SAD NEWS: CANCER PATIENT MAYOWA AHMED PASSES ON IN S'AFRICA

Mayowa lost the battle to cancer in South Africa....may her rest in perfect peace,Amen.

ABIA GUBER: REMAIN HOPEFUL, OGAH TELLS SUPPORTERS AS HE HEADS TO S'COURT

Dr Uche Sampson Ogah who lost last week at the Appeal Court in his contest with Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu for the governorship of Abia State has called on his supporters not to be discour­aged by the decision of the Ap­peal Court which dismissed the earlier court judgement which had made him the gov­ernor, as he heads for Supreme Court.Dr Ogah’s legal team, stated that they are not satis­fied with the judgement deliv­ered by the Appeal court and had decided to take the mat­ter to the Supreme Court.We have the belief and hope that we will get justice at the Supreme Court which has always encouraged the preva­lence of substantial justice over technicalities,” the state­ment emphasized.

MILITARY INVASION: DELTA STATE, GBARAMATU LEADERS CRY FOR HELP

Leaders of Gbaramatu kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State have raised an alarm over the weekend about the planned invasion of the kingdom by the military under the guise of searching for members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA).According to the report on the news site, Chief Godspower Gbenekama, the Benenibowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom,who raised the alarm at a press conference in Warri, said people have been fleeing the various Ijaw communities when it became known that the military had concluded arrangements to invade the kingdom.“Please help us tell the whole world that the military has concluded plans to invade Gbaramatu communities under the guise of looking for members of the Niger Delta Avengers.we already know that they are training people to attack our people, they are bringing military men to attack our people. This has happened to us before”, he said. It is the innocent people of our communities that will suffer should the military go ahead to bombard our communities. We don’t harbour members of the Niger Delta Avengers. The agitation cuts across the region; so why singling out only Gbaramatu kingdom?” he lamented.

EZEKWESILI MAKES U-TURN....SAYS BUHARI UNDESERVING OF PRESIDENCY, CHANGE NOT VISIBLE

Ex- Minister of Education, Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, on Saturday stated that, this is not the change Nigerians voted for and President Muhammadu Buhari doesn't deserve to be president, due to his lackadaisical attitude to the plight of the 2000 Nigeria Immigration Service recruits, who slept at the entrance of Aso Villa in Abuja from Friday till Saturday morning. Ezekwesili, while appealing to the protesters to maintain decorum, also challenged President Buhari to come out and publicly address the alleged illegal recruitment which has permeated his administration in the last couple of months, saying “that was not the change Nigerians voted for. "According to her, “you are great Nigerians. So, you slept here, Oh my God! Inside this cold of Abuja. Somebody owes you a better explanation, and if President Muhammadu Buhari says he doesn’t know that you slept here since yesterday, it means he doesn’t deserve to be there. "This government should not punish those who did not deserve to be punished. Nothing should be done secretly. This is not the change Nigerians voted for. President Buhari should come out and address the allegation of illegal recruitment going on in the civil service,” she added. Reacting, the Presidency in its reaction challenged the former minister Ezekwesili to form a political party and run for presidency, if she felt Buhari was not doing well. Meanwhile, at the time of filing this report, the protesters, who slept at the entrance of the Villa till Saturday, have vowed to remain there, until the president or any of his aides comes out to address them.

SETTLED: NIGERIAS U-23 TEAM COLLECT $390,000 CHEQUE AFTER SINISTER PLOT IS EXPOSED

The Nigerian Dream Team who just won the Bronze Olympic medal have another reason to smile as Japanese multi-millionaire and plastic surgeon ,Katsuya Takasu after a sinister plot by some shady NFF officials to deprive the bronze medalist of their gift hit a brick wall, has finally presented the $390,000 cheque promised the team.Following their win,he met with the team and handed a $190k cheque to Mikel Obi and $200k cheque to Samson Siasia. Recall, a sports analyst, Mr Peterside via his social media handle, earlier raised an alarm concerning the diversion of the aforementioned cash by NFF officials.

FOWL PLAY: $390,000 GIFTED NIGERIA'S U-23 TEAM BY JAPANESE MILLIONAIRE HIJACKED!!

