the politicisation of the security agencies.
Dickson had said, “These same APC leaders are the ones involved in the killings and ransacking of communities in Bayelsa State, yet they are yet to be apprehended. It is these same politicians that give the false tip-offs to security agencies for the invasion of their opponents’ homes.
“Government, therefore, calls on the police and other security agencies to be wary of such false information. They are also advised to confirm such tip-offs from the local security in the state and involve them before taking action.”
But the APC, in a reaction on Sunday, challenged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to immediately wade into the allegation that a government accountant (Etonye) bolted away with the sum of $4.6m cash.
The party, in a statement by its state Publicity Secretary, Fortune Panebi, also berated the governor over his silence on the matter, describing such as admittance that something had actually gone wrong within his “inner circle of financial scavengers.”
The APC said, ‘’The story about the allegedly stolen cash of $4.6m is shocking. This development assaults the collective psyche of the people of Bayelsa State, especially at a time Dickson has decided to impoverish workers by deliberately suffocating them through non-payment of their rightful wages.
‘’We had waited in total disbelief that such an act could be brazenly perpetrated by the governor. We had asked where and how possible it was for him to keep such a huge cash in dollars.
“But Dickson’s response to the news about the stolen money on Friday clearly betrayed him that he is indeed the leader of a financial scavengers’ ring bleeding the state of its finances.
‘’This is a test case that the EFCC should immediately intervene to unravel and prosecute without delay. For the Nigeria Police Force, the ball is in its court to clear its name.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/dickson-bayelsa-apc-clash-alleged-missing-4-6m/ | en | "2016-03-23T00:00:00" | punchng.com/d066ede849b0dfb6f53f287e708fa4d79395c72073eb99fae0c7249139018011.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-30T20:48:45" | null | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Farsenal-sign-shkodran-mustafi-valencia%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/30213634/Shkodran-Mustafi--e1472589409170.jpg | en | null | Arsenal sign Shkodran Mustafi from Valencia | null | null | punchng.com | Arsenal have signed German central defender Shkodran Mustafi from Valencia, the London club said on Tuesday.
“He is at the right age,” Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger said of the 24-year-old. “And he has good experience.”
“He is a very focused player who can play with the ball as well. We have taken a great player but have prepared well for the future.”
The central defender arrives at the Premier League outfit after injuries to fellow centre-backs Per Mertesacker and Gabriel and has long been pursued by Wenger. | http://punchng.com/arsenal-sign-shkodran-mustafi-valencia/ | en | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | punchng.com/c0653c2428f509aa96124c551fb48439f3245193645855f474ca72608c6e7c53.json |
[
"Adesola Ayo-Aderele"
] | "2016-08-26T16:47:10" | null | "2016-06-25T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Feu-gives-funds-fighting-bharam%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wuzup-naija/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/25033816/Chief-of-Army-Staff-Lt-Gen-Tukur-Buratai1.jpg | en | null | EU gives AU funds to fight B'Haram | null | null | punchng.com | Fidelis Soriwei, Abuja
The European Union has released some funds to the African Union to support the regional campaign against the Boko Haram terror threat in Nigeria and the countries of the Lake Chad Basin.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, disclosed this while receiving some participants of the Bangladesh Defence College on a world tour, led by Rear Admiral Anwarul Islam at the Army headquarters on Friday.
Buratai also said that the the campaign against Boko Haram is getting more support in the international arena, with the United Nations supporting the activities of the Multinational Joint Task Force.
He added that apart from the support by international bodies, individual countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and France are also making contributions to intensify the fight against the insurgents. | http://punchng.com/eu-gives-funds-fighting-bharam/ | en | "2016-06-25T00:00:00" | punchng.com/758b95ee26412868bad1815b7e0820a1cb0a73747a47fd2b756297b059ae985e.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-29T16:48:24" | null | "2016-07-11T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fpolice-nab-armed-robbers-kidnappers-cross-river%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/11153806/Nigeria-police-afp.jpg | en | null | Police nab armed robbers, kidnappers in Cross River | null | null | punchng.com | The Cross River Police Command on Monday said it arrested 15 suspects, including 13 armed robbers and two kidnappers, operating in parts of the state.
Mr Jimoh Ozi-Obeh, the Police Commissioner, paraded the suspects in Calabar while briefing newsmen on activities of the command in August.
Ozi-Obeh said the breakthrough was made possible through information provided by the public as well as intelligence gathering.
He said, “Within the month under review, a total number of persons along with various weapons are 15 suspects, 15 live ammunition, 10 rounds of .9mm live ammunition, six locally made pistols and four live cartridge.
According to the commissioner, two suspects were arrested while attempting to kidnap one Okon Nsi, a Hotel owner in Odukpani Road Calabar.
He said, “Two locally made pistols, one locally made berretta pistol and 10 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the suspects.”
He said that three others were arrested by Ikom Divisional Police Headquarter after robbing one Ajuwon Tolu of her valuables at gun point.
The commissioner said other armed robbers were arrested at various points in Odukpani and Calabar areas.
Jimoh said other five suspects were picked at various locations in Calabar for offences such as unlawful possession of firearms, cultism and harmful assault, among others.
He said investigations were currently ongoing in all the cases, while the suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations were completed.
He enjoined residents of the state to assist the police in fighting crimes through information sharing.
He said, “Police cannot be everywhere at the same time; if you give us information, we will treat it with utmost confidentiality.”
The commissioner promised that the command would do everything within its powers to reduce crime to the barest minimum in the State.
He said,”I therefore want to use this medium to warn all criminals and perpetrators of heinous crime to stay away from the State clear.”
NAN | http://punchng.com/police-nab-armed-robbers-kidnappers-cross-river/ | en | "2016-07-11T00:00:00" | punchng.com/3bb620839ec0f95a68a6c42b5257254ad1844ca5325e224d3bb264d1f03b1756.json |
[
"Simon Ejembi"
] | "2016-08-30T16:48:50" | null | "2016-07-04T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fambode-appoints-anibaba-lotteries-board-ceo%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/04155325/AMBODE1.jpg | en | null | Ambode appoints Anibaba as Lotteries Board CEO | null | null | punchng.com | The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has approved the appointment of Mr. Seun Anibaba as the Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lotteries Board.
Anibaba replaces Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila who was named the General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Habib Aruna, said Anibaba graduated from the University of Oklahoma and the New York University, both in the United States of America, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, respectively.
A Certified Public Accountant, Anibaba began his working experience with Merrill Lynch Corporate Audit and Global Lending as an intern and went on to become Vice President of the Bank of America, Merrill Lynch Corporate Audit.
He was the Chief Executive Officer and founder of the DPR Wealth Management LCC and was Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Business and Marketing Strategies before his appointment.
Ambode also approved the appointment of Mr. Steve Oshinowo as the new Secretary of the Lagos State Scholarship Board. | http://punchng.com/ambode-appoints-anibaba-lotteries-board-ceo/ | en | "2016-07-04T00:00:00" | punchng.com/bd9dc083d210c00536d7c5ba499eaac4f5d986a005885cefc05516aa468f11fc.json |
[
"Simon Ejembi"
] | "2016-08-31T12:48:59" | null | "2016-08-31T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fbreaking-aero-confirms-punchs-report-suspends-scheduled-services-2%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/31123608/Aero-Contractors1.jpg | en | null | BREAKING: Aero confirms PUNCH's report, suspends scheduled services | null | null | punchng.com | Okechukwu Nnodim, Abuja
Aero Contractors Airlines, Nigeria’s second largest commercial carrier, has confirmed an exclusive report of The PUNCH by announcing the suspension of its scheduled services beginning from Thursday September 1, 2016.
On Monday, August 22, 2016, The PUNCH exclusively reported that the airline was set to lay off some of its workers due to its worsening financial crisis.
The report also noted that the carrier was in talks with aviation unions on how to cut down on the number of workers in its employ, after sources from the sector revealed that Aero was contemplating a suspension of its scheduled flight services.
Confirming this in a statement signed by the carrier’s management on Wednesday, Aero stated that the suspension was part of the strategic business realignment to reposition the airline and return it to profitability.
It stated that this “business decision”, which is a result of the current economic situation in the country, had forced some other airlines to suspend operations or pull out of Nigeria.
The management of the carrier said the airline had faced grave challenges in the past six months which impacted its business and by extension the scheduled services operations.
These factors, according to Aero, are both internal and external environmental factors that have made it difficult for it to continue its scheduled services.
It stated that during the period in review, Aero witnessed epileptic operations and services to the external public that were caused by non-alignment of fundamental issue of the business, which in some cases had been frustrating and embarrassing to all parties including staff, customers and indeed all stakeholders.
As part of its resolve to ensure the airline survived unlike most other carriers that experienced short life span in the country, AMCON had appointed Mr. Adeniyi Adegbomire SAN as Receiver Manager in February 6, 2016, with the aim of turning the airline around.
Since AMCON’s intervention in Aero Contractors in 2011, it had provided support for the airline to meet working capital requirements and fleet expansion.
These were to ensure the airline remains a going concern providing services to various clients and the general public.
But the airline noted that unfortunately, the operating environment within and outside the Aero had hindered any possible progress especially in the last six months when the naira depreciated against the dollar thus making it impossible for the airline to achieve its operational targets.
It started that with these realities coupled with protracted engagements with all relevant stakeholders, the management strenuously reviewed and assessed options and opportunities on ensuring viability, safety and sustainability of operations during the period with a lot of sacrifices.
The airline said, “The impact of the external environment has been very harsh on our operational performance, hence management decision to suspend scheduled services operations indefinitely effective September 1, 2016, pending when the external opportunities and a robust sustainable and viable plan is in place for Aero Contractors to recommence its scheduled services.
“The implication of the suspension of scheduled services operations extends to all staffs directly and indirectly involved in providing services as they are effectively to proceed on indefinite leave of absence during the period of non-services.
It added, “We are aware of the impact this will have on our staff and our highly esteemed customers, hence we have initiated moves to ensure that we are able to return back to operations within the shortest possible time, offering reliable, safe and secure operations, which the airline is known for.” | http://punchng.com/breaking-aero-confirms-punchs-report-suspends-scheduled-services-2/ | en | "2016-08-31T00:00:00" | punchng.com/4604968ac2e37371ba93818a0700918e13d0c739e2d67f1c746fdf35ac372bfb.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-31T00:48:52" | null | "2016-07-08T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Farmed-herdsmen-afenifere-ohanaeze-acf-disagree-fayoses-law%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/08123717/Ekiti-State-Governor-Ayodele-Fayose-.jpg | en | null | Armed herdsmen: Afenifere, Ohanaeze, ACF disagree on Fayose’s law | null | null | punchng.com | John Alechenu, Fidelis Soriwei, Friday Olokor, Ihuoma Chiedozie, Peter Dada and Godwin Isenyo
The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, the Igbo socio-political organisation, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra have expressed support for the bill assented to by the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, which categorises grazing with arms in the state as terrorism.
But the umbrella body for northern groups, the Arewa Consultative Forum, however, said any law which contravened the constitution of the country would be illegal, adding that any Nigerian was free to move in any part of the country.
Fayose had, while signing the ‘prohibition of cattle and other Ruminants Grazing in Ekiti 2016’ into law on Monday, said any herdsman, caught with any form of weapons while grazing his cattle in any part of the state, would be arrested and charged with terrorism.
Afenifere, which spoke through its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, on Tuesday, described Fayose’s action as courageous and worthy of emulation.
Odumakin pointed out that the bill would put an end to the incessant attacks by the Fulani herdsmen on farmers and their farms in the southern part of the country.
He said, “The bill will stop the menace of the herdsmen, who have been terrorising their host communities.
‘‘Right from ages, herdsmen are not to carry arms when they are moving about with their cattle. But when herdsmen begin to carry unlicensed AK 47 (rifles), these are clearly not herdsmen; these are terrorists. I think the law should not smile at such people.”
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo hailed Fayose for signing the bill into law, noting that the governor took a “brave” step.
Speaking with one of our correspondents on Tuesday, President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said the law should be replicated in all parts of the country.
He added, “Fayose has done the right thing and he should be commended and encouraged for taking this brave step.
“Cattle rearing is a private business; those involved in the venture should not become a threat to other Nigerians.
“We in the Ohanaeze Youth Council are asking the South-East governors to do same in their states.
“The law, if implemented in the South-East, would check the violent activities of herdsmen in the zone, and same applies to other parts of the country where the herdsmen are wreaking havoc on their host communities.
“Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, should act fast; he should emulate Fayose if he really intends to protect lives and property in his state.”
MASSOB, while commending Fayose for signing the bill into law, said other governors in the southern part of the country, as well as the Middle Belt, should enact similar laws.
MASSOB spokesman, Samuel Edeson, said, “It is a very good development; we are expecting other governors in the southern part of the country, and the Middle Belt, to do same.
“Enugu State Governor, Ugwuanyi, should emulate Fayose because herdsmen attacks are becoming regular in the state.
“The people of Enugu State are under attack; they are being killed and the governor is not taking action.
“The attack happened only once in Ekiti State and Fayose responded immediately. What Fayose did is laudable; it is a very good development.”
ACF, which spoke through its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Muhammad Ibrahim, on Tuesday, said any law passed by Ekiti State, which contradicted the law of the Federal Government should be considered null and void.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees free movement of Nigerians as long as they pursue their legitimate business,” Ibrahim added.
The ACF, however, described any individual or group that illegally carried arms against the state as a criminal.
In an interview with one of our correspondents in Kaduna, the ACF spokesman stated that any Fulani herdsmen or any other group in possession of illegal firearms were considered as criminals before the law and should be treated as criminals by the state.
“This is not the question of herdsmen or Fulani or anybody. Anybody carrying arms illegally is committing a serious offence against the state. Naturally, such people should be punished by the law.”
The President, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Yerima Shettima, while condemning the attacks by the herdsmen, however, expressed reservation on the new law in Ekiti State.
Shettima added, “The issue of criminality perpetrated by some people should not be seen as an avenue to criminalise others.
‘‘Fayose should have looked at the issue in collaboration with the Federal Government. So, if he is passing the law to victimise other people, I don’t think it is right.”
On his part, President, Campaign for Democracy, Abdul Usman, said the protection of people’s lives from herdsmen was necessary.
He stated, “If the Nigerian state will have so much value for animals against humanity to the extent of providing grazing reserves and importing feeds for animals, the Ekiti State Governor has done well to the deserving people of the state.
