By S.A. Nickerson
“You have cancer” are three words you never want to hear . . .
Unfortunately, over 5,000 people in North America do hear those words — every single day. Even worse, cancer has become the second leading cause of death for Americans.
Friday 29 November 2013
5 Symptoms of Cancer: Check yourself now
By S.A. Nickerson
“You have cancer” are three words you never want to hear . . .
Unfortunately, over 5,000 people in North America do hear those words — every single day. Even worse, cancer has become the second leading cause of death for Americans.
Mother-to-child HIV infections decreasing, adolescent AIDS rates up: UN
Peter James Spielmann, The Associated Press
Published Thursday, November 28, 2013 9:04PM EST
Published Thursday, November 28, 2013 9:04PM EST
The U.N. Children's Fund says it is alarmed about increasing HIV and AIDS rates among adolescents over the last seven years and is advocating an aggressive program that includes condom distribution and antiretroviral treatment.
How Electoral Institutions in Nigeria Crashed : INEC as an Example
It is an understatement that the inconclusive Anambra governorship election is a big national embarrassment. It could not have been imagined before the election, with the overwhelming concentration of electoral resources and security on the said election that we would come this low. INEC could not conduct a controversy-free election in one
state, yet it plans to do a presidential election in thirty-six states.
Anambra might be the sad prelude to the coming presidential elections in the unfortunate shape of things to come. Free and fair election is the bedrock of a democratic system, where the people as the ultimate sovereign, express their will in the choice of candidates who will govern them. The people do not do this every day but every four years. The election therefore is the only instrument of people’s sovereignty in a democratic state. When elections are compromised, or when they are neither free nor fair, we cannot have “the true government of the people by the people for the people”.
“Mum, It Scares Me To See How Much I Look Like You” – Celeb Stylist Toyin Lawani (PHOTOS)
“Mum, It Scares Me To See How Much I Look Like You” – Celeb Stylist Toyin Lawani (PHOTOS)
Book BA flights, choose your seat and check in online at ba.com
Celebrity stylist Toyin Lawani has shared this photo of herself beside her late mother: the resemblance is marvelous.
Here is Toyin’s heartbreaking message to her mother, who has already passed away:
APC/PDP Merger: I am ready to work with Oni, says Fayemi
Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, on Thursday, said he is ready to work with his predecessor in office, Chief Olusegun Oni, in the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the splinter group in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last Tuesday announced a working arrangement with the APC.Fayemi stated this in Erinmope-Ekiti during his tour of towns in Moba Local Government Area of the state.
Answering questions from reporters, the governor said he saw Oni as a progressive politician going by his antecedents as a founding member of the defunct Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD) and the defunct Action Congress (AC), both progenitors of the APC.
Mary J. Blige wanted to wed Michael Jackson
Mary J. Blige wanted to wed Michael Jackson
Mary J. Blige used to be obsessed with Michael Jackson when she was younger and thought she was going to marry him.
Mary J. Blige wanted to marry Michael Jackson.
The 'No More Drama' singer was a huge fan of the late King of Pop and had a huge crush on him when she was growing up.
![Mary J. Blige wanted to wed Michael Jackson]({"default":"http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/6c/73988f751ff21d518b39caa60385/_h353_w628_m6_otrue_lfalse.jpg"})
Mary J. Blige used to be obsessed with Michael Jackson when she was younger and thought she was going to marry him.Mary J. Blige wanted to marry Michael Jackson.
The 'No More Drama' singer was a huge fan of the late King of Pop and had a huge crush on him when she was growing up.
Thursday 28 November 2013
HILARIOUS! OAP, Dan Foster falls FLAT ON THE FLOOR as Comedian Thrills on NGT
HILARIOUS! OAP, Dan Foster falls FLAT ON THE FLOOR
Veteran radio presenter Dan Foster got the shock of his life (and gave us a shock as well) during auditions for talent show “Nigeria’s Got Talent” in Calabar, Cross River.
The Inspiration FM On Air Personality enjoyed a contestant’s comedy presentation so much that he literally fell on the floor laughing.
Dan Foster said:
“I haven’t laughed this hard in quite a long time. Your jokes are almost as good as the ones that the professional comedians we have in the industry tell,”
Veteran radio presenter Dan Foster got the shock of his life (and gave us a shock as well) during auditions for talent show “Nigeria’s Got Talent” in Calabar, Cross River.
The Inspiration FM On Air Personality enjoyed a contestant’s comedy presentation so much that he literally fell on the floor laughing.
Dan Foster said:
“I haven’t laughed this hard in quite a long time. Your jokes are almost as good as the ones that the professional comedians we have in the industry tell,”
Nollywood Actor, Akin Lewis Launches Arts Foundation
Nollywood Actor, Akin Lewis Launches Arts Foundation
Veteran actor Nollywood, Akin Lewis has finally launched his new foundation for Nollywood and arts. The foundation, Abake Lewis Foundation for Arts (ALFA) was launched over the weekend during the celebration of the actor’s 40years as a professional on stage, radio, television and films.
The ‘Alatako’ star describes the foundation as his ‘dream for the preservation of the arts in Nigeria’, having been a part of the entertainment industry for four decades.
The event which held on Saturday November, 23, at the Amandour Suites in Ajah, Lagos was anchored by popular comedian Owen Gee.
Veteran actor Nollywood, Akin Lewis has finally launched his new foundation for Nollywood and arts. The foundation, Abake Lewis Foundation for Arts (ALFA) was launched over the weekend during the celebration of the actor’s 40years as a professional on stage, radio, television and films.The ‘Alatako’ star describes the foundation as his ‘dream for the preservation of the arts in Nigeria’, having been a part of the entertainment industry for four decades.
The event which held on Saturday November, 23, at the Amandour Suites in Ajah, Lagos was anchored by popular comedian Owen Gee.
Presidency not threatened by merger - Gulak
Presidency not threatened by merger - Gulak
![pdp: Image: NAN]({"default":"http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/b8/982ef760fe1d9823f990efe89e9aa/_h353_w628_m6_otrue_lfalse.jpg"})
The Presidency on Tuesday said that it was not threatened by the defection of the splinter group in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the opposition party, APC.
The Special Adviser to the President on Political Affair, Ahmed Gulak, made this known when he spoke with the State House Correspondence at the Presidential Villa.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the splinter group and the APC in a communiqué on Tuesday agreed to merge.
Gulak, who reacted to the development, said neither the presidency nor the ruling party felt threatened.
"The presidency does not feel threatened and the PDP does not feel threatened.
"PDP is the party to beat. We have had it before even people who had occupied higher offices left the party and came back.
"Outside there, there is nothing, it is empty. PDP is the only party," he said. He added that the party and the presidency welcomed the development because it would end the distractions that had been going on.
"For a long time, I have said it that their hearts have not been in PDP. It is good that they have told the world that they have taken a stand so that PDP will not be distracted.
"PDP as a party will be focused to build our party because a lot of people are waiting for this moment.
"A lot of people in the APC have contacted me severally that they want to come back to PDP. "They said they were just waiting for what happened today to happen, and to us, it is a good development," he said. Gulak, however, said if the group decided to return to the PDP fold, they would be welcomed back.
"We are talking about peace and reconciliation is an ongoing process.
"If they go outside there like those that went there before them and taste that the outside there is empty they are always welcomed back home like we did before," he said.
NAN reports that Edo governor, Adams Oshiomhole of APC, was also at the Presidential Villa shortly after the announcement of the merger. The governor, who did not spent up to 30 minutes in the Villa, declined to speak with the newsmen.
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All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from NAN.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the splinter group and the APC in a communiqué on Tuesday agreed to merge.
Gulak, who reacted to the development, said neither the presidency nor the ruling party felt threatened.
"The presidency does not feel threatened and the PDP does not feel threatened.
"PDP is the party to beat. We have had it before even people who had occupied higher offices left the party and came back.
"Outside there, there is nothing, it is empty. PDP is the only party," he said. He added that the party and the presidency welcomed the development because it would end the distractions that had been going on.
"For a long time, I have said it that their hearts have not been in PDP. It is good that they have told the world that they have taken a stand so that PDP will not be distracted.
"PDP as a party will be focused to build our party because a lot of people are waiting for this moment.
"A lot of people in the APC have contacted me severally that they want to come back to PDP. "They said they were just waiting for what happened today to happen, and to us, it is a good development," he said. Gulak, however, said if the group decided to return to the PDP fold, they would be welcomed back.
"We are talking about peace and reconciliation is an ongoing process.