There is fire on the mountain as Nigeria's football governing body, Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the U-23 football team known as Dream Team VI, are set to lock horns over a $390,000 cash gift from a Japanese doctor, Mr Takasu.The Millionaire who is said to be an ardent Nigerian football supporter made the donation to support the players who have been facing financial mess. He stated that the team coach, Samson Siasia and its captain, Mikel Obi, should each take $200,000 and $190,000, respectively. However, indications emerged today Saturday afternoon that some NFF officials had ‘hijacked’ the process and demanded that Mr. Takasu must hand the money to them for onward disbursement to team members. Idah Peterside, a sports analyst and former goalkeeper for the Super Eagles, was the first person to raise the alarm on social media. Mr Peterside tweeted, ''The money from the Japanese man to the dream team has been hijacked by the NFF.

“They want to use the money to pay the coaches as salaries. Bitrus Bewarang was sent to get the money from the Japanese, but the players say it’s their money”, he added.

YAY: NIGERIA CLINCHES BRONZE IN MATCH AGAINST HONDURUS...SCORES 3-2

Nigeria has taken home the bronze medal, making it their third Olympic men’s football medal after winning gold in 1006 and silver in 2008. The team dominated the tournament, clinching bronze in the match against Honduras, running out a three goal lead, and then had just enough fire to hold off a fierce Hondruas fightback in the last 20 minutes to win the match 3-2 and capture Olympics bronze. Congrats to them.

SINGER YEMI ALADE STUNS IN FLORAL, SHIMMER OUTFITS

Nigerian Singer, Yemi Alade aka Mama Africa recently share photos from a shoot via her Instagram account and its simply breath-taking. See other photo after the cut......

BOMBSHELL: FORMIDABLE MERGER? AGGRIEVED APC,PDP STALWARTS MEET TO FORM NEW PARTY

A Political Tsunami is slowly brewing, as aggrieved stalwarts from All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP are secretly strategizing to form what is called a “third force” in Nigeria's political circles, centered around whittling down the influence of the ruling APC and the opposition PDP. According to Tribune, the plan is expected to fully mature next year, 2017. It was learnt that an understanding had been reached at a closed parley an efforts aimed at forming another party with likeminded politicians from within the PDP and the APC should intensify quietly.A source close to the two parties indicated that “a working agreement is already in place to ensure that the aggrieved members of the APC and the PDP are brought together in a way that would decimate the ruling party and supplant it in 2019.”Sources confirmed to Tribune that some political bigwigs within the APC are already excited at the prospect of joining up with like minds to form a party in which they would have equal stakes.

RIO BLUES: NWF PRESIDENT IGALI LOOSES N1M OVER GOLD BET

After loosing a N1 Million Naira bet on a Gold medal win, Nigeria's Technical Director of the NWF, Hon  Igali is devastated by the Gold-less status of  Nigeria’s five female wrestlers at the ongoing Rio Olympic. He said: “I had placed a N1 million bet on these girls winning medals.“I feel so sad and sorry for these wrestlers because they have put in a lot of hard work to get these poor results.“It is indeed sad because these wrestlers sacrificed a lot and did not deserve these defeats. Results state that, Reuben Hanna Amuchechi lost 4-1 to Canadian Dorothy Yeats in the 69kg freestyle, while Mercy Genesis (48kg) lost 5-0 to Nina Matowustka of Poland. Aminat Adeniyi (58kg) also lost her fight in the round of 16 like her compatriots.

RIO OLYMPICS: USAIN BOLT GETS 9 GOLD MEDALS WITH RELAY WIN

Jamaican sprinter and super star, Usain Bolt has recorded a total of nine Gold medals to his name after winning the men's relay 4 by 100 race with Japan coming in second and USA taking third place at the Rio Olympics. After his impressive signature victory pose, Bolt said, 'I'm proud of myself and I have to give thanks to the guys.' 'The pressure was real, but I look it as an accomplishment, I enjoy the pressure and I live for these moments.' I am proud of myself. I'm going to go home and stay up late, talking and having fun. I'm just relieved.