“Human protection first, then animals should follow. We have seen the unrest caused by the herdsmen; it’s quite worrisome and with this new law, a lot will be addressed.”
Also, the President, Civil Liberties Organisation, Igho Akeregha, said the grazing law in Ekiti State was a two edged sword.
He said, “Herdsmen have a right to freedom of movement with their cattle anywhere in Nigeria but while enjoying that right; they cannot be killing people anywhere they go, which is a violation of the right to life.
“Since the Governor is the Chief Security Officer of the state and has a corresponding duty to secure lives and property, the anti-grazing bill signed by Governor Ayodele Fayose is therefore in order.”
DHQ plans special task force on herdsmen killings
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters is planning a special task force to deal with the menace of the frequent clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers across the country, Meanwhile, the.
According to the Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, the task force, which is expected to address the attacks by herdsmen, is code named ‘Operation Accord’.
Abubakar told one of our correspondents on the telephone on Tuesday that while the operational headquarters of the planned operation would be in one of the six states of the North-East, it would be mandated to address the scourge of herdsmen and farmers’ clashes all over the country.
The operation, he added, would give serious attention to identified flashpoints of such clashes in the country.
“So when it is operational, we will make it known to everybody but for now, the Chief of Defence Staff has come out with that idea of forming Operation Accord which is intended to curtail the herdsmen and farmers’ clashes nationwide.”
Rich politicians behind herdsmen attacks –APC
However, the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress, Segun Oni, has blamed some rich politicians, who he did not name, for the spate of attacks by Fulani herdsmen.
Oni said this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday.
Oni added, “This personally worries me because, these gunmen, who have suddenly become so notorious, invading villages and so on, are people that have always been around.
“But my guess is that many of these are sponsored by people who have so much money and want to create instability.’’
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/armed-herdsmen-afenifere-ohanaeze-acf-disagree-fayoses-law/ | en | "2016-07-08T00:00:00" | punchng.com/9eb43ee59c4cac73068e1a12189ba827902f721d0b115eda9091fc16372223bc.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa",
"Jeff Arobam",
"Femi Animashaun",
"Akin Bamidele",
"Frank Maduale",
"Onisuru Akpo",
"Aderemi Taiwo"
] | "2016-08-27T20:47:42" | null | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fman-utd-beat-stubborn-hull-city-1-0%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/27193736/man-utd-e1472323831975.jpg | en | null | Man Utd beat stubborn Hull City 1-0 | null | null | punchng.com | Jose Mourinho on Saturday led his side to a 1-0 victory at the KCOM Stadium, to maintain his winning run.
Second-placed Manchester United are behind Chelsea only on goals scored after Marcus Rashford struck deep into second-half stoppage time to snatch a 1-0 win at Hull City.
At the KCOM Stadium, United secured their third successive win under Mourinho as teenage striker Rashford finally turned their pressure into a tangible reward.
Frustrated by a resolute Hull defence, United won it in the second minute of stoppage time when substitute Rashford bagged his first goal of the season with a tap in from Wayne Rooney’s low cross. | http://punchng.com/man-utd-beat-stubborn-hull-city-1-0/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/09772c61aba0cecc2e4b8cf7a339686e574bd0470bc3928e418b3d58f1929a09.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-26T18:47:16" | null | "2016-08-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Foil-price-slide-will-open-sectors-soludo%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/26191131/soludo-charles.jpg | en | null | Oil price slide will open other sectors | null | null | punchng.com | A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Charles Soludo, has said that the current slide in oil price was an opportunity for the nation to explore other vital sectors of the economy.
He said, “every disappointment is a blessing and I see the drop in the price of oil as a great opportunity for the country to discover and harness its rich potential.’’
Soludo stated this at the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the creation of Delta on Friday in Asaba.
He said that though Nigeria was under excruciating pains, there was hope for the citizenry.
Soludo, who is currently the President of African Heritage Institution, Enugu, warned that “the country cannot have competitive economy when there are political and security challenges.’’
According to him, the rate of poverty is high, militancy and kidnapping is on the increase while the current recession faced by the country is self-inflicting.
While commending the Federal Government for fixing the exchange rate, he noted that the parallel market rate was over-shooting the market.
The former apex governor warned that if the exchange rate continued to overshoot, it would scare investors from coming to invest in the country.
He advised the government to fight insurgency completely and maintain peace, saying that this would go a long way in reviving the economy of the nation.
He added that the Federal Government should allow states to have control of their resources and pay some percentage to it.
According to him, this will also help to stabilize the economy of the nation as well as reduce the challenges of insurgency in the country.
While commending Delta for its anniversary, Soludo urged the state government to develop its waterways as well as its coastal communities for tourism.
“Holidays abroad is now becoming too expensive and if Delta takes advantage of its coastal areas and develop it, it will attract tourists to the state,’’ he said.
Soludo also urged the state government to modernise its seaports and industrial parks, adding that this would go a long way in opening up business activities in the South-South region.
He said, “Modernising the seaports and the industrial parks will also make Delta state an international state as well as increase trade investment.
“It will also help to serve as an alternative to Lagos state, which is an economic hub of the nation.”
NAN | http://punchng.com/oil-price-slide-will-open-sectors-soludo/ | en | "2016-08-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/9f0523a78faf5e2af82b10598385f4c9671f7b6ab3faf1059184b09bf4ca29da.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T04:48:19" | null | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2F25-year-old-nigerian-breaks-record-ghana-varsity%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/30042811/AWARD.jpg | en | null | 25-year-old Nigerian breaks record at Ghana varsity | null | null | punchng.com | Charles Abah with agency report
A Nigerian, Fathia Kareem, has set a record at the School of Medical Sciences of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, breaking its academic history.
For her feat, she received 12 out of 15 awards presented during the oath-swearing and induction ceremony for fresh doctors of the institution last Saturday.
Kareem, 25, is an alumnus of the Wesley Girls High School.
It was a happy and proud moment for family and friends when she took several turns to receive the awards in the 55-year-old ivory tower.
When asked if she expected to get the number of awards, she said, “Yes and No. Yes because I worked hard by studying and no because I did not expect to receive so many awards.”
Of late, many Nigerians have distinguished themselves in many overseas universities, with some of them emerging as valedictorians of their schools.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/25-year-old-nigerian-breaks-record-ghana-varsity/ | en | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | punchng.com/265ed536610cf64acee351f1641befe9a89c6f9cb89aaedd4c45e98b7197f24c.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-29T16:48:13" | null | "2016-06-22T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Foil-exploration-lagos-assembly-seeks-protection-host-communities%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wuzup-naija/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/22002101/Lagos-State-House-of-Assembly-e1472487598822.jpg | en | null | Oil exploration: Lagos Assembly seeks protection for host communities | null | null | punchng.com | The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday called for a stakeholders’ meeting of government officials, oil investors and host communities, following oil discovery and exploration in Badagry area.
The call followed a motion moved by Mr Folajimi Mohammed (APC-Ikeja I) on the need for the state to be proactive in protecting the host communities from environmental degradation.
The motion was seconded by Mr Gbolahan Yishawu (APC-Eti Osa II).
Mohammed, Chairman, House Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, urged the state government to do everything possible to protect the people and the communities within area of exploration.
According to him, the stakeholders’ meeting has become crucial to adequately prepare to prevent a repetition of the current agitation in the Niger Delta over environmental degradation.
He said, “The stakeholders should come together to discuss the socio-economic importance of the exploration of oil in the state and related issues.
“Efforts must be made to ensure that the state does not go the way of Niger Delta and other oil-producing states in Nigeria who are suffering from environmental degradation with the activities of oil companies.
“The discovery of oil in the state has made Lagos an oil-producing state but it is important to consider the consequences of the exploration.”
Yishawu, Chairman, House Committee on Waterfront Infrastructure said, “We need to learn from oil exploration in Niger Delta. We do not want a repeat of what is happing in the Niger Delta’’.
The Chairman, House Committee on Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Rotimi Olowo, called for a development plan by the investors to protect the environment and the people.
He said, “Our target should not be limited to environmental protection of the area; we need to talk on the infrastructure and economic gains by the people and their communities.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Mr Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni said, “Oil spillage will come; there is going to be oil degradation of environment and we need to be proactive’’.
Mr Setonji David (APC-Badagry II) said that he received the news of the oil discovery in the area with mixed feelings because of the environmental degradation in Niger Delta occasioned by oil exploration companies.
David, the Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning and Urban Development said, “I hope our communities will not be devastate’’.
“Fishing activities would be affected in the area if the government does not do anything about it.
“We need Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the discovery to know what would eventually happen to our people, when exploration starts.
“We should take all the necessary steps so that we would not regret the discovery. There is need for proper steps to ameliorate the environmental implications.”
The lawmaker said that a percentage of whatever would be accruable to the government should be dedicated for the development of the area.
He, however, expressed confidence in the ability of the state government to protect the host communities.
The Speaker of the House, Mr Mudashiru Obasa said, “There is a need for us to be proactive and learn from the past so that we can safeguard our state and host communities.’’
Obasa suggested that there should be a stakeholders’ meeting which would bring the host communities, government officials and investors together to avoid what happened in Niger Delta.
He said, “We must safeguard the host communities and we must commend companies that have been investing in oil exploration in the state over the years before oil was eventually discovered there.
“All necessary infrastructures must be put in place to protect the state and the host communities so that we would prevent what is happening in Niger Delta from happening in Lagos State.”
Obasa said that oil companies had to stop exploration if they had started so that the state government would be better prepared before they start operation.
The speaker, who commended investors in oil exploration, said that the state would benefit a lot from the exploration, adding that the state government would encourage the investors.
The Federal Executive Council recently approved the exploration of oil in Badagry and 13 per cent derivation for the Lagos State.
(NAN) | http://punchng.com/oil-exploration-lagos-assembly-seeks-protection-host-communities/ | en | "2016-06-22T00:00:00" | punchng.com/0dad9415c0fbf62344001d073a193191b47fdf92c5bed96bd52c7f401a97c7a4.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim"
] | "2016-08-26T12:54:06" | null | "2016-03-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fcommunications-tax-25-licensed-operators-shut%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/26013712/Adebayo-Shittu.jpg | en | null | Communications tax: 25% of licensed operators to shut down | null | null | punchng.com | Ozioma Ubabukoh
Industry players have projected that Nigeria would lose another 25 per cent of licensed operators if the Communication Service Tax bill is passed into law.
Already, the country has lost 57 per cent of licensed operators to multiple taxations.
The National Chairman of Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, said on Thursday that despite the growth already recorded in the industry, telecoms operators continued to face challenges emanating from recurring taxations and the regulatory environment.
He said, “When I became the chairman of ALTON three years ago, there were 35 licensed telecoms companies comprising some small players, those in the fixed line, Code Division Multiple Access and Global System for Mobile communications players that were doing well, though not without challenges.
“However, today, that figure has come down drastically, as we now have just about 15 licensees still operating and this tells you that something is not going well.”
A top employee in one of the four major telecoms firms said that findings from a study conducted by the regulatory department of his company showed that no fewer than 25 per cent of the existing licensed operators would cease operating in the country one year after the CST bill is passed.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, he added, “Should this happen, then the Federal Government should be prepared for the worse, as so many Nigerians will be rendered jobless. It will be too bad for the telecoms sector that is currently seen as one of the highest employers of labour.”
The ALTON chairman said that the loss of about 20 operators, representing about 57 per cent, within a space of three years “has been traced partly to the problem of regulatory environment, where there are multiple regulations and imposition of all kinds of taxes on the operators from the federal, state and local levels.”
He said, “The fact that, as operators, we are still confronted with wilful and non-wilful damage, arising from insecurity in the past years, multiple taxation, especially the Right of Way charges and attendant problem of indiscriminate shutdown of telecoms infrastructure, among others, suggests that regulations in the industry remain unfriendly with varying degrees at different levels of government.”
He said that the RoW in most states remained exorbitant as government agencies, especially at the state and local levels, continued to perceive telecoms as ‘cash-cow.’
“It is only in Lagos now that we have been able to achieve better understanding from the government. For instance, Lagos State Government, having realised the great impact pervasive deployment of telecoms infrastructure and unhindered access could have on the state’s Gross Domestic Product, three years ago, crashed RoW tax to N500 per metre.”
“Conversely, in states such as Osun and other states, operators are charged N8, 000 per metre covered while laying their fibre optic cables in addition to other laughable charges on the operators. These are some of the things that we face as operators and it is telling on our sustainability as a business with the smaller operators being the most susceptible, thereby leading to their collapse,” he said.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/communications-tax-25-licensed-operators-shut/ | en | "2016-03-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/eb58781aeb22170b91b6e3a82084abb2242ff2422f787108f87e9aad4dfccde9.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan",
"Onileowo Blessing"
] | "2016-08-27T12:47:34" | null | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fwoman-stabs-husband-drinking-last-beer%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/27131803/Gaffin.jpg | en | null | Woman stabs husband for drinking her last beer | null | null | punchng.com | 45-year-old Tracey Lee Giffin allegedly flew into a rage when she woke up from a nap and discovered her last can in the house was gone.
Gaffin, from the US state of Pennsylvania, reportedly grabbed a pair of scissors and used them to slash at her 59-year-old husband.
Cops say she also bit him during the alleged attack.
Trib Live reports that she has now been charged with aggravated assault, assault, reckless endangerment and harassment.
Her husband is said to have suffered cuts to his chest, stomach and neck.
Police also say they found bite marks on his arms and thumb.
It was also revealed Gaffin has had a previous run-in with the law over an item of food.
According to KDKA, she and her then-boyfriend got into a fight because she forgot to buy barbecue sauce on her way home on Christmas Eve in 2013.
The report says she bit the unnamed man on the nose and hand, and suffered an eye injury herself.
She is currently being held in Fayette County Jail ahead of a preliminary hearing. | http://punchng.com/woman-stabs-husband-drinking-last-beer/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/02386045c142ce5a6a29749023c89a00d6897156726b497a4b3b55c18792c994.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan",
"Taiwo Omoni"
] | "2016-08-30T02:48:28" | null | "2016-04-17T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fngo-advocates-peaceful-poll-edo%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/17032252/inec-11.jpg | en | null | NGO advocates peaceful poll in Edo | null | null | punchng.com | Fisayo Falode
Ahead of the September 10 governorship election in Edo State, a Non-Governmental Organisation, Coalition for Change and Development Foundation, is organising a one-day sensitisation programme aimed at engaging youths for peaceful participation at the poll.