"If they go outside there like those that went there before them and taste that the outside there is empty they are always welcomed back home like we did before," he said.
NAN reports that Edo governor, Adams Oshiomhole of APC, was also at the Presidential Villa shortly after the announcement of the merger. The governor, who did not spent up to 30 minutes in the Villa, declined to speak with the newsmen.
Copyright NAN
All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from NAN.
Fears for national vote after local election chaos
Fears for national vote after local election chaos
![election: Image: Reuters]({"default":"http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/1f/ea76f540771edcad8db99d0253522/_h353_w628_m6_otrue_lfalse.jpg"})
The 2015 presidential elections could descend into chaos if alleged irregularities and bungling in a key local vote are repeated nationally, politicians and activists are warning.
Nearly two weeks after voters went to the polls to elect a new governor in southeastern
Anambra state, there is still no result and the electoral watchdog has ordered a re-run in some constituencies this weekend.
The November 16 election in the mineral-rich state was seen as an early indication of support for President Goodluck Jonathan before his expected run for re-election in about 18 months. Jonathan's ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been split by his election ambitions and on Tuesday a splinter group of prominent politicians and powerful governors defected to the main opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
Provisional results in Anambra gave victory to the All Progressives Grand Alliance party of incumbent governor Peter Obi, a Jonathan ally. But the PDP, APC and Labour Party all called for a complete re-run, with one senior figure calling it a "parody of an election" after some people were denied the chance to vote, despite being on the electoral roll.
Ballot boxes, papers and other election material went missing, while police also imposed tough restrictions on movement into and out of the state, which was viewed in some circles as harassment and intimidation.
Lawyer and activist Festus Keyamo told AFP only 451,826 people voted, well under half of the 1.8 million voters eligible for the exercise, dismissing the exercise as a "sham" and a danger for the whole country.
"There was a wicked and unholy alliance between INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) and the PDP to subvert the democratic process in Nigeria," he claimed.
"If (chairman Attahiru) Jega's INEC cannot conduct a free and fair election in 21 local
governments in Anambra, should he be trusted to conduct a general election that would produce the nation's president in the 774 local governments of the federation?
"We should not expect any miracle in 2015. Nigerians should prepare for the worst. The masses and civil society groups should defend their votes. We have to take our destiny in our hands."
Nigeria's former oil minister Tam David-West meanwhile called for Jega, who was appointed by the president and whose organisation depends on presidency funding, to be sacked to ensure free and fair elections in 2015.
"By the Anambra election, Jega and his subordinates have put the 2015 election in jeopardy," he said. "With the way we are going, there may be a problem in 2015 if action is not taken.
"There may be cataclysm in 2015 if Jega is not changed. He can throw the country into chaos."
Copyright AFP
All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from AFP.
Anambra state, there is still no result and the electoral watchdog has ordered a re-run in some constituencies this weekend.
The November 16 election in the mineral-rich state was seen as an early indication of support for President Goodluck Jonathan before his expected run for re-election in about 18 months. Jonathan's ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been split by his election ambitions and on Tuesday a splinter group of prominent politicians and powerful governors defected to the main opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
Provisional results in Anambra gave victory to the All Progressives Grand Alliance party of incumbent governor Peter Obi, a Jonathan ally. But the PDP, APC and Labour Party all called for a complete re-run, with one senior figure calling it a "parody of an election" after some people were denied the chance to vote, despite being on the electoral roll.
Ballot boxes, papers and other election material went missing, while police also imposed tough restrictions on movement into and out of the state, which was viewed in some circles as harassment and intimidation.
Lawyer and activist Festus Keyamo told AFP only 451,826 people voted, well under half of the 1.8 million voters eligible for the exercise, dismissing the exercise as a "sham" and a danger for the whole country.
"There was a wicked and unholy alliance between INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) and the PDP to subvert the democratic process in Nigeria," he claimed.
"If (chairman Attahiru) Jega's INEC cannot conduct a free and fair election in 21 local
governments in Anambra, should he be trusted to conduct a general election that would produce the nation's president in the 774 local governments of the federation?
"We should not expect any miracle in 2015. Nigerians should prepare for the worst. The masses and civil society groups should defend their votes. We have to take our destiny in our hands."
Nigeria's former oil minister Tam David-West meanwhile called for Jega, who was appointed by the president and whose organisation depends on presidency funding, to be sacked to ensure free and fair elections in 2015.
"By the Anambra election, Jega and his subordinates have put the 2015 election in jeopardy," he said. "With the way we are going, there may be a problem in 2015 if action is not taken.
"There may be cataclysm in 2015 if Jega is not changed. He can throw the country into chaos."
Copyright AFP
All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from AFP.
Malaria kills 300,000 children annually
Malaria kills 300,000 children annually
![mosquito: Image: REX Features]({"default":"http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/43/a378ba6aa3e9c42b6c52549ce1b7/_h353_w628_m6_otrue_lfalse.jpg"})
Malaria is responsible for the death of more than 300,000 children under the age of five in Nigeria annually, the Malaria Action Programme for States (MAPS) has said.
Mr Dominic Usman, the organisation's Behavioural Change Communication Officer in Benue, said on Wednesday at the ongoing 5th Benue State Council on Health (SCH) meeting in Makurdi.
Usman said that the country also recorded over 100 million clinical cases of the disease annually. He said that the disease was also responsible for 11 percent of maternal deaths in the country.
"Malaria is the major cause of morbidity and mortality which has direct effect on the growing cases of poverty, low productivity and low school attendance in the country.
"The mosquito-borne illness causes over 100 million clinical cases and is responsible for nearly 300,000 deaths in children under the age of five and 11 per cent of maternal mortality cases annually.''
He said that the efforts by the Federal Government to eradicate the disease had not yielded much results due to structural and behavioural barriers by the citizens.
Usman, however, commended the private sector for its contribution to the health service delivery in the country.
"It is reported that the private sector contributes over 38 percent of health care facilities in the country and also provides health care services for over 60 percent of the health seekers in Nigeria.
"The private sector is active in the fight against malaria and has comparative advantage in the provision of the drugs, commodities and services needed to prevent and treat the disease.
"It is on record that 60 percent of patients with the illness patronise private health facilities/providers for treatment and of this number, only 4 to 10 percent has access to quality parasite-based diagnosis because they are subjected to presumptive diagnosis and treatment." He said that the 2012 MAPs diagnosis analysis showed that there was a very weak technical diagnosis capacity in Benue State.
"As a result of the 2012 diagnosis analysis survey, MAPs has trained Medical Laboratory Scientists in Microscopy for secondary facilities, Care workers and Medical Laboratory Technicians on the use of Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (MRDT) for the primary health care facilities," Usman said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry for health, Dr Jonathan Kwaghtsule, called for public and private sector synergy in the health and non-health sectors for the well being of the society.
Kwaghtsule, who is also the chairman of the technical session of the state's council on health meeting, said that it was the responsibility of the society to provide the enabling environment for the management of Malaria and other health challenges.
He said that the meeting had provided the opportunity to discuss and proffer solutions to health issues affecting the people of the state.
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All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from NAN.
Usman said that the country also recorded over 100 million clinical cases of the disease annually. He said that the disease was also responsible for 11 percent of maternal deaths in the country.
"Malaria is the major cause of morbidity and mortality which has direct effect on the growing cases of poverty, low productivity and low school attendance in the country.
"The mosquito-borne illness causes over 100 million clinical cases and is responsible for nearly 300,000 deaths in children under the age of five and 11 per cent of maternal mortality cases annually.''
He said that the efforts by the Federal Government to eradicate the disease had not yielded much results due to structural and behavioural barriers by the citizens.
Usman, however, commended the private sector for its contribution to the health service delivery in the country.
"It is reported that the private sector contributes over 38 percent of health care facilities in the country and also provides health care services for over 60 percent of the health seekers in Nigeria.
"The private sector is active in the fight against malaria and has comparative advantage in the provision of the drugs, commodities and services needed to prevent and treat the disease.
"It is on record that 60 percent of patients with the illness patronise private health facilities/providers for treatment and of this number, only 4 to 10 percent has access to quality parasite-based diagnosis because they are subjected to presumptive diagnosis and treatment." He said that the 2012 MAPs diagnosis analysis showed that there was a very weak technical diagnosis capacity in Benue State.