NIGERIA'S FG PLANS POSSIBLE SWAP OF CHIBOK GIRLS FOR BOKO HARAM PRISONERS

According to an online report, there may be plans by Nigeria's Federal Government to begin the swap of kidnapped Chibok girls for some Boko Haram detainees. It was revealed that, as a follow up, security agencies have started conducting fresh profiling of Boko Haram detainees in line with a directive from the Federal Government. The report says,profiling would include the time they were arrested and the de-radicalisation programme they had undergone. Although the government had not decided on the militants that would be released in exchange for the Chibok girls, insurgents, who had not been tried could  be the first beneficiaries of the swop deal....More details ltr

PHOTO SPEAK: BAYELSA GOVERNOR SERIAKE DICKSON INAUGURATES BAYGIS BOARD

Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State (L), congratulates Chief Alex Ekiotene,  the Chairman, Bayelsa State Geographic Information System (BAYGIS), shortly after the inauguration of the Board in Government House, Yenagoa today Friday.

WANT TO HOLIDAY IN SPACE? ASTRONAUTS CREATE BACK DOOR FOR COMMERCIAL BOEING TO LAND

Yes, get ready to holiday in space as the successful installation of an international docking adapter on the International Space Station on Friday represents another step toward NASA shuttling its own astronauts to the ISS.Astronauts created a back door for the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday, which will someday enable commercial space shuttles to dock.During a spacewalk on Friday, NASA's Commander Jeff Williams and Flight Engineer Kate Rubins installed the first of two docking adapters, where crews riding with Boeing and SpaceX will soon disembark.The successful installation of the "international docking adapter" is another step forward in commercial space travel, where steadily advancing technology in the last two years has opened up real potential for life both here and in the skies.

PDP CONVENTION:POLICE,DSS IN HOT WATER AS RIVERS GOVT CONSIDERS SUEING

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has revealed that his Government would sue the Police and the Department of State Services, DSS, for sealing the Sharks Stadium, initial venue of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Convention of August 17, 2016. Wike also stated that the people of the state allowed the security agencies take over state facilities  because  of  the  visitors from other states. Speaking at the Government House, Port Harcourt, today Friday while inaugurating the Peace and Security Committee of the State, he said the Rivers State Government would seek judicial interpretation to determine if the Federal Government was right to take laws into its hands.The  governor further stated that the security agencies should not think that the illegal invasion of Sharks Stadium and other government property was a dress rehearsal for the rigging of the forthcoming rerun elections in the State. He said: “I hope what you did that day  is not what you plan to do during the rerun elections. "Nobody will allow  you  rig elections in this state'' Gov wike stated.

HISTORIC: WEST HAM UNITED FC PARTNERS NIGERIA'S IFEANYI UBAH FC

CEO of Capital Oil/Gas and Nigerian Premier League Club side, FC Ifeanyi Ubah has inked a long term partnership deal with West Ham United FC, one of the leading clubs in the English Premier League.The deal, which was officially signed today Friday in London is set to be unveiled at the Olympic stadium on Sunday, 21st of August before West Ham United FC's first home league match against Bournemouth.This was contained in a press release made by West Ham United FC via its website www.whufc.com. Congrats to FC Ubah.

COURT OF APPEAL REAFFIRM IKPEAZU AS ABIA STATE GOVERNOR

The battle for Abia State Government house seems to be finally over, as Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld the election of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu as governor of Abia. Justice Morenikeji Ogunwumiju who led other four justices of the appellate court unanimously set aside the June 27 decision of Federal High Court which sacked Ikpeazu from office.The other judges are Justice Abubakar Yahaya, Justice Philomena Ekpe, Justice Ibrahim Bdliya and Justice Saidu Hussaini. Ogunwumiju said: “the worrisome aspect of the trial decision was that the judge imported words into the PDP guidelines to gain appropriate grip on the appellant’’.“It is my opinion that Justice Okon Abang sat in his Chamber to speculate what Ikpeazu earned while he served as a Civil Servant in Abia State.“The annoying part is that, he went further to bar the Director of Abia State Revenue Authority, Mr James Okogie, from giving evidence, describing the move as an afterthought.“This can simply be described as an abortion of justice as the governor was not giving fair hearing to defend himself,’’ Ogunwumiju held.

