LIST OF WINNERS AT AMVCA 2016

BEST ART DIRECTOR (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

The refugees – Frank Raja Arase

BEST TELEVISION SERIES

Daddy’s Girls – Ariyike Oladipo

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

Ayanda – Louiza Calore

BEST SHORT FILM OR ONLINE VIDEO 

A Day with Death – Oluseyi Amuwa

BEST WRITER OF A MOVIE/TV SERIES 

AYANDA – Trish Malone

BEST LIGHTING DESIGNER (MOVIE/TV SERIES) 

Common Man – Stanlee Ohikhuare

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHER (MOVIE/TV SERIES) 

TELL ME SOMETHING SWEET – Paul Michaelson

BEST SOUND EDITOR (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

Dry – Marquex Jose Guillermo

BEST PICTURE EDITOR 

Rebecca – Shirley Frimpong-Manso

BEST COSTUME DESIGNER (MOVIE/TV SERIES) 

Dry – Uche Nancy

BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE MOVIE/TV SERIES – HAUSA

Dadin Kowa – Salisu Balarabe

BEST DOCUMENTARY 

FAAJI AGBA – Remi Vaughan-Richards

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR 

A Soldier’s Story – Sambassa Nzeribe

BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE MOVIE/TV SERIES – YORUBA

Binta Ofege – Abiodun Jimoh and Jumoke Odetola

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

BEFORE 30 – TUNBOSUN AIYEDIHIN

BEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY (MOVIE/TV SERIES) 

Jenifa’s Diary – Folarin Falana

BEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

JENIFA’S DIARY – FUNKE AKINDELE

TRAILBLAZER

Lala Akindoju

BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA (MOVIE/TV SERIES) 

A SOLDIER’S STORY – DANIEL K. DANIEL

SPECIAL INDUSTRY MERIT AWARD

Bukky Ajayi and Sadiq Daba

BEST MOVIE – SOUTHERN AFRICA 

Lilongwe – Joyce mhango chavula

BEST MOVIE – EAST AFRICA

MAPENZI – Elizabeth Michael

BEST MOVIE - WEST AFRICA (DRAMA/COMEDY)

ROAD TO YESTERDAY – Chinny Onwugbenu, Genvieve Nnaji, Chichi Nwoko

BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA (MOVIE/TV SERIES)

Falling – Adesua Etomi

BEST DIRECTOR 

Tell me Sweet Something – Akin Omotosho

BEST OVERALL MOVIE (AFRICA) 

Dry – Stephanie Linus

BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE MOVIE/TV SERIES- IBO 

Usekwu Igbo -PAUL IGWE

BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE MOVIE/TV SERIES – SWAHILI 

KITENDAWALI – Josephat Lukaza

DSS Arrests Gun Fabricator for Boko Haram

On 2nd March, 2016,  Musa Garba Abubakar aka Muhadis Musa Bin Haddad , a major gun fabricator, arms-runner and a covert linkman/courier for the Boko Haram group was arrested at Jos, Plateau State, during a special tactical operation by the Service.
During his arrest, 2 pistols, 80 rounds of live ammunition and several sensitive documents were recovered from him.  In a bid to employ propaganda to manipulate the international community against the efforts of the Federal Government, in the ongoing war against terror in the North-West region, Musa had approached a foreign mission in Nigeria for logistics and financial support to fight the Boko Haram. However, unknown to the mission, he is actually an unauthorized gun-maker/runner with intent for mischief and communal strife in the North Central region.

In furtherance of exploited leads, this Service apprehended other suspected associates of the gun-runner, namely: Umar Khalil Muhammed and Mohammed Yakubu TAHIR aka Mallam YARO, on 2nd March, 2016. MUHAMMED was arrested at Layin Oscar in Jos South LGA, while TAHIR was picked up at Mista Ali area, along Jos-Zaria road in Bassa LGA. The duo are accomplices and active marketers of ABUBAKAR and his products to criminal elements in the North-Central region of the Country. 

In strengthening its counter-terrorism strategy, the Service also arrested one Armaya’u YAKUBU aka Ali Tekwando, Yakubu SULE and Usman IBRAHIM on 3rd March, 2016, at Hayin Danmani area in Kaduna metropolis. The trio were members of an extremist cell under the coordination of YAKUBU, with affiliation to the proscribed extremist group, ANSARU and have been perfecting plans to travel to Sudan, for terrorist training with other radical elements of the group.

The Service wish to reemphasize its resolve to sustain the fight against organized vices and criminalities by terrorists, kidnappers, fraudsters and other deviant elements in the Country. The Service also wish to urge law abiding Nigerians and indeed, all residents to continue to support law enforcement/security agencies, with proactive and actionable intelligence, for the sustenance of peace, law and order. 

DSP, others Face Dismissal Over Marked 24,000 Naira Bribe.

A Deputy Superintendent of Police, Mr. David Ekong, of the Cross River State Police Command and some of his subordinates are currently facing orderly room trial over N24, 000 marked money prepared by an Assistant Inspector General as part of bribery demanded from one Mr. Ottobong Inyang.

Ekong and his team had unlawfully arrested and detained Inyang and demanded N250, 000 as bribe for his bail.

Southern City News learnt on Friday that Inyang was arrested on February 19 and detained at the state Police Command headquarters in Calabar but was released on February 21 after paying N50, 000 to Ekong.

It was gathered that Inyang was arrested for alleged armed robbery and car theft shortly after he bought a Volkswagen Passat from a car shop along IBB Way by Eta-Agbor roundabout in Calabar.

The police, had on arrest, claimed that the car was stolen during a robbery but the date and scene of the incident were not disclosed.

As if it was a set up, Southern City News learnt that the car dealer, who was arrested alongside Inyang to the police headquarters, was not detained.

Inyang was coerced while in detention to pay N250, 000 for his release, but at the long run, he agreed to pay N100, 000.

He was able to deposit N50, 000 before he secured his freedom on February 21 but was asked to bring the balance by February 22 or he would be rearrested.

