How Imam Shaved Long Beard And Turned Robber

A 50-year-old suspect, Ramoni Adeleke, arrested by operatives of the
Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos State Police Command for
allegedly duping many people has said that he shaved his long beard
and moustache to avoid being recognised by people who know him as a
cleric.

Also arrested are other members of his gang, including 70- year-old
Alhaji Lekan Lanlegu a.k.a. Baba Toyota and 60-year-old Kolawole
Odenide.

A police source, who revealed how the three aged suspects were
arrested, said the Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Kayode Aderanti,
had got a hint that they were involved in robbery and receiving of
stolen cars. The CP promptly directed the Superintendent of Police in
charge of SARS, Mr. Abba Kyari, and his team to get the three men and
the stolen cars. SARS operatives, therefore, disguised as car
snatchers who wanted to sell a stolen car to the gang.

One of them came forward to collect the car. He had entered into
negotiation with the SARS operatives before he realised that they were
policemen. Meanwhile, Kyari and his men had cordoned off the spot and
promptly arrested the would-be receiver.

According to the Nation,Lanlegu said it was one Kolawole Odenide, who
supplied him with a stolen car. His arrest also led to the arrest of
Adeleke at a private mosque he used as an office to dupe people and
receive stolen cars. A cleric he was said to have employed to teach
people in the mosque and lead prayers was said to have scaled the
fence and ran away on sighting policemen.

Adeleke, who described himself as a native of Ade village, Ade South
Local Government Area, Osun State, said he was a transporter. He said
he built a mosque and employed an alfa (Islamic cleric) to manage
it.He said:

"I live in Iba Estate near Lagos State University (LASU) along
Badagry Road, Lagos. I am happily married with five children. I built
a storey building at Iba and a mosque which I built with N300,000. I
built the mosque to honour God and pray to him five times a day. That
was 10 years ago.

"In the year 2000, I started thinking of how to make quick money by
stealing cars. I was jobless and had no money to feed my family. The
man who lured me into car stealing died four years ago. I went to his
house to seek advice on how to survive hunger and he taught me how to
steal cars.

"He told me that he survived by stealing cars and for 10 years, I
stole cars and my poverty disappeared. We would go to a place where a
car was parked and used a screw driver to open the door. We would
dismantle the wiring and use the starter wire to start the engine.

"While he drove the stolen car, I would drive his own car behind him
to wherever he was going to sell, usually a place around Idimu, to an
old man called Fatai, who is now late. After selling it for N100,000
then, he would give me N5,000 as my own share.

"The late Fatai had a mechanic workshop, and it was there that I went
to meet him that I needed money and he told me about stealing cars.

"When Fatai died five years later, one Shina brought Kola Adeniji to
me as a partner in crime. We operated more than five times before we
were arrested. There was no gang leader between us. We were a twoman
gang and anyone could bring a job.

"Our last operation was at Oyigbo, Ebute Meta, Lagos around July this
year. We stole one Pick-Up Hylux vehicle and sold it to one Alhaji
Lekan for N700,000. I had to shave my beard in the cell to avoid
people identifying me as a cleric.

"I bought three commercial buses which ply Ijora-Obalende route, and
each of them makes N4,000 return every day except Saturday and Sunday.
I was arrested at Atede in Osun State while going to mosque." The
second suspect, Kolawole, said: "I am from Abeokuta, Ogun State. I am
a property dealer in Ikorodu, a suburb of Lagos. I have two wives and
seven children. I met Adeleke in Idi-Iroko, Ogun State when I was
doing smuggling. I knew him through a friend called Shina.

"I learnt about stealing cars about seven years ago. Whenever we
opened a car door, tore the starting wire and it refused to start, we
abandoned it in the belief that it had a security system. But at
times, once you start the engine, the security system becomes
useless."I was once arrested and taken to the State Criminal
Investigation Department (SCID) Panti. I was charged to court and
remanded in prison for one week. I had gone on nine operations and
stopped before I started again in January because of the economic
situation in the country."

Star Lager Beer Set To Break World Record With Xmas Tree Made From 8000 Star Beer Bottles

Nigeria's leading beer brand, STAR has commenced the building of the
largest bottle tree in the world made with 8000 beer bottles at Eko
Atlantic Bar Beach Stretch, Victoria Island, venue of the much
anticipated Lagos Countdown 2014.

The STAR Bottle Tree will stand, as an iconic landmark shining on into
the New Year.

A first of its kind in the country, the Star Tree symbolizes the
greatness of the Nigerian spirit personified by Star Lager, the
country's first indigenous beer brand.

The Star Tree, when finished will break the current World Record of
1000 beer bottles being held by the Chinese in the city of Shanghai
for being the first tree made with 8000 beer bottles.

Fans and lovers of innovation were not left out in the process of
building the Tree as they submitted empty bottles for the
record-breaking feat. Follow conversations on social media, using the
hashtags #ShineInto2015 #StarBottleTree

EPL Update: Chelsea Maintain Lead As Lampard Lifts Man City Chelsea 2-0 Hull

Eden Hazard and Diego Costa were both on target for Chelsea, who
retained their three-point lead at the summit of the Barclays Premier
League on Saturday.

Manager Jose Mourinho is now the first manager to reach 400 points in
the English top-flight in the fewest matches, following his side's
victory in his 174th game in charge of the Stamford Bridge side.

West Brom 1-0 Villa

Craig Gardner's first goal for West Bromwich Albion secured victory in
the midland derby against Aston Villa at the Horthons.

Burnley 1-0 Southampton

Burnley moved off the bottom three with a morale-boosting win against
Southampton. Ashley Barnes grabbed the game's solitary goal following
some horrible defensive show from Southampton, who have now lost their
last four successive matches.

Sunderland 1-1 West Ham

First half goals by Jordi Gomez and Stewart Downing saw Sunderland
share the spoils with visiting West Ham.

Leicester 0-1 Man City

Frank Lampard grabbed his 175th career Premier League goal as
Manchester City maintained their challenge for successive title.

Palace 1-1 Stoke

Two goals in two minutes by James McArthur and Peter Crouch ensured
both Crystal Palace and Stoke City snatch a point from their Week 16
encounter.

Greek Authorities Investigate Gunfire Attack On Israeli Embassy In Athens

Unknown gunmen reportedly fired dozens of bullets at the facade of the
Israeli embassy in Athens, Greece, without causing any injury in a
pre-dawn, drive-by attack Friday on one of the Greek capital's
best-guarded buildings. APcovered the story:

Police said 54 bullet casings from an AK-47 assault rifle -- a weapon
favored by Greek anarchist militant groups -- were recovered outside
the embassy, on a busy road junction that was closed to traffic for
hours.

Nobody claimed responsibility for the attack, which occurred long
before the building opened for business.

Officials in Athens condemned the shooting, stressing it would not
affect the country's close ties with Israel.

"The Greek government is fully determined to ensure the protection of
all diplomatic missions in Greece," a Foreign Ministry statement said.
"Of course, particularly strong security and protection measures are
in force at the Israeli embassy."

Police said the attackers were riding on at least one motorbike, and
escaped after the attack, leaving the building pock-marked with bullet
holes.
--

Mark Zuckerberg Considering A 'Dislike' Button For Facebook

All Facebook users have wished at some point or other that they could
stop oversharers, braggers and drunk status-writers in their tracks
with a swift click of the 'dislike' button.

Unfortunately, no such button exists - but it might fairly soon.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced in a short video on his
Facebook page that a 'dislike' button or something similar might be
needed in the future to give users more freedom to express their
feelings.