She said: “in the light of the above, the decision of the trial court dated June 27 is set aside along with the consequential order’’“By this, we mean Ikpeazu is returned as governor of Abia State,’’ she held.

DOG BLUES: OWNER OF PET NAMED BUHARI RELEASED AFTER SERKIN INTERVENS

Few days ago, a hilariously mild drama involving Nigerian man, Mr Chinakwe went viral following his arrest by men of Ogun State Police Command for naming his pet dog Buhari (same name as Nigeria's President) after one of his neighbours reported him to the authorities, has been released unconditionally following the intervention of both the Serkin Hausa and the president-general of non-indigenes in the state.Following his release, a visibly angry Mr Chinakwe said he was particularly offended because the person who reported him was not a Nigerian but from Niger Republic. However, police sources said both the complainant and suspect were made to sign an undertaking not to cause any breach of peace again. Mr Chinakwe, a father of two from the Niger Delta, who trades in second hand clothing lamented that he was made to suffer for no just cause.

ACCREDITATION: NCCE SATISFIED WITH BAYELSA COLLEGE....DICKSON RESTATES COMMITTMENT TO COMPLETING ONGOIN PROJECTS

The National Commission for Colleges of Education has commended the Bayelsa State Government for putting in place quality facilities to enhance teaching and learning at the Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education, Sagbama in Sagbama Local Council Area of the state.The acting Director of NCCE, Mr Vitalis Uji, gave the commendation on Thursday, during a courtesy call on Governor Henry Seriaki Dickson in Yenagoa. According to him, although the College has its share of teething problems, most of the facilities already on the ground; such as the Art Theatre, were of high standard that would stand the test of time. He said, "We want to commend you for the effort you have made. That is a new site, but what we have seen there is really commendable. The Art Theatre we have seen in that Campus, I must say, we have never seen in any other place. Not even in Colleges of Education

AVENGERS SET TO DECLARE NIGER-DELTA REPUBLIC OCT 1ST, IF......

The infamous 'Niger Delta Avengers' on has threatened to declare a Niger Delta Republic on October 1st should Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari fail to restructure the country. The agitators via its twitter handle stated that “Our prayer for Buhari and the Northern hypocrite (Northern Governors) is that oil should be found in commercial quantity in the North, so they can let the Niger Delta go.“The Buhari Led government has failed Nigerians with their misdirected policies that has divided the country, as such nobody wants to be part of that failed state not even the Niger Delta.”It further added, “The October 1st, declaration of independence is still sacrosanct, If the Nigerian government fails to retrace its step by restructuring this country. To be or not, time will tell.

BAYELSA POLLS: SYLVA IN HOT WATER AS DICKSON CROSS APPEAL JUDGEMENT

Defeated candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the December 5, 2015 and January 9, 2016 governorship election in Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva is in hot water as Governor Henry Seriake Dickson initiates legal fireworks to disqualify Sylva from ever contesting governorship election. Dickson who expressed dissatisfaction with the tribunal for refusing to bar Sylva from contesting governorship election having taken governorship oath of office twice, has cross appealed the judgement of the tribunal in which he won.In a cross appeal filed on Monday, August 15, Dickson’s lead counsel, Tayo Oyetibo contended that by virtue of section 182(1)b of the 1999 Constitution, Sylva  having been elected governor of Bayelsa State on two previous occasions is neither qualified to contest election into that office again or present any petition challenging Dickson’s victory at the polls. According to him, Section 182(1) b of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria states: “No person shall be qualified for election to the office of Governor of a state if he has been elected to such office at any two previous elections.’’After losing the last election, Sylva who had been governor of the state between May, 2007 and February, 2012 approached the Bayelsa State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja seeking to be declared winner but lost his bid on all grounds. Rather, the tribunal upheld the election of Dickson.