However, Inyang immediately got a legal team that approached the AIG in charge of Zone Six, Mr. Adisa Bolanta, to formally lay the complaints.

A source, Mr. Omini Bassey, said while in the AIG’s office, Ekong kept calling for the balance and instructed Inyang to bring the money to Watt Market area of Calabar South.

“While still in the AIG’s office, a follow-up call came from one Agu (a corporal) who said he had instruction from Ekong to collect the N24, 000 balance from him. He said he was already waiting at Watt Market,” Bassey said.

At that point, the source disclosed that the AIG marked N24, 000 himself and gave it as part of the balance to be handed to Ekong.

“The AIG also put detectives on the trail of Ekong and his accomplices. The money was eventually delivered to Agu and soon after, the detectives swooped on him and arrested him with the balance in his pocket,” he added.

It was learnt that Ekong was subsequently picked up from his beat along with others who participated in the bribery deal.

The AIG, it was reliably gathered, had ordered an orderly room trial and dismissal of the affected policemen if found guilty.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. John Eluu, said he was not aware of the matter.

But the Zone Six Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nwibani Baritoge, said the orderly trial was currently ongoing to determine the fate of those involved.

“I am aware of the case. An orderly room trial is on to determine their fate,” he said.

PPMC TACKLES FUEL SCARCITY IN ABUJA

The management of PPMC, In response to the current fuel scarcity situation, line with the honourable minister of state for petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu’s effort to provide an effective intervention, has flooded Abuja with 31 high capacity trucks; each with approximately 60,000 litres. Another 25 is expected tomorrow.

PPMC has deployed staff to petrol stations across Abuja for round-the-clock monitoring.

The 31intervention trucks that have arrived the city of Abuja have been deployed to areas of need. This is made possible by reason of the partnership between NNPC Retail and Capital Oil and Gas. In addition, 150 trucks have been provided by A. A. Rano, Azman, and Rahamaniyya. 

MD, PPMC Mrs. Esther Nnamdi-Ogbue, said these interventionist efforts will continue until the queues dissipate.

It is believed that with these measures, normalcy will return to Abuja and its environs in no time. Motorists are therefore advised for the umpteenth time not to engage in panic buying as this will encourage the activities of hoarders. They are also advised to be vigilant and to report any observed sharp practices and other identified areas of need.

We have obtained PPMC’s Twitter and Facebook accounts for citizens’ reportage and eye witness accounts as follows: @ppmc_ngr, www.ppmc_ngr/facebook.com.

THE MANY LIES OF AKINPELU AGAINST GANI ADAMS DEBUNKED

The Oyo State Secretary of Oodua Peoples Congress, Comrade Julius Olajide has described as baseless bunch of lies allegations against the person of Otunba Gani Adams by a expelled member of the congress Shina Akinpelu.

He challenged Akinpelu to tell the world where he came up with his baseless lies, he asked,”Now it is Manchester in England, Lekki in Lagos, Tema in Ghana and Okota in Lagos that Otunba Adams has houses again. People should ask the blackmailer, ingrate and disgruntled element to come out with the proofs. Where are the proofs?Where are the addresses of these said properties?

OPC became what it is today with the power of Almighty God and the initiatives of Otunba Adams and the support of ever loyal members of National Coordinating Council and all members of Oodua People’s Congress”.

Rolling out few of the achievements of OPC under the leadership of Otunba Gani Adams.

Repackaging and rebranding of the Oodua People’s Congress from what its used to be before to a refined and respected group.

Cultural promotions and diversification that gave birth to a well known and recognised cultural organisation, Olokun Festival Foundation, which promotes over twenty three cultural festivals annually in Yoruba land, such as Eledumare Festival in Lagos, Oodua Festival in Ile-Ife, Olokun Festival in Lagos, Okota Festival in Ondo State, Wealth Festival in Lagos, Obatala in Oyo State are noticeable and positive achievements not forgetting the founding of a fast spreading global Yoruba social cultural organisation, Oodua Progressive Union in sixty four countries of the world with the aim of uniting and bringing the Yorubas in diaspora together to champion a common cause for the development of Yoruba race.

He challenged Akinpelu to show the world who has done this in the history of Yoruba race.

Renting of offices with modern day facilities for all the south west structures of Oodua People’s Congress including, Kwara, Kogi and Edo State.

Empowerment of members through cash and kind.

Allocation of landed properties to the leaders and members of the organisation to build houses.

Purchasing of vehicles of different brands to the leaders and members of the organisation of which many of his co-travellers benefitted from.

He also added the establishment of Gani Adams Foundation, a charity organisation formed for the assistance of the less privileges and the establishment of Oodua Economic Empowerment Initiative, Olokun Business Enterprises etc.

“People should ask Shina what he has contributed to the growth of Oodua People’s Congress when he was a still a member of Oodua People’s Congress in Oyo State,ask Shina who helped him when he had a very serious ailment and he was almost close to the grave side before he was taken to Ola-Oki Medical Centre in Badadry courtesy of Otunba Gani Adams.

Till today, the only result he tenders for his political ambition was gotten for him by Otunba Gani Adams from International School of Aviation.

Otunba Gani Adams was the first person to donate for his House of Assembly campaign electioneering in 2007, it was revealed to us that part of the money was used to buy electronics in Oshodi before departing for Ibadan.It is obvious that Akinpelu is desperate to carry out the bidding of his paymasters hence the need to constantly come up with lies that are merely figment of his imagination. Soon he will run out of lies and obviously fall out of favor with his paymasters.
from pillar to pole.

I will advise him to go for spiritual cleansing or approach a psychiatric hospital.

The OPC is waxing stronger under the leadership of Otunba Gani Adams and not long confirmed purchase of lands for the construction of 3 star hotels for all the structures of the congress, let Shina and his paymasters find something else to do or even form another organisation they deem fit, as far as we are concerned they remained expelled from Congress.

(PICTURE) 20yr Old Kills 16ft Python!