'We're thinking about it. On the dislike button... there are more
sentiments that people want to express than just positivity or that
they like something,' he said.

'The like button is really valuable because it's a way for you to very
quickly express a positive emotion or sentiment when someone puts
themselves out there and shares something.

'A lot of times people share things on Facebook that are sad moments
in their lives or are tough, cultural or social things and often
people tell us that they don't feel comfortable pressing 'like'
because 'like' isn't the appropriate sentiment when someone lost a
loved one or is talking of a very difficult issue.'

Zuckerberg stressed, however, that the 'dislike' or equivalent button
would have to be a 'force for good' and not 'demeaning the post'.

The announcement represents a spectacular u-turn for Facebook, with
former CTO and creator of the 'like' button Bret Taylor saying in
October that there would 'never' be a 'dislike' option.

'The main reason is that in the context of the social network, the
negativity of that button has a lot of unfortunate consequences,' he
said.

Gospel Artiste, Yinka Ayefele Shares Photos Of Accident That Put Him In Wheelchair 17-Years-Ago

A lot of people don't know the full story behind the Yinka Ayefele
accident, but I'll give you a little insight.

17 years after a major accident that affected his two legs, gospel
artist Yinka Ayefele continues to thank God for saving his life.

This morning he took to his Facebook page to share pictures from the
accident, as well as a picture of himself before the accident.

He also shared pictures from a family thanksgiving gathering as well
as a message with his fans.

He wrote:REJOICE AND THANK GOD WITH ME. the journey started exactly
17yrs ago, it was on Friday December 12th 1997. On my way to Abeokuta
where I had that ghastly motor accident. it was indeed MY TURNING
POINT. "ODUNMBAKU" I will for ever be grateful to you my Lord. Thank
you all for your love, support and encouragement. When there is life
there is hope.
--infonaija

Missing Nigerian Baby Found In Mexico, Father Arrested

The missing baby who went missing after his mother was found dead in a
refrigerator at their home in Houston, Texas on Monday December 8th
has been found in Mexico in good health.

11 months old Achilles Lambert was abducted by his Nigerian father,
Patrick Lambert, who is a suspect in his estranged wife's murder.
Anastacia Lambert was stabbed to death.

Houston police say the little boy was found abandoned yesterday Friday
December 12th in Queretaro, central Mexico. Patrick was located
somewhere else in Mexico and has since been taken into custody.

Linda Ikeji Donates N1m To Fight Ebola

It was indeed an unforgettable eveningof inspiration and glitz, as the
Future Awards Africa 2014 held on Sunday at the prestigious
Intercontinental Hotel.

The event hosted by Iyanya, Osas Ighodaro, Ice Prince and Flavia was
graced by stars like Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Banky W, Funke Akindele,
Seyi Shay, Dakore Akande, Timi Dakolo, Toke Makinwa, Toolz, Uti
Nwachukwu, and others notable dignitaries.

Ten outstanding individuals were rewarded for their excellent work
across different fields: business, entertainment, politics, science
and technology and education.

A star highlight of the evening was the final phase of TFAA's
#STOPEBOLA campaign, which was held via an auction on a custom piece
by A-List haute couture designer, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi. Blogger, linda
Ikeji bid a whopping sum of one million naira on the dress which
proceeds will go to United Nations Ebola Response Fund.
--Vanguard

"I'm Still Best Man For Liverpool Job" --Rodgers

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has declared that he remains the
best man for the job despite disappointing recent results, in comments
published by several British newspapers on Saturday.

Liverpool were knocked out of the Champions League by Basel in
mid-week and are currently 15 points below leaders Chelsea in the
Premier League table ahead of Sunday's trip to Manchester United.

Defeat at Old Trafford would further compromise Liverpool's hopes of
securing a top-four finish and qualifying for next season's Champions
League, but Rodgers is confident that he will turn things around.

"I think the message from me is clear: I don't think there would be
anyone better to do the job here," said the Northern Irishman, whose
side narrowly lost out to Manchester City in last season's title race.

"Seven months ago we nearly won the title unexpectedly. I had time to
work with players and we took them beyond where the club has been in a
long time.

"This has been a difficult start with new players, less coaching time,
young players. We are virtually starting again."

He added: "Criticism comes with the territory when you don't win
games. Football is very short-term. The same people who are
criticising me now were maybe saying I couldn't do anything wrong six
or seven months ago.

"That is the way football works. You have to accept that as a manager
and fight even harder to bring success. This period has ensured I will
do that for sure."

Man Dies After Gulping Energy Drink From 8 Cans During Bet

Elijah Nwankwo, of Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi, have been
confirmed dead after allegedly gulping energy drink from eight cans
during a bet.

This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Ebere Amarizu, the
Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police in Enugu State on
Friday.

According to the statement, the victim had on Dec. 11 agreed to drink
eight cans of energy drink for N1,600 to be paid by one Chikwado
Nchionu, the challenger.

"After taking the energy drink, he became weak and went into coma. He
was immediately rushed to a hospital in Enugu where he was confirmed
dead by a doctor.

"The body of the deceased has been deposited at the hospital's
mortuary'', the statement said.

In another development, the police in Udi Division have nabbed two
armed robbery suspects that specialised in terrorising commuters
plying Udi/Ozalla road.

The statement named the suspects as Chikwado Oyii of Umuoka village
and Daniel Udeh of Amagu village.

"The suspects were nabbed through the partnership between the police
and the members of the Neighbourhood Watch in Udi as the suspects were
about blocking the road for their nefarious activities,'' it said.
--Vanguard

Cameroonian Soldiers Kill Over 150 Boko Haram Fighters

Cameroonian soldiers may have killed over 150 persons suspected to be
Boko Haram militants in the northern part of the country, during an
attack in Amchide, an area near the Nigerian border, at about 8:30pm
on Thursday night.

This was disclosed by a top security source, who also said that the
militants attacked the defence and security forces in their hundreds,
but were resisted and defeated.

This new incident comes some months after at least 200 Boko Haram
insurgents were killed by the army in Amchide and Limani, another part
of Northern Cameroon.

Get Behind Arsenal, Wenger Tells Disgruntled Fans

Arsene Wenger has told disgruntled Arsenal fans to put their feelings
towards him to one side and support the team.The Gunners lie sixth in
the Premier League after 15 matches and have qualified for the last 16
of the Champions League for the 15th consecutive season, but a section
of supporters have been calling for Wenger to leave.

Criticisms centre around a lack of defensive reinforcements, perceived
tactical naivety and a lack of discernible progress towards a first
league title since 2004, with Wenger facing particularly vociferous
abuse from members of the Arsenal away support after a disappointing
3-2 away defeat to Stoke City last Saturday.

But drawing attention to his achievements over 18 years in charge of
the Gunners, the Frenchman has called on those pushing for a change of
manager to put their grievances aside for the good of the team."What
is in the word supporter? Support. It says what it says," he told
reporters.

"I don't expect anything but if you will look at the history of
Arsenal and what we have achieved in the last 18 years and we have
moved forward and that what is what we want to continue to do."I have
managed in 180 Champions League games. How many Champions League games
did Arsenal play before?"Wenger insists he gives no thought to those
who want him to leave, claiming he remains fully focused on delivering
success for Arsenal on the pitch. "That is not my problem," he added.
"My problem is to win football games. I am not a politician who has a
poll every week to see if you support me. I am paid to win games. My
sense is to focus on my job."Honestly you don't think I will find 20
people who say that you are rubbish? Do they represent the majority of
people? I don't know but you have to win your football games, that's
all."