"As a result of the 2012 diagnosis analysis survey, MAPs has trained Medical Laboratory Scientists in Microscopy for secondary facilities, Care workers and Medical Laboratory Technicians on the use of Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (MRDT) for the primary health care facilities," Usman said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry for health, Dr Jonathan Kwaghtsule, called for public and private sector synergy in the health and non-health sectors for the well being of the society.
Kwaghtsule, who is also the chairman of the technical session of the state's council on health meeting, said that it was the responsibility of the society to provide the enabling environment for the management of Malaria and other health challenges.
He said that the meeting had provided the opportunity to discuss and proffer solutions to health issues affecting the people of the state.
Copyright NAN
All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission in writing from NAN.
Wednesday 27 November 2013
Nigeria: Defection of G7 Govs - Hope Has Been Rekindled - Peterside
Nigeria: Defection of G7 Govs - Hope Has Been Rekindled - Peterside
Lagos — YESTERDAY'S decamping of most G-7 governors and members of the new Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP) to the All Peoples Congress (APC) elicited mixed reactions in the polity.
Lagos-based lawyer, Professor Itse Sagay, said the movement of the G-7 governors to APC is not a loss to the PDP, adding that the movement of the rebel governors who are nursing a personal agenda, into APC may amount to inviting trouble into the APC.
Sagay also berated the northern governors, saying while the APC was preoccupied with salvaging Nigeria from years of misrule, the motive of the northern governors is principally for power to return to the north.
"Concerning the Northern governors decamping to the APC, I really don't think it is a loss to the PDP. If you look at these rebel governors, with the exclusion of Rotimi Amaechi, you will find out that their agenda is a very narrow agenda, a very personal one. And that agenda is for the North to produce the president so that a Northerner can control the Niger Delta oil and Lagos State VAT and so on.
In his own reaction, Bamidele Aturu said the primary motive of the gladiators in the present arrangement is to feather their nests and not to advance the cause of Nigerians.
The human rights activist said the movement of the rebel governors to the APC had proved to Nigerians that there is no clear-cut difference between the political parties in Nigeria.
They've taken a gamble - Babatope
Former Minister of Transport, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, wished the defectors luck, saying: "Now that they have announced it, I wish those from the PDP going to join the APC the very best of luck. They have taken a gamble and I hope they are ready to face the consequences of that gamble. No rebellion of any group within an established political party has ever succeeded either in Nigeria or even abroad.
"But in their case, well, they have taken a gamble and like I said they must face the consequence of that gamble. We have no fear about the APC because the APC is not yet a party. But we will remain with the Nigerian people, PDP will never desert the Nigerian people. So, we shall meet on the political battle field, that is why I said we wish them the best of luck."
Merger took Oni by surprise
For former governor of EkitiState, Segun Oni, who was with the nPDP, Vanguard gathered that the news of the merger came to him as a surprise.
A source close to him told Vanguard that "as it stands now, he got the news like every other person. He is studying the situation as events unfold and he will have to consult with his supporters at home before taking any decision.
It's better we know our enemies --Doherty
Coordinator of the PDP in the South-West, Mr Deji Doherty, said the defectors took an honourable decision.
(PHOTOS) : Mysterious Healing River 'Orimiri Jordan' Appears In Enugu state
Mysterious Healing River 'Orimiri Jordan' Appears In Enugu state
By Naijapals
A healing river was reportedly discovered in Nachi Oji River in Enugu State, last week.
According to reports, it's a mystery to the people of Nachi for decades, was nick named the “Pool of Bethsaida” and appears every 20 years, as confirmed by the indigenes.
This year, the pool was discovered by fulani herdsmen who were on their way to feed their cattle. According to them, they passed the spot where the water usually came from and there wasn’t any water, but on their way back they discovered the whole place has been covered with water.
According to the oldest man in the community, the water appears every 20 or 30 years, they first saw
it in 1971.
He also confirmed that various diseases and ailments have been cured at the pool.
The water stays for 1 to 2 weeks then dries up, and most people who visited the area gave testimonies on how they received healing from the water.
By Naijapals
A healing river was reportedly discovered in Nachi Oji River in Enugu State, last week.
According to reports, it's a mystery to the people of Nachi for decades, was nick named the “Pool of Bethsaida” and appears every 20 years, as confirmed by the indigenes.
This year, the pool was discovered by fulani herdsmen who were on their way to feed their cattle. According to them, they passed the spot where the water usually came from and there wasn’t any water, but on their way back they discovered the whole place has been covered with water.
According to the oldest man in the community, the water appears every 20 or 30 years, they first saw
it in 1971.
He also confirmed that various diseases and ailments have been cured at the pool.
The water stays for 1 to 2 weeks then dries up, and most people who visited the area gave testimonies on how they received healing from the water.
Famous Gospel Artistes Eben And Jahdiel Get Married
Famous Gospel Artistes Eben And Jahdiel Get Married
By Naijapals
[Popular gospel artistes, Eben and Jahdiel had their traditional wedding yesterday.
They will walk down the aisle on November, 30, 2013.
The wedding will be taking place at D.G.M, Plot 4, Off Road 16, Ikota Villa Estate, Lekki Ajah Expressway. Reception follows at The Manor Event Centre, Admiral Ayinla Way, Lekki Phase 1, 3rd Round about, Opposite Treasure Garden Estate, Lagos.
Grace Okoduwa (Jahdiel) is most known for her massive hit 'Heritage' and her latest 'Obulu Jesu'.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Benjamin (Eben), gospel rock artiste has captivated music lovers with is Afrocentric Rock style after releasing his debut album 'On The Rock' in November, 2006 with hit singles 'Imaranma' and 'God dey'.
See traditional wedding photos below:
By Naijapals
[Popular gospel artistes, Eben and Jahdiel had their traditional wedding yesterday.
They will walk down the aisle on November, 30, 2013.
The wedding will be taking place at D.G.M, Plot 4, Off Road 16, Ikota Villa Estate, Lekki Ajah Expressway. Reception follows at The Manor Event Centre, Admiral Ayinla Way, Lekki Phase 1, 3rd Round about, Opposite Treasure Garden Estate, Lagos.
Grace Okoduwa (Jahdiel) is most known for her massive hit 'Heritage' and her latest 'Obulu Jesu'.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Benjamin (Eben), gospel rock artiste has captivated music lovers with is Afrocentric Rock style after releasing his debut album 'On The Rock' in November, 2006 with hit singles 'Imaranma' and 'God dey'.
See traditional wedding photos below:
Nigeria rebel governors formally join opposition
Nigeria rebel governors formally join opposition
Abuja — A group of Nigerian state governors who defected from the ruling party on Tuesday joined a new opposition mega-party, officials said, in the latest political blow to President Goodluck Jonathan.
Jonathan's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has controlled the federal government since Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999 but is facing unprecedented divisions ahead of general elections in 2015.
The seven governors first broke with the PDP at the party's summer convention in August, branding themselves the New PDP, and on Tuesday announced a merger with the main opposition All Progressives Alliance (APC).
"The leadership of APC and the New PDP met this morning," Kawu Abubakar Baraje, the New PDP chief, told journalists in Abuja.
"The two parties agreed to merge (and) work together in order to rescue our fledging democracy and the nation."
Baraje insisted that all seven of the rebel governors backed the merger but there were reports that two were non-committal.
The rift in the ruling party had been in the making for months, with factions opposed to Jonathan's re-election and several members believed to be plotting their own run.
Much of the opposition to Jonathan is based on an unwritten pact intended to rotate control of the presidency between Nigeria's predominantly Christian south and mainly Muslim north.
According to many northerners, Jonathan, a Christian from the oil-producing Niger Delta region, should have never been allowed to run in 2011 as it was the north's turn.
The breakaway governors include both southern Christians and northern Muslims.
The leader of the key oil-producing Rivers state is among the group, as is the governor of Kano, the most populous state in the north.
The APC emerged earlier this year from the marriage of the Action Congress in Nigeria, strong in the southwest, and the Congress for Progressive Change, led by ex-military head of state Muhammadu Buhari, who has support in the north.
"We have a commitment to rescue our country," APC leader Bola Tinubu said after the merger announcement.
Abuja — A group of Nigerian state governors who defected from the ruling party on Tuesday joined a new opposition mega-party, officials said, in the latest political blow to President Goodluck Jonathan.Jonathan's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has controlled the federal government since Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999 but is facing unprecedented divisions ahead of general elections in 2015.
The seven governors first broke with the PDP at the party's summer convention in August, branding themselves the New PDP, and on Tuesday announced a merger with the main opposition All Progressives Alliance (APC).