A 16ft python was recently killed by a 20 yrs old boy in Amapu Ife Osisioma Ngwa LGA.... Alangwa Nwere Umuokorobia Gbashirike

ARMY TO SPONSOR EDUCATION OF CHILDREN OF SOLDIERS KILLED BY BOKO HARAM

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai has reiterated the pledge of the Nigerian Army (NA) to sponsor the education of children of NA personnel who lost their lives during the counter-insurgency operations in the North East.

He made the pledge through the Chief of Administration Army, Major General Adamu Abubakar, during the presentation of the Group Life Assurance cheques to the Next of Kins each of the bereaved families at the Army Headquarters yesterday. In his remarks, Gen Abubakar said the cheques were to provide succour to the bereaved families to cushion the economic impact caused by the loss of their bread winners.

Maj Gen Abubakar added that aside from the cheques, the NA would sponsor four children each of the bereaved families, from primary  up to the tertiary level of education. The families present at the occasion were full of gratitude to the NA for showing commitment in alleviating their plight.

AWUJALE INSTITUTES N250M ENDOWMENT PROFESSORIAL CHAIR IN OOU

HRM the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR  has announced a N250m endowment of a professorial chair at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

He explained that he wants to see Nigeria take giant strides in the area of good governance stemming from quality education, research, mentorship and community engagement.

He is optimistic that Nigeria would benefit from the initiative and enjoined other well-meaning people to lend their support to a good cause. The inaugural lecture for the endowment is billed for Thursday, March 10, 2016, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Prof Akin Mabogunje would analyse the Issues and Challenges of Governance in Nigeria at the lecture, while an elite panel of discussants including former president of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, and the Sarkin Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II CON are already confirmed for the occasion.

“Education has a pivotal role to play in the quality of governance. So I decided to lend my little support in this area, being a royal father. So I make this move with high hopes that it will help the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye start a production-line of leaders who will be molded for good governance,”

Vice Chancellor of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Saburi Adejimi Adesanya, expressed the view that the endowment is in sync with the Institution’s philosophy of seeking to “give useful learning to its students who will be encouraged to cultivate a worldview that facilitates not only the continuous pursuit of academic and moral excellence but also developing competence in reducing the society’s disease.”

“I have followed with keen interest the impact the university has been making since inception in 1982 and strongly feel that this endowment will help them achieve more to the benefit of mankind,” Awujale said

WIMBIZ 2016 Lecture Focus on Deficiency of Our Values

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Minister of Solid Minerals Development would be the guest speaker at the 2016 Annual Lecture of Women in Management and Business (WIMBIZ) set for March 10, 2016, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos

“The Crisis of Values: Reclaiming our Society”is the theme, expected to serve as catalyst for national re-awakening, by stimulating discussion around the erosion of indigenous values and its effect on the society.

According to Aishah Ahmad, Chairperson, Executive Council Women in Management Business & Public Service (WIMBIZ)  it will challenge Nigerians to reassess the definition of success and the value of money relative to social good.
“A lot of the challenges confronting us today stem from a national deterioration of values. As a result, Nigerians are sometimes viewed with distrust and suspicion around the world, despite our drive, work ethic and enterprise. It appears that the pursuit of individual gain has become the primary focus over the common good; and success increasingly measured by financial parameters, whilst we appear to be losing the traditional values of contribution and dignity in labour which made our country great in the past” Ahmad observed.
“As a group dedicated to developing human capital, we are very concerned about this and we see the 2016 Annual Lecture as our opportunity to encourage the development of a different mindset particularly among women who are natural change agents,” she said.

Over 700 women attended the 2015 Annual Lecture “Thriving in Tough Times: Navigating Challenging Environments” which was delivered by the former Managing Director of Access Bank Limited, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede.

(VIDEO) MAN BURNT ALIVE, PROPERTIES RAPED AS HAUSAS CLASH WITH YORUBA IN LAGOS

http://www.thetrentonline.com/ethnic-tensions-rise-lagos-hausafulani-thugs-attack-orile-video/

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE 41ST OLUBADAN

High Chief Saliu Adetunji today became the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland, when he was presented the  staff of office at the famous Mapo Hall,, Ibadan, Oyo State.

He was born on August 26, 1928 to the family of Raji Olayiwola and Suwebat Amope Adetunji in the Alusekere compound, Popoyemoja, Ibadan, the new Olubadan is the eldest of his father’s 17 children.

His mother came from the Balogun family of Apomu while his father was a renowned Ibadan indigene. Like many influential figures in those days, Adetunji’s father had more than one wife. Of the four children that his mother had, he (Adetunji) and his brother, Ambali (76), are the surviving ones.

Ambali, who is the Aare Musulumi of Odo-Oba in Ibadan, and who now oversees the music recording business of his brother the king, said Adetunji had a humble beginning, starting as traditional attire (aso ofi) weaver, a tailor and later a music promoter.

He said, “In those days, my brother was a tailor and traditional attire weaver. He was also a renowned trader who later ventured into music promotion. In Nigeria today, he is a leader in the music industry.

“People like the late Isola Abioro, Ogo Oluwa Records and so on met him in the business. Because he is not greedy and because of the respect he has for his colleagues in the business, he does not snatch musicians from them. For that reason, he is highly regarded by musicians and other promoters.

“Our mother was a daughter of the former Balogun of Apomu. Our father was an Ibadan indigene who loved music just like Adetunji and he was revered in the city. Our father had many children and many wives but our mother had four, although only two of us are still alive.”

Ambali noted that the journey of his brother to the royal stool began unwillingly in 1976 during the reign of Olubadan Gbadamosi Adebimpe, when he was compelled to accept the leadership stool of the Alusekere compound. Incidentally, the late Omiyale, whose death last year moved Adetunji to the position of Balogun and next Olubadan, was the man who noticed the leadership quality in the new Olubadan and persuaded him to become Mogaji.

Ambali said, “Despite his philanthropic gestures towards Ibadan indigenes and contribution to the development of the city at early age, Adetunji was not desperate to assume any of the traditional leadership position in Ibadan. He preferred to remain anonymous but he was like a gold fish that has no hiding place.