The sensitisation programme tagged, “Edo youths for peaceful election: Crusade against political violence,” is scheduled for Wednesday, August 31, 2016, at the Civic Centre, Benin City.
A statement on Friday by the Executive Director, CCDF, Olanrewaju Oretoluwa, said that the sensitisation programme would commence with a keynote address from the representative of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
Other dignitaries expected to address youths at the event include the Edo State Police Commissioner, Director of the Department of State Services in the state, and the state Resident Electoral Commissioner.
Representatives of youth groups across the state are expected to participate in the sensitisation programme aimed at facilitating peaceful political engagement and non-violent poll.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/ngo-advocates-peaceful-poll-edo/ | en | "2016-04-17T00:00:00" | punchng.com/76fa579a22b2a03e7d7a566330c21c38fcc66305a2d8417a6958ff1ec1e52bd7.json |
[
"Simon Ejembi"
] | "2016-08-30T12:48:35" | null | "2016-05-06T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fmilitants-bomb-another-npdc-facility-delta%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/06004637/Niger-Delta-militants.jpg | en | null | Militants bomb another oil facility in Delta | null | null | punchng.com | Ovie Okpare, Warri
Niger Delta militants have blown up another major oil delivery line belonging to the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company at Ogor-Oteri in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
A community source told our correspondent that there were explosions in the area around 3am on Tuesday during a downpour.
A militant group, the Niger Delta Greenland Justice Mandate, which threatened to attack oil facilities in the upland parts of the region, claimed responsibility for the attack.
The group in a statement issued by its spokesman, Aldo Agbalaja, said, “At about 0300hrs of today Tuesday, 30 August 2016, the uproot team B of the NDGJM brought down the Ogor – Oteri major delivery line Operated by NPDC/Shoresline.”
The statement asked oil companies operating in the region to evacuate their staff from Warri and Port-Harcourt Refineries to avoid being hurt in further attacks in the coming days.
It also announced that the Pigging Manifold in Agbarha had been marked for attack.
The group said, “To this end, we are alerting all those working in the UQCC/UPS Erhomukokwarien in Ughelli, Eriemu Pigging Manifold in Agbarha, Otorogun Gas Plant, Olomoro Flow Station, Warri Refinery, Port-Harcourt Refinery Eleme, Ob-Ob And Obite Gas Plants in Omoku to evacuate because what is coming to those facilities is beyond what anybody has seen before.
“We do not want innocent blood being spilled therefore we advise all indigenes living in the vicinities of the facilities to relocate for the time being.”
The group accused militant groups that are willing to negotiate with the Federal Government under the arrangement by Chief Edwin Clark of being only after the money.
“Those in the field just for the money will quickly rush to align with the Pa E.K Clark’s arrangement because they were, as a matter of fact, created by some of the people co-travelling with Clark,” it said.
“We want to reiterate our lack of confidence in the Clark-led arrangement, Chief Clark is not the leader of the whole of Niger Delta, he can hold the front for the Ijaw nation but definitely not for all the ethnic nations in the region.”
It argued that “if there shall be a negotiation, it must be seen and indeed, must be in actual sense, be representing all the individual nations of the region equally.” | http://punchng.com/militants-bomb-another-npdc-facility-delta/ | en | "2016-05-06T00:00:00" | punchng.com/a61c92e4b26aebf8bb06631e23bde8146cc0b49743c49481ec3de38ad1995917.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan",
"Nv Danmola",
"The Truthe Sayer",
"Jemes Emmanuel",
"Friday Canada",
"Suraj Jarus Oyewale",
"Tunde Samuel",
"Mcfrenzy O",
"Michael Johnson Ajibade"
] | "2016-08-27T16:47:49" | null | "2016-08-03T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fbuhari-approves-npa-nimasa-boards%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/03051020/President-Muhammadu-Buhari.jpg | en | null | Buhari approves NPA, NIMASA boards | null | null | punchng.com | President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the composition of the Governing Boards of the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.
This is contained in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja by Mr Bolaji Adebiyi, Director of Press in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The statement said that NPA board, with 10 members, would be chaired by Mr Emmanuel Adesoye.
Members of the board, according to the statement, are Supo Shasore, Suleiman Halilu, Constance Mashal, Umar Shu’aibu, Charles Sylvester, Hadiza Usman, Mohammed Koko, Sekonte Davis, Idris Abubakar and I. J. Uche-Okoro.
The statement also said that Maj.- Gen. Jonathan Garba (retd) was appointed the chairman of the board of NIMASA.
It listed the members as Asekomhe Kenneth, Mohammed Muazu, Ebele Obi, S.U. Galadanchi and Nene Dike.
Others are Dakuku Peterside, Rear Admiral Adeniyi Osinowo (retd), Bashir Jamoh, Joseph Fashakin and Gambo Ahmed. | http://punchng.com/buhari-approves-npa-nimasa-boards/ | en | "2016-08-03T00:00:00" | punchng.com/21c722e1748b0d661a45a948589d22ad0bcf475c9bf8cf85e91854851230860f.json |
[
"Simon Ejembi",
"Prof. Peter U. Nwangwu",
"Mrr. Albert H",
"Border Marksman"
] | "2016-08-28T14:47:49" | null | "2016-08-24T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fpope-visit-quake-victims-soon-possible%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/24192837/Italy-earthquake1-e1472063331353.jpg | en | null | Pope to visit quake victims ‘as soon as possible’ | null | null | punchng.com | Pope Francis said Sunday he wanted to visit some of the central Italian villages devastated in this week’s earthquake, as survivors and rescue workers dug in for the long haul with winter approaching.
Francis said the Catholic Church shared the “suffering” of the victims of the quake that claimed nearly 300 lives and pledged: “As soon as possible, I hope to come and see you.”
The Argentine pontiff told thousands of worshippers gathered for the Angelus prayer in Rome’s Saint Peter’s square he had a “spiritual closeness” to residents of the mountain villages in a remote area straddling the Umbria, Marche and Lazio regions.
Meanwhile, as hope faded of finding anyone else alive and the search for bodies nearly complete, rescue workers and survivors turned their attention to a bleak future, with winter around the corner.
“We’re getting ready for winter. Given what’s happened in other quakes, we’re going to spend winter here,” said Emidio Chiappini, from the devastated Sant’Angelo village.
The government has pledged to support immediate reconstruction and Chiappini said he hoped authorities would send pre-fabricated housing to stave off the frost that will soon descend on the mountainous region.
The Italian government has freed up around 60 million euros ($67 million) in immediate aid, added to which will be approximately 10 million euros in donations.
“Basically, we know we’re going to be here for three or four months. That’s not official, but we have got the equipment for that,” said a volunteer for the civil protection agency who gave his name as Nicola.
According to Italian media, the government is poised to appoint a special commissioner to oversee the huge reconstruction operation, which is being hampered by aftershocks — more than 1,800 since the earthquake struck on Wednesday.
Shoddy reconstruction
With the immediate grief fading, the focus was switching to how such damage could have been wrought in an area so close (50 kilometres, 32 miles) to L’Aquila, which was hit by a 2009 earthquake in which more than 300 people perished.
Prosecutor Giuseppe Saieva has indicated that property owners who commissioned suspected sub-standard work could be held responsible for contributing to the quake’s deadly impact.
“If the buildings had been constructed as they are in Japan they wouldn’t have collapsed,” he told La Repubblica daily.
“If it emerges that individuals cut corners, they will be pursued and those that have made mistakes will pay a price,” the prosecutor said.
Some of the survivors in the camps of blue tents accommodating those who have lost their homes said that on top of everything else, they had to battle against boredom.
“Basically, things are OK. It’s just that we are doing nothing all day here. I’m used to working nearly 18 hours a day and now, there’s nothing to do,” said one survivor who gave his name as Massimo.
Another survivor, Atemio Scienzo, warned that endemic corruption in Italy could stymie reconstruction efforts.
“After the emergency comes the period of reconstruction and that’s the important bit. It has to happen quickly and the funds have to arrive,” said the craftsman.
“If half of it gets lost en route, as often happens, there will be a problem.”
AFP | http://punchng.com/pope-visit-quake-victims-soon-possible/ | en | "2016-08-24T00:00:00" | punchng.com/9d242d251f24d612ea26d55338f804af1f62bc061905d8a3976744c643bc9ffc.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-26T12:56:03" | null | "2016-06-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fi-will-marry-next-year-monjaro%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wuzup-naija/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/26065000/monjaro.jpg | en | null | I will marry next year | null | null | punchng.com | Since his appearance in Obi Emelonye’s Last Flight to Abuja, Anthony Monjaro has been getting attention from fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry. His sex-crazed character in Lekki Wives made him a sensational hit. Monjaro immediately became a sex symbol.
But despite all the attention, Monjaro is still unmarried. The London returnee who is well over 40, said he has yet to find his feet and needs time to settle down in Nigeria since he just relocated.
“I moved back to Nigeria a while ago but I need to settle down. I don’t want to get married and struggle. I will settle down next year. You are not the only person on my case, everybody is on my case,” he said.
He went further to say he could marry an actress, “It doesn’t matter if the person is an actress or not. As long as I connect with the person, that is good enough.”
Monjaro holds a BSc in Multimedia and Film Production from Thames Valley University, London and a Diploma in Performing Act for Screen from Goldsmith College,London.
Monjaro, whose real name is Anthony Akposheri, was a regular on the African popular daytime TV soap, Tinsel, for six months and has gone on to star in a few other popular TV drama series.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/i-will-marry-next-year-monjaro/ | en | "2016-06-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/c7ee5ea8e094e8587b351176d2098d6743710790d2e8677f32b16c206ea4f953.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim"
] | "2016-08-28T08:47:48" | null | "2016-03-21T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2F25th-anniversary-osun-ex-govs-absent-ceremony%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/21005220/Rauf-Aregbesola.jpg | en | null | 25th anniversary: Osun ex-govs absent at ceremony | null | null | punchng.com | Femi Makinde
All past civilian governors of Osun State were on Saturday absent at a ceremony organised to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the creation of the state.
The state’s first civilian governor, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Chief Bisi Akande and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola were absent but two past military administrators, Col. Theophilus Bamgboye (retd.) and Navy Capt. Anthony Udofia (retd.) were at the event.
Although the past governors were not present at the callisthenic display by 4000 pupils drawn from 17 schools, the event was colourful as the pupils treated those in attendance to breathtaking displays.
Bamgboye commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola for embarking on developmental projects in the state.
He said, “I can see that Osun State is working and there are developments. I have never witnessed a colourful ceremony like this (the callisthenics).”
The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, who also spoke at the ceremony, urged Aregbesola to work towards reducing hunger and poverty in the land.
The monarch commended the governor for doing well but advised him to do more so that the people, including traditional rulers, would be taken out of poverty.
But the Peoples Democratic Party in the state said Aregbesola had brought untold hardship on the people of the state with his style of governance.
The factional chairman of the PDP, Soji Adagunodo, claimed that the All Progressives Congress-led government had impoverished the state.
He said, “Aregbesola should point to a project that he has done and commissioned. We are advising him not to point to the mega schools because they were done during the PDP-led Federal Government and it was funded by the State Universal Basic Education Board.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/25th-anniversary-osun-ex-govs-absent-ceremony/ | en | "2016-03-21T00:00:00" | punchng.com/18c885d19082d3c99e0a76861c2ce6f4d91f3bc033f7dfe9cf5e6efb0299803b.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim"
] | "2016-08-28T06:47:48" | null | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Falmost-killed-walking-free-journalist-beaten-coma%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/27223517/Yomi-Olomofe.jpg | en | null | Those who almost killed me are walking free - Journalist beaten to coma | null | null | punchng.com | Over a year after he was beaten to a coma by his attackers, a Nigerian journalist, Yomi Olomofe, has yet to get justice, ARUKAINO UMUKORO writes
Yomi Olomofe is still a troubled man. Most times, he watches his back whenever he is in the public to convince himself that no suspicious persons were on his trail. He also now wears glasses to aid his vision. He still carries the physical traces and psychological scars from an incident that almost cost him his life 14 months ago.
These are tell-tale signs of the brutal attack on the 47-year-old journalist and publisher.
He was attacked on Thursday, June 25, 2015 at Seme, a border town between Nigeria and Benin.
Olomofe and another journalist, McDominic Nkpemenyie, had gone to the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command, Badagry, on a fact-finding mission. Olomofe said the customs officers at Seme had invited them to their offices after Nkpemenyie had sent questions via a text message to the then Customs Area Comptroller, Seme Border Command, Mohammed Ndalati, seeking clarifications about allegations that some customs officials were allegedly involved in smuggling and human trafficking at the border.
The NCS is regarded as one of Nigeria’s highest revenue generating agency.
When they arrived at the premises of the service at Seme border, the journalists got a rude shock instead of a gentlemanly discussion they expected, Olomofe said he was brutally attacked and beaten to a coma inside the premises of the NCS by some men he alleged to be smugglers and paid agents of the service.
Nkpemenyie was however lucky as he somehow managed to escape. Olomofe also alleged that Ndalati was present at the scene when his attackers descended on him.
The journalist told SUNDAY PUNCH that he’s still living with the trauma.
“As I speak to you, my eyes have yet to heal; I cannot read beyond three to four minutes before water begins to come out of the left eye. I’ve done several tests on it and I have just been assured that it would take time, and hopefully it will heal. Also, one year after the incident, the psychological trauma is still there. I never committed a crime. I was just doing my job,” Olomofe said.
He further said, “The characters who assaulted me are still walking free, and as long as they are walking about free, my safety and that of my family is in danger, being that my house, my family, children and my aged parents are all in Badagry, where the incident happened. These people have sent some other persons to members of my family. About three Thursdays ago, I got a call from my parents, saying that some suspicious characters were lurking around their residence, and when they made efforts to approach them, they hurriedly drove off.”
The journalist added that such incident was not isolated. He said, “Some persons have at various times, some of them under the guise of trying to be helpful, told me that if I did not discontinue with the court action, I should know that my life is not safe. That was why I had to leave Badagry for my own personal safety.
“But as long as other members of the group that meted out physical violence on me with the intention to murder me that fateful day, June, 2015, on the premises of the Nigeria Customs Service, still walk freely, my life and those of my family are still under threat.”