"The leadership of APC and the New PDP met this morning," Kawu Abubakar Baraje, the New PDP chief, told journalists in Abuja.
"The two parties agreed to merge (and) work together in order to rescue our fledging democracy and the nation."
Baraje insisted that all seven of the rebel governors backed the merger but there were reports that two were non-committal.
The rift in the ruling party had been in the making for months, with factions opposed to Jonathan's re-election and several members believed to be plotting their own run.
Much of the opposition to Jonathan is based on an unwritten pact intended to rotate control of the presidency between Nigeria's predominantly Christian south and mainly Muslim north.
According to many northerners, Jonathan, a Christian from the oil-producing Niger Delta region, should have never been allowed to run in 2011 as it was the north's turn.
The breakaway governors include both southern Christians and northern Muslims.
The leader of the key oil-producing Rivers state is among the group, as is the governor of Kano, the most populous state in the north.
The APC emerged earlier this year from the marriage of the Action Congress in Nigeria, strong in the southwest, and the Congress for Progressive Change, led by ex-military head of state Muhammadu Buhari, who has support in the north.
"We have a commitment to rescue our country," APC leader Bola Tinubu said after the merger announcement.
37 killed in clashes in central Nigeria
37 killed in clashes in central Nigeria
It has been revealed that up to 37 people were killed in Nigeria in violence that spread across the Plateau state on Monday.
World Bulletin / News Desk
At least 37 people were killed and many wounded in attacks across four villages in Nigeria's central Plateau State on Monday.
"The attackers killed about 37 people across the affected communities," army spokesman Captain Salisu Mustapha said in a statement issued on Tuesday and obtained by Anadolu Agency.
"On receiving the report, Special Task Force (STF) personnel swiftly moved to the scene to bring the situation under control but the gunmen fled on sighting the troops," he added.
Police spokeswoman Felicia Anselm told Anadolu Agency they were investigating the attacks.
She confirmed the attacks took place at around 1am Monday in the Gura Bwok, Fan, Heipang and Foron districts.
Locals say there was a mass burial of at least 15 victims of the violence on Tuesday evening.
Titus Mann, a popular civil rights activist and local resident, told AA the attacks had come in retaliation for what local herdsmen described as the recent killing of two of their kinsmen – and as many as 200 heads of livestock – by locals in Fan.
The herdsmen had repeatedly accused local media of failing to report injustices done to them, while highlighting their attacks on rival ethnic groups, such as the Berom and Tarok, both natives of the troubled state.
Plateau has been the epicenter of ethno-religious violence that has killed hundreds over the past two decades, before the Boko Haram insurgency reared its head in the country's northeast region.
Plateau shares borders with the northeastern Bauchi State, where the now dreaded insurgency took root in the early 2000s.
Violence in Plateau has tapered off significantly within recent months, although there have been occasional ethnic clashes between local tribes, especially Berom, Taroh and Hausa-Fulani herdsmen.
The crisis in Plateau centers largely on control of land and the sharing of political offices.
It has been revealed that up to 37 people were killed in Nigeria in violence that spread across the Plateau state on Monday.
World Bulletin / News Desk
At least 37 people were killed and many wounded in attacks across four villages in Nigeria's central Plateau State on Monday.
"The attackers killed about 37 people across the affected communities," army spokesman Captain Salisu Mustapha said in a statement issued on Tuesday and obtained by Anadolu Agency.
"On receiving the report, Special Task Force (STF) personnel swiftly moved to the scene to bring the situation under control but the gunmen fled on sighting the troops," he added.
Police spokeswoman Felicia Anselm told Anadolu Agency they were investigating the attacks.
She confirmed the attacks took place at around 1am Monday in the Gura Bwok, Fan, Heipang and Foron districts.
Locals say there was a mass burial of at least 15 victims of the violence on Tuesday evening.
Titus Mann, a popular civil rights activist and local resident, told AA the attacks had come in retaliation for what local herdsmen described as the recent killing of two of their kinsmen – and as many as 200 heads of livestock – by locals in Fan.
The herdsmen had repeatedly accused local media of failing to report injustices done to them, while highlighting their attacks on rival ethnic groups, such as the Berom and Tarok, both natives of the troubled state.
Plateau has been the epicenter of ethno-religious violence that has killed hundreds over the past two decades, before the Boko Haram insurgency reared its head in the country's northeast region.
Plateau shares borders with the northeastern Bauchi State, where the now dreaded insurgency took root in the early 2000s.
Violence in Plateau has tapered off significantly within recent months, although there have been occasional ethnic clashes between local tribes, especially Berom, Taroh and Hausa-Fulani herdsmen.
The crisis in Plateau centers largely on control of land and the sharing of political offices.
Goat delivers human-like baby goat in Ogotun-Ekiti, residents say
Goat delivers human-like baby goat in Ogotun-Ekiti, residents say
The baby-goat allegedly had a human face.
The sleepy town of Ogotun-Ekiti in Ekiti SouthWest Local Government Area of Ekiti State was on Tuesday thrown into confusion when information filtered that a goat had delivered a human-like baby goat.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the incident, which occurred in Lori Oke settlement, a village that is about 10 kilometres from Ogotun Town, drew the attention of hundreds of residents and travelers.
The spokesperson of the community, Sunday Ogunmeji, who spoke with a correspondent on behalf of the Baale (community head), Ganiyu Adetoun, said a pastor, Daniel Odedele, helped to deliver the goat of the baby.
“After watching the goat labour for several hours, the pastor took pity on it and courageously pulled the baby out, only for it to turn out to be human-like.
“The `baby’ had all the features of a human being such as human face, head, hair, female genitals, two legs and two arms with hoofs.
“However, the human-like baby died at about noon as a result of lack of care as the crowd merely trooped there to watch rather than to attempt to save its life,” Mr. Ogunmeji said.
A resident, Saidi Oladepo, who is a commercial motorcycle (Okada) operator, said that immediately the goat delivered the `human-like baby’, it took to its heels.
He said that as soon as members of the community got wind of the incident, they ran helter-skelter in apparent confusion. He said alarm was raised and the local security agents, referred to as `Peace Corps’, were alerted to the incident.
Mr. Oladepo added that it took more than two hours to re-capture the goat in the bush.
The traditional ruler of Ogotun-Ekiti, Samuel Oyebode, could not be reached for comment as he was said to be in a meeting of the Traditional Council.
Tuesday 26 November 2013
MKO Abiola's Wife Doyin Arrested For Fraud.
MKO Abiola's Wife Doyin Arrested For Fraud.
By Naijapals
Former Managing Director of the defunct Concord Newspapers, Dr. Doyin Abiola has been arraigned before the Federal High Court, Lagos, for fraud.
A statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ngozi Isintume-Agu said that the Financial Malpractices Investigation Unit (FMIU) of Special Fraud Unit (SFU) said that between 2006 and 2008, as a Director of the Integrated Microfinance Bank, Dr. Abiola granted to herself without collateral and approval from the Management, the sum of N26,611,246.48.
Dr. Abiola, of 42/46 Moshood Abiola Crescent, Ikeja, Lagos, and wife of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, is one of four Managing Directors or Directors of Integrated Microfinance Bank (IMFB) located at 6A Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, who were arrested and charged by the SFU.
The others are Akinteye Simon Ademola, Dr. Jerry Orimovuohoma and Oladapo Bello.
The SFU said the four officials of IMFB unauthorized credit facilities to the tune of N327,566,000 to themselves and other related companies without collateral and that the loans are still outstanding. In the forensic investigation conducted by FMIU of SFU, the Directors were found wanting in the discharge of their duties while on the Board of Integrated Microfinance Bank (IMFB).
· Ademola of Plot 7, block 90, Mobolaji Ogunde Crescent, Magodo GRA Phase 2, Lagos converted the sum of N131.176 million to his personal use without approval.
· Orimovuohoma of 129B Oba Ladejobi Street, GRA, Ikeja granted unauthorized credit facility to the tune of N29,200,000.00 to himself without collateral.
· Bello of 23/25 Ijora Causeway, Ijora, Lagos recklessly granted the sum of N3,200,000.00 to himself without collateral.
“The bank liquidity was greatly affected with the sum the directors took,” the statement said. The case comes up at the Federal High Court on December 10,2013....
By Naijapals
Former Managing Director of the defunct Concord Newspapers, Dr. Doyin Abiola has been arraigned before the Federal High Court, Lagos, for fraud.
A statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ngozi Isintume-Agu said that the Financial Malpractices Investigation Unit (FMIU) of Special Fraud Unit (SFU) said that between 2006 and 2008, as a Director of the Integrated Microfinance Bank, Dr. Abiola granted to herself without collateral and approval from the Management, the sum of N26,611,246.48.
Dr. Abiola, of 42/46 Moshood Abiola Crescent, Ikeja, Lagos, and wife of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, is one of four Managing Directors or Directors of Integrated Microfinance Bank (IMFB) located at 6A Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, who were arrested and charged by the SFU.
The others are Akinteye Simon Ademola, Dr. Jerry Orimovuohoma and Oladapo Bello.
The SFU said the four officials of IMFB unauthorized credit facilities to the tune of N327,566,000 to themselves and other related companies without collateral and that the loans are still outstanding. In the forensic investigation conducted by FMIU of SFU, the Directors were found wanting in the discharge of their duties while on the Board of Integrated Microfinance Bank (IMFB).
· Ademola of Plot 7, block 90, Mobolaji Ogunde Crescent, Magodo GRA Phase 2, Lagos converted the sum of N131.176 million to his personal use without approval.
· Orimovuohoma of 129B Oba Ladejobi Street, GRA, Ikeja granted unauthorized credit facility to the tune of N29,200,000.00 to himself without collateral.
· Bello of 23/25 Ijora Causeway, Ijora, Lagos recklessly granted the sum of N3,200,000.00 to himself without collateral.
“The bank liquidity was greatly affected with the sum the directors took,” the statement said. The case comes up at the Federal High Court on December 10,2013....
We Have Returned The $700m Abacha Looted To Nigerian Government – Swiss Envoy
We Have Returned The $700m Abacha Looted To Nigerian Government – Swiss Envoy
By Naijapals:
The Government of Switzerland has disclosed that it had returned to the Nigerian government about $700m looted by late military Head of State, General Sani Abacha.
Switzerland Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Hans-Rudolf Hodel, made this known in Abuja recently at a press briefing ahead of a two-day seminar on Anti Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism.
The envoy asserted that the Swiss government was ready to reopen the case if Nigerian government presents concrete evidence of any other money still being held in any Swiss bank, noting that Switzerland had no interest in withholding illicit funds. He said his country had returned about $1.7bn to their countries of origin in the last 15 years.
“Switzerland and Nigeria agreed to request the World Bank to participate in the review of the use of funds, in the framework of a budget control process of various welfare projects,” he said.
He disclosed that his country was yet to receive any request for information on the November 4 Berne Declaration report: Swiss Traders Opaque Deals in Nigeria, which allegedly accused the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation of conniving with some Swiss-based oil firms of fraudulent deals, worth $6.8bn.
“I have no knowledge that we have been contacted by the authorities. In case they will start proceedings and they will need our help; of course, with international legal cooperation, we will help them if they approach us. But until now, they have not approached us,” he said.
By Naijapals:
The Government of Switzerland has disclosed that it had returned to the Nigerian government about $700m looted by late military Head of State, General Sani Abacha.
Switzerland Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Hans-Rudolf Hodel, made this known in Abuja recently at a press briefing ahead of a two-day seminar on Anti Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism.
The envoy asserted that the Swiss government was ready to reopen the case if Nigerian government presents concrete evidence of any other money still being held in any Swiss bank, noting that Switzerland had no interest in withholding illicit funds. He said his country had returned about $1.7bn to their countries of origin in the last 15 years.
“Switzerland and Nigeria agreed to request the World Bank to participate in the review of the use of funds, in the framework of a budget control process of various welfare projects,” he said.
He disclosed that his country was yet to receive any request for information on the November 4 Berne Declaration report: Swiss Traders Opaque Deals in Nigeria, which allegedly accused the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation of conniving with some Swiss-based oil firms of fraudulent deals, worth $6.8bn.
“I have no knowledge that we have been contacted by the authorities. In case they will start proceedings and they will need our help; of course, with international legal cooperation, we will help them if they approach us. But until now, they have not approached us,” he said.
Governors Of Niger And Jigawa States, Says They Are Not Joining APC
Governors Of Niger And Jigawa States, Says They Are Not Joining APC
By Naijapals:
Governors of Niger and Jigawa States, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu and Dr. Sule Lamido are NOT JOINING APC as they break ties with the aggrieved PDP G7 Governors…
BEVERLY HILLS, CA, November 26, (THEWILL) – The Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu and the Governor of Jigawa State, Dr. Sule Lamido have broken ties with the group of aggrieved State Governors in the PDP known as the G7 and have not defected to the All Progressive Party (APC), THEWILL can authoritatively report.
Recall that the G7 and the splinter new PDP Tuesday merged with the APC.
UPDATE:
Speaking with THEWILL in a conference call after the APC/new PDP merger was announced, the Chief Press Secretary to the Niger State Governor, Mr. Danladi Ndayebo, distanced Dr. Aliyu from the merger saying he remains in the PDP.
Even though Dr. Aliyu was at the meeting where the merger was finalized, his spokesman said their talks were inconclusive and that the governor was shocked at the merger announcement.
“My principal remains in the PDP. He has not left the party, he is not a part of the merger…” Mr. Ndayebo said.
Also, a source familiar with the merger talks told THEWILL that Governor Sule Lamido wont be leaving the PDP at least for now as “he is finding it difficult to leave.”
The source who asked not to be named in this report described Lamido “as a strong party man and one of the founders of the PDP.”
By Naijapals:
Governors of Niger and Jigawa States, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu and Dr. Sule Lamido are NOT JOINING APC as they break ties with the aggrieved PDP G7 Governors…
BEVERLY HILLS, CA, November 26, (THEWILL) – The Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu and the Governor of Jigawa State, Dr. Sule Lamido have broken ties with the group of aggrieved State Governors in the PDP known as the G7 and have not defected to the All Progressive Party (APC), THEWILL can authoritatively report.
Recall that the G7 and the splinter new PDP Tuesday merged with the APC.
UPDATE:
Speaking with THEWILL in a conference call after the APC/new PDP merger was announced, the Chief Press Secretary to the Niger State Governor, Mr. Danladi Ndayebo, distanced Dr. Aliyu from the merger saying he remains in the PDP.
Even though Dr. Aliyu was at the meeting where the merger was finalized, his spokesman said their talks were inconclusive and that the governor was shocked at the merger announcement.
“My principal remains in the PDP. He has not left the party, he is not a part of the merger…” Mr. Ndayebo said.
Also, a source familiar with the merger talks told THEWILL that Governor Sule Lamido wont be leaving the PDP at least for now as “he is finding it difficult to leave.”
The source who asked not to be named in this report described Lamido “as a strong party man and one of the founders of the PDP.”
Actress, Uche Iwuji Marriage Crashed Due To Affair With FCMB MD, Ladi Balogun
Actress, Uche Iwuji Marriage Crashed Due To Affair With FCMB MD, Ladi Balogun
by Naijapals
There is a new angle to the actress, Uche Iwuji’s marriage breakup and it’s nauseating. A report has emerged stating that the FCMB MD, Ladi Balogun is responsible for the crisis in Uche Iwuji’s marriage.
According to the report, the actress’ husband, Juwon discovered that his wife was having an amorous affair with the banker and as well discovered some BBM/SMS messages exchanged between his Uche and Ladi. According to the report, some of the BBM chats include unclad pictures of the actress, which she allegedly sent to her lover boy banker.
It is alleged that Juwon Lawal has abandoned Uche and their new
born baby for the states with Uche finding solace in the hands of Ladi
Balogun who is said to have been spoiling her silly with cash among other things to ensure her compfort.
It would be recalled that Ladi Balogun on several occasions have been described as a very reckless individual with a penchant for sleeping with young pretty married ladies, among whom were, society big gal, Uju Murphy, whom he allegedly crashed her marriage in the end.
Neither Uche Iwuji nor the coporate affair person for FCMB, Luis Ibe had responded yet to a text message sent to them for reaction.
by Naijapals
There is a new angle to the actress, Uche Iwuji’s marriage breakup and it’s nauseating. A report has emerged stating that the FCMB MD, Ladi Balogun is responsible for the crisis in Uche Iwuji’s marriage.
According to the report, the actress’ husband, Juwon discovered that his wife was having an amorous affair with the banker and as well discovered some BBM/SMS messages exchanged between his Uche and Ladi. According to the report, some of the BBM chats include unclad pictures of the actress, which she allegedly sent to her lover boy banker.