Tinubu To Pick VP For Buhari

MuhammaduBuhari, presidential candidate of the All Progressives
Congress (APC), has conceded the picking of his running mate to Bola
Tinubu, national leader of the party,TheCablecan report.

This has in effect diminished the chances of Chibuike Amaechi,
governor of Rivers state, who was all along tipped to be the
vice-presidential candidate.

Further discussions are going to be held next weekend, but a quick
decision may not be reached.

The party still has up till December 18 to submit the name of the
nominee to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Buhari's decision to give Tinubu the slot is apparently based on the
voting population of the south-west which he is banking on to upstage
the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 presidential election.

"Politics is not winner-takes-all. Tinubu worked round the clock to
deliver a huge chunk of votes to Buhari in the primary, and it is only
fair that he is honoured in return," an aide to Buhari toldTheCable.

Tinubu, TheCable can further report, has not foreclosed the choice of
anyone as the VP candidate, but he is opposed to Amaechi - although
the Rivers governor has made the biggest financial contribution to
Buhari's campaign.

An APC chieftain from the south-west toldTheCable:"Rumours that
Amaechi has been chosen as the running mate are not true in any form.
The running mate will be announced soon."

The chieftain further toldTheCable:"If the party exco settles for a
Muslim/Muslim ticket, Tinubu himself will be the number one choice. If
not, then Adams Oshiomhole stands the best chance among the rest."

He ruled out Babatunde Fashola, governor of Lagos, who is also a Muslim.

The Cable has now installed Oshiomhole, Edo governor, as the odds-on
favourite for the running mate slot, slashing his chances from 8/10 to
8/9, while dropping Amaechi's odds from 9/10 to 5/10.

UK Mother Jailed For Promoting Terrorism On Facebook

Runa Khan admitted promoting terrorism and has been jailed for more
than five years

A mother-of-six has been jailed for five years and three months for
promoting terrorism on Facebook.

Runa Khan, from Luton, had previously admitted inciting terrorism in Syria.

Khan, 35, of Maple Road West, had posted a picture of a suicide vest
and unwittingly passed details of a route into the country to an
undercover police officer.

During sentencing, Kingston Crown Court heard police had found photos
of Khan's children holding guns and swords.

Mohammed Nahin Ahmed sent details of a route into Syria to Khan, the court heard

Judge Peter Birts QC said the "only fair interpretation" of those
pictures was that Khan had intended to radicalise others.

In an interview with BBC Newsnight, she said: "I was posting up my belief."

She said the UK was "the last place I would want to live in... the
majority of people with my mindset are actually behind bars because
they don't want to stay in Britain".

Khan added when she talked about jihad she was not suggesting killing
innocent people.

She told the programme: "I have always said I don't believe in going
and blowing myself up in a shopping centre where there are going to be
innocent children.

"And when I spoke about suicide missions, I only spoke about it
because it's a much feared war tactic, which should only be used in a
battlefield, not anywhere else."

'Extreme Islamist views'

In September 2013, Khan had re-posted an article entitled "Raising
Mujahid Children", intended for Islamist mothers, the court heard.

The judge said the article amounted to "a manual in encouraging women
to carry out jihad".

Khan had also posted a message on an extremist website, saying she
wished her son would one day become a jihadi.

"I pictured the future while I was zipping up his jacket, in sha Allah
i'll be tying the shahada bandana round his forehead and hand him his
rifle and send him out to play the big boys game," she wrote.

Prosecutor Paul Jarvis said Khan held "extreme Islamist views".

Her actions were uncovered when she started speaking to an undercover
police officer, with whom she had a private conversation on Facebook.

In that message, she sent him details of a route into Syria which had
been passed to her by Mohammed Nahin Ahmed, a British man who was
jailed for terrorism offences last Friday.

When police raided her home in October 2013, they found images on her
phone of her two-year-old son wearing a turban and holding a toy
assault rifle.

Runa Khan pleaded guilty at Kingston Crown Court in July

Other pictures showed small children in Syria holding guns, and in one
case a hand grenade.

Khan's barrister, Jo Sidhu QC, described his client as "inflexible" in
her religious beliefs.

He said she was "extremely insecure, unsophisticated, binary in her
thought processes... devoid of any proper... reasonable Islamic
teaching."

Commander Richard Walton, head of the Metropolitan Police's counter
terrorism unit, said Khan had used social media as a "tool for
terrorism".

"Khan used it to spread extremism, radicalise others and justify
children being used for terrorism," he said.

"We aim to make the internet a more hostile environment for
terrorists; today's sentence supports that aim."
--BBC

APC Narrows Search For Buhari's Running Mate To South West

Nigeria's main opposition party, All Progressives Congress, APC, has
resolved to confine its search for a vice presidential candidate for
the 2015 election to the country's South West, a day after electing
former military ruler, Muhammadu Buhari, as its flagbearer for the
polls, those familiar with the matter have told PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr. Buhari, from the North West, defeated four other contenders
Thursday to emerge APC's presidential candidate, set to challenge
President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in
February.

The former military ruler's running mate is expected to come from
southern Nigeria- one among South West, South East, and South South.

But the party has yet to agree on a choice after 24 hours of intense
negotiations and talks between its top leaders.

Party officials told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday that except the APC
decides to reverse its decision, the searchlight has been narrowed to
states in southwest alone.

The reason, they said, is the belief that only the South West
delivered to Mr. Buhari approximately 100 per cent block votes.

Officials believe that while the South East and South South regions
supported Mr. Buhari by voting for him, significant portions of those
votes were also shared with other candidates, including former Vice
President Atiku Abubakar, Governors Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano and Rochas
Okorocha of Imo State.

There was speculation on Friday that the Governor of Rivers state,
Rotimi Amaechi, had been chosen as Mr. Buhari's running mate.

However, one senior official of the party denied the plan.

"The South West gave General 100 per cent of their votes and so it is
only fair that they get to produce the vice president," the source,
who declined to be named because the issue is not yet official, said.

The official also said a "victory" dinner was held at the resident of
one of the national leaders of the party, Bola Tinubu, in Ikoyi after
the election on Thursday and the matter was discussed briefly.

"Another round of meeting was held today, there will be another one
tomorrow here in Lagos, but I believe probably the last meeting will
be held in Abuja on Monday after which whoever is selected will be
made known," he said.

Parties have up to December 18 to submit names of their candidates to
the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The choice of South West to produce the Vice President is also
strategic because Mr. Buhari is expected to get substantial votes from
the northern states and will need to get the votes from the South West
to stand any chance of upstaging incumbent President Jonathan.

Mr. Buhari got 3,430, to beat the other candidates, who also included
publisher, Sam Nda-Isaiah.

Atiku got 954 votes, Kwankwaso: 974, Rochas Okorocha: 624 and Mr. Nda
Isaiah: 10 votes.

Among the major contenders to the vice presidential ticket are Yemi
Osibanjo, a professor of Law, who was the Attorney General and
Commissioner for Justice in Lagos state under Governor Tinubu.

The immediate past governor of Ekiti state, who also chaired the
National Convention Planning Committee of the primary, Kayode Fayemi,
is also under consideration.

'My Watch': Obasanjo Appeals Against Confiscation Order

Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has appealed against the
ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered that his
autobiography, "My Watch", be confiscated for disobeying an injunction
restraining its publication. He argued that he is not guilty of
contempt "for publishing my book."

Obasanjo had presented a three-volume book to the public, which a
chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Buruji Kashamu
instituted a legal action against, following a libel suit he had
earlier filed against the former president.

Presiding judge, Justice Valentine Ashie, on Wednesday, ruled that
irrespective of the public presentation, the former President erred by
not obeying his court injunction.