“I remember the late Omiyale telling him that even without being a traditional chief, he was already playing the role of a community leader. It was a long walk to the top but a wait that was worth the pain,” Ambali explained.

As a music promoter, the new Olubadan had lifted many up-and-coming artistes to the big stage. Popular fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, is one of them. Through his recording company, he also helped Salami Balogun, Amuda Agboluaje, Tatalo Alamu, Raimi Atolagbe, Iyanda Sawaba and Asanat Omo Aje to stardom. His Omo Aje Records was later renamed Babalaje Records. Ambali also spoke about his brother’s philanthropic gestures.

“My brother is a gentleman and this is a trait he has been demonstrating from childhood. From what I have observed of him, he is a complete gentleman and a philanthropist. He ensures that no one suffers or lacks any good thing around him. We have had stories of my brother borrowing money to pay debts of others, even those who are not his relatives. In the past, Ibadan artistes were not recognised. When he became a promoter, he lifted they and other Yoruba musicians and empowered them professionally. Among the musicians he helped are Alhaji Tatalo Alamu, Dauda Epo Akara, Wasiu Ayinde and Malaika.

“He is still doing that. When he moved to Lagos, several decades ago, he brought a lot of budding musicians to the limelight. He also went to Ghana to promote their music and propagate the course of lifting Ibadanland. My brother is always passionate about issues that concern Ibadan,” he said.

Son of the monarch, Abiodun, says his father will use his international link to improve on the economy of Ibadan after his coronation today.

Abiodun, who is a manager in one of the prominent banks in Nigeria, told our correspondent that there was a team already in place to help his father to actualise his economic project for the city.

“The Olubadan-designate has travelled extensively and he has a plan to bring his administration to the grassroots. His reign will bring economic opportunity to the people because he will encourage networking among Ibadan indigenes at home and those in the Diaspora. The focus is to do something that will impact on the lives of the people. He has the will to add value to the lives of the people. The number of people that my father will be able to help will define his reign as a king,” he said.

The banker added that the coronation of his father would be characterised by glamour and class, with 25 Nigerian artistes listed to entertain guests.

“Our family is into entertainment business and our partners have been calling to play roles in the coronation programme. In fact, they are involved and it’s going to be a jamboree from Thursday (yesterday) with music carnival that will involve 25 artistes. They will entertain the visitors and it will be televised not only in Nigeria but outside Nigeria,” Abiodun added.

He said despite his father’s advance age, he was strong enough to lead Ibadan and contribute to its greatness.

“At 87, my father is strong enough to rule. In fact, age is no barrier to the Olubadan throne. The late Olubadan (Samuel Odulana Odugade) died at age 101 but age was never a barrier to his performance as a monarch. My father keeps a healthy life. So, he is strong.”

$20B IDLE IN PRIVATE ACCOUNTS - CBN Gov

Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Governor of Central Bank recently disclosed that over $20 billion is sitting pretty in domiciliary accounts of private individuals at a time when the country is facing foreign exchange crisis and is chasing foreign loans, when its citizens could offer the loan. The current national reserve $27.8 billion.

This revelation was made at a session of the joint committee on appropriation of the National Assembly by the Deputy Governor in charge of Financial System Surveillance, Mr. Joseph Nnenna representing Emefiele

He stated “As I’m talking to you, $20billion is in various domiciliary accounts of individuals. Naira is our currency, why are they keeping the foreign currency? From my experience in the international finance, I have never seen a country where its nationals speculate on its currency".

NJC SUSPENDS PROMOTION OF JUDGE, TO BE ON WATCHLIST FOR 4YRS

The National Judicial Council (NJC), chaired by Hon. Justice Mahmud Mohammed has come down with a heavy disciplinary gavel on Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court, warning her and putting her on the “Watch-List” of the Council for the next four years.

The judge will also not be considered for any elevation to the Court of Appeal or any Ad-hoc Judicial appointment until she retires from the Bench.

A statement by Soji Oye, the Acting Director of Information, said the decisions were taken at a meeting of the Council held on February 24th and 25th.   

The NJC decisions are sequel to a petition against her by one Victoria Ayeni alleging misconduct and injustice by Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia for failing to deliver judgment in a pre-election suit between Victoria A. A. Ayeni and Olusola Sonuga and two others .

5MONTHS PREGNANT ESE ORURU SPEAKS "I HOPE MY MOM, BROTHERS WILL NOT BEAT ME WHEN I GET BACK HOME"

ESE Oruru, the 14-year-old teenager allegedly abducted from Bayelsa State and taken to Kano by one Yunusa, aka Yellow, has said that she still could not tell how she made the journey to the North West state.

In an exclusive interview with Daily Sun in a private home in Abuja, Ese said it was only after she got to Kano and saw that the people and the environment were strange that she realised she was no longer at home. She also told Daily Sun that her real age was 14, not 17 as was being speculated. She said she was born in February 2002.The girl, who now has a deep Hausa accent and speaks Hausa very fluently, said she had to adjust to her new environment. She said she was forced to speak Hausa, as everybody around her could speak only Hausa.

During the interview, she appeared a little unstable. She said she missed her mother’s cooking, even as she expressed fear that her parents might decide to punish her for leaving home.

How did you meet Yinusa?
We sell food in Bayelsa; so they, Yellow and his other people, used to come and buy food from us.
What does Yinusa do in Bayelsa?
He came to Bayelsa to look for money.
People say Inuwa is your boyfriend. Is this true?
No, he is not my boyfriend. Like I told you, we sell food in Bayelsa, and so, he used to come and buy food from us. He is not the only one; they are many and I used to play with all of them like my own brothers because they buy food from us. I sell food to them just like that.
Can you remember the day he took you from Bayelsa to Kano? How did it happen?
I don’t know.
Did he tell you that you were traveling to Kano?
No. We didn’t go with his Keke (tricycle). His keke, is at home.
Did he come to the house to carry you?
No.
So, how did you travel to Kano?
I just followed him. I don’t know how I followed him.