PRESIDENT NWF DANIEL IGALI SURE OF GOLD MEDAL IN RIO

Bayelsa State House of Assembly Member, President Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Daniel Igali  has re-assured Nigerians that he would deliver at least a medal from the ongoing Rio 2016 Olympic Games. According to the medal table, Nigeria is yet to get a medal since the Games began on Aug. 5. Igali, who is also the Technical Adviser of the team, said that he was working hard to ensure that of the country’s seven wrestlers; at least one wins a medal, reports NAN.``I must admit that it will be tough but I am hopeful that we will do our part to ensure success, he said. Weighing in would commence on later on Tuesday while fights will commence on Aug 17th, and I hope that at least one will come through of the seven,’’ he said.

PHOTO SPEAK OF PDP GOVS,STALWARTS,CHIEFTAINS,DELEGATES DURING INAUGURATION AT PARTY SECRETARIAT RIVERS STATE

PDP NEC INAUGURATED...... VOTE OF CONFIDENCE PASSED ON MAKARFI

Inspite of security agents sealing up the proposed venue for PDP Convention in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State,the National Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Ahmed Makarfi has inaugurated the National Executive Committee of the party.Performing the inauguration at the Government House, Port Harcourt on Wednesday , Senator Makarfi said that the National Executive Committee, NEC, include the Board : The PDP Governors, National Assembly Caucus , Board of Trustees, National Caucus, 36 State PDP chairmen and national officers of the Party.He said in the absence of the elected National officers, the National Caretaker Committee members will be part of NEC. Meanwhile,the tenure of the Makarfi-led Care-taker Committee of the People’s Democratic Party PDP has been extended by one year after a vote of confidence was passed by delegates. on him.The decision was arrived at Wednesday in Port-Harcourt through a vote of confidence passed by the delegates. More details later.
 

SAD NEWS: NIGERIAN INTL FOOTBALLER DIES DURING TRAINING

Nigerian Intl footballer Michael Umanyika has reportedly slumped and died during training with Azerbaijani First Division club Zaqatala PFK. The midfielder, was said to have suddenly stopped and fell during training while all efforts to revive him proved abortive. Umanyika joined the Azerbaijani top flight in 2015 where he made 20 appearances for the team during the 2015/16 season. Meanwhile, is death has been confirmed on the club’s website as well as their social media pages. Rip.

SHOCKING:MUSLIM CLERIC,CHILD APPREHENDED OVER NEEDLED BEANCAKE GIVEN LAGOS BEGGERS

Wonders they say will never end!!A Muslim cleric and his daughter have been apprehended for handing over juju (needled) beancakes to beggars in a Lagos Metropolis. The 50yr old culprit, Mohammed Yusuf and his daughter, Salamat 18, were on Tuesday arraigned at a Tinubu Magistrates Court, for distributing the dangerous snacks to beggars.According to reports, Yusuf and Salamat are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and attempted murder for inserting needles in the food before giving them to beggars.The Prosecuting State Counsel, Barr. Ben Ekundayo, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on Aug. 5 at about 2 p.m. at Offin Street, Balogun, Lagos Island.He alleged that the man and his daughter carried out the act with intent to endanger the lives of the beggars. However, the Magistrate, Mr Ade Adefulire, admitted the defendants to bail in the sum of N500, 000, with two sureties each in like sum. Adefulire adjourned the case to Sept. 29.

KENNETH OMERUO ON 700,000 EUROS LOAN TO BESIKTAS

Nigerian international, Kenneth Josiah Omeruo, has joined Besiktas on a temporary loan move  for 700,000 euros from Chelsea. Source close to the club hinted that Besiktas will pay the Blues a €700,000 loan fee and have a €3 million release clause option, which will remain active until the end of the season.Omeruo was also one of the 35 players the Blues loaned out last season, playing for Super Lig minnows Kasimpasa.The 22-year-old stands out as a young defender in the league, making 25 Super Lig appearances.Omeruo earned himself an upgrade across Istanbul to league giants, Besiktas, where he will gain Champions League football experience for the first time in his career, Congrats to him.

ELECTION FEVER: EDO GOVT BORROW N366,467,000.....PAY 7 OUT OF 17MNTHS AREARS OWED

As the battle for who takes over Edo State Government House rages on, Egor Local Government Area has begun the payment of seven out of the 17 months salary arrears owed workers in the council. Lawmakers had recently adopted a resolution allowing the state government to access the sum of N366,467,000  from the Central Bank of Nigeria to pay the workers in Egor. Recall, Egor had the highest backlog of unpaid salary arrears among other affected councils, after it was omitted from the bailout the state received from the Federal Government.The development had led to several protests, including the mass protest staged under the National Union of Local Government Employees in July. Meanwhile, employees of the council have heaved a sigh of relief after the long hardship suffered them.