When SUNDAY PUNCH contacted Nkpemenyie, he did not want to speak on the incident, probably out of fright for his life and family. “That incident is in the past. I don’t want to talk about it, please,” he told our correspondent on the telephone.
The Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Mr. Wale Adeniyi, told SUNDAY PUNCH that the service had no links with those who attacked Olomofe on the premises of the service. “I take exception to what Olomofe said. The incident happened at the Seme Border area, not on the premises of the Customs office,’’ Adeniyi said.
He further said, “When we got the report (of his beating), our officials took him to the hospital. After he was discharged, he turned back to say that it was the customs that sponsored the attack. We contributed to his medical bills. But he insisted that he was taking the Nigeria Customs Service to court. We didn’t want to wish the matter away. We tried to use the instrumentality of the Nigerian Union of Journalists to sort it out but they were adamant. I am among those who made effort to convince him that we don’t know anything about it. The truth about this is that he expected that there would be some kind of hefty settlement because he dragged customs into the matter. He knows his attackers, why is he dragging the customs into it? We should be asking him what business a journalist has with thugs at the border. Has he dealt with them before? Was it a business that went awry? The matter went to court and the case was struck out. ”
When SUNDAY PUNCH contacted Ndalati on the telephone, he cut off the call when he heard that it was about the case involving Olomofe. He later sent a text message to our correspondent that he was bereaved at the moment and would respond at a later date. But he had yet to do so as of the time of this report.
Our correspondent also contacted one of the alleged sponsors of Olomofe’s attackers, Mr. Sam Madubuike. He described Olomofe’s accusations as lies and fallacies. He said, “Do you want an interview or you are interrogating me? Come to my office at Seme border, so that I will call other people. You will get other reasons why the information I will give you is authentic. You have the wrong information and you need to be enlightened properly. Whatever Mr. Olomofe told you is fallacy. Everything he said is a lie. The matter is in court, I don’t think it should be a press issue.”
In January, the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalist had filed a civil suit against the service on the behalf of Olomofe, seeking N500m compensation for his alleged assault and violations of his rights.
Those joined in the suit as respondents are the Ndalati, Deputy Comptroller, Emmanuel Nkemdirim; and Ibrahim Turaki, as well as Olomofe’s alleged attackers.
A copy of the suit which was obtained by our correspondent indicated that Olomofe asked the court to declare that the respondents by beating and causing him internal injuries, infringed on his right to life as guaranteed by Section 33 (1) of the 1999 constitution. He also asked the court to declare that the assault done to him in the course of discharging his professional duties and obligations constituted an infringement on his rights to freedom of expression and the press.
The Federal High Court, Lagos State, has since fixed September 29, 2016 to rule on the application to relist the civil suit which was struck out on June 16 on behalf of counsels to the NCS and Olomofe’s alleged attackers.
This is not the first time a Nigerian journalist would be attacked in the discharge of his professional duties.
In September 2009, gunmen shot dead an Assistant Political Editor with The Guardian, Mr. Bayo Ohu, at his house in Lagos, and took away his laptop and cell phone. Also, in October 2010, the editor of a Lagos-based bi-weekly magazine, Mr. Innocent Chukwu, was reportedly attacked on the premises of the Customs at Seme border. His attack was allegedly precipitated by his published story on illegal arms importation at ports and border post. The customs denied involvement in the attack.
The Reporters Without Borders ranks Nigeria 116 out of 180 countries in the 2016 World Press Freedom Index.
The West Africa Representative, Committee to Protect Journalists, Mr. Peter Nkanga, also noted that, “With several unsolved murders, Nigeria ranks 13th on the Committee to Protect Journalists 2015 Global Impunity Index which spotlights countries where journalists are slain and their killers go free.”
He called on the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to take action and address the high rate of impunity in violence against journalists.
He said, “The Presidency’s attention to this matter will send a strong statement that the current government is resolute in fighting crime, corruption and impunity by ensuring that Mr. Olomofe gets the justice he seeks and that his attackers and sponsors are promptly arrested and duly prosecuted.’’
In a telephone interview with our correspondent, the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Bem Angwe, said he was not aware of the case, but that since our correspondent brought it to his attention, the commission would investigate it and take appropriate action.
A source at the presidency told SUNDAY PUNCH that the presidency would only be involved in the matter if nothing was done by the relevant agencies.
“The NHRC is empowered constitutionally to deal with such situation and to demand an explanation. They are supposed to open a file on this case and continue to monitor it until justice is done. This government is a constitutional government and is committed to the rule of law,” the source said.
The Chairman, Lagos State chapter of the NUJ, Mr. Deji Elumoye, decried the continued attack on journalists.
Elumoye said, “It took us about six months to take it to court because there had not been any move from the leadership of the NCS to reach out to the NUJ, the professional body of Mr. Olomofe. In the last three months, they have not done anything as regards investigating the issue of his brutalisation. All the people named in the suit are well known to the customs. These people boasted that nobody could do anything to them. Journalists should be treated fairly and as human beings, not as enemies of society. We believe at the end of the day, justice will prevail.”
Nkanga said the police were also not doing enough to prosecute Olomofe’s attackers.
He said, “I personally believe that impunity thrives when people do nothing. The attack on Mr. Olomofe is an attempt to silence journalists, in order to conceal the truth from the public, on the widespread nefarious activities of those involved in the trafficking of arms and ammunition, persons, hard drugs, fake drugs and other prohibited items along Seme border and across West Africa.”
When SUNDAY PUNCH contacted the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Dolapo Badmos, she said she would reply with a text message. However as of press time she was yet to respond.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/almost-killed-walking-free-journalist-beaten-coma/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/e9f45942fe79c7f2791bd5db4736ae3767dc73cd88403c946f1b8fe424e2c282.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T02:47:58" | null | "2016-04-03T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fback-school-money-tips%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/03233922/Nimi-Akinkugbe.jpeg | en | null | Back to school money tips | null | null | punchng.com | Nimi Akinkugbe
As the holiday season draws to a close, the start of the new school year is fast approaching. Every new school year presents huge opportunities for children, along with some challenges for parents. The academic year comes with significant costs; school fees, uniforms, supplies, and all the paraphernalia that must be paid for. Here are some back to school money tips for you to consider as you prepare for the new term:
Plan ahead
Try to shop early. It is too late to be saying this now as some schools start next week, but try not to get caught out next term; ideally parents should have started planning for the school year long before now. When you shop early, without the pressure of time, there’s no rush and you can take advantage of the sales. With last minute shopping, it will be difficult to find discounts. Indeed this is probably the most expensive time to shop for the school year. If there are some items that your child doesn’t need right away or not for several weeks, then you might wish to wait for when unsold inventory is sold at a discount.
Review the school list
The school supply list can be quite daunting. Go through the list critically. Does your child need every single item on the list? Check to see what your child brought home at the end of last term to see if there are any that can be used for the new term. You will be surprised to find that there are many items at home; so you can avoid wasting money or duplicating items.
It is important to keep track of what you’ve actually bought. Keep a list and give one to your child as they leave for school; they should be accountable for their belongings and at the end of the term should be expected to bring them back home largely intact.
Prepare a budget
Most people cannot afford to buy every single thing on the school list. How much money do you have to spend? Set out a budget for school supplies including school books, school lunch, the school bus, uniforms, allowance and so on. Shop with your list, prioritise and stick to it. Going through the school list with your child is an opportunity to teach some valuable money lessons. Talk through the difference between wants and needs.
Hand me downs
Uniforms are essential and are a constant part of a school’s shopping list. Every child would love to have a brand new uniform each year but where there are older siblings who attended the same school, it makes perfect sense to hand them down to a younger child if they are in good condition, even if you can afford to buy new ones. There is nothing wrong with buying second hand if they are in good condition.
Extra-curricular activities
Allowing your child to get involved in extra-curricular activities at school is very important in helping them develop and nurture their skills and talents to broaden their horizon. But your child cannot take part in every activity; there must be some balance to ensure that they are not under undue pressure. Most family budgets cannot afford more than one or two extras; have your children choose their favourite activities or new ones that they are showing interest in, and look for cheaper options outside school particularly during the holidays.
Buy quality over quantity
It is tempting to buy a cheap school bag, lunch box or water bottle, but what may seem cost-effective now will just fall apart in no time at all. It pays to spend more on good quality, sturdy items that will last for a long time.
Children face enormous peer pressure and when they start school and see that their friends have more expensive things, they are sometimes embarrassed. It is important for parents to take the time to talk through these challenging issues as they seek to raise confident, well-adjusted children.
Car pooling
The school run has become very expensive with the increase in fuel costs. Look into the option of car-pooling for the daily run as well as for extra-curricular school activities, after-school events or sports practices. With car-pooling, parents take turns in taking children to the same school; this saves parents money on fuelling and running costs as well as freeing up some time out from the hectic school run.
For boarders, car-pooling is also a good option for exeats, visiting days and mid-term holidays. Plan in advance to draw up a schedule with other parents and share the journey to cut costs on long distance travel particularly for schools that are out of town.
Can you afford the fees?
Today’s harsh economic climate has left thousands of parents struggling to pay for their children’s education. If your child is bright and talented, there may be opportunities for scholarships and bursaries, which should be explored. But where you have run your numbers, cut back on family expenses, even sold assets but still struggling to meet your obligations, it is time to have that serious conversation about withdrawing from a particular school and enrolling in a cheaper option.
For many parents, earning naira and with children being educated abroad, the exchange rate and availability of foreign exchange make it increasingly difficult to maintain children abroad. Be careful not to jeopardise your livelihood and retirement plans to pay exorbitant school fees at all cost. It will be worse for everyone if you go broke!
To spend thousands, even millions of naira just before the school term starts can be a huge financial strain on any family. With careful planning and budgeting, and a firm acceptance of the current economic challenges, you can look forward to this important event without a shock to the family purse.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/back-school-money-tips/ | en | "2016-04-03T00:00:00" | punchng.com/dcfd751c60e6da47022103c47813fc23638097ec5cd9444f4e84cc3abf06fbc6.json |
[
"Adesola Ayo-Aderele"
] | "2016-08-29T14:48:08" | null | "2016-08-29T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fnavy-family-disagree-killing-26-year-old-man%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/29142823/Omosebine.jpg | en | null | Navy, family trade words over killing of 26-year-old man | null | null | punchng.com | Peter Dada, Akure
The Forward Operational Base of the Nigerian Navy and the Efotan family have disagreed over the circumstances that led to the alleged killing of their son, Omosebine Efotan, by some officers of the Base in the riverine community of Abe-Oroyo, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The 26-year-old Omosebine, an outboard engine mechanic, was allegedly killed by some officers of Orioke-Iwamimo Command Unit of the Nigerian Navy on August 2, 2016 when the latter were in the town to settle disagreement between two members of the community over issue of debt of N20,000.
Speaking on the matter on Monday, the Commanding Officer of FOB of the Navy, Igbokoda, Capt. Nyako Lamiri, said the deceased was a leader of some militant youths in the area who attacked the naval officers that went to settle a disagreement between two members of the community at the palace of the traditional ruler of the town.
Lamiri said on the fateful day, one Kehinde Egbayelo, a resident of Abe-Oroyo community, reported a case of threat to his life at the naval outpost at Ori-Oke Iwamimo, following which three naval officers who were on routine patrol were sent to investigate the matter.
He said, “As soon as the naval officers arrived at the coastal community, the traditional ruler waded into the matter and it was amicably settled.
“However, when the officers were returning to base, a group of youths armed with charms and weapons attacked them. One of the officers was pushed into the big river in the community. Fortunately, he swam to safety.
“One Omosebine Efotan (the deceased), who was later identified as the kingpin of the group, later attacked one of the officers by punching him in the face, while the third one was also attacked.
“They attempted to disarm them, and this made one of the officers to shoot into the air, apparently to prevent further attack by the group.
“Efotan was struggling to collect the gun of one of the officers, and it was in the process that he was shot dead.”
Lamiri lamented that the incident was unfortunate, as the officers and men of the Navy have hitherto had cordial relationship with their host communities.
In their reaction, the Efotan family insisted that the deceased was murdered in cold blood by the naval officers, alleging that the officers were fond of perpetrating illegal activities in the riverine communities.
The deceased’s family spokesman, Mr. Adeolu Efotan, who spoke with our correspondent on Monday, described the deceased as a gentleman and not notorious as described; saying he was killed by the naval officers when he refused to remove the outboard engine for the officers.
He narrated, “The boy was in his workshop when the naval officers approached him to remove an outboard engine belonging to one of the persons that were fighting over the issue of debt.
“The matter that they came to the community for had been settled, but they still wanted to take the engine away so that the owner would come and bail it from them.
“They asked him to remove the engine from the boat and he refused. It was during the argument that one of the officers brought out the gun and shot him in the chest. The navy has not told the truth about the matter. They want to cover it up, but we would not allow them. That is not the first time they would be terrorising the community.”
The traditional ruler of Abe-Oroyo community, Chief Adolphus Efotan, also confirmed that the deceased was a leader of one of the youths in the community, saying he was shot dead while attempting to disarm one of the naval officers.
He said he intervened in the matter of debt between two members of the community, in which the naval officers were also involved; stressing that the matter was amicably settled.
The traditional ruler further narrated that some youths, including the deceased and his group, allegedly attacked the officers on their way back to their outpost.
“All what we want in the community is peace. The naval officers are our friends, they are the ones that have been protecting us. We have made several unsuccessful efforts to request for a police post in the community. If not for the naval outpost that is very close to us, we would have been without any security,” he stated. | http://punchng.com/navy-family-disagree-killing-26-year-old-man/ | en | "2016-08-29T00:00:00" | punchng.com/1ae3c55d57a50f0e36306e68b44ddfc72218ea51faf7924619205e9763f30efc.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T00:47:58" | null | "2016-08-29T01:23:21" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Ffloods-windstorm-wreak-havoc-lagos-ogun-sokoto%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/19220759/favicon.jpg | en | null | Floods, windstorm wreak havoc in Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto | null | null | punchng.com | Samson Folarin and Afeez Hanafi
ThOusands of Lagos and Ogun residents have been displaced and property estimated at billions of naira destroyed after downpours on Saturday and Sunday left many streets and homes flooded.
PUNCH Metro learnt that many Christians could not hold their Sunday service as their churches were flooded.