It is alleged that Juwon Lawal has abandoned Uche and their new
born baby for the states with Uche finding solace in the hands of Ladi
Balogun who is said to have been spoiling her silly with cash among other things to ensure her compfort.
It would be recalled that Ladi Balogun on several occasions have been described as a very reckless individual with a penchant for sleeping with young pretty married ladies, among whom were, society big gal, Uju Murphy, whom he allegedly crashed her marriage in the end.
Neither Uche Iwuji nor the coporate affair person for FCMB, Luis Ibe had responded yet to a text message sent to them for reaction.
Top Nollywood Actress, Uche Iwuji Dumped By Rich Husband Juwon Lawal
Top Nollywood Actress, Uche Iwuji Dumped By Rich Husband Juwon Lawal
Pretty actress, Uche Iwuji, has described as unture the story flying all over the place that her marriage of barely one year has crashed. Speaking with YES International! magazine on Sunday, November 17, 2013, somewhere in Ikeja, Lagos, the actress who tied the knots with Juwon Lawal, the MD/CEO of an oil trading and logistics company, ABC Fuel, sometime in November 2012, maintained that it’s not true. “Haba! Nooooo! My marriage hasn’t crashed o!” But her denial not withstanding, sources are still insisting that the marriage which produced a baby boy has since packed up.
“Not just that, Uche is also back to hustling; looking for movie roles and all that”. Undone, the sources added that her husband has allegedly relocated abroad, abandoning Uche and their baby. “See, Uche na good girl, but love has been bad and unfair to her. Remember there was a guy she first co-habited with in Spain and at the end of the day nothing came out of it. And before that, she also dated footballer Joseph Yobo who later dumped her for this ex-beauty queen, Adaeze Igwe. Then, Juwon, who she met in London or so. The truth is that I really feel for her!” Investigation conducted by YES International!magazine confirmed that Uche and Juwon were introduced in London by a mutual friend who runs Giselle Home Ltd, a real estate company based in Lekki, Lagos, and they hit it off immediately.
They courted for some months before sealing it up with a registry wedding in Lagos. Now, the news filtering out is that things have fallen apart between them. A native of Mbano in Imo state, Uche was born on August 26, 1981 at Randle Hospital, in Surulere, Lagos. A big admirer of Genevieve Nnaji, she’s from a family of four (2 boys and 2 girls). And got into Nollywood in 2000 with a role in Zeb Ejiro’s Tears in Heaven. A one-time second runner up in the Miss Lagos Beauty Pageant, her other works are Dream Again, Way to the Top, Passion and Pain, My Dream and Emotional Tears. A Sociology graduate of the University of Lagos, she was bubbling at an event when we cornered her for a chat on her marriage break-up tale.
*I hope it is not true because this actress has had her heart broken too many times oooh.love has been hard on her.
Pretty actress, Uche Iwuji, has described as unture the story flying all over the place that her marriage of barely one year has crashed. Speaking with YES International! magazine on Sunday, November 17, 2013, somewhere in Ikeja, Lagos, the actress who tied the knots with Juwon Lawal, the MD/CEO of an oil trading and logistics company, ABC Fuel, sometime in November 2012, maintained that it’s not true. “Haba! Nooooo! My marriage hasn’t crashed o!” But her denial not withstanding, sources are still insisting that the marriage which produced a baby boy has since packed up.
“Not just that, Uche is also back to hustling; looking for movie roles and all that”. Undone, the sources added that her husband has allegedly relocated abroad, abandoning Uche and their baby. “See, Uche na good girl, but love has been bad and unfair to her. Remember there was a guy she first co-habited with in Spain and at the end of the day nothing came out of it. And before that, she also dated footballer Joseph Yobo who later dumped her for this ex-beauty queen, Adaeze Igwe. Then, Juwon, who she met in London or so. The truth is that I really feel for her!” Investigation conducted by YES International!magazine confirmed that Uche and Juwon were introduced in London by a mutual friend who runs Giselle Home Ltd, a real estate company based in Lekki, Lagos, and they hit it off immediately.
They courted for some months before sealing it up with a registry wedding in Lagos. Now, the news filtering out is that things have fallen apart between them. A native of Mbano in Imo state, Uche was born on August 26, 1981 at Randle Hospital, in Surulere, Lagos. A big admirer of Genevieve Nnaji, she’s from a family of four (2 boys and 2 girls). And got into Nollywood in 2000 with a role in Zeb Ejiro’s Tears in Heaven. A one-time second runner up in the Miss Lagos Beauty Pageant, her other works are Dream Again, Way to the Top, Passion and Pain, My Dream and Emotional Tears. A Sociology graduate of the University of Lagos, she was bubbling at an event when we cornered her for a chat on her marriage break-up tale.
*I hope it is not true because this actress has had her heart broken too many times oooh.love has been hard on her.
Arsenal v Marseille - Match Preview
Arsenal v Marseille - Match Preview
“In recent years we have not been spoiled by the draw [in the knockout round]. If you look at our opponents, we didn’t play Mickey Mouse teams. We played only Barcelona, Bayern Munich and, one year, Milan.
“We were guilty against Milan because we missed the first place but all the other draws we had were very difficult.
“This year the draw can be as bad if you finish first as second. But you always feel guilty when you finish second and have a bad draw. At least if you do the job well, you qualify and finish first, you can say ‘we have done our job like we wanted to do it’. But first let’s go step by step. Let’s qualify and, if we can, of course finish top of the group.”
Team News
| Arsenal: Diaby (knee), Oxlade-Chamberlain (knee), Podolski (hamstring), Sanogo (back), Ryo (hamstring) Marseille: Andre Ayew (knee), Fanni (adductor) |
However a couple of home wins would leave everything to play for in the final round of fixtures - including the possibility of a team failing to qualify with 12 points.
On paper, Arsenal - top of the Premier League table with back-to-back home wins over high-class domestic opposition - should have little to fear on Tuesday. Marseille may have come out of pot two in the draw but they have lost all four group games.
However coach Elie Baup is unwilling to accept his side will draw a complete blank and knows they must win this game to have any chance of Europa League qualification.
Remember a pair of away wins on Tuesday would put that possibility in their hands.
However their form is, at best, patchy.
Marseille lost all five games they played in October - including Champions League ties against Napoli and Dortmund. They have recovered to an extent this month and a heartening 3-1 win over Ajaccio at the weekend lifted them to fourth in the table. The victory saw Florian Thauvin hit his seventh goal in his last seven games for club and country.
However they will be without his fellow striker Andre Ayew, who twisted his knee on international duty last week.
“Marseille have nothing to lose and that always makes French teams dangerous,” said Wenger. “They have quality and they are in a better period at the moment because they won their last two games.
This year the draw can be as bad if you finish first as second. But you always feel guilty when you finish second and have a bad draw
“It’s bizarre because we’ve got nine points and they’ve got none but it’s difficult because this is the decisive stage of the competition, matchdays five and six, and you feel it’ll be tough.
“It was always a 'must-win game'. But we won twice 2-0 [against Liverpool and Southampton] so overall that is of course very positive. We just want to keep going now.”
Mathieu Flamini is back from suspension to play against his former club as Arsenal look to complete their 14th successive progression from the first group stage.
“We know what is at stake and we want to qualify,” said Wenger. “We know that this is a very big game in that final stage of the qualifiers.
"We have an opportunity to do it at home - 12 points might not be enough, it's true, but it might also be enough and it might be enough on Tuesday - so let's get the 12 points.”
Copyright 2013 The Arsenal Football Club plc. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit being given to www.arsenal.com as the source;
'Being In Second Place Is Not Fun' - Nollywood Actress, Caroline Ekanem-Dajuma
'Being In Second Place Is Not Fun' - Nollywood Actress, Caroline Ekanem-Dajuma
The story of Nollywood sexy actress, Caroline Ekanem-Dajunma is not hidden. She is a onetime glamorous screen diva who later became the second wife of billionaire Musa Danjuma. Since then, Mrs. Danjuma who gave up her career in acting for the marriage has enjoyed all that money can buy and good things of life.
However, it appears something is disturbing the actress. She recently confessed on her Facebook page that being the second best and being in second place is not fun. It appears something is actually missing here. See here comment below…
There nothing Mrs Danjuma will do about the second place, but she just has to keep enjoying all the wealth and take good care of her family.
The story of Nollywood sexy actress, Caroline Ekanem-Dajunma is not hidden. She is a onetime glamorous screen diva who later became the second wife of billionaire Musa Danjuma. Since then, Mrs. Danjuma who gave up her career in acting for the marriage has enjoyed all that money can buy and good things of life.