People believe that you decided to run away with him because you love him and want to marry him at all cost.
I know that we used to play with all of them, our customers that come to buy food from our shop. There is nobody that is different. I sell food to all of them and I laugh with all of them.
So, how did you know you were in Kano since you didn’t know how you got there?
I saw that the place was different and the people there are people that I didn’t know. So, I knew it was his place because I did not know anybody there, but only him. We went to their house first.
So, what did you do?
I did not do anything.
What did you tell him?
I did not tell him anything.
So, you just started staying with him like that?
We travelled to Kura the next day with one man like that. He is the chief of the town. When we got there, they took me to one place and there they gave me hijab; they put it on me. And after that, they took me to one house in Kura. And from there on Monday, in the morning, we went back to the Emir’s Palace in Kano; then in the afternoon, we travelled back to Kura, to stay in the house.

What did you all go to do at the Emir’s Palace?
At the Emir’s Palace, they were asking him questions. They did not talk to me. They did not ask me anything, but they were asking him. Then they were speaking in Hausa language and I did not understand the language very well that time; so I didn’t understand what they were saying.
Was it at the Emir’s Palace that you first saw your mother?
Yes. I saw her, but I was not able to talk to her. I was just looking at her and she was crying. I just looked at her. I did not know her and I did not talk to her.
Did you recognise her as your mother?
I don’t know. I looked at her and she was crying.
But when you saw her on Tuesday at the Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, did you recognise her as your mother?
Yes.
While you were away in Kano, they said you got married. Is this true?
No.
Was there any marriage ceremony?
No, I did not get married to anybody.
But did they convert you to a Muslim?
Yes.
How did that happen?
They took me to one place. Before they took me from the house to Kura, they put me in hijab, then we went to Kura. When we got there, they went to one place, and one old man came there and he would say something and they would say I should repeat. Then I would repeat. If the man said something again, they would say I should repeat and I would repeat just like that.
So, that was how you got converted?
Yes.
There is also this rumour that it was one old man that actually married you and not Inuwa. Is this true?
I did not get married to anybody.
While you were there in Kano, did you ever fall sick?
I don’t know.
What kind of medical attention did you get? Did they give you any injection?
No, I don’t know. But they did not give me because I don’t like taking injections and I will not take injection when I am sick. It was only when they arrested me on Monday in Kano that they took me to the hospital. And when we got here in Abuja, they took me to the hospital again yesterday, Tuesday. Those are the only two occasions that I have gone to the hospital.
Did they give you any medicine?
Medicine? I don’t know. But if they put it in water or food… They used to give me something, but I don’t know if it is water they used to prepare it. But if I am not well, they would buy medicine for me and I would take. But it was not those types of native medicine. It was from the pharmacy.
Are you happy reuniting with your family?
Yes, I am happy to go back to my family.
How do you feel now?
I don’t know how I feel, but I just look calm. I don’t know what to do.
Do you regret what has happened to you?
Yes.
How?
I don’t know, but I have caused my mother a lot of trouble and put her into problem.
If you see Yinusa now, what would you tell him?
I tell you I’m confused. I don’t know what to do (then she started crying).
What were you doing when you were in Kano?
Nothing.
You mean you just stayed in the house from morning till night?
Yes. I did not do anything.
I can see that you now speak Hausa language very well.
Yes. I can speak Hausa very, very well.
Were you speaking Hausa before you left for Kano?
No.
So, how did you come about it? Did they teach you?
No. It is because the people there speak only Hausa. They don’t understand English. And when they spoke, I didn’t understand; so I tried and struggled so I could understand what they were saying and communicate with them. That was how I learnt the language.
They call you Aisha. Didn’t you tell them that’s not your name?
I answered it like that.
What’s your real name?
Rita.
How would you relate with your other siblings when you get back home?
I don’t even know. I have a feeling that they would do something to me for this thing that has happened.
Like what?
I don’t know if my mother will beat me when we get home for what has happened because she may think that I know everything that happened to me.
I don’t think she would do that, considering all the efforts she put to get you back home.
(Then the mother assured her that she would do no such thing, saying she was filled with gladness for seeing her alive).
How old are you? There has been a controversy about your age.
I am 14 years old.
When were you born?
I was born in February 2002.
What is your favourite subject in school?
Mathematics.
And what do you hope to become in future?
I hope to go back to school and become a nurse in the future.

Your brother said you are a good Christian and member of the Scripture Union in your school and that you used to preach to people. Is this true?
(Smiles) Yes.
Tell me about it.
Yes, I am in the SU, but they took it to the senior students and the senior students started misbehaving. So, we in the junior class took our own to a different level to sanitise the whole thing. We hold our fellowship in our class and go out for evangelism.
What is your advice to young girls like you out there, considering what you have gone through?
They should be careful.
How?
They should be careful with the people they play with or talk with, because it’s not everybody that is good.
What is your appeal to your parents since you are afraid they are going to beat you?
I don’t know what to do. I am confused. I don’t know what really happened to me and I don’t even know where I am. But I know that she is my mother.
What did you miss most while in Kano?
I missed my mother’s cooking. She used to cook sweet food for me; so I missed good food.
Does it mean you were not eating good food?
Yes, I was only eating rice and bread.
What would you want your mother to cook for you when you get home?
Banga soup and starch.

BOKO HARAM CAMPS IN ALAGARNO, SAMBISA FORESTS DESTROYED

The Nigerian Army has continued its offensive operations of destroying all  Boko Haram terrorists remaining camps and enclaves around Alagarno and Sambisa forests. On Tuesday, troops of 81 Battalion and 251 Task Force Battalion patrol team, cleared Boko Haram camps located at Komala, Dole, Kumshi and Moadori around the fringes of Alagarno forest. The troops killed 2 Boko Haram terrorists and captured 2 notorious terrorists; Mustapha Busuru (50 years old) and Usman Abubakar (56 years) at Dole village and brought down all Boko Haram terrorist flags hoisted in the village and destroyed them. They also recovered 2 Toyota pick up vans, 40 motorcycles, Improvised Explosives Making Devices (IEDs), stockpile of foodstuffs and fuel dump. The patrol team also recovered horses and donkeys used for transportation by the terrorists. 