Obasanjo, through his legal team, led by Gboyega Oyewole, however
filed an appeal challenging the confiscation order, declaring
10-grounds to support the appeal.

Among the 10 grounds of appeal, according to the former president's
counsel, include that, "the learned trial judge erred in law when he
granted interlocutory orders of injunction which inter alia restrained
the defendant from the publication of his book or the content of the
letter to the President which is the subject of the suit before the
trial judge in the said book, "My Watch."

"(a) There was uncontradicted affidavit evidence that the defendant's
book "My Watch" had been published and released to the public before
the making of the interlocutory order.

"(b) The plaintiff never alluded to this fact in his affidavit before
the court. (c) It is settled law that an injunction does not lie to
restrain a completed act. (d) His lordship failed and/or neglected to
allude to the affidavit evidence before making the interlocutory
order.

"The learned trial judge erred in law and exercised its discretion
wrongfully in granting the orders of interlocutory injunction subject
of this appeal against the defendant restraining him from publishing
his book, "My Watch" or publishing his letter subject of the suit in
the said book."

Obasanjo also released a statement saying he did not flout the court's
order. The statement released through his library, The Olusegun
Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) and signed by Vitalise Ortese,
noted that "since the news of the said order broke, he (Obasanjo) has
been receiving calls from concerned friends from far and near and he
is constrained to make this release and present the facts as they
relate to the book and it's public presentation.

"Chief Olusegun Obasanjo wishes to state that the media reports which
convey the impression that he intended to 'dare or confront a judge or
the judiciary' is highly misleading. Far from this, on the contrary,
the former president is a law abiding citizen who will only pursue his
rights within the law and will not 'dare' a judge or knowingly flout
an order of a Court of competent jurisdiction.

"The former president wishes to make it clear that in the first
instance, no formal order from Justice Ashi was served and received by
either himself or by proxy regarding any injunction restraining the
publication of the book, "My Watch" which from the records was already
in circulation."

"The former president reiterate his regard for due process on
judiciary and rule of law, and recognises that the order is from the
court and not the governments it has been attributed in some
quarters."

Aguero, Pardew Named EPL Player & Manager Of The Month

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero and Newcastle United manager
Alan Pardew have won the Barclays Premier League player and manager of
the month awards for November respectively.

Argentina international Aguero, currently sidelined with a knee
injury, scored three goals and assisted two others to help the
champions continue their chase for successive titles, three points
behind leaders Chelsea.

The 26-year-old was named Football Supporters' Federation Player of
the Year for 2014 just last week. He is set to miss between four and
six weeks with a knee ligament injury sustained in the third minute of
last weekend's 1-0 win over Everton.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is named the Premier League manager of the
month after guiding his team to three wins out of four, including last
Saturday's 3-2 home win over Chelsea and the 1-0 loss at West Ham on
November 29.

Pardew, 53, whose Newcastle side are 7th on the Premier League log
with 23 points, has now won three Manager of the Month recognitions.

Newcastle face a trip to Arsenal on Saturday, while Man City are away
at Leicester City same day.

Rochas Okorocha Picks Up Imo Governorship Form After Failed Presidential Bid

Less than 20 hours after Governor Rochas Okorocha crashed out of the
(APC) presidential primaries held on December 11, 2014, the Imo State
APC yesterday hurriedly organized a gubernatorial primary ..

The state Commissioner for Lands and the son-in-law of Governor
Okorocha, Chief Uche Nwosu,who had earlier been elected as the
consensus governorship candidate of the party surprisingly withdrew
his candidature

According to Sun, Chairman of the election committee of the party, Mr.
John Alamba, said the party had to organize another gubernatorial
primaries in line with the party' s constitution to replace Chief Uche
Nwosu.

Fire Guts Force HQ Annex In Lagos

An inferno on Friday destroyed a section of the Nigeria Police Force
Headquarters Annex, Kam Selem Street, Obalende, Lagos.

PUNCH correspondent learnt that the fire, which started at about
6.30am, consumed several offices on the topmost floor of the force
annex building.

PUNCH reports that the fire, whose cause had yet to be ascertained,
apart from destroying property, did not claim any life.

An eyewitness told The PUNCH that the fire might have been caused by
an electrical surge, adding that the late response of fire servicemen
also worsened the situation.

It was gathered that officials of the National Emergency Management
Agency, alongside firefighters later arrived at the scene to curtail
the inferno.

Efforts to reach the spokesperson for NEMA, South West Zone, Ibrahim
Farinloye, were not successful as of the time of filing this report.

Normalcy is gradually returning to the area.
--PUNCH

Bomb Explosion Forestalled In Owerri

It was a close one in Owerri, in Imo state as IEDs were found and
defused by the Police command before damage could happen.

According to Channels' report, the explosive components were found in
two separate places in a resuatrant lobby in Ikenegbu area.

Aldulmajid Ali, Imo state Commissioner of Police, says that the
command received a distress call at about 9:30pm on Wednesday from the
eatery management, and the police bomb squad went to check it out.
After a few hours of checking, the explosive was defused successfully.

No arrests have been made but investigation is underway.

This will be the second report of defused explosives in the Imo
metropolis in 2014.
--VOFNImo

Chidinma's Father Dies At 62

MTN ambassador, Chidinma has lost her father to the cold hands of
death at the age of 62.

Chidinma's father popularly known as Pa Ekile died on Saturday,
December 6, 2014.

What led to the death of Pa Ekile was yet to be made public at the
time of filing this report.

Recently, Chidinma took to twitter to express some of her heartfelt
emotions. In the first, she tweeted 'I have faith' while the other
reads: 'Say a prayer for me.'

The Imo state beautiful young artiste is expected to make the trip to
her home town in preparation for her father's burial.

Nigerian Students In Philippines Hail Ihedioha For Winning Guber Ticket

Hon Ihedioha's emergence as the Imo PDP guber flag bearer has been
lauded by students of the state studying in the Phillipines.
RT. Hon Emeka Ihedioha (emekaihedioha2015)

Imo states students studying in the Philippines have congratulated the
Deputy Speaker Federal House of Representatives (HoR), Rt. HonEmeka
Ihediohafor his victory at thePeoples Democratic Party(PDP)
gubernatorial primaries.

Ihedioha became the party's guber flag-bearer after the December 8th
primaries where he polled a total number of 346 votes to emerge tops.

In a congratulatory message by the leadership of the Philippines
Chapter of theMbutu Mbaise Student in Diaspora(MMSD), the students
hailed Ihedioha's victory.

"We the Mbutu Mbaise student in diaspora (MMSD) Philippines Chapter
congratulates you on your political victory in the just concluded PDP
primaries."

"Sir we are not surprise for your well-deserved victory because you
have attracted numerous federal government project to our state,
ensured youth empowerment and job creation to mention but a few thing

"Be assured that we are ready to work with you in advancing Imo
state," the message read.

The President of the association, Cadet Nwachukwu Remigius Chigozie,
described the victory as a sign of the people's confidence in the
seasoned lawmaker.

"RT. Hon Emeka Ihedioha's victory shows the confidence of the people
of Imo State in his plans, especially as the victory took place in a
very competitive environment and an exemplary atmosphere of peace,
freedom and justice, as is the tradition in the IMO State," Chigozie
said.

Ihedioha has been the Deputy Speaker of the HoR since the 6th of June, 2011.

Buhari's Likely Running Mates

HAVING emerged victorious at the presidential primaries of the All
Progressives Congress,APC, in line with pre-convention predictions,
the question of who becomes the running mate of Major General
Muhammadu Buhari (retd) is on the front burner.