However, it appears something is disturbing the actress. She recently confessed on her Facebook page that being the second best and being in second place is not fun. It appears something is actually missing here. See here comment below…
Quote
“It is no fun being in second place, thrive to be the best, live your dreams, you have given so much to the world, its time to live for you, trust yourself and work endlessly. may the lord give you all your heart desires''.
There nothing Mrs Danjuma will do about the second place, but she just has to keep enjoying all the wealth and take good care of her family.
Wenger - Brave Ramsey never gives up
Wenger - Brave Ramsey never gives up
Arsène Wenger believes Aaron Ramsey’s willingness to take responsibility is one of his biggest qualities and a key reason behind his incredible form.
The 22-year-old is enjoying the season of his life, having scored 13 goals in 23 appearances for club and country.
Wenger is delighted with the strides the Wales international has made, and puts it down to hard work and an inherent bravery.
Where he has improved a lot is in his first touch, in his finishing, in the quality of his long balls Arsène Wenger
“We always saw that he had a good engine,” the manager said. “He has another quality in that he does not hide to take the ball - and when he makes a mistake, he doesn’t hide again. For me that is a quality. He is always available to take the ball and play.
“Where he has improved a lot is in his first touch, in his finishing, in the quality of his long balls - which were too strong or not accurate enough - and in the speed of his vision.
“Let’s not forget that one year ago people were saying to me, ‘It’s difficult to play him at the Emirates’. You could see there was an impatience with him at the Emirates.
“As a manager you think, ‘Do I push him through and he can go more down or do you give him a breather to get him a fresh start?’. That’s always difficult to assess because it is linked to their mental state. When their own confidence is down, of course they are in trouble. But he is a confident boy.
“But you have to give him credit for that transformation - the credit goes to him because he could deal with that. He could come back, never give up and convince everybody that he has the needed quality.”
Wenger believes Ramsey has the potential to be world class if he continues to work as hard as he is doing at present.
“Of course he’ll get better,” the manager said. “He’s 22 years old. I’m 64 and I still think I can improve so why should a guy who is 22, who can play until he is 35, think he is at the top of his game? If he has the right attitude, he will continue to improve.”
Copyright 2013 The Arsenal Football Club plc. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit being given to www.arsenal.com as the source
Arsène Wenger believes Aaron Ramsey’s willingness to take responsibility is one of his biggest qualities and a key reason behind his incredible form.
The 22-year-old is enjoying the season of his life, having scored 13 goals in 23 appearances for club and country.
Wenger is delighted with the strides the Wales international has made, and puts it down to hard work and an inherent bravery.
Where he has improved a lot is in his first touch, in his finishing, in the quality of his long balls Arsène Wenger
“We always saw that he had a good engine,” the manager said. “He has another quality in that he does not hide to take the ball - and when he makes a mistake, he doesn’t hide again. For me that is a quality. He is always available to take the ball and play.
“Where he has improved a lot is in his first touch, in his finishing, in the quality of his long balls - which were too strong or not accurate enough - and in the speed of his vision.
“Let’s not forget that one year ago people were saying to me, ‘It’s difficult to play him at the Emirates’. You could see there was an impatience with him at the Emirates.
“As a manager you think, ‘Do I push him through and he can go more down or do you give him a breather to get him a fresh start?’. That’s always difficult to assess because it is linked to their mental state. When their own confidence is down, of course they are in trouble. But he is a confident boy.
“But you have to give him credit for that transformation - the credit goes to him because he could deal with that. He could come back, never give up and convince everybody that he has the needed quality.”
Wenger believes Ramsey has the potential to be world class if he continues to work as hard as he is doing at present.
“Of course he’ll get better,” the manager said. “He’s 22 years old. I’m 64 and I still think I can improve so why should a guy who is 22, who can play until he is 35, think he is at the top of his game? If he has the right attitude, he will continue to improve.”
Copyright 2013 The Arsenal Football Club plc. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit being given to www.arsenal.com as the source
MOURINHO: ITS THE SEASON TO BE BRAVE
MOURINHO: ITS THE SEASON TO BE BRAVE
MOURINHO: IT'S THE SEASON TO BE BRAVE
Posted on: Tue 26 Nov 2013
It is a better Chelsea that will face Basel on Tuesday evening than the one that lost to the Swiss champions back in September declared Jose Mourinho on the eve of the game.
The Blues can achieve the twin goals of qualification and top spot in our Champions League group with victory near the banks of the Rhine, having put the 2-1 defeat in the opening game firmly behind us with three straight wins in European competition. A draw is enough for the first of those objectives and confidence is further raised by a good performance and result against West Ham on Saturday.
Although David Luiz, who had a memorable game when we played and won in Basel in the Europa League last spring, doesn't return to St Jakob-Park due to a knee injury, Fernando Torres increases the attacking options for a game Mourinho is determined to win.
'Torres is ready,' the manager reported.
'He was almost ready to play against West Ham but we decided not to take a risk because we have nine matches in December and to lose a player now is not good. So we protected him, gave him three extra days and he trained completely with no limitations yesterday and today.
'This is a period I like, where the squad can play a role, not just the team,' noted Mourinho as he considered the crowded calendar leading up to the new year.
'It is a period where only the brave can survive because it is hard, with the Christmas period where the accumulation of matches is so high. You don't do it as a normal team, you do it as a special group with a special mentality. I missed it when I was in Italy and Spain.
'We have nine matches in December and one is the match against Steaua so instead of nine matches, if we can finish the job tomorrow it will be eight competitive matches and that is our motivation.
'I keep repeating to the players that it is the moment when everybody has a chance to feel important and everybody has the chance to show what they can do, even the people that don't play a lot. It is a big chance for all of them so I try to make them mentally ready.'
One of the players likely to be given action in the coming weeks is Juan Mata who Mourinho emphasised has been unfortunate to miss out.
'I can't start matches with 12, 13 or 14 players which I would love to do because many people deserve to play and Juan is one of them, with the way he works, the way he behaves and the way we see him every day. But if I played him people would be asking me about not playing Hazard or Oscar and for these three positions behind the striker we have so many options.
'Against West Ham I left out Mata who is an international for Spain, I left out Schurrle who is an international for Germany, De Bruyne who was probably the best Belgian player in the qualification group. I left out Willian who has just played for Brazil the last two matches, so it is a good problem for me but it is hard for them and it is hard for me because I don't have pleasure when I leave them out. '
Mourinho said Basel won in London for the simple reason they were the better team on the night but pointed out that since that opening group game, Chelsea have done our job better which is why we are able to seal our Champions League fate tomorrow and they cannot.
'If somebody has to feel the pressure tomorrow it is not us. Even if they win tomorrow Basel still have to play a last "final" at Schalke.
'It is the first time I've played here but I have watched matches on TV and video and the crowd is very supportive and push their team a lot, but I think this Chelsea is better than the one that played at Stamford Bridge and hopefully we can continue the good run we have in the Champions League and finish the job tomorrow.'
Away from football, Mourinho was asked about his hair which was shaved last week despite the onset of winter, with temperatures in Basel hovering around zero.
'Some people cannot do what I did because in a couple of months I have hair again! I asked Fernando [Torres] to give me his machine so I did it myself in front of the mirror.
'I sent a picture to my wife before I arrived at home to see if I could go in, and yes, no problem!'
The Blues can achieve the twin goals of qualification and top spot in our Champions League group with victory near the banks of the Rhine, having put the 2-1 defeat in the opening game firmly behind us with three straight wins in European competition. A draw is enough for the first of those objectives and confidence is further raised by a good performance and result against West Ham on Saturday.
Although David Luiz, who had a memorable game when we played and won in Basel in the Europa League last spring, doesn't return to St Jakob-Park due to a knee injury, Fernando Torres increases the attacking options for a game Mourinho is determined to win.
'Torres is ready,' the manager reported.
'He was almost ready to play against West Ham but we decided not to take a risk because we have nine matches in December and to lose a player now is not good. So we protected him, gave him three extra days and he trained completely with no limitations yesterday and today.
'This is a period I like, where the squad can play a role, not just the team,' noted Mourinho as he considered the crowded calendar leading up to the new year.
'It is a period where only the brave can survive because it is hard, with the Christmas period where the accumulation of matches is so high. You don't do it as a normal team, you do it as a special group with a special mentality. I missed it when I was in Italy and Spain.