A heavy windstorm in Tundun Yan-Dogo village of Dange-Shuni Local Government Area of Sokoto on Saturday also destroyed filling stations, cars and uprooted some poles in the community.
Our correspondents gathered that the worst hit in Lagos were residents of Oworonshoki, Bariga, Ketu, Ikorodu, Lekki areas, while more than 50 houses were affected in the Ita Oluwo area of Ogun State alone.
A pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Alapere, Ketu, Lagos, Pastor Bola Bolawole, told one of our correspondents that he could not hold church service due to the situation, adding that three of his members were trapped in the floods.
He said, “We could not access our church on Sunday even as of 2pm. The road was completely flooded and we were covered up in water to the waist level. We had to stand by a shop to hold the service, but the rain still drove us away from the place.
“After that, I went on visitation to some of my members and I saw many of them scooping out water from their homes. You can’t go to some parts of the community right now. Water has completely taken over Bakare and Oriola streets and other parts of Alapere. Televisions and fridges were submerged by the floods. Many people have been cut off from their homes.”
Bolawale explained that some residents were afraid that if it poured again, some of the buildings could collapse, calling for urgent government intervention.
A resident of Bariga, Bolatito Ibiyemi, said some parts of the community were not accessible due to the floods.
She said, “The rain has been intense. Places like Oko Oba, Amodu and Arobadade streets and Ilaje Road, have been rendered completely impassable. A church in Ayedun Street was flooded and the members could not hold their service.”
The General Manager of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Michael Akindele, said the agency received distress calls from residents of Oworonshoki, Ifako, Ikorodu and Lekki areas.
He said, “Several property and items worth millions of naira were damaged, but no life was lost. The affected streets around the Oworonshoki area include Fasasi Ojomu, Ogunyomi, Abiola, Akewusola, Adebanmwo, Unity, Oduduwa and Agberin streets, among others, while Hassan Street in Owutu and some other streets were affected in the Ikorodu area.
“LASEMA’s Emergency Response Team was dispatched for the assessment of the affected areas to avert further disaster. The flood was exacerbated by blockages of some of the major drainages in the affected areas.”
The Lagos State Government has, however, called for calm among residents, saying necessary steps are being taken to avert flood disaster in the state.
The Commissioner for the Environment, Dr Babatunde Adejare, in a statement on Sunday, explained that the state government had carried out a tour of some of the flood-prone communities to clear up blocked drainages and canals.
He warned that the government would no longer tolerate the building of illegal structures along drainage paths in the state.
He urged residents living on wetlands and flood-prone areas to relocate.
Meanwhile, no fewer than 200 residents were displaced after floods took over about 50 houses on Unity Estate in the Ita Oluwo area of Ogun State.
It was learnt that the estate was submerged around 12pm on Sunday after the fence of InoPlast – a nylon producing company in the area – collapsed.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the fence served as a barrier, which prevented water coming from Ogijo, a neighbouring community, from flooding the estate.
A lot of valuables were said to have been trapped in the floods as most of the dwellers had gone to church when the rain started.
The Chairman, Community Development Association, Mr. Femi Abolude, said 50 houses were affected by the floods.
He said, “This incident first happened about two years ago when the company’s fence fell. We reported the situation at the state governor’s office and the fence was reconstructed. But we queried the quality of the fence and after some time, water started streaming under it. The same fence fell again today (Sunday). The whole community was affected and about 50 houses were seriously flooded.”
Another resident, Paul Idogu, a lawyer, said all his credentials and property were destroyed by the floods and called for a quick intervention from the state government.
He said, “When I woke up around 12pm, I saw floods entering into my house. I was totally helpless. All my credentials and documents were submerged by water. We went to the company but none of the officials came out to speak with us. The police officers we met there told us to come back on Monday.
“When the fence fell two years ago, the company assured us that they would build a stronger one. But what they did was shabby. We wrote them while they were constructing the fence that it was not strong enough, but they didn’t listen. The government should find a way to save the situation. Proper drainage should be constructed.”
A landlord, Cosmas Okoro, said, “All our property has been destroyed. I am just praying the house should not collapse because water is everywhere. I don’t know where to start from. It was my daughter who came to call me from the church. We are just hanging around now; we don’t know where to go to”
An engineer, Christopher Okoro, said he was only able to salvage his television, which was hung on the wall.
“All other valuables, including my laptop, clothes, my wife’s credentials, were destroyed. As I speak with you, I don’t know what to do; I am stranded,” he added.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/floods-windstorm-wreak-havoc-lagos-ogun-sokoto/ | en | "2016-08-29T00:00:00" | punchng.com/b28802ce6047e4fa27f37a7e8af1dafe8afc4822376d1f3d8bd6af3e5f263064.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa",
"Sweet Toto",
"Mr. Jidauna",
"Olalekan Wasiu Kareem",
"Chuka Uk",
"Michael Alade",
"John Ore"
] | "2016-08-27T16:47:41" | null | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fbundesliga-aubameyang-nets-twice-dortmund-win-opener%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/27172005/Aubameyang-e1472314819162.jpg | en | null | Bundesliga: Aubameyang nets twice as Dortmund win opener | null | null | punchng.com | Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has resumed his duel with Robert Lewandowski to be the Bundesliga’s top scorer by netting twice in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Mainz on the opening weekend of the new season.
Aubameyang netted 25 league goals last season, finishing second to Bayern Munich striker Lewandowski’s 30 in the scorers’ charts, and the duo look set to lead the way again in 2016/17.
Lewandowski scored a hat-trick in Bayern’s 6-0 rout of Werder Bremen on Friday and his Borussia rival Aubameyang opened his account less than 24 hours later.
The Gabon star headed in a 17th-minute opener and then added a late penalty before Japan striker Yoshinori Muto pulled one back at the death for the visitors.
Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel was without Marco Reus, who was watching on in the stands as he recovers from a groin injury, but he started with three summer signings in his line-up.
He gave Bundesliga debuts to Spanish centre-back Marc Bartra, signed from Barcelona, and 19-year-old French winger Ousmane Dembele, brought in from Rennes, while ex-Bayern midfielder Sebastian Rode also started.
Aubameyang was unmarked at the far post to head in the opener from a cross from the left by Germany winger Andre Schuerrle.
He then doubled his tally on 89 minutes when Schuerrle was brought down in the area and the Gabon star converted the resulting penalty, before Muto set up a nervous ending with a header in the 92nd minute.
Elsewhere, VfL Wolfsburg also got off to a winning start with a 2-0 victory at Augsburg.
Star off-season signing, Germany striker Mario Gomez — the Bundesliga’s top scorer over the last decade — was not included in the starting line-up as he regains his fitness after injury at Euro 2016.
But his new team-mates picked up three points without him.
Wolves took the lead when Dutch striker Bas Dost fired across the face of goal and new signing Daniel Didavi lashed home a shot from the edge of the area on 35 minutes.
Swiss international left-back Ricardo Rodriguez then drove in a low free-kick on 89 minutes.
Cologne enjoyed a 2-0 win at Darmstadt as Marcel Risse and Anthony Modeste both netted for the hosts.
Hamburg were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Ingolstadt as US international Bobby Wood’s fine opening goal for the hosts was cancelled out by a late finish from Austria international Lukas Hinterseer.
Schalke 04 opened their season with a 1-0 defeat at 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt as captain Alex Meier scored the first-half winner.
There was plenty of second-half drama as Meier had a penalty saved before the hosts were reduced to 10 men when their Jamaica international centre-back Michael Hector was sent off for hauling down Schalke’s Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who was through on goal.
Borussia Moenchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen, two of Germany’s Champions League representatives, meet later on Saturday with the visitors missing injured Mexico striker Javier Hernandez and Germany midfielder Lars Bender. | http://punchng.com/bundesliga-aubameyang-nets-twice-dortmund-win-opener/ | en | "2016-08-27T00:00:00" | punchng.com/cc3d1f819ddd6009be512a4587de74d6266de626281611db6c83a9818ff664a2.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T04:48:26" | null | "2016-04-18T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fadopt-ict-lose-relevance-ekeh-tells-lawyers%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/18201416/Leo-Stan-Ekeh.jpg | en | null | Adopt ICT or lose relevance, Ekeh tells lawyers | null | null | punchng.com | Ozioma Ubabukoh
The Chairman of Zinox Group, Stan Ekeh, has called on Nigerian lawyers to reinvent in line with current Information and Communications Technology realities or face the threat of losing relevance in the practice of the legal profession in the 21st century.
He made the call at the 2016 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, which held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
While delivering a paper entitled, ‘Lawyer and wealth creation in the 21st century powered by technology’, Ekeh challenged the audience to make changes in the legal marketplace and force it out of its protective “cocoon.”
Noting that the legal profession is one that was notoriously averse to change, he disclosed that the survival of any sector, profession or business organisation was directly dependent on its ability to innovate and align itself with the present digital revolution.
“In our present society, technology has permeated almost all sectors, industries and several human undertakings. Many sectors have been overtaken by the Internet, mobile phone apps and people’s ability to find free information as against situations they used to pay for. Any organisation or sector that refuses to innovate and embrace new technological realities will eventually die.
“The 21st century is for only those who want to be successful. One can alter his destiny and remain a global success,” he said.
The Zinox Chairman further affirmed that the revolutions in the field of Information and Communications Technology put a lot of pressures on the legal profession which made it imperative for the contemporary lawyer to retool in order to remain relevant in the scheme of things.
“The law profession must embrace this change and properly align itself to benefit maximally from the present digital revolution. In this 21st century, a lawyer’s wealth shall be determined by the application of digital technology to his work.
“It is either the lawyer reinvents himself in line with the technological realities of the 21st century and its impact on service delivery to clients or the lawyer would eventually disappear from the radar of the legal profession,” Ekeh said.
He said, “Law has been something of a protected industry spared from some of the general business realities applicable to almost all other industries. Lawyers occupy a unique place with monopoly of access to legal knowledge, and no real competition.
“For instance, the relationship with the client is controlled by the law firm which decides almost entirely by itself how the services are to be delivered, and dictating the costs, pricing, and strategic direction.”
He added, “Hence, as long as the status quo served the lawyer, there is no need to innovate or provide cost-efficient services. It is a closed market. But whereas the seller (the lawyer) appears comfortable with the status quo, he fails to realise that his earnings can greatly be increased by innovation and technology which invariably would cause a disruption of the status quo in the legal marketplace.
“But now, there are strong and compelling circumstances necessitating changes in the legal market place and forcing it out of its protective cocoon.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/adopt-ict-lose-relevance-ekeh-tells-lawyers/ | en | "2016-04-18T00:00:00" | punchng.com/40c409ea6720809ab1ef6bf08f3180abbd571124af6edd5807f00fb3550e3f94.json |
[
"Ayodele Oluwagbemi",
"Akin Bamidele",
"Olusegun Adekoya",
"Michael Ijere",
"Bitter Truth",
"Frank Maduale",
"Remagb S Icon",
"Jeff Arobam",
"Chuks Enyinnaya"
] | "2016-08-28T20:47:52" | null | "2016-08-28T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fantonio-allardyces-first-england-squad%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/28211052/Antonio.jpg | en | null | Antonio named in Allardyce's first England squad | null | null | punchng.com | Sam Allardyce marked his first squad announcement as England manager on Sunday by including uncapped West Ham United midfielder Michail Antonio in a 23-man party for next week’s World Cup qualifier in Slovakia.
Antonio was included on the same day he scored for the Hammers in their 3-1 loss away to Premier League leaders Manchester City.
The 26-year-old has adjusted well to life in the Premier League since joining the Hammers from Nottingham Forest a year ago.
He scored nine goals in 32 appearances for the London club last season, while his two most recent Hammers games have seen Antonio head in against both Bournemouth and City.
“I think he’s in outstanding form,” Allardyce told the Football Association’s website as he explained his decision to select Antonio.
“This is another lad with a great journey — it’s a fantastic journey that he’s been on, from non-league to now an international call-up. He scored nine goals in his first season and he’s a terrific athlete, a good crosser and a goal-scorer.
“I’m looking forward to him coming, and looking forward to meeting everybody. Hopefully we will have a good few days’ preparation and get to know each other on the basis of trying to go and win in Slovakia.”
Everton’s Ross Barkley, an unused squad member during England’s miserable Euro 2016 campaign that concluded with the embarrassment of a defeat by Iceland, was dropped despite scoring two goals in his first four matches this season.
James Milner, who has retired from international football, was omitted along with Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, now in the Under-21 squad, and the injured duo of Ryan Bertrand and Jack Wilshere.
Hart retained
As expected goalkeeper Joe Hart was retained despite losing his first-team place at City under new manager Pep Guardiola while, equally unsurprisingly, Allardyce opted against recalling John Terry, the retired former England captain, after indicating he could contact the Chelsea centre-half.
However, there were recalls for Danny Drinkwater, a midfielder with English champions Leicester City, defenders Phil Jagielka (Everton) and Luke Shaw (Manchester United), as well as Arsenal’s Theo Walcott after they all failed to make it into former England manager Roy Hodgson’s squad in France.
Allardyce has yet to announce his England captain, although Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney, who skippered the side at Euro 2016, was included in Sunday’s squad as a midfielder.
Rooney, England’s record goalscorer, played as a central midfielder in France but United manager Jose Mourinho has restored him to an attacking role and Allardyce is expected to do likewise.
England squad to play Slovakia in a 2018 World Cup Group F qualifier in Trnava on Sunday, September 4 (1600 GMT kick-off):
Goalkeepers: Fraser Forster (Southampton), Joe Hart (Manchester City), Tom Heaton (Burnley)
Defenders: Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Danny Rose (Tottenham Hotspur), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Michail Antonio (West Ham United), Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Danny Drinkwater (Leicester City), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Theo Walcott (Arsenal)
Strikers: Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)
AFP | http://punchng.com/antonio-allardyces-first-england-squad/ | en | "2016-08-28T00:00:00" | punchng.com/b1947c0faae2848ddae97e47b684a95c2fb4ce2661ff1b8d264154ea5c9289df.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T00:48:00" | null | "2016-05-09T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fsuspected-edo-pdp-thugs-abduct-obasekis-supporters%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/09191111/Godwin-Obaseki.jpg | en | null | Suspected Edo PDP thugs abduct Obaseki’s supporters | null | null | punchng.com | Alexander Okere, Benin
With less than two weeks to the Edo State governorship election, some supporters of the All Progressives Congress have been reportedly abducted by suspected thugs in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to the governorship candidate of the APC, Godwin Obaseki, the party’s supporters were whisked away along with two campaign vehicles by thugs alleged to be loyal to the opposition Peoples Democratic Partyý last Saturday, after a rally in Illushi, near Ubiaja.