Earlier the matter had attracted so much controversy following
statements by Buhari, suggesting that he was not indisposed to the
possibility of picking a Muslim as his running mate.

"I have not absolutely closed my mind to picking a Christian or Muslim
as running mate if I get the ticket. Because I firmly believe that
Nigerians, having gone through what they have gone through, realise it
is not a matter of religion, but a matter of Nigeria.

Political confusionists

And the main religions, Christianity and Islam, they know and they
believe in the almighty God. The question of stealing and
short-changing people in the name of religion should stop. This new
phenomenon of religion is another blackmail political confusionists in
Nigeria are bringing to the fore," he said.

Even though his stance was backed with the June 12 presidential
election scenario, when Chief Moshood Abiola and his vice-presidential
candidate, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe, won on same fate ticket, the
heaven was literally let loose, as many objected to the possibility of
that.

With that level of controversy, indicating a general rejection of a
possible Muslim-Muslim ticket, it became obvious that aside religion,
ethnicity would be key in deciding the matter.

Before now, names that had been touted as likely running mates
include; Lagos State governor, Mr. Babarunde Fashola (SAN), former
Ekiti State governor, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Mr.
Rotimi Amaechi, Senator Olurumibe Mamoro, Prof. Yemi Osibajo (a former
commissioner in Lagos State), Senator Ajayi Borofice (currently
representing Ondo North in the Senate) and Mr. Wale Edun, a former
commissioner in Lagos State.

While the trio of Osibajo, Borrofice and Edun may have existed in the
realm of speculation, Ameachi, Oshiomhole, Fayemi and Mamora among
others, are still in contention.

Shortly before yesterday's exercise, speculations were rife that the
immediate past governor of Ekiti State, may be chosen.

His religion and political experience are the factors behind the
possibility of pairing him with Buhari.

Fayemi, who lost the last governorship polls is regarded as an urbane
politician, whose popularity extends beyond the South-West
geopolitical zone.

His robust civil society background also adds to his resume.

Fayemi, who has a Doctorate degree in War Studies from the University
of London, England, specializing in civil-military relations, is also
known to have had a cordial relationship with Buhari when he governed
Ekiti.

Before he ventured into full time politics, he was the Director of the
Centre for Democracy & Development, a research and training
institution dedicated to the study and promotion of democratic
development, peace-building and human security in Africa.

Prior to his establishment of the centre, he worked as a lecturer,
journalist, researcher and Strategy Development adviser in Nigeria and
the United Kingdom. He was Strategy Development Adviser at London's
City Challenge; research fellow at the African Research & Information
Bureau in London, UK. He also played key roles in sending the military
out of the Nigerian political firmament and was responsible for the
founding and management of the opposition radios - Radio Freedom,
Radio Democracy International & Radio Kudirat.

Amaechi's name is not new in speculations and permutations in the
presidential race, as he was generally alleged to have nursed the
ambition of paring with Alhaji Sule Lamido on the platform of the PDP.

Ardent Buhari

However, since his defection to the APC, the Rivers State governor has
been regarded as an ardent supporter of Buhari. For instance, the
former Head of State had been a frequent guest at most functions
organised by Amaechi.

Having emerged more of a democratic hero in the crisis that resulted
to his defection, Ameachi went ahead to become one of the leading
governors in the party, hence, his emergence as a likely running mate.

While it is the prerogative of the party to make a decision in that
respect, some believe that Buhari/Amaechi ticket remains the best for
the opposition party.

Mamora

As a two term senator, Mamora distinguished himself in the National Assembly.

So remarkable was his representation of Lagos East Senatorial
District, that many were shocked about his inability to return to the
Senate in this dispensation.
--Vanguard

The Only Thing Buhari Has Changed Is His Dressing, His Ideas Are Still Tired, His Utterances Provocative --PDP

The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has
welcomed the candidacy of the former Military Head of State, General
Muhammadu Buhari as the Presidential flag bearer of the All
Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2015 general elections. The party
however said nothing has changed since the last time he contested
except his dinner suit.

"This will be the fourth time General Buhari will be contesting in the
presidential elections. On each of the three previous occasions, he
failed to articulate a vision of the future that was acceptable to
Nigerians. On each occasion his brand of politics was rejected across
Nigeria. Apart from changing to a dinner suit, General Buhari, has not
changed the tired ideas and provocative utterances that Nigerians
rejected in previous elections.

"We hope that this time round, General Buhari will conduct a campaign
that is issue based and devoid of ethno-religious sentiments," the PDP
said in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa
Metuh.

Metuh however maintained that the Presidential candidate of the PDP,
President Goodluck Jonathan remains the best man to rule the country.

"We are convinced that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains the
only truly National Political Party in Nigeria, a platform on which
all Nigerians can pursue their legitimate aspirations.

"We also believe that despite the distractions, President Goodluck
Jonathan has a genuine record of accomplishments on which to run and
deserves a second term. President Jonathan's re-election will
guarantee Unity and Stability for Nigerians. His second term will also
deliver prosperity to Nigerians.

"Finally, in the words of our own President 'The choice before
Nigerians in the coming election is simple: A choice between going
forward or going backwards; between the new ways and the old ways;
between freedom and repression; between a record of visible
achievements and beneficial reforms - and desperate power-seekers with
empty promises.'"

Seun Kuti Says He Doesn't Believe in Marriage

Seun Kuti opened up to Encomium Magazine on why he doesn't believe in
marriage, talks new album and more.

Read excerpts from the interview below:

On his plans to get married to the mother of his child

I don't believe in marriage. I and my partner already share a very
strong relationship. We're raising a very beautiful daughter. Marriage
is not something I indulge. The truth is, marriage institution in
Nigeria has collapsed. Nobody is even getting married for long
anymore. On the average, it's within a year. Although, they still
marry, they separate.

And what do you think is responsible for this?

Because people get married for wrong reasons. As a matter of fact, the
institution of marriage is fading away in the traditional sense of
marriage - for love; for better for worse; and all sorts. It's fading
because women are no longer submissive. For you to live together with
someone for life, someone must be submissive. That is easier when
women are not working, and they depend on their husband. But now, it's
becoming difficult because they are now working; making money even
more than men. The situation is terrible now. Even if you, as a man,
is not looking outside, your wife will look.

That shouldn't be an excuse for you not getting married; bring your
family together to have fun?

Is that the purpose of marriage? That's a decision for me, and my
partner already agreed. In fact, there was a wedding we attended in
Ibadan, the couple broke-up at the reception. What about that?
Because of picture, the bride's father wanted to take first, and the
groom's father said No, and all sorts of things started. They broke-up
right at the reception.

Tell us what you cherish about your partner?

We are loyal to each other in a superficial way, and that's what I can
wish for in a relationship- loyalty.

But your late father got married; as a matter of fact, he married 27.
What's your take on that?

Like I said, Nigerians are not looking at issues deeply. If you look
deep into the issue you raised now, you'll discover that in 1986, Fela
divorced all his wives. People seem to forget this fact. It also goes
to buttress my point that says, marriage is becoming a fading
institution. I mean, Fela was the epitome of marriage. First, he
married one; then he married 26 at once. He has experienced both, and
later, he came out to say marriage is bad. What about that?

APC Primary: Atiku Concedes Defeat, Congratulates Buhari

All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant, Abubakar Atiku,
has congratulated his fellow aspirant, General Muhammadu Buhari, for
getting higher votes than him during the party's primary holding in
Lagos.