In response to a distress  call of an attack by Boko Haram terrorists on Kuda village along Butuku road, troops of 143 Battalion swung into action, unfortunately the terrorists fled after setting the village on fire that led to the death of an elderly woman. The escaped insurgents regrouped and  attempted to cross through Magar bridge but they were pre-empted by elements of the Battalion who killed 2 terrorists and wounded several others. Sadly, 3 soldiers and 4 locals sustained injuries, while the troops recovered 1 Toyota Buffalo vehicle mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun with registration number 081375, one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) with registration number 132042, a loaded G3 rifle magazine and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunitions link.

Both military and the wounded civilians are receiving treatment at the unit’s Regimental Aid Post.  

ESE ORURU IS 5MONTHS PREGNANT!

14 year old Ese Rita Oruru, the Bayelsa born girl child who was abducted by Yunusa Dahiru, alias Yellow but rescued by the Police in Kano, has been discovered to be about 5 months pregnant, very reliable sources have told Vanguard. 

Freed Ese Oruru at Police Headquarters, Abuja, yesterday. Consequently, it was gathered that the white Hijab dress she wore on her arrival from Kano on Tuesday, was used to cover the pregnancy even though her physical condition and looks created a suspicion. 

Vanguard was told that it was the condition in which Police authorities discovered about Ese that informed the IGP, Solomon Arase’s directive that she should be handed over to the Gender and Child Protection Unit and later, a team from the Medical Department of the Force to carry out a comprehensive medical examination of the girl-child at the Police Medical Facility in Area 1, Garki. 

Upon certifying her medical status and emotional state, Vanguard gathered that the Inspector General of Police feeling uncomfortable with the transport arrangement of the mother that they return by road, cancelled the arrangement and directed that both Ese and her mother be flown to Yenegoa by air. 

Meanwhile, the IGP has directed the Bayelsa State Police Command to take over investigation in the child violence offense saga because according to sources, the offense was committed in Bayelsa which is the place of residence of the abductor, Yunusa Dahiru. 

Consequently, Vanguard was told the Yunusa will be moved to Yenegoa to face interrogation and prosecution for kidnapping and child abuse as well as violence against a girl-child

(Opinion) Osinbajo, Lai Mo'hamed And Their Deliberate Insult On Nigerians' Intelligence -Tonye Barcanista

When President Buhari broke the news that he won't be paying N5,000 to 25 million Nigerians(which is contrary to his campaign promise), there was a reaction of feelings of betrayal of trusts across the country (though some of us weren't surprise). As if that was not enough pill to swallow, the Vice President's office released a statement denying the existence of such promise. This denial came 24hours after the government's spokesman Alhaji Lai Muhammed insulted Nigerians intelligence when he appeared on Channel's TV on February 28. According to Lai Muhammed

Nigerians may forgive President Buhari for failing to meet any of his unrealistic pledges but can we swallow the denial and insults on our collective intelligence from the government? I think it will be appropriate to address the claims of the Vice President and that of the Information Minister squarely before gullible Nigerians swallow them as truth.

1. VP Yemi Osinbajo Claim of No "Unemployment Benefit" Promise:
It is never my intention to pick on Yemi Osinbajo, a man many see as the face of the righteous in government. It is however worrisome when the supposed model of Christians in politics engage in bareface lies just to suit interest of his government and group. First, he desecrated the pulpit by claiming that President Jonathan(and Yar'adua) built no road in 10years. Haba! As if that was not enough he has gone further to deny a key campaign promise of his party.

Was Yemi Osinbajo in limbo when APC Campaign team put up this billboard during the electioneering period?

Is Yemi Osinbajo saying that Hajiyya Aisha Buhari, the President's Wife was out of her mind when she reminded them to fulfil the promise on November 10, 2015 through her spokesperson Mrs Adebisi Ajayi?

“The wife of the President, Her Excellency Aisha Buhari has appealed to the ruling party All Progressives Congress, APC not to renege on their campaign promise of paying N5,000 to 25 million unemployed Nigerians and giving school children one free meal a day."
www.championnews.com.ng/aisha-buhari-to-apc-pay-n5000-to-unemployed-youths-as-promised/

Was Yemi Osinbajo in limbo when in November 2014 the Youth Minister in the presence of the National Chairman of APC, John Oyegun reiterated the government's pledge to pay the unemployment benefit?

“I would want the youth to understand that every promise must be backed up by budgetary provision and our promise to pay N5, 000 is not contained in the 2015 budget. So, definitely, it is going to begin in 2016 as we have made budgetary allocations for that,"

Is the VP telling us that Nigerians are silly? I won't be surprised if the VP comes tomorrow to deny ever pledging to pay the elderly and disabled that he made on January 7, 2015 in Osun state. Quoting his own words....

“The elderly and the physically challenged would also not be left out, as our government would be giving them allowances.” 
www.dailypost.ng/2015/01/07/2015-osinbajo-says-buhari-will-create-720000-jobs-becomes-president/

Or will Osinbajo also deny ever making such statement? 

2. Alhaji Lai Muhammed Blame on "Oil Price Fall":
Speaking on Channels TV on Feb 28, 2015, Lai Muhammed said...

“When you campaign, you say you will do A,B, C, but when you win election, you prioritise. “We are still faithful to those promises, but as you have rightly said, when we were campaigning the price of crude was $100 a barrel, today it is $30 a barrel so definitely, we will have to downsize some of the things intended to do but this does not mean abandoning those promises.
https://www.naij.com/747689-president-
buhari-downsize-campaign-promises-lai-
mohammed.html

While I will not spend time to address the effort of the Information Minister to justify a deliberate act of deception, I find his deliberate act of blaming oil price as offensive and inappropriate.