Obaseki explained that while three of the abducted supporters, including a popular entertainer identified as Maleke, escaped, others were still missing.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Theodore Okafor, could not be reached for comments, as calls to his telephone number indicated that it was switched off at the time of filing the report.
But the Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Chris Nehikhare, denied the allegation.
Nehikhare described the claim as a figment of the imagination of the APC and the Obaseki campaign team.
“It is a pigment of their imagination because it is on record that the APC thugs have been terrorising, harassing and intimidating not just the PDP members but voters in Edo North, especially in Jattu axis,” he added.
However, according to a statement by the Godwin Obaseki Campaign Organisation on Sunday, trouble started at the campaign ground when some of the PDP thugs infiltrated the crowd and began to vandalise vehicles and chanting ‘PDP.’ The statement said they had the poster of the opposition party’s candidate in their hands.
The APC press crew vehicle was reportedly damaged and some journalists molested, causing the party to pack other vehicles away from the area.
The campaign organisation said that the entertainer, a personal driver to Obaseki’s running mate, Jonathan Orukpe, and one Sani Kamil were assaulted by the thugs while the windscreen of their vehicle was smashed.
The statement quoted Maleke to have said, “We were beaten, molested and almost thrown into the River Niger by some of the thugs, who repeatedly shouted at us for daring to come to the area which they claimed has been secured for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the PDP governorship candidate.
“Before they started, the thugs, one of whom is called Lucky, took away our phones and asked us to sit on the floor. It was when they heard that security agencies have been mobilised that they left and a woman from the community assisted us to escape.”
Obaseki, who condemned the incident, described it as an act of desperation by the PDP, adding that the matter had been reported at the Divisional Police Headquarters in the area.
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Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/suspected-edo-pdp-thugs-abduct-obasekis-supporters/ | en | "2016-05-09T00:00:00" | punchng.com/a69428efa7b97ab15d1d10ff79a0f737952a9e555a803b3e7d4a30295eedeec2.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T06:48:11" | null | "2016-08-29T07:24:05" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Ften-die-ibadan-auto-crash%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/19220759/favicon.jpg | en | null | Ten die in Ibadan auto crash | null | null | punchng.com | Olufemi Atoyebi, Ibadan
Ten people have been confirmed dead while nine others sustained injuries in a motor accident that occurred along Ibadan-Oyo Road on Saturday evening.
Eyewitness said the accident, which happened at Itose village along the road, involved a Toyota Hiace commuter bus with number plate LSD 191 XK that was travelling from Sango-Ota in Ogun State to Ilorin, Kwara State.
The eyewitness said the driver of the bus lost control as he was making an attempt to manoeuvre his way after suddenly running into a pothole in the middle of the road.
The sudden manoeuvring, according to him, resulted in the bus skidding off the road into a ditch.
“The condition of the road caused the accident. There are several potholes in the middle of this road and several drivers have fallen victims. The driver of the passenger bus was trying to manoeuvre his way when he lost control and fell into the ditch below. Ten people died on the spot,” said the eyewitness who simply identified himself as Mr. Wahab.
The Public Relations Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Oyo State, Oluwaseun Onijala, confirmed the incident, saying that those injured in the accident were rescued and rushed to the hospital for immediate treatment.
He said, “The bus had 19 passengers on board. Ten persons died while nine other passengers sustained injuries. The injured victims were taken to the Akinlolu Hospital and St. Patrick’s Hospital where they are receiving treatment. The remains of the dead passengers were deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital morgue in Ibadan.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/ten-die-ibadan-auto-crash/ | en | "2016-08-29T00:00:00" | punchng.com/87711d019112aba2f934cc5ae25fcdd6f7da534bc8d18802f092cf9e72b3dc4a.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim",
"John Diko",
"Dele Oluwole",
"Chris Pomai",
"Douglas Paulson",
"The Boss",
"Andel Freeman",
"King One",
"Rev Dr Felix Nwosu",
"Jerryfranklyn Emeka"
] | "2016-08-28T00:47:50" | null | "2016-06-15T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fbauchi-govt-revokes-aitraypowers-c-o%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/15131609/Dokpesi.jpg | en | null | Bauchi govt revokes AIT/Raypower’s C of O | null | null | punchng.com | Armstrong Bakam
The Bauchi State Government has withdrawn the Right of Occupancy on a piece of land belonging to DAAR Communication Plc, owners of the African Independent Television and Raypower FM.
A copy of the letter ordering the withdrawal of the land situated at the outskirts of Tirwun, which was signed by the Commissioner of Works, Lands and Housing, Abubakar Ali, was obtained by our correspondent on Thursday.
In a reaction, the Acting Head, Bauchi Station, AIT/Raypower, Yakubu Bala, said, “It is likely that they are doing this because of the programmes we are airing, which allows for the opposition to come and voice its views; we don’t know (if) that (is the case).”
The Senior Special Assistant to the Bauchi State Governor on Media, Sabo Mohammed, in a telephone interview, denied the allegation that the government’s action was prompted by dissatisfaction with the programmes of the media.
Mohammed added that the government had the right to revoke any Certificate of Occupancy it wished to in public interest.
He said, “The government, as empowered by the law, reserves the right to revoke, withdraw or suspend any Certificate of Occupancy given to anyone.
“The issue should have been whether or not the government has the right to do so and it is not true that the government withdrew the Certificate of Occupancy because AIT does not entertain the state government.”
When asked what the overriding public interest was, Mohammed said, “The only thing is that the government deemed it necessary at this material point in time because of the overriding public interest and the government has the right by law to do so.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/bauchi-govt-revokes-aitraypowers-c-o/ | en | "2016-06-15T00:00:00" | punchng.com/6abc5883c9ea4008abc48658c557708bd22227f17426a3fd3d3a863f4bc2bc9f.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T00:48:19" | null | "2016-07-04T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Flasg-removes-ogunsanwo-nominates-subair-lirs-boss%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/04155325/AMBODE1.jpg | en | null | LASG removes Ogunsanwo, nominates Subair as LIRS boss | null | null | punchng.com | Sesan Olufowobi
The Lagos State Government on Monday said Mr. Folarin Ogunsanwo has ‘retired’ as the chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service.
The state Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, also on Monday, nominated Mr. Ayodele Subair for confirmation by the state Assembly as the new chairman of the LIRS.
In a letter to the Assembly, Ambode said, “Following the retirement of the erstwhile chairman, who held the post since September 2015, it became expedient to quickly seek a suitable replacement in view of the vital position of the LIRS towards our revenue generation drive and in attainment of the set target of this administration to deliver good governance to the citizenry.”
Ambode said Subair’s presentation for confirmation was in conformity with Section 2 of the Lagos State Revenue Administration Law, 2006.
A statement by the government said Subair was born on May 21, 1960 and held a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from the Metropolitan University of Manchester, United Kingdom and a Masters’ Degree in Business Administration from the University of Lagos, Akoka.
“Subair has over 34 years working experience which started with the Price WaterHouse Chartered Accountants before venturing into private practice in 1987 .
“He was the pioneer Director of the Lagos State Lotteries Board and has worked with various international agencies,” the statement read in part.
Ambode also approved the appointment of Abiodun Dabiri as the new Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority.
Dabiri joined LAMATA in 2008 and was until his appointment, the Head of Procurement/Operational Contract Manager for the agency.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/lasg-removes-ogunsanwo-nominates-subair-lirs-boss/ | en | "2016-07-04T00:00:00" | punchng.com/7e14710bf85239b9006f96fad1c55bf53e45ce3cdb3780092919fc70ac5fcf15.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye"
] | "2016-08-29T00:48:03" | null | "2016-08-29T01:46:36" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Ffanfare-dolphins-bball-camp-ends%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/19220759/favicon.jpg | en | null | Fanfare as Dolphins b’ball camp ends | null | null | punchng.com | Idris Adesina
It was an atmosphere of fun and excitement as the 2016 Dolphins Youth and Kiddies Basketball Summer Camp ended on Saturday in Lagos.
The event, which was sponsored by the Dolphins Basketball Foundation, began on Thursday with over 45 kids in attendance.
At the camp, which had participants from Ogun and Lagos states, the kids and youths were taught basketball as well as life lessons.
The participants, whose ages were from five years, were taken through basketball drills over three days by more than 15 coaches.
The finale on Saturday was organised in two sessions with participants participating in the monthly sanitation before they resumed for the closing programmes of the event. Participants took part in the morning exercises and drills before they were entertained by a comedian, SACO.
The night of the closing event, which was attended by some parents of the participants, featured an All-Star basketball competition, which had eight players in each team. The teams, Baby Seals (red) and Vision (blue), were chosen from the outstanding players of the camp.
The entertaining match, which was decided by an over-time, saw Vision beat Baby Seals 20-19. The Most Valuable Player award of the competition was won by Oluwakemi Koleosho of the Vision team while Tofunmi Kehinde of Baby Seals emerged as the Best Defensive Player. The two players were presented with a plaque and a pair of playing shoes.
The two players said the camp had impacted their skills.
“Last year when I came to this camp, I was not as good as this but now I am the one who won an award today. This camp has increased my love for basketball and makes it interesting to learn it,” Kehinde said.
One of the parents, Mrs. Abdul Kareem, commended Dolphins for the camp.
“The camp has made the kids grow interest in basketball. My first daughter, who is 11 years, is at this camp and she recently joined her school team. I know that with what she has learnt here in the past three days, she will be able to get a place in her school’s starting five very soon,” she said.
The Proprietor of Dolphins Basketball Club, Wale Aboderin, encouraged the participants to imbibe the lessons they have learnt at the camp after they get home. He also advised them to face their education as it is the key to whatever they do in life.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/fanfare-dolphins-bball-camp-ends/ | en | "2016-08-29T00:00:00" | punchng.com/3f744ec89d60a189f4de0e0dc796fbe35e285b34058ed08db6fbe1a2f00cc712.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim"
] | "2016-08-28T00:47:58" | null | "2016-08-28T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fsexual-harassment-delsu-sacks-six-lecturers-2%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/28012935/Familugba-Yewande.jpg | en | null | Sexual Harassment: DELSU sacks six lecturers | null | null | punchng.com | Delta State University recently sacked six of its lecturers for their involvement in several offences including alleged sexual harassment of female students.
The sacking of the lecturers at DELSU is a welcome development for stakeholders in the education sector. It is a step in the right direction and I believe it would sound a note of warning to all erring lecturers. It would also encourage other higher institutions in Nigeria to discipline lecturers who are found wanting. The challenge of sexual harassment in academic establishments has existed for generations, and sadly, it has become a norm despite the obvious iniquitousness in the act by lecturers.
Recently, a female student at the Osun State University set up a lecturer who had been pestering her for sex. She gave in to his demands but unknown to the lecturer; she gave in because she wanted to obtain documentary evidence. She made a video of her and the lecturer in a room at a hotel. The lecturer described the video as a lie, but investigations are still on-going to unveil the truth. The tides have changed and lecturers must be aware that their acts would not be tolerated and are liable to face public ridicule if they are caught.
Some lecturers in institutions flagrantly perform their heinous acts on mostly innocent female undergraduates and have turned their schools to brothels where sex trades for good grades. It is unfortunate that the so called ‘custodians of knowledge’ in our academic institutions have tarnished and degraded their sacrosanct role in the society for sexual pleasure. No wonder our academic institutions are not moving forward and making strides like other institutions globally.
In my opinion, female sexual harassment is not only limited to our various academic institutions, but it is pervasive in every facet of the Nigerian society. It is at workplaces, homes, neighbourhoods, and even religious institutions. What is it about some Nigerian men that drive them to see females as sexual objects alone? Why must the Nigerian man seek to take advantage of a female he perceives to be subordinate? These actions subject females to unimaginable trauma, and we as a nation must seek to relegate these occurrences in the society; by reorienting our male children and adults to respect and cherish their female counterparts.
Familugba Yewande, 20, writer
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/sexual-harassment-delsu-sacks-six-lecturers-2/ | en | "2016-08-28T00:00:00" | punchng.com/a02d597ac6ef755f37b02a87658f937112e69458e58e4787b0aad1cc09c55152.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan"
] | "2016-08-27T14:47:35" | null | "2016-03-23T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fjtf-sanitation-officials-clash-bayelsa%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/23011903/Bayelsa-State-Governor-Seriake-Dickson.jpg | en | null | JTF, sanitation officials clash in Bayelsa | null | null | punchng.com | Men and officers of the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe on Saturday clashed with the Bayelsa Environmental Sanitation Authority during the national monthly cleanup exercise .
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that while the environmental exercise was going on, the JTF vehicle was intercepted by the environmental officials on the road.
The NAN also reports that JTF had to question why the sanitation officials must block the main road which resulted in a heated argument followed by the release of a gun shot into the air.
The Environmental Sanitation Chairman, Mr Robert Enua, called on the spokesman of the JTF on the telephone complaining to him about what the officers had done.
He said that he would report the matter to the governor, adding that they should not label the Niger Delta people as “Avengers because Bayelsans are peace loving people.”
NAN | http://punchng.com/jtf-sanitation-officials-clash-bayelsa/ | en | "2016-03-23T00:00:00" | punchng.com/0e4d34846dc94b505ccffc63bb07c051eacce20cd1774467b0df0f252669867e.json |
[
"Simon Ejembi"
] | "2016-08-29T16:48:12" | null | "2016-07-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fwoman-attempts-set-neighbour-ablaze-lagos%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/26131343/court-e1470747775525.jpg | en | null | ‘Woman attempts to set neighbour ablaze in Lagos’ | null | null | punchng.com | A 27-year-old woman, Achonu Ugochi, was on Monday arraigned before a Surulere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly threatening to pour petrol on another woman and set her ablaze.
The woman, who lives in Orile-Iganmu, Lagos, is facing a four counts bordering on assault and threat to life.
The Prosecutor, Sgt. Christopher Okoliko, insisted that the accused committed the offences at about 4:30pm on August 19 at Orile-Iganmu, Lagos.
According to him, the accused and the complainant, Chinyere Okpalla, reside in the same compound.
Okoliko said, “There was a disagreement between them which led to exchange of blows.