The former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar got 954 votes while Gen.
Buhari got 3,430 votes indicating a possible victory for the former
military Head of State.

Atiku took to his social media platform, Twitter to congratulate the
retired General, saying, "Congratulations General Buhari, the
delegates have spoken you fully deserve the victory."

Uche Jombo Loses Pregnancy Close To Delivery Time

Heavily pregnant Abiriba, Abia state born popular actress, Uche Jombo
Rodrigues has lost her pregnancy.

The prolific actress and film-maker who traveled to the United States
of America, to have her baby, expecting to stay in the country till
next year after she must have delivered her baby has sadly lost the
pregnancy.

The beautiful actress and scriptwriter who got married to her
heartthrob, Kenney Rodriguez in 2012 left Nigeria heavily pregnant in
May, 2014 is said to have had a miscarriage. The actress who has over
hundred movies to her credit was said to have planned not only to
deliver in the states but also to put finishing touches to a number of
her films expected to be released. Uche, who conceived at about the
same time with fellow actress and new mother, Mercy Johnson had the
sad miscarriage few weeks ago.

Although no official statement has been made about the sad
development, the actress is said to be presently taking a rest from
making movies and is concentrating on pushing her films into the
market.

She also took to her Facebook page some moments ago to post this:"To
be Happy, sometimes we just have to Forget what's gone, Appreciate
what still remains and Look forward to the good that's coming Next."

However, unconfirmed reports made it known that she has taken in
again. Uche Jombo has written and co-written several movies, some of
which include: Visa to Hell, The Celebrity, Games Men Play, Girls in
the Hood & A Time to Love and lots more. She has produced her own
movies ranging from Nollywood Hustlers, A Mother's Fight, Lies Men
Tell, After The Proposal, Under Your Skin, Unconditional, Almost
Perfect, Oge's Sister, False, A Long Night, to mention a few.

The University of Calabar, Mathematics and Statistics graduate is
being currently touted as the richest actress in Africa on account of
the number of movies she has produced.
--infonaija

Chinedu 'Aki' Ikedieze Speaks On How He Asked His Beautiful Wife Out

Comic Nollywood actor, Chinedu Ikedieze popularly known as Aki has
revealed to CityPeople how he wooed his beautiful wife three years
ago.

He revealed that nothing special happened while asking her out and it
seemed all normal. He said;

"God will not forgive you if you know you love a girl and she loves
you and you know you can make a family. So, what stops you from
telling her you love her? What stops you from telling her 'common
baby, let's do this.' I just told her baby, lets do this and the rest
is history."
--infonaija

Mikel Scores First Champions League Goal

When Chelsea lost to Newcastle last weekend, Nigeria's John Mikel Obi
was made the scapegoat as he was blamed for not marshalling the
midfield as well as Serbian Nemanja Matic who missed the game through
accumulation of five yellow cards.

But in Wednesday night's Champions League clash against Sporting
Lisbon, the former Lyn Oslo star gave a star performance and earned a
goal for himself when he bundled home Chelsea's third goal on 56
minutes to make it 3-1 and add to Cesc Fabregas and Andre Schuerrle
goals for the Blues.

The goal is Mikel Obi's first ever Champions League goal for Chelsea
after 58 appearances. The goal wasn't beautiful or spectacular but was
a significant strike for the Nigerian as he celebrated like a newly
wed with teammates who embraced him with graciously for a job
well-done.

The Blues were already assured of qualification as goals from Cesc
Fabregas, Andre Schurrle and John Obi Mikel secured the victory,
despite Adrien Silva's effort for the Portuguese side.

Spain international Fabregas was handed the chance to give his side
the lead from the penalty spot after eight minutes thanks to a foul on
Filipe Luis.

Fabregas made no mistake from 12 yards before Germany international
Schurrle doubled the advantage shortly after.

Schurrle managed to find some space on the edge of the box and the
former Bayer Leverkusen forward curled an effort beyond Rui Patricio
into the bottom corner.

Nemanja Matic should have made it 3-0 on the half-hour mark but his
somehow missed the target when well placed inside the area.

The Portuguese side reduced the deficit less than five minutes into
the second period when Adrien Silva chested down a half cleared ball
before drilling past Petr Cech in the Chelsea goal.

There an almost instant replay from Jose Mourinho's side but Mohamed
Salah was denied by an excellent stop from Patricio.

Mourinho's men didn't have to wait too much to longer to regain their
two-goal cushion though and it was Mikel who got his name on the
scoresheet with a close-range finish.

Islam Slimani almost reduced the deficit once more but the Sporting
striker was thwarted by Cech's save on 63 minutes.

Jonathan Wins PDP Presidential Ticket, Picks Sambo As Running Mate

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has put to rest talk making the
rounds that there is a plan to drop his Vice President, when he
announced that Arch. Namadi Sambo would be his running mate.

President Jonathan who made the announcement has finally ended the
insinuation about the office of the vice president after his
acceptance speech to once again stand as the nominated Presidential
candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) early this morning.

Before the declaration President Jonathan was elected to stand as the
party's candidate after polling 2,812 'yes' votes against zero
'naught' votes from the same number of delegates that voted at the
Eagle square, Abuja.

Buhari Scores 3430 Votes, Wins APC Ticket

General Muhammedu Buhari has recorded 3430 votes at the ongoing at the
All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Primaries in Lagos, thus
emerging as the winner of the APC primaries. He will contest against
Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at the
February Presidential election.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recorded a paltry 954 votes.

The One Thing Men Want Most In Women --Research

Forget what you've heard before about what men want. It's not high
heels, and it's not lingerie. Men, above all else, want a woman who's
smart.

According to a new study cited by The Times of India, men look for
brains more than anything else when searching for a partner. Since the
1990s, men are happier in marriages where they tie the knot with a
woman who has equal or higher intelligence than they do, according to
the study.

"This, the study confirmed, was a reversal of the 50s, when Marilyn
Monroe starred in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and when a marriage was
most likely to last when a husband was better educated than his wife
(and could presumably flatter him by saying that he knew best)," The
Times of India reported.

The study also found marriages where the partners have a similar level
of education have a higher chance of success. This is a newer trend,
since marriages until the 1980s were 34 percent more likely to end in
divorce when the wife had more education than the men, The Times of
India reported.

"Couples marrying in the early '90s were among the first for whom
wives' educational advantage was no longer associated with a higher
risk of divorce. Couples with the same education levels are now less
likely to divorce," the researchers said, according to The
Independent.

Part of this may be because people want someone who will make them
smarter, since marriages tend to make both partners more intelligent.
According to a study from Macquarie University in Australia, married
couples create an interpersonal connection that allows them both to
learn from each other. This is why couples can often finish each
other's sentences or fill in memory gaps for each other, the study
said.
--pubvirtrue.com

Lipstick Can Cause Arthritis --Research

When applying your lipstick, the last thing you're thinking of is the
impact it will have on your health. After all, it's not like it is
dangerous - or is it?

New research has revealed that your favourite make-up accessory may
actually be unleashing a host of harmful chemicals into your body that
might be damaging your health.

So far linked to muscle problems, hormone disruptions and poisoning
from its heavy metals, lipstick is now also believed to increase your
risks of allergies and some forms of arthritis.

How can lipstick damage my health?

The main problem is the chemicals your lipstick contains.

Parabens, methacrylate, lead, cadmium and triclosan are all amongst
the substances commonly hidden in your makeup.

Triclosan - this substance in particular has caused a lot of alarm
amongst professionals due to its connections with muscle and heart
problems. Known to help bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics,
within 20 minutes of mice being exposed to triclosan, they experienced
a 25% reduction in heart function - a drop which could be replicated
in people.