Firstly, oil price started dropping in July 2014 when Buhari was yet to pick up APC Presidential nomination form. As at November 2014, the oil price downed to $77 per barrel from $105 per barrel in July 2014. As at December 2014 when Buhari won the APC ticket, the oil price was at $60.70 per barrel. As at January 2015 when APC inaugurated their Presidential campaign council and rolled out their gigantic promises, the oil price was at $47 per barrel. As at March 2015 when Buhari won the election, the oil price shot to $52 per barrel. As at April 2015 when Buhari was declared winner by INEC, oil price was $57.54 per barrel. There was NEVER a time that APC made ANY promise when oil price was selling at $100 per barrel. Is it that it is only Alhaji Lai Muhammed that was unaware of this? 

The positions of VP Yemi Osinbajo and Alhaji Abdulai Muhammed is not only a slap on our intelligence but a scandal on the government of Buhari. The statement by Yemi Osinbajo, that is supposed to be the face of born again Christian believers(which I belong) is worrisome. Is this a government of promised change or a government of change of promise?

GIRL'S EYE-WITNESS ACCOUNT OF FATHER's DEATH, SENDS KILLER TO HANGMAN

Notorious Lagos gang leader and suspected serial killer, Adigun Oriyomi, has been sentenced to death by hanging by the Lagos State High Court sitting in Igbosere.

Oriyomi was sentenced to death by Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo, after he was arraigned on multiple counts of murder.

The court convicted him of killing his best friend, Femi Adekeye, in front of his four-year-old daughter.

PUNCH Metro had followed Oriyomi’s case since 2013 when he was arrested and released in controversial circumstances.

The convict had been arrested for murder on September 9, 2013, and arraigned before the Ebute-Meta Magistrate’s Court where he confessed to being a member of the Black Axe Confraternity and owned up to four other murders between 2010 and 2013.

He was remanded in prison pending the advice of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, but was released under controversial circumstances, after which he jumped bail.

On January 29, 2014, it was reported that the suspect led gunmen to Amodu Street, Mushin, where they killed a pregnant woman, Musili Bello, her 12-year-old daughter, Suliat, and a motorcycle rider, Baba Monday.

On February 10, 2014, the police said the suspect also led a gang to Ewenla Street, Mushin, and killed another woman, 38-year-old Agbabiaka, her 4-month-old baby, Aishat, and another woman, Adeboye.

It was reported in March 2014, that the suspect killed his best friend, Adekeye, in front of his four-year-old daughter on February 12, 2014, at the deceased’s residence on Isa Street in Aboru, in the Ipaja area of Lagos State.

In April 2014, the police said the suspect again led a suspected team of cultists to Akala Street, Mushin, and killed one 26-year-old Azeez.

A team of Investigating Police Officers from the State Department of Criminal Investigation, Yaba, had told a Yaba Magistrate’s Court that Oriyomi, and others confessed to the crimes, while witnesses would testify in court.

There were three different charge sheets.

Charge sheet one read in part, “That you, Toba Ajiboye, Adigun Oriyomi, and others at large, being members of an unlawful society, on February 10, 2014, at about 9.45pm, at Ewenla Street, Mushin, did unlawfully kill one Muninat Agbabiaka, aged 38, by shooting her with a gun.”

Charge sheet two read in part, “That you, Adigun Oriyomi, and others at large, on February 13, 2014 at about 8.30pm, on Isa Street, Aboru-Ipaja, Lagos, in the Lagos Magisterial District, did unlawfully kill one Adekeye Oluwafemi, aged 32 years, by shooting him with a gun.”

Charge sheet three read in part, “That you, Toba Ajiboye, Adigun Oriyomi, Yusuf Akinwale, Muyideen Gafaru, Sherif Kosoko, Yakubu Olayiwola, being members of an unlawful society, on April 2014, at about 1.12am, on Smith Street, Mushin, did unlawfully kill one Jamiu Azeez, aged 26 years.”

The DPP released its legal advice which said Oriyomi should be made to answer for the crimes.

The case was subsequently transferred to the high court in December, 2014.

PUNCH Metro learnt that Oriyomi escaped all the murder charges, except for that of his best friend whom he killed in front of the daughter.

A police source said, “The testimony of the little girl was what saved the case.

“After we could not establish the other murder charges due to absence of strong evidences, the small girl gave an eloquent testimony of how her father was killed in her presence. The judge tried to sway her by asking if the police prosecutor taught her what to say.

“She said yes. The judge asked what she was taught to say. She said, ‘She said (the prosecutor) I should speak the truth.’

“She narrated how Adigun (Oriyomi) entered their room with a ‘big gun’ and her father begged him to kill only him and spare the lives of his children. She told the court that immediately he shot her dad dead, she quickly carried her baby sister and ran away from the room.”

The judge, after listening to the five prosecution witnesses, who also included the deceased’s wife, brought the case to a close on Monday.

The court adopted the submissions of the state counsel, Mrs. Olayemi Sarumi and R.O. Aroyemu, and the defence, Olanrewaju Ajanaku.

Justice Taiwo said, “I find that the defendant, Oriyomi Adigun, shot and killed Olufemi Adekeye in cold blood. The prosecution has proved that the defendant was at the scene of the crime at the material time.

“The defendant was armed with a gun –AK47. The defendant intended to do grievous harm to the deceased and did cause grievous harm which resulted in the death of the deceased.

“The defendant callously and wickedly carried out his evil act in the presence of the deceased’s two children. The defendant also threatened to kill the children if not for the pleas of the deceased.

“The defendant had no mercy. The defendant after performing this callous act went back to the wife of the deceased to boast of his evil accomplishment. By the power invested in me, I evoke the provisions of Section 221 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, Nigeria 2011. By virtue of Section 301(1)(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Lagos, 2011 decree as follows:

“Oriyomi Adigun, the sentence of the court upon you is that you will be hanged by the neck until you be dead and may God have mercy on your soul.”

 

NIGERIAN PRISONERS IN UK TO BE REPATRIATED... IBORI TOO

Prisoners of Nigerian descent serving jail terms in the United Kingdom will soon be transferred to Nigeria to complete their period, following an agreement signed yesterday between the Federal Government and the UK government. 

Sources hinted that former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, will be part of those that will be repatriated to complete their jail term in Nigeria.