LAGOS OBA CARPETS BUHARI, SAYS NO LONGER IN MILITARY ERA...JONATHAN NOT TO BLAME

Known for not mincing words, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akinolu, while speaking in Lagos during the unveiling of SunTrust Bank Limited, the first commercial bank to be licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria in 15 years on Monday, advised President Muhammadu Buhari to be civil in his approach to governance, saying he should realise that he is no longer a military man. The monarch who said former Goodluck Jonathan could not be totally blamed for the nation’s current economic crisis, expressed confidence in the Federal Government’s Economic Management Team led by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo to salvage the economy. Akiolu know for speaking his mind said, “All of us just have to support the President and I advise him to know that he is no more a military man. I am not afraid to say that. The measures they are taking on the rot of the past, honestly whether they like it or not, it was not totally the fault of former President Goodluck Jonathan. I don’t hide the fact that he (Jonathan) is my personal friend.

BAYELSA ECONOMY: GOV DICKSON SIGNS REVENUE COURT BILL INTO LAW.....TO BOOST TAX DRIVE,SHORE UP STATE'S IGR

Hon Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State on Friday signed a bill known as the Revenue Court Bill into law, as part of efforts to boost its current tax drive.Governor Dickson expressed optimism that, the passage and eventual signing of the bill has provided the much needed legal framework for the state government to shore up its revenues using legitimate means.The Governor, who lamented that revenues accruing to the state have dropped almost by a quarter, underscored the need for the government to embark on an aggressive tax drive to strengthen its internally generated revenue base.He said the legislation, which gives legal backing to the creation of a revenue court to adjudicate over tax related issues, would not only help to check the problem of tax evasion, but improve the IGR profile of the state to enable the government meet its development and welfare obligations to the people.Governor Dickson, however, urged all taxable adults and corporate organizations, particularly multinational oil companies operating in the state to be alive to their tax obligations, as his administration would not hesitate to enforce extant laws to punish defaulters.

PDP SAY IT HAS SUPERIOR ORDER....CONVENTION TO HOLD AS SCHEDULED

Staying true to its reputation of a cat with nine lives, the Ahmed Makarfi-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says its convention in Port Harcourt will go on as planned despite a court order stopping it. In a statement today Monday, Dayo Adeyeye, spokesman of the faction, said the convention would take place because a federal high court in Port Harcourt had given a superior order for it to proceed. According to an online report, which further read,“Our attention has been drawn once again to another act of judicial recklessness by the honourable judge of the federal high court, Justice Okon Abang of the purported suspension of the PDP national convention holding in Port Harcourt, Rivers on Wednesday the 17 of August 2016.'' “We wish to however state that a federal high court in Port Harcourt Rivers state has earlier in the day given a comprehensive order wherein the honourable judge specifically ordered the PDP to proceed with the convention as scheduled without hindrance.“Indeed, his lordship while given the order mandated all relevant agencies including the Police, DSS and INEC to cooperate with the party in organising a hitch-free national convention. “You may also wish to note that the federal high court in Port Harcourt, Rivers state gave an interlocutory order while Justice Okon Abang, Abuja, gave an interim order. The order of Port Harcourt is clearly superior and earlier in time to the interim order given by Justice Okon Abang.In the light of the above, The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a law abiding party is obeying the order of the Port Harcourt, federal high court until set aside by any competent court of jurisdiction.