“The accused flogged the complainant with a stick causing her serious injuries,” he said.
“The accused did not only flog her with the stick, but also threatened to pour petrol on her with the intent to set her ablaze.
“The accused also detained the complainant and her family in her house by locking the gate to their apartment with a padlock, thereby depriving them of their liberty.”
The offences contravened Section 56 (a), 170 and 270 of Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
Sections 56 (a) and 170 provide one year imprisonment, while Section prescribes two years for deprivation of liberty.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of N100,000 with one surety.
The Magistrate, Mrs. M. Dan-Oni, fixed August 28 for mention. | http://punchng.com/woman-attempts-set-neighbour-ablaze-lagos/ | en | "2016-07-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/d801d1206391b9f8c3d0a199bf1efd04e204cf7dc0a1ab1f14d0401b29e83928.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T00:48:24" | null | "2016-04-18T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fthree-day-working-policy-wont-affect-salaries-okorocha%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/18231452/Rochas-Okorocha.jpg | en | null | Three-day working policy won’t affect salaries -Okorocha | null | null | punchng.com | Gibson Achonu, Owerri
G
overnor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State has insisted that the three-day working policy crafted by the state government for civil servants in the state stands.
The confirmation came barely few days after the Nigeria Labour Congress in the state protested against the policy and other ills by the state government.
He also said that the cutting of the working days to three from five would have no interference with the workers’ salaries and allowances.
“I will not cut workers’ salaries because of the two days,“ he said.
Okorocha, while briefing journalists on Monday in Owerri after his overseas trip, stated that workers would go to work between Mondays and Wednesdays, leaving Thursdays and Fridays for agricultural activities.
He, however, noted that any worker that would not come to his or her duty post for any reason must get a written document (permission) from either the Head of Service or Chief of Staff (in the Government House) of the state.
Okorocha said, “Any worker, who is not found in his/her duty post without permission or exemption letter from the Head of Service or his counterpart will immediately lose his/her position to another person from his or her community.”
The governor added that the civil servants working days were cut because they (workers) did not make judicious use of their official hours.
“Instead of being devoted to the work they are paid for, they use their official hours to loiter about; they sell groundnut, gala, chin-chin and sieve egusi, among others, in the office. I decided to reduce the working days because I want to enhance agriculture in the state.”
There is nothing that is cultivated or produced in the state. All the things we eat like tomato, pepper, cucumber, groundnut and others things are produced in the North. Think of a situation where the northerners decide to stop supplying us with these edibles, what happens?”
In strong terms, he maintained that the state government had paid all salaries of workers in the state, up to August, 2016. On the part of pensioners, he promised that they would soon receive all arrears of their pension.
Okorocha said that over 3000 fresh computer literate graduates would soon be employed in the civil service to develop the economy.
He regretted that over 95 per cent of Imo State workers were not computer literate and attributed their low productivity to it.
Meanwhile, Okorocha had said that he was hale and hearty and told Imo citizens and Nigerians to dismiss the rumour and postings on the Facebook /Internet that he was dead.
He said, “The rumour only came from my political opponents. They wished me dead, but God Almighty has put them to shame. They even went further to dispel rumours that goddess of Nworie and Otamiri River slapped me. I am alive and bouncing in the Lord. I only travelled for economic mission and to visit my daughter, who has given me another grandson.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/three-day-working-policy-wont-affect-salaries-okorocha/ | en | "2016-04-18T00:00:00" | punchng.com/d331939a337502c1c289c9ff3d20c5ab1158f66d0c865cc466d0b33a1d9c0a6b.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan"
] | "2016-08-29T20:48:15" | null | "2016-07-18T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fhandling-north-east-crisis-solely-irresponsible-osinbajo%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/18183534/Vice-President-Yemi-Osinbajo1.jpg | en | null | Handling North East crisis solely, irresponsible | null | null | punchng.com | Olalekan Adetayo, Abuja
Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on Monday said no matter how prepared a country could be, it “would be irresponsible” for a single country to attempt to handle the kind of crisis in the North East with two million displaced persons, including children alone.
According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, the Vice-President spoke while receiving members of the ONE campaign led by the international Rock Star artist, Bono, and Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who were at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to discuss the possibilities of a global partnership to address the crisis through international advocacy.
He said the Federal Government would welcome global partnership that would ensure a concerted and focused international response to the humanitarian crisis arising from the insurgency in the North-Eastern region of the country.
Addressing members of the delegation that included former United Kingdom Development Secretary Douglas Alexander, the Vice- President said, “It is very important that you chose to come and offer some partnership. This is great and we are pleased. Partnership is certainly the way to go.”
He said global partnership to address the situation should be coordinated and more focussed on what is required to be done.
He said more attention should be given to the issue of malnourished children.
Speaking earlier, the Irish born artist Bono said he has visited some of the IDPs and that what he saw in the region was “deeply disturbing.”
Bono also commended the social investment programmes of the Buhari administration saying “we have heard of the incredible plans, the social investment funds.”
He described the level of transparency already seen in the administration as “very exciting and transforming.”
The ONE campaign is an advocacy organisation with more than seven million people around the world taking action to end extreme poverty and preventable diseases especially in Africa.
It has on its board people like Mo Ibrahim, Bill Gates, Micheal Bloomberg among others.
It was founded in 2004. | http://punchng.com/handling-north-east-crisis-solely-irresponsible-osinbajo/ | en | "2016-07-18T00:00:00" | punchng.com/fe0167ffe56ecb7314fbff3951f456f34f408656f2ee0bacd47aa14e3eedd667.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T06:48:25" | null | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fnigerians-hungry-okogie-tells-buhari%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/30021355/Anthony-Olubunmi-Okogie1.jpg | en | null | Nigerians are hungry, Okogie tells Buhari | null | null | punchng.com | Friday Olokor and Leke Baiyewu
The Emeritus Archbishop of Lagos, Cardinal Anthony Okogie, has said President Muhammadu Buhari must do something fast to address hunger across the country.
Okogie said in an open letter to the President on Monday that Buhari’s campaign slogan was anchored on change.
He stated, “Today, cries of “hunger” could be heard across the length and breadth of our vast country. Nigerians hunger, not only for food, but also for good leadership, for peace, security and justice.
“This letter is to appeal to you to do something fast, and, if you are already doing something, to redouble your effort. May it not be written on the pages of history that Nigerians die of starvation under your watch.
“As President, you are the chief servant of the nation. I therefore urge you to live up to the huge expectation of millions of Nigerians. A stitch in time saves nine.”
The cardinal said that Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress, promised to lead the masses to the Promised Land.
He said that although it was not an easy task to lead, the President during his campaign offered to take the enormous task of leadership.
The cardinal stated, “Nigerians are waiting for you to fulfill the promises you made during the campaign. They voted you into office because of those promises. The introduction of town hall meetings is a commendable idea. But in practice, you, not just your ministers, must converse with Nigerians. You are the President. You must be accountable to them. The buck stops on your desk. Even if your administration has no magic wand at least give some words of encouragement.”
He said that the President should instruct his ministers to be sincere and polite at the town hall meetings, adding that their sophistry would neither benefit Nigerians nor the President.
“Mr. President, if you want to leave a credible legacy come 2019, in all sincerity, please retool your administration. Change is desirable. But it must be a change for the better. Let this change be real. Change is not real when old things that we ought to discard refuse to pass away,” he added.
Okogie said that the President must take a critical look at his cabinet, policies and programmes of his administration.
He added, “You will need to take a critical look at the manner of appointments you have been making. It is true that commonsense dictates that you appoint men and women you can trust. But if most of the people you trust are from one section of the country and practice the same religion, then you and all of us are living in insecurity.
“The Nigerian economy has never been in a state as terrible as this. You as the President, you are like the pilot of an aircraft flying in turbulence. Turbulent times bring the best or the worst out of a pilot. We can no longer blame the turbulence on past administrations. You know quite well that some of the officials of your administration served in previous dispensations. Blame for what we have been experiencing is in fact bipartisan in character.
“The entire political class needs to come together, irrespective of party differences to acknowledge its collective guilt and to seek ways of saving the sinking ship that our country has become. This cannot be done if some officials of your administration demonise and alienate members of the opposition.”
Okogie said that if a large portion of the blame for the present situation was to be laid on the doorsteps of the entire political class, the search for solution must involve everyone.
He said, “That is why no one should be alienated. All hands must be on deck.
“This is the time to revitalise moribund industries, reinvigorate our agriculture, make our country tourist and investor friendly, and enable our young men and women to find fulfillment by contributing to the common good.
“None of these lofty goals can be achieved without good education. On this particular issue, recent appointments you have made in the education sector raise a question: have you really appointed the best? Still on education, it is important that our universities be allowed to use their own criteria to admit students. It is a gross violation of the principles of federalism and academic freedom for the Federal Government to insist that only a federal parastatal can decide on who gains admission into our universities.”
Responding, the Presidency said President Muhammadu Buhari was already addressing the hunger in the land as advised by Okogie.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said this in an interview with The Punch.
Adesina said Buhari was working hard to ensure that Nigerians bid poverty and hunger farewell in shortest possible time.
The presidential spokesman said, “The respected cardinal asked the President to do something fast to address hunger across the country.
“That is exactly what the President is doing. He is working hard for Nigerians, so that they can say a final farewell to poverty and hunger.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/nigerians-hungry-okogie-tells-buhari/ | en | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | punchng.com/38344aa4f8b74e9f0a780d3c19132e9515fe79785948198c99898c1dc51fe3ec.json |
[
"Fatai Ibrahim",
"Law Refinners"
] | "2016-08-27T16:47:45" | null | "2016-03-20T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fambode-pledges-increase-investment-inflow-lagos%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20232425/Akinwunmi-Ambode.jpg | en | null | Ambode pledges to increase investment inflow to Lagos | null | null | punchng.com | Maureen Ihua-Maduenyi
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has said that he will create an enabling environment for commerce to flourish in the state.
Ambode stated this on Thursday at the opening of Lagos’ largest mall, Novare Lekki Mall, where he was represented by his Special Adviser on Commerce, Mr. Benjamin Olabinjo.
He said the multi-billion mall was a testimony of his administration’s drive to promote commerce and industry.
“We are committed to increasing the inflow of foreign direct investment through friendly reforms and provision of enabling environment for commerce,” he said.
The N31.5bn Novare Lekki Mall, which sits on 28,000 square metres and 22,000M2 of gross lettable area, is currently the largest in Lagos and has both local and international tenants.
Novare Lekki Mall developed by Urshday Limited, an affiliate of Novare Real Estate Africa – which is an investment portfolio involved in property development across Africa, is driven by foreign direct investment through a hybrid financing of debt and equity.
The Chairman, Novare Real Estate Africa, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, said the successful completion of the Novare Lekki Mall in record time was a testament of the enabling environment created by the Lagos State Government to encourage foreign direct investment.
According to him, the mall brings into Lagos over $83m direct investment which transcends financial value as it has from commencement until date, empowered over 4,650 Nigerians through direct and in-direct employment.
He said, “On the importance of the FDIs to job creation and national development, our confidence derives from our belief that Nigeria will get better by creating a minimum adequate economic environment for economic recovery.
“This entails investment-friendly reforms, minimising policy changes and shocks, and building strong institutions. Nigeria’s attitude should be similar to that of South Koreans whose leaders have continually supported investment.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/ambode-pledges-increase-investment-inflow-lagos/ | en | "2016-03-20T00:00:00" | punchng.com/cc45a72949e03c67db77b99ac02be8be6cace211f72245efff9a27edc86465da.json |
[
"Olusola Babarinsa"
] | "2016-08-30T20:48:44" | null | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Faguero-charged-violent-conduct%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/30211450/Aguero-e1472588643639.jpg | en | null | Aguero charged with violent conduct | null | null | punchng.com | Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is in danger of missing the Manchester derby after he was charged with violent conduct by England’s Football Association on Tuesday.
The charge relates to an incident during City’s 3-1 home win over West Ham United last Sunday when Aguero appeared to swing his left elbow towards visiting defender Winston Reid.
He faces a three-game ban if found guilty, which would rule him out of City’s trip to Manchester United on September 10, a home game with Bournemouth and a trip to Swansea City in the League Cup.
“Sergio Aguero has been charged for an alleged act of violent conduct which was not seen by the match officials but caught on video,” the FA said in a statement on its website.
“The Manchester City forward was involved in an incident with West Ham United’s Winston Reid in the 76th minute of the game on Sunday [28 August 2016].”
Match referee Andre Marriner did not punish Aguero at the time, but footage of the incident was reviewed by a panel of three former referees, all of whom deemed it a red-card offence.
Aguero, 28, has until 1800 local time (1700 GMT) on Wednesday to respond to the charge.
He has already been ruled out of Argentina’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Venezuela due to a calf injury.
City and United will go into their meeting at Old Trafford level on points at the top of the Premier League after each winning their first three matches. Chelsea also have an unblemished record. | http://punchng.com/aguero-charged-violent-conduct/ | en | "2016-08-30T00:00:00" | punchng.com/fbc52c9429d82bcc5230c30cb964e35a7b0d65d91601fc9b3d4bb77b5aa1a503.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan"
] | "2016-08-27T20:47:43" | null | "2016-07-03T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fsenate-investigate-food-diversions-idp-camps-saraki%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wuzup-naija/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/03023943/Saraki-3.jpg | en | null | Senate to investigate food diversions in IDP camps | null | null | punchng.com | The Senate will investigate the severe hunger crisis in Internally Displaced Persons camps in the North-East, President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, has said.
This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Yusuph Olaniyonu, Special Adviser to the Senate President on Media and Publicity and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Abuja.
The statement said Saraki was reacting to protests by hundreds of women from IDP camps in Borno on Thursday, which led to the barricade of the Maiduguri-Kano/Jos Road.
It described the development as `desperate’ and reiterated Saraki’s calls for better coordination amongst government and international aid agencies.
It emphasised the need for Nigeria to quickly operationalise a more effective and efficient humanitarian response infrastructure to address the situation.
Saraki called on the Nigeria Police, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other law enforcement agencies to quickly move to investigate the diversion of food deliveries.
He said that government officials and contractors should be held to account for the mysterious disappearance of truck loads of provisions intended for the IDP camps.
“Anyone that is found to be diverting the food aid deliveries should be investigated and brought to book if investigations prove their participation in these vicious schemes.
“Profiting from a complex humanitarian crisis is unacceptable.