Ibori still has more than six months to stay in prison.

The British government has also promised to give Nigeria one million pounds (about N280 million) to assist in the comprehensive reformation of Nigerian prisons to ease the stress of the inmates.

The United Kingdom Minister of Justice, Mr. Jeremy Wright, revealed this when he led the UK team to visit the Minister of Interior to finalise the process of prisoner exchange between the two countries.

He said under the agreement, which he signed, Nigerians in British prisons would be repatriated to complete their jail terms in the country.

Wright told the minister the importance of the two countries respecting the agreement, saying there is need for the state of prisons in Nigeria to be improved.

Wright, who led a five-man delegation to the ministry, said even though the prisoners were paying for the crimes they might have committed, conditions in detention centres where they were staying should be made humane and accommodating.

He hailed the Federal Government and the Minister of Interior for making it possible for the two countries to finalise the agreement, which would lead to the mutual exchange of prisoners and said efforts would be made to foster the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

BJAN SYMPOSIUM :Tokunbo Modupe, CBN, UBA others to discuss customer, bank relations

The 2016 World Consumer Right Day has provided yet another platform for stakeholders in the financial segment of the Nigerian market to engage customers on the need to strengthen their relationship and explain reason behind alleged excessive charges.

To deliver a key note paper at the fourth Brand Journalists’ Association of Nigeria, (BJAN) Consumer Right Day Symposium is the Chairman, TPT International, Adetokunbo Modupe. Modupe is an astute communication practitioner and Public Relations guru.

Discussing Modupe’s paper titled, ‘‘Banking in Nigeria: Developments and Customers Challenges’’, are representatives of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), Union Bank of Nigeria and Consumer Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria (CAFON).

The symposium will also attract major stakeholders in finance, marketing communication industry, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Telecoms, aviation and others.

According to the Chairman of BJAN Goddie Ofose, the seminar is being organised as part of BJAN’s contribution to join the rest of the global community to deepen discussions on issues affecting customers and consumers with particular focus on the relationship between banks and Nigerian customers.

He said that: ‘’The Consumers Right Day is an annual global event designed to beam the searchlight on issues affecting consumers globally and fashion out ways to tackle it with innovative solutions.

‘’The symposium is to reawaken stakeholders across the sectors that they have a duty to protect consumers and customers in the country. As journalists, our role is to educate, inform and entertain the masses and also to set agenda.’’

The symposium is 4th in the series hosted by BJAN, it has become an annual gathering of stakeholders in the marketing communication industry in Nigeria to discuss way forward to tackle consumers’ plight.

This year’s event is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, march 15, 2016 at the White House Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.  As part of efforts to make the event a huge success, major brands have signed up with BJAN to be part of this great event.

PEOPLE'S MEGA PARTY FORTE BY AGGRIEVED PDP, APGA, LABOUR PARTY MEMBERS

A new political platform believed to be packaged by fronts of aggrieved bigwigs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties has come into being.

At the National Executive Council/National retreat held by the promoters of the yet-to- be registered party, the Peoples Mega Party (PMP), the National Coordinator, Chief Perry Opara, told the delegates that the mission of the new political platform is to provide a very focused and patriotic body deviod of negative traits of impunity and confusion.

“The major people who are in the party are former members of the PDP who disenchanted by the high level of corruption, high level of impunity and high-handedness in the PDP. They have decided to form something very new and they are of the opinion that they should hand over the party to younger elements who are less corrupt and who can be able to fight for the interest of the people.”

Opara who is a close associate of the estranged PDP chieftain and former Presidential aide, Alhaji Ali Ahmed Gulak said that apart from the bigwigs from PDP, there are others from even the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC) desirous of pitching their tent with the new party.

However, Opara declined to mention names of those PDP and APC members floating the party, saying no one among them has given permission to make it open.

But that does not mean that it is only people from the PDP, there are also people from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) chapters in many states. There are people from the Labour Party and there are some disenchanted people from the ruling party.

ESE ORURU, HER ABDUCTOR NOW WITH IG IN

Ese Oruru, the Bayelsa-born teenager, and Yunusa her alleged abductor, were this morning, flown to Abuja by the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 1.
 Rabilu Ringing, police spokesman told Vanguard on telephone that the duo were taken to the Inspector General of Police, who will handover the 14 years old girl to her family. Ese Rabilu said “the girl and the boy have been flown to Abuja headquarters of the Nigeria Police for proper handing over to her parents”.

He was however silent on the fate of Yunusa, the alleged abductor , who was flown to Abuja with Ese.

Mr. Charles Oruru, Ese ’s father who spoke to Vanguard in Yenagoa, yesterday said: “Without the support of the media and civil society groups, there is nothing I could have done. Left to the police, the matter would have died a natural death and  she would have been lost in Kano. We are praying for her return so that we can all celebrate.
“If they bring my daughter back successfully, I will be very happy. I am like a fish out of water. I have not been myself since she was forcibly taken away from us. “Whenever I think of her, I shed tears. She is only a minor. She was taken away when she  was 13 years old, but she is now 14. I do not have many children and the few I have, I make sure I take good care of them because I know they will be great in future."

Earlier today Tosan Blessing, a lecturer in Bayero University, Kano in a facebook post confirmed her release.

” I can confirm that Ese Oruru the girl abducted in a kamikaze pattern from Bayelsa State by a randy Yinusa is in the custody of the Inspector General of Police. I saw her at the Central Police Station about 30 mins ago where she was being prepared for medical procedure and ancillary services. I spoke with her for about 16 minutes, She looks opinionated and seriously brehwared. but well oriented and wanting to leave Kano.

“She had said it was all the works of the Devil. She said she was converted to Islam and giving the name Aisha. I told her she is now being reconverted and her name of Ese is restored. She cant speak Ijo but smarts Urhobo . I gave her some cold drinks and Zebadinne fresh yoghurt to cool the ehware tract and went back to my academic Duties. My names are Tosan Blessing Merhiakpome Harriman and that’s the way I see it.”