But this is not all...

Alongside affecting your muscles, triclosan has also been linked to
thyroid and fertility problems. Believed to increase the number of
androgens (male hormones) you produce, this increase can trigger acne,
weight gain, excess hair and menstrual dysfunction.

Cadmium and Chromium - both of these heavy metals have been linked to
dermatitis, skin inflammation and possible kidney damage. This
combined with the fact that it takes your body 40 years to extract
them, means absorbing these metals too often can damage your health.

Methacrylate - can irritate your skin.

Lead - left to build up in your body over time, over exposure to this
metal can lead to lead poisoning which can damage your brain and
nerves.

Most worrying about these revelations is the theory that wearing
lipstick at least 3 times a week can increase your chances of
developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a form of chronic
arthritis, where your body produces antibodies that attack healthy
tissue.

What can be done?

Currently these health claims have been dismissed by The Cosmetic,
Toiletry and Perfumery Association, as these results are based on
research performed on mice, not people.

However, if you're concerned for your health, then simply ensuring you
wear lipstick less than 3 times a week can reduce your risks of
developing SLE, nerve damage, infertility problems and lead poisoning,
and keep your body safe.

Keith Payne is interested in natural remedies for all issues but has
spent the best part of a year researching natural arthritis pain
relief as well as the causes of arthritis.
--healthblogspot.com

Man City Apply For Work Permit For Iheanacho

English Premier League champions, Manchester City have applied for a
work permit for Nigeria youngster Kelechi Iheanacho.

Iheanacho has yet to be capped at full international level by Nigeria
but he has been capped at the U-17 and U-20 levels and City are most
likely to use the special talent argument to get the Home office to
grant Iheanacho the right to ply his trade in the UK.

It was the same argument that helped Chelsea to give Mikel Obi a
contract in 2006 even when by then he was not an established Nigeria
international.

"City have applied for a work permit for Kelechi this week," one of
the player's representatives informed

"We believe he will be granted the chance to play in England."

Iheanacho was the MVP of last year's FIFA U17 World Cup, which Nigeria
won in fine style with the forward finishing also as the second
leading scorer of the tournament.

Last week, he was called up by Nigeria U23 team with coach Samson
Siasia admitting he is a big fan of the U-17 World Cup winner.

He equally shone during City's pre-season training tour of the United
States of America, scoring a couple of goals with class and composure.

Iheanacho turned 18 recently and has been training with Major League
Soccer (MLS) side Colombus Crew.

Earlier this year, City said they may loan out the starlet when he is
18 and can sign a pro deal, but recent reports suggest they may keep
him at the Ittihad Stadium.

Two Suicide Bombers, 4 Others Die In Kano Market Blasts

SIX persons died yesterday while seven others were injured when two
female suicide bombers blew up themselves at Kantin Kwari textile
market in Kano less than two weeks after a similar incident happened
at Kano Central Mosque which claimed more than 100 lives.

Blood stains and rubble are seen next to a burned motorcycle after
twin suicide blasts at Kantin Kwari textile market in northern
Nigeria's commercial city of Kano on December 10, 2014. Two female
suicide bombers killed at least four people at a busy market in
northern Nigeria's largest city Kano, less than two weeks after a
horrific attack at the city's central mosque. Kano state police
commissioner Adenrele Shinaba said the blast at the Kantin Kwari
market in Kano city was "a twin suicide bombing carried out by two
young girls in hijab".

Kano State Police Commissioner, Mr Adenrele Shinaba, who confirmed the
bomb attack said "the blast was a twin suicide bombings carried out by
two young girls in hijab. They came by the market and asked to be
directed to a public convenience. The bombs detonated, killing them
and four others,"adding that at least seven others were injured and
have been taken to the hospital.

According to an eyewitness, the suicide bombers were denied access
when they asked to use the convenience which led to a serious argument
that drew a large crowd.

Vanguard reports that immediately a noticeable crowd gathered at the
scene, one of the suicide bombers immediately detonated her bomb. The
incident which triggered panic in the restive city compelled the
authority to shut the textile market to forestall looting and also to
enable the security agents comb the market.

A female banker, who did not want her name in print, told Vanguard
that the blast sent shock waves to the banking hall as customers and
officials scampered for safety.

She said: "We heard the blast and in no time, a thick smoke enveloped
the banking hall and it was a total confusion as people struggled
through the exit route."

In his account, the leader of the market traders union, Abdullahi
Abubakar, said the blasts hit a parking area rather than the main
market. He estimated that the attackers were in their late teens and
said they were accompanied by a man who disappeared after the girls
blew themselves up.

Blood stained the walls and floors of affected buildings following the
blasts. Angry youths converged on the area and were kept at bay by
police and soldiers, while the bombers' remains were then taken away,
an AFP correspondent said.

Onslaught against terrorists'll continue

--Minimah

Meanwhile, following the recent victories recorded by the Nigerian
Army in the battle to clear Boko Haram terrorists from seized towns in
Adamawa, Yobe and Borno states, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General KTJ
Minimah, has declared that the onslaught to dislodge the terrorists
from every inch of Nigerian soil will continue and the army backed by
the Nigerian Air Force will win the war.

Asked what was the new strategy that had come into place resulting in
the military reclaiming territories, the army boss simply said: "We
have just stepped up the tempo. It will be sustained and we will
definitely defeat them."

Minimah, who was speaking at the commissioning of newly constructed
blocks of kennels for military Police dogs in Abuja, said the current
security challenges bedevilling our country and sub region called for
concerted efforts by all officers and soldiers to enhance the capacity
of the Nigerian Army in whatever little way they can.

"In the past 11 months of my leadership of the Nigerian Army, efforts
have been made to re-equip, re-train and task-organise the Nigerian
Army to effectively tackle contemporary national security challenges,
particularly in the North eastern part of the country.

"One of such efforts is the K9 component of the Nigerian Army which
was established in 2012 and which has contributed tremendously to
support ongoing Nigerian Army operations nationwide. The military
working dogs have been employed for several duties including detection
of explosives and search and rescue operations."

PG Students Protest Fee Hike In UNN

Post-graduate students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN,
yesterday barricaded the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ben
Ozumba, in protest against hike in their tuition fees, describing the
increase from N65,000 to N145,000 as outrageous.

The placard-carrying protesters, numbering over 200, marched round the
school and barricaded the VC's office.

Spokesman of the students, Mr. Paul Haaga, said: "To us, the increment
is outrageous. We are not against any increment, but it should be
reasonable. It is not fair to increase the fees for a session of nine
months from N69,000 to N145,000. Where do they expect us to get that
kind of money?

"We will continue this protest until the university reduces it. I do
not think it is a crime for one to further his education in UNN."

Dean of Post-Graduate School, Professor A. Ubachukwu, who addressed
the students, said: "Government does not give any allocation for
postgraduate school as it is assumed that post-graduate students are
adult and can pay cost for their education.

"I use my personal money at times to run the PG school. I have been
talking with some of your leaders on this issue for some time now and
we compared notes with other universi-ties before the increment on PG
school fees was made."

He commended them for the peaceful protest, adding "you are matured
and responsible.

"The increase is in your interest as it will enable you to graduate on
time and enhance teaching and learning."
--Vanguard

Governors Were Behind My 3rd Term Agenda --Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, for the first time
opened up on the third term agenda in the twilight of his two-term
presidency, accusing some Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governors of
being behind the third term project because they were going to benefit
from it.