SHOCKER AS COURT RESTRAINING ORDER THREATENS PDP CONVENTION

Again, another spanner has been thrown in the wheel of PDP's proposed Wednesday convention, as a Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its National Convention earlier fixed for Port Harcourt on August 17.Justice Okon Abang today issued an interim order directing the party not to proceed with the convention pending the determination of the suit by factional chairman, Ali Modu Sheriff challenging his removal.Ruling on an application by Sheriff’s counsel Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) to grant an interlocutory injunction restraining the caretaker committee of the party from organizing the convention, the judge said that the actions of members of the caretaker committee could be viewed as contempt of court.The judge observed that Ben Obi, who applied before him to be joined as an interested party, had gone to another Federal High Court in Port Harcourt for an ex parte order approving the convention.Further hearing has been fixed for tomorrow. Nigerians await to see if the infamous political party will surmount this yet again, like the proverbial cat with nine lives.

CHIBOK GIRLS SWAP A POLITICAL DECISION,NOT MILITRY- CDS

The Chief of Defence Staff, Lt-General Abayomi Olonishakin, while addressing State House correspondents today Monday, after a workshop organised for chief executives of government agencies held at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja,said only the political authorities can decide on the demand by Boko Haram insurgents for exchange of the abducted Chibok girls with the sect's detained members. According to an online site,The Chief of Defense Staff also stressed that the military would sustain its counter-insurgency operations. "That swapping of Chibok girls with detained sect members is a political decision to be taken. The military decision is that we are going ahead with our operations. The operation is being conducted appropriately," the CDS Olanishakin stated.

SWAP CHIBOK GIRLS WITH BOKO-HARAM PRISONERS...PARENTS TELL FG

Mrs Esther Yakubu, one of the Parents of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls has demanded that the Federal Government of Nigeria, swap detained book-haram members for the girls who have been in captivity for over two years following  the recent release of a video by the sect on Sunday. A man clad in army camouflage uniform seen in the over 15 minutes video, stated that, he released the clip in order to send a strong message to the parents of the girls and also convince government to release boko haram members in  detention centres in exchange for the girls. The video released by Abubakar Shekau faction, claimed that some of the girls were killed by air strikes launched by the Nigerian Air Force at Sambisa Forest.

EX GOV WADA CALLS OUT DEJI ADEJAYAN,SAYS HE HASN'T ENDORSED ANYONE

A former Kogi State governor, Captain Idris Wada, has denied endorsing one Deji Adejayan as his candidate for the National Publicity Secretary of the party in its forthcoming national convention scheduled for Port Harcourt. In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja by his Personal Assistant, Ibrahim Abdulkarim,Wada stated that, Kogi State PDP stakeholders have not yet said anything regarding any endorsement plans on anyone, "even though we are going to come together and select the best candidate with the required performing skills for the position."  It further read, "My attention has been drawn to a publication in Vanguard Newspapers claiming that I, Idris Wada endorsed Deji Adeyenju for the office of the National Publicity Secretary of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It is indeed a situation I call unfortunate because that is not coming from me. As the leader of the party in Kogi state, it is my duty to see to it that we build a wall that can stand the test of time, and not moulding on a cracked wall."I want to first of all state clearly here that at no point did I ever endorse any one for such a highly esteemed office, knowing the gravity of what it takes to operate from such an office. I wouldn't have made such a monumental mistake knowing the kind of impression such will breed up."The above claim that I endorsed Deji Adeyanju, is rather unfortunate because our polity is becoming more intimidating where candidates decide to use the powers at their disposals to scare others off the race, but it is not supposed to be so." "As for Alhaji Ibrahim Idris (Ibro), the two-time Governor of Kogi State, he has never meet Deji Adeyanju for once and it is practically impossible for him to endorse a candidate he has never met. "I call on all the contestants to please conduct themselves and  avoid venturing into ways which are against the ethics of democracy because using someone's name to gain favour without such a person's consent is a crime, not only to that person but even before the eyes of the law. 