“The people of the North-East have suffered enough indignities in the past four years from the marauding Boko Haram terrorists and stealing food meant for starving children, only adds insult to injury,” it stated. | http://punchng.com/senate-investigate-food-diversions-idp-camps-saraki/ | en | "2016-07-03T00:00:00" | punchng.com/932446f78b9a4b8de045337b198deaa00866455437c37a54863ade725de1bac3.json |
[
"Zovoe Jonathan",
"Kemi Ijaodola"
] | "2016-08-31T12:48:52" | null | "2016-08-31T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fisrael-ready-negotiation-palestine-envoy%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/31131418/Netan.jpg | en | null | Israel ready for negotiation with Palestine | null | null | punchng.com | Leke Baiyewu, Abuja
The Charge d’Affaires of Israel to Nigeria, Mr. Nadav Goren, has reaffirmed Israel’s support for a two-state solution to the ongoing conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians.
A statement by the Israeli Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday night quoted Goren as saying this when the Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Shehu Sani, visited the embassy.
The diplomat said, “We agree on the need for a peaceful solution in the region but differ on the means to achieve it.”
In order to achieve lasting peace, Goren added, “The Israelis and Palestinians must sit together at the negotiating table and decide their shared future.”
The Charge d’ Affairs also stressed that the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Benjamin c, would be willing to visit any country that would facilitate direct dialogue to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
Sani, who spoke to journalists after the visit, disclosed that he had earlier visited the Palestinian embassy.
He stated that the peace between Israel and Palestine would have a global impact, adding that both sides must not give up even though previous negotiations had been successful. | http://punchng.com/israel-ready-negotiation-palestine-envoy/ | en | "2016-08-31T00:00:00" | punchng.com/ca04c7717e36e8e18fd3099f2b98f2bda29bfb0b048740287bd77bf90ebb8086.json |
[
"Adesola Ayo-Aderele"
] | "2016-08-29T14:48:05" | null | "2016-04-20T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fpastor-rapes-13-year-old-boy-cure-homosexuality%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/20170255/Rape1.jpg | en | null | Pastor rapes 13-year-old-boy to cure homosexuality | null | null | punchng.com | Tony Okafor, Awka
A pentecostal pastor with the Jesus Miracle Ministries, Awka, Anambra State (names withheld) is on the run after he allegedly sexually assaulted a 13-year-old boy.
A source who pleaded anonymity told our correspondent that the gay pastor was told by a native doctor that his homosexual ‘sickness’ would be cured if he slept with a male teen.
Narrating his ordeal, the victim (Abuchi) said the incident took place after a vigil service.
The teen victim, who hails from Ebonyi State said, “The pastor approached me after the vigil and asked me to stay back.
“I told the pastor that I wanted to go home since the church activities had ended.
“The pastor told me to wait till dawn and when I insisted that I must go, the pastor applied a substance on my eyes which made me to sleep.
“When I woke up, I noticed that my trousers were torn, and my anus was damp.
“I began to cry, as I was feeling pains in my anus. The pastor said I should stop crying; that he would give me money.
“I rejected the money offer and went home and told my people what happened.”
A relative of the victim, Ngozi, who spoke with journalists, said they were not aware that Abuchi went to church that night.
She said when Abuchi came home and told them what happened, they rushed to the church, only to discover that the pastor had absconded.
The Anambra Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nkiru Nwode, confirmed the report,
She said the police had begun a manhunt for the pastor, assuring that he would be arrested and prosecuted.
The police spokesperson said the victim has been taken to the hospital for treatment. | http://punchng.com/pastor-rapes-13-year-old-boy-cure-homosexuality/ | en | "2016-04-20T00:00:00" | punchng.com/ea305f7be61764e4b2693b18adfb83ec799a029db625656bd6ef0d458df700f9.json |
[
"Taiwo Ojoye",
"Solomon Emeka"
] | "2016-08-26T12:59:02" | null | "2016-06-25T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fdad-left-mum-female-kids-im-glad-ive-made-mummy-proud-chinyere-unn-first-class-graduate%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/wuzup-naija/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/25043209/chinyere.jpg | en | null | Dad left mum for having all female kids, I’m glad I’ve made mummy proud -Chinyere, UNN first-class graduate | null | null | punchng.com | Chinyere Cecile, 37, emerged the best graduate of the Faculty of Arts, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with a 4.73 CGPA from the Department of Foreign Languages and Literary Studies in the 2014/2015 academic session. In this interview with TUNDE AJAJA, she talks about her education and life experiences
You had your first degree at 37, did you have delay in securing admission?
No, I didn’t. I dropped out of school many times to work and raise money for my education, that was what really caused the delay. My growing up was characterised by some challenges. I started taking care of myself from when I was very young. When I was in secondary school, I was out of school for four years due to lack of money, so I was working to raise money to continue my studies. The same thing happened when I was in primary school. I used to put my schooling on hold to work to raise some money. It was very challenging. When you put all the years I missed together, that’s why I couldn’t finish school at the ‘normal’ age.
What kind of work were you doing?
In most cases, I had to hawk vegetables and I was involved in farming too, likewise my mum and siblings. Then, when we harvested, we ate some and sold the rest. Sometimes, we helped other farmers to sell their produce just to raise money. I had my primary and part of my secondary education in Cameroon and my grandmother made sure that my sisters and I went to a bilingual nursery and primary school before we came back to Nigeria. Back then, my siblings and I had to resort to evening school under adult education for our primary education because we needed to go out in the morning to look for work or go to the farm and then later in the evening, we would go to school. There were times we slept in an old barn given to us by a pastor and it was hellish anytime it rained. Basically, I had financial challenges as an integral part of my education experience all along, even till I graduated from the university. However, I couldn’t have made it alone if God didn’t bring good Samaritans, like one of my lecturers, on my way. She gave me shelter since my first year till this very moment. She’s an aunt to some good friends who made up their minds to see me become the woman God has called me to be. I can’t exhaust my experience here, but I thank God that in spite of those issues, I had my West African Senior School Certificate Examination and my Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination at one sitting and I made a first class.
You grew up in Cameroon, what brought you back to Nigeria?
My father left Cameroon when I was four because my mother didn’t have a male child with him. Sometime later, we; my mum and the three of us, came back. I was already in secondary school but I came to complete it here after working for some time. My siblings went through same experience but they were not able to enter the university because of money, so, they later went back to Cameroon with my mother. And that was why I refused to give up on my dream of being educated, in spite of what I went through. It was very challenging but thank God who saw me through. I organised private lessons and taught French somewhere while in school, which also helped.
Since you already knew how to speak French, why did you choose Foreign Languages and Literary Studies again?
Language is part of human existence, and I find that interesting, because man, out of every other living being, is the only creature possessing an organised means of communication, which is what language is all about. Since my childhood, it has been my passion to study this course, especially after coming across inspiring poems and storybooks written by some of the great French writers such as Lafontaine, Victor Hugo, etc. It’s basically about learning foreign languages and their literary studies. The culture and civilisation aspects were very interesting. It might not be a popular course but it’s very interesting and its job prospects are impressive. People with expertise in foreign languages can find job as diplomats in foreign countries where such languages are spoken. They can be tutors or translator/interpreter in multinational organisations. For example, I served as French Interpreter during the 2015 Nigerian University Games Association preparations in UNN. I was also the French editor for my department, as well as the religious coordinator.
How many languages do you speak?
I speak English, Igbo, French and I have rudimentary knowledge of Russian and German.
Since you already have some knowledge of the course, how easy was it to have a first class?
It is never easy to make a first class, because language as a whole is not easy to learn, especially when it is not your native language. So, attaining that level of excellence happens only with God’s favour, determination, hard work and self-discipline. I didn’t need anybody to tell me to take my studies seriously because of what I went through to get money. When I got admission, I decided to give my best to secure the best grade, so I had to minimise distraction of any kind. I entrusted my life into God’s hands as the only Shepherd of my soul and destiny. Also, I created study groups to teach my classmates things they found difficult and I started that from 100 level.
When did you start having first class?
I started leading my class from 100 level and organising tutorials for my coursemates helped me greatly. Beyond that, I was influenced to make such decision just to honour my mother by making her so proud of her “girl” child. That was what cost her marriage, so, I planned to make her proud. Female children can also attain the same level of greatness like a male child. I believe we can achieve whatever we set our eyes on if we believe and work towards it. We were more than forty in my final year but only two of us had first class.
What was your typical day like?
It was usually hectic as a result of long hours of lectures, putting in extra hours of work in the evening to further my studies and finding time to teach others. Being a person with strong quest for knowledge, I spent considerable amount of time studying and I slept well because that was when I was free. For my private studying, I spent quite a lot of time in the library making use of all the resources I could lay my hands on. In my third year, I wrote an article in French and it was adjudged one of the best then. So, someone gave me a gift for that.
Did your background affect you in any way?
No, I didn’t allow my background to affect my academic performance. If I should let my background creep into my thoughts, I would not have made a first class, because it was enough distraction and source of worry.
Given all you went through, did you have time for social activities?
Of course, I was social and I did attend some social gatherings, just that I was cautious of the number of hours I put into such activities because of the time I spent working hard to meet my financial needs. I spent my leisure playing games, I did physical exercise such as gymnastic, jogging and taking a long walk on some of the beautiful hills of Nsukka. That enabled me to think and reflect on life. I watched cartoons, comedy shows, adventure and action movies to relieve me of some tension. I also visited orphaned kids in motherless babies’ homes, partly to appreciate God for the gift of life. I also engaged myself in God’s work, which is evangelism.
What were your memorable moments?
I think my happiest moment was during my matriculation ceremony because it was the day my dream of studying French Language became a reality. The thought of studying my dream course ignited the interest and dedication that kept me moving. The day of my convocation was also very remarkable, even though my siblings and my mum could not attend. I felt lonely. I can’t recall having any serious embarrassing moments because I was always ready to dare the odds to get what I wanted. That is when you talk of taking the bull by the horns.
You must have been older than some of your classmates, were there times you felt humiliated?
They never humiliated me; they respected me because I was mindful of my words and conduct, even though I looked younger than my age. Some of them even doubted my age. I took it upon myself to help those who needed it and that earned me some respect as well.
What are your aspirations?
I dream of teaching the French language at an advanced level or working in any other organisation that needs my expertise in French language. Furthermore, I hope my story will inspire many, mostly women, to encourage them to rise up against the various barriers and restrictions imposed on them by culture and traditions. My desire is to go for Master’s and PhD, but that is if I’m able to raise the money.
Given all you have been through to get your first degree, are you disturbed by the unemployment rate in the country?
The rate of unemployment in our country is really troubling and there are good reasons to be troubled by the scourge. However, I have a firm assurance and belief that my help comes from God, the “owner of heaven and earth”. He will surely make a way for me where there is no way.
What is your advice to students?
For those who desire excellent results, they should always give priority to their studies, regardless of the distraction. They should trust in God’s unfailing wisdom and favour.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/dad-left-mum-female-kids-im-glad-ive-made-mummy-proud-chinyere-unn-first-class-graduate/ | en | "2016-06-25T00:00:00" | punchng.com/1a4cdca63312ab98ceef63a595439b495f10c5045a330c5a4f48efc057c130d0.json |
[
"Olubode Olusesan"
] | "2016-08-30T04:48:25" | null | "2016-03-26T00:00:00" | Nigeria news, news in Africa, politics, Entertainment, Sports | http%3A%2F%2Fpunchng.com%2Fanother-nigerian-company-rolls-4g-lte-service%2F.json | http://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/punchng/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/26013712/Adebayo-Shittu.jpg | en | null | Another Nigerian company rolls out 4G-LTE service | null | null | punchng.com | Ozioma Ubabukoh
Another telecommunications firm in the country, InterC Network, has rolled out the 4G Long-Term Evolution service.
The first to do so was ntel, the company that bought off Nigeria Telecommunications Company.
At the unveiling in Lagos, the company spelt out its brand promise and determination to give Internet users a better experience in Nigeria.
In the first phase of its operation, the services are now commercially available in three cities: Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kaduna, while preparation is ongoing to extend to other markets.
The unveiling of the network also coincided with the formal announcement of the transformation of Intercellular Nigeria Limited, a provider of fixed and mobile services using Code Division Multiple Access technology to InterC Network.
The Chief Executive Officer, Emad Sukker, said the company’s re-entry into the market would be phased, starting with three key cities, with later expansions to six other cities during the first full year of commercial operation.
He said, “This formal launch marks the inauguration of our first set of services – extraordinary high-speed data services – through the deployment of 800MHz spectrum band 20, one of the frequency bandwidths assigned us by the Nigerian Communications Commission.
“I am proud to state that our excellent and affordable data packages, which will be announced subsequently, will serve as the standard bearer for our subsequent product and service rollouts.”
Speaking on the determination of the company to become a leading telecoms company, actively promoting the expansion of broadband services in Nigeria by enabling their customers to live better-connected lives, Sukker attributed the current achievement to the forthrightness and foresight of the company’s board of directors.
“The modest journey to where we are today began when our Board of Directors gave us the nod to redirect the business in a way that would make it become a major provider of telecommunications solutions in the country.
“Through hard work and commitment of our team, unwavering support and encouragement of the Board of Directors, we are on the precipice of achieving this milestone. I would like to express my deep gratitude to our team members and the directors for believing in us that we could make this happen,” he said.
Meanwhile, with the world tilting towards more data usage, the company’s CEO stated that the company is determined to achieve one million mark in the next couple of months with the latest technology, the Long term evolution 4G(LTE).
He admitted that telecommunications service was a serious business, saying that InterC had the assets to unlock and operate a full-scale telecoms operation.
“We have phased out CDMA technology completely; what we are offering is LTE /4G and not GSM technology. And this is not to undermine the GSM technology. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission statistics, the country has 149 million active subscribers, yet some areas are still underserved.
“There is still room for market share in the economy. There are some hiccups, but it doesn’t undermine the strength of the economy. But with wise strategy, we can overcome and we have come to make profit in naira and not dollar.
“There are plans to expand the broadband portfolio. Expansion is not our problem because our technical partner, Huawei, is always ready for infrastructural expansion.”
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] | http://punchng.com/another-nigerian-company-rolls-4g-lte-service/ | en | "2016-03-26T00:00:00" | punchng.com/2cfb04836cd48199009d9fc6cc92f59ced33790e3079222f6b83f363ca23b2a4.json |
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