'We have nine matches in December and one is the match against Steaua so instead of nine matches, if we can finish the job tomorrow it will be eight competitive matches and that is our motivation.
'I keep repeating to the players that it is the moment when everybody has a chance to feel important and everybody has the chance to show what they can do, even the people that don't play a lot. It is a big chance for all of them so I try to make them mentally ready.'
One of the players likely to be given action in the coming weeks is Juan Mata who Mourinho emphasised has been unfortunate to miss out.
'I can't start matches with 12, 13 or 14 players which I would love to do because many people deserve to play and Juan is one of them, with the way he works, the way he behaves and the way we see him every day. But if I played him people would be asking me about not playing Hazard or Oscar and for these three positions behind the striker we have so many options.
'Against West Ham I left out Mata who is an international for Spain, I left out Schurrle who is an international for Germany, De Bruyne who was probably the best Belgian player in the qualification group. I left out Willian who has just played for Brazil the last two matches, so it is a good problem for me but it is hard for them and it is hard for me because I don't have pleasure when I leave them out. '
Mourinho said Basel won in London for the simple reason they were the better team on the night but pointed out that since that opening group game, Chelsea have done our job better which is why we are able to seal our Champions League fate tomorrow and they cannot.
'If somebody has to feel the pressure tomorrow it is not us. Even if they win tomorrow Basel still have to play a last "final" at Schalke.
'It is the first time I've played here but I have watched matches on TV and video and the crowd is very supportive and push their team a lot, but I think this Chelsea is better than the one that played at Stamford Bridge and hopefully we can continue the good run we have in the Champions League and finish the job tomorrow.'
Away from football, Mourinho was asked about his hair which was shaved last week despite the onset of winter, with temperatures in Basel hovering around zero.
'Some people cannot do what I did because in a couple of months I have hair again! I asked Fernando [Torres] to give me his machine so I did it myself in front of the mirror.
'I sent a picture to my wife before I arrived at home to see if I could go in, and yes, no problem!'
5 die, 32 injured in crash
5 die, 32 injured in crash
![accident: Image: NAN]({"default":"http://db2.stb.s-msn.com/i/2c/f59e73a2ee6da01f119bc1a934b/_h353_w628_m6_otrue_lfalse.jpg"})
Five persons died while 32 others sustained injuries after an articulated vehicle was involved in an accident on Monday in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accident occurred at about 10:30 at Wanzamai village on Funtua-Kano Road when the driver was said to have lost control of the steering. It occurred close to the new office of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in the area.
The lone accident involved a trailer carrying 30 cows and 50 passengers. One of the passengers in the vehicle, Malam Garba Iliya, said the truck was going to Lagos. "The driver lost control and veered off the road throwing all of us into the bush," Iliya said.
The Malunfashi Unit Commander of FRSC, Malam Tijjani Muhammad,confirmed that the truck was going to Lagos. Tijjani, who spoke on behalf of the Sector Commander, Malam Habu Dauda, said the dead and the injured had been taken to Malumfashi General Hospital.
He decried road accidents on Malumfashi-Dayi and Marabar-Kankara roads, attributing the situation to ``poor driving attitudes.’’
He advised drivers against speeding, dangerous overtaking, overloading, reckless driving and drug abuse.
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‘Wande Coal’s break-up with Don Jazzy Shocked me” – D’ Prince Reveals
‘Wande Coal’s break-up with Don Jazzy Shocked me” – D’ Prince Reveals.
Charles Enebeli, also known as D’Prince, who was recently signed on as MTN brand ambassador and whose track, Booty Bag, has been enjoying airplay on radio, speaks with Tribune, on Wande Coal and Don Jazzy’s break-up with Mavin Record and other issues.
great. I have been to Ibadan a couple of times, but this last show was something special. What thrilled me most that night was the fact that we had a lot of young and old people showing us love. The impression we had was that Ibadan people don’t go out at night, that they always retire to bed early. So, when I was about to perform and I saw the huge crowd, I said to myself that I better give these people the best of my performance. I am happy that they really had fun because I did too.
Charles Enebeli, also known as D’Prince, who was recently signed on as MTN brand ambassador and whose track, Booty Bag, has been enjoying airplay on radio, speaks with Tribune, on Wande Coal and Don Jazzy’s break-up with Mavin Record and other issues.
You were in Ibadan recently for the MTN Loud Naija event, what was it like, seeing a lot of people turning out to watch you and other musicians’ perform?
Honestly, the feeling wasgreat. I have been to Ibadan a couple of times, but this last show was something special. What thrilled me most that night was the fact that we had a lot of young and old people showing us love. The impression we had was that Ibadan people don’t go out at night, that they always retire to bed early. So, when I was about to perform and I saw the huge crowd, I said to myself that I better give these people the best of my performance. I am happy that they really had fun because I did too.
What memory of your experience in Ibadan did you take back to Lagos?
Ibadan is like our second home after Lagos. The fact is that you will always have something to say about anywhere you visit around the world. But as I said, I always love coming to Ibadan. The love you get from these wonderful people will always make you want to go back to that city. The after-party was another unforgettable night of fun. I really had fun. Ibadan is fast becoming another big place like Lagos. I am happy that after Lagos, there is another big place where people appreciate good music and will stop at nothing to make sure they have fun to the full.You are a member of Mavin group. How do you feel about the goings-on in the group?
Mavin is not just my label, it is my family. It is my home and I am happy with it. I am enjoying my contract because I am working with a great set of people who share the same vision with me about my career. So, everybody is working to take the label to an enviable height and I know God is in control of our affairs. From the boss to the least person on the label, we all work together as one big family. We always make sure we produce good music that people will always say good things about. You must have noticed that we know how to do it, that’s why everybody appreciates anything that comes out of that label. What matters in life is how happy you are with what you are doing and who you are working with. For me, I am very happy and satisfied with what I am doing under Mavin records.Are you happy with the way things are going, considering the fact it was formed after the break up of Mo’hits?
There is nothing special about it. You heard in the news just like I did. It is one of those things that happen with any successful record label. It is not peculiar to Mavin. Mavin remains stronger than before. Everybody is working and we are moving ahead. That somebody left or that somebody may leave tomorrow, does not mean we should all stand down and look. This is one big happy family; whatever happens, we have to stick together so that we can fashion out the way forward; not to dwell on what happened in the past. That will only take us back.What does this unfortunate development portend for Mavin as a group?
You know this is like a business and you can’t always foresee what might happen to you or your partner. You won’t even know where your relationship is heading to until it ends one day. But at the end of the day, you just have to give thanks to God for the gift of life because that’s what matters to me. As long as I have my life, I can always find my way through whatever challenge that comes my way. You can’t run away from things like this, but your ability to deal with it is the most important thing. You will agree with me that at the end of the day, you have got only your life to look after. I f you lose it, you are finished. I just thank God for my life, that’s all I can say.You have suffered two break-ups in less than three years. If you look at the two scenarios, do you see any connection?
Why are you linking two different things together? But back to your question, as I said, I can’t really explain how it happened. If I tell you I could, I won’t be telling you the truth. In order not to confuse our audience, especially those who love us for what we have been able to prove over the years, I will say it was a big shock to me as it was to you people. I felt the way you might have felt when you heard about it. What I want people to do is to pray for us that God should guide us. Without His guide, we can’t do anything successfully.What lesson have you learnt from it personally and don’t you think this may affect you in one way or the other?
One thing I want to bring out of this is that nobody knows tomorrow. So, whatever you do today, just do it very well. This development is a shock to all of us because Wande Coal is like our brother. Basically, we will keep the flag flying. No hard feelings and no bad blood. Like I said, we are all brothers. We will definitely find a way to get things sorted out.Will this not affect your relationship with Wande Coal?
I don’t see it that way. Wande is my brother. We see each other at least every other day. I have no problem with Wande. The relationship remains as cordial as before. If you know the kind of relationship that exists between us, I am sure you won’t be saying this. That he decided to leave does not mean it will affect our relationship; it won’t. Break-up or no break-up, you have to be thankful to God for the good life He has blessed you with. Whether we like it or not, we remain one big family. From D’Banj to Don Jazzy, Wande Coal, me, Dr Sid and Tiwa Savage, I want our fans to continue to pray for us. It will mean a lot to the group right now.Is there any difference between the defunct Mo’hits and the current Mavin group?
When you hear Mavin, you hear Mo’hits because this is something that has been on for a long time. We didn’t just start yesterday. People love us because they know we will give them positive music as we have been churning it out since day one. My last album is barely a year old and you can see how far it has gone.
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