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION: BAYELSA CONCESSIONS PALM ESTATE, PARTNERS CBN ON RICE FARMING

According to Bayelsa State Government, it has concluded plans to commercialize the state-owned palm estate at Elebele to generate N150 million, as a part its drive to diversify the economy of the State as well as boost the internally generated revenue profile. The State commissioners of Information, Education and Agriculture, after the 63rd State Executive Council Meeting at Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Yenagoa, explained that, the Bayelsa Palm Estate has been concessioned to the Manufacturing and Marketing Company of Nigeria Limited (MAMCON), after a moratorium of six months with a concession fee of N150m for ten years.Agriculture Commissioner, Doodei Week also stated that the government has also decided to partner with the Central Bank of Nigeria on the funding of aqua-culture projects like the 4,000 hectare rice farm at Isampou in the Kolokuma Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.Other projects include, the Epie fish farm to be replicated in all the local government areas of the state and a central fish processing centre for both local and internal markets.He further explained that, a plantain and Banana plantation will soon start, with an approval of 1000 hectare land to be acquired for the purpose.“In the commercialisation agreement, there will be a concession fee of N150 payable to the Bayelsa State government after a six-month moratorium. MAMCON agreed with the government to invest and revitalise the existing palm estate, to put in more infrastructure”. Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Deacon Markson Fefegha disclosed that, the state government has sent a bill; known as the ‘Bayelsa Higher Education Loan Financing scheme’ to the House of Assembly for passage into law.According to Deacon Fefegha the purpose of the bill is to enable Bayelsans within Nigeria and abroad have access to a revolving loan that will be interest free, to further their higher educational careers and refund same, when ever they get employed.In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Jonathan Obuebite explained that, the higher education revolving loan is for both under graduate and post graduate students of Bayelsa origin.

BAYELSA POLLS: PROMINENT GROUP REVISIT VIOLENCE,BLAME INEC.... ITS GENOCIDE AGAINST IJAW NATION

The last may not have been heard of the violence that bedevilled the conduct of the last governorship election in Southern Ijaw local government and other areas of Bayelsa state, as a renowned Non Governmental Organization; Save Ijaw Nation Group presented its findings to Governor Seriake Dickson.The groups blamed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Federal Government and other relevant agencies for jettisoning the reports of the various Independent Monitoring Groups.

The report, which is expected to be forwarded to the United Kingdom, National Human Rights Commission and other Global Human Rights Organizations, was presented to the representatives of the Amnesty International in Abuja last week in Abuja.While presenting the report to the governor, the leader of SINO delegation, Comrade Femi Lawson said, it was sad to note that, barely eight months after the conduct of the election, the INEC, Federal government and other relevant security agencies are yet to act on the reports presented by the Local and International observers.

Comrade Lawson said the report captured audio and visual recordings and testimonies of the victims of the violence that marred the conduct of election in Southern Ijaw local government.According to him, the group saw a situation where harmless citizens were molested, attacked and harassed with a lot of complicity on the part of those, who ordinarily are supposed to protect them.

‘We saw burnt down houses and the fear of those, who are unable to return to their communities just for the fear of being attacked.‘Also, the report captured testimonies of the victims, pictures of victims including a baby that was killed, pictures of young men who were not allowed into their community particularly in Ekeremor local government area.Stressing the need for proper investigation into the matter, Comrade Lawson said, it is the only way to prevent future occurrence of such incident and as well strengthen the nation’s democratic rule.

ELECTION VIOLENCE: GOV DICKSON RECEIVE SAVE IJAW NATION GROUP REPORT.....SAYS THOSE CULPABLE WILL BE PROSECUTED

Bayelsa state Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson has received a report presented by "Save Ijaw Nation Group" on electoral violence that characterised the election which led to loss of lives and property in Southern Ijaw, other localities within the Bayelsa State.

President of Movement for Egalitarian Society in Africa, Mr Olufemi Lawson who spoke on behalf of observer...s and NGO's that monitored the Dec 5, 2015 and Jan 9th 2016/election, lauded Dickson for his calm disposition, recalling how the Governor was on radio hourly, appealing for calm from supporters,party faithfuls and citizens despite continuous provocation during polls.

Lawson said, the report which will be forwarded to Amnesty International contains pictorial evidence, statements given by eye witnesses and families of victims cut down in their prime during the election.

He urged the Governor not to relent in seeking justice, so as to serve as a deterrent and also forestall further bloodbath during subsequent election in the state. In his response, Gov Dickson in an emotion laden voice, recalled the unfortunate mayhem unleashed on Innocent Bayelsans during the polls, assuring all of Justice for victims. Dickson thanked the group for the comprehensive report, adding that a committee will be set up and those found culpable will be prosecuted by law.