At the launch of his autobiography titled: 'My Watch', at the Lagos
Country Club, Ikeja, Obasanjo denied seeking a third term but admitted
he knew about it.

Obasanjo, who said he was not afraid of telling the truth, insisted
that everything he wrote in the book was true.

"People say that it was obvious that I wanted a third term and I ask
those who say I was behind the third term to bring concrete evidence
to prove that I spearheaded it. I have presented evidence in my book
that proves that I was not behind it, even though I knew about it.
Some governors were the ones behind it because they felt the governors
would benefit from it. If people say that it was obvious that I wanted
a third term, they should present concrete evidence to the public that
I am telling a lie. I have evidence to prove that everything I wrote
is true and anyone that feels otherwise should present concrete
evidence to prove his point.

"Third term was not my agenda or intention although I would not say I
didn't know about it. I didn't mastermind third term. Those who were
telling me to go on were the governors that were going to benefit from
it," he said.

Dignitaries at the book launch yesterday were former Vice-Chancellor
of the University of Lagos, Ibidapo Obe, former Minister of Education
and former VP of the World Bank, Oby Ezekwesili, Prof. Olu Akinkugbe
and several others.

Court Gives Obasanjo Contempt Notice, Orders IGP, SSS, To Confiscate Autobiography

An FCT High Court on Wednesday ordered the Inspector General of
Police, Director-General of State Security Services and Controller
General of Nigeria Customs Services to confiscate Obasanjo`s book from
public vendors.

Justice Valentine Ashi, gave the order after former President Olusegun
Obasanjo allegedly went ahead to publish his book titled "My Watch" in
spite of a court order made on Dec. 5, restraining him from making the
publication.

"I am of the view that the defendant having gone ahead to publish the
book, he should therefore show cause within 21 days of the order
served on him on why he should not be punished for contempt of court.

"The Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of State
Security Services and the Controller General of Nigeria Customs
Services are hereby directed to recover the book from sales vendors",
the Judge ordered.

He directed that the book should be kept with the registrar of the
court pending the determination of the suit.

Ashi also restrained the defendant from further printing, publishing
or circulating the book "My Watch" which, he said "touches on the
subject matter of the suit before the court".

Earlier, counsel to Obasanjo, Mr Realwan Okpanachi, told the court
that the book was published before the order was granted.

Okpanachi argued that the book had been in circulation since November
and the order was made on Dec. 5.

The Counsel to Buruji Kashamu, Mr Alex Izinyo, SAN, submitted that the
defendant`s application was a calculated attempt to deceive the court.

Izinyo argued that the defendant admitted in his motion papers that
the book was published on Nov. 10 and in another paragraph, it was
also stated that the book was published on Nov. 2.

"My lord, the burden of proof lay with the defendant to show the court
three volumes of the book", he said.

Ashi adjourned to Jan. 13 and 14, 2015, for hearing of the substantive case.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the plaintiff Mr Buruji
Kashamu, had earlier dragged former President Olusegun Obasanjo before
the court for libel.

NAN further recalls that Kashamu alleged that the former addressed him
as ex-convict in the letter he wrote to President Goodluck Jonathan
titled, "Before it is too late".
--(NAN)

Floyd Mayweather Witnessed His Bestfriend Earl Haye's Murder-Sucide On Face Time

Yesterday,Earl Haye's and wifeStephanie Mosley's committed
murder-suicide. According to a new report onTMZ,Floyd
Mayweatherwitnessed it all.

Floyd was on Factime with one of his best friends, Earl when he pulled
out a gun, shot his wife Stephanie and killed himself.

According to sources, Earl called Floyd on FaceTime on Monday morning
in a rage, telling him that his wife Stephanie Mosley cheated and had
been unfaithful.

Floyd tried to cool Earl down but no success. Mayweather will not say
how much he saw but he acknowledged he saw all what happened.

Floyd is still in schock and is having a very difficult time with the
fact that he witnessed a horrifying murder/suicide.

Wenger Booed By Fans

The level of opprobrium directed by Arsenal fans at the manager,
Arsène Wenger, appears to be escalating rapidly. A video has emerged
on YouTube of Wenger being loudly jeered by fans as he boarded a train
at Stoke-on-Trent following his side's 3-2 defeat by Stoke City on
Saturday.

The fans can be heard voicing their growing disenchantment with the
direction in which the 65-year-old is taking the club. "Joely, do the
best thing mate," one fan called to the striker Joel Campbell. "Get
out while you can, Joel." Wenger, who criticised his side's defence in
his post-match comments, then walks past, tight-lipped, to a chorus of
boos.

Arsenal had been on a run of three wins in a row before the defeat at
Stoke but the result has reignited calls from some supporters for
Wenger to resign or be sacked. Prior to beating Borussia Dortmund 2-0
in the Champions League on 26 November, they were without a win in
three and this had led many fans to express their frustration with
Wenger's management.

FG Releases Kano Arms Plane

The Federal Government has released the Russian Cargo Aircraft which
was intercepted by operatives of the Nigerian Air Force at the Mallam
Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on Saturday.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu, announced the
decision of the government in a press briefing he jointly addressed
with the Defence Attache of France to Nigeria, Col. Mark Hubert, in
Abuja on Monday.

Amosu said that the Federal Government decided to release the
controversial aircraft following a clearance with the French
Government that the content of the aircraft belonged to the French
military.

The CAS said that it became necessary for the government to release
the aircraft because of the long healthy relationship between Nigeria
and France which according to him remained very respected.

He added that France had been very supportive to Nigeria and their
relationship with the country was valued.

He said that security forces at the Aminu Kano Airport had to resort
to the standard procedure of conducting checks on the aircraft because
it had no clearance to operate at the airport even though the French
Government was given an annual block clearance by the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs to operate in the country.

According to him, the investigation into the aircraft became necessary
because a notification should have been issued by France in spite of
the block clearance if the aircraft's destination was Nigeria.

He explained that the notification was not issued because the aircraft
left Bangui, Central Africa Republic with Ndjamena, Chad, as its
destination, and had to land in Kano because the airport in Chad was
too busy at the time.

He said, "A Antonio Aircraft with registration number RA 820388
departed Bangui, Cental Africa Republic on December 6, 2014 for
Ndjamena, Chad. We had no record of clearance of the aircraft to
operate in Kano. With the French Government, we do have a block
clearance for a year but the block clearance has some exceptions.

"We have some elements that ought to be avoided: the aircraft must not
carry toxic waste; it must not carry nuclear wastes, weapons troops
and other controversial equipment.

"We followed the standard procedure to check, and we did not get
adequate clarification from the crew. One of the issues has to do with
language.

"However, we just got clarification from the French that the items on
board belongs to the French military. We respect that; we have a good
relationship with the French Government and we respect that. .. By
this briefing, we are releasing the aircraft..."

Amosu said that what happened in Kano was normal as Nigeria like all
the other countries had a responsibility to check such a controversial
aircraft to ensure that weapons are not airlifted to foment trouble in
other nations in this era of terrorism.

Speaking also, the French Defence Attache in Nigeria, Col. Hubert,
said that the items aboard the aircraft were used by the French
military in Central Africa Republic and were being taken to the French
Central Operational base in Ndjamena, for movement back home to
France.

Hubert who stated that the aircraft was not carrying arms and
ammunition, said that the items on board the aircraft included two
gazelle helicopters, spare parts for the aircraft, a rover car, which
was corroborated by the Air Chief.

Hubert assured Nigerians that the items were not meant to be used
against Nigeria as the French Government had promised to assist
Nigeria in the fight against the Boko Haram and had been doing that
since May, 2014.
--PUNCH