Rio2016: Don't Blame me If Nigeria Fails to Qualify- Samson Siasia

Chief Coach of Nigeria’s U-23 national team, Samson Siasia says that he should not be blamed if Nigeria fails to qualify for the Rio Olympics next month because his team has been treated like “orphans”. According to him, the team has not been paid their allowances in the last 9 months and they have not been provided with training kits as well.

“Nigerians should know that we are not well prepared (for the championship) and I should not be held responsible for whatever happens. We are orphans. We have not been paid our bonuses, while the Super Eagles were paid full bonuses even when they drew in Burkina Faso. We have been without allowances for the past nine months.

Open Heavens 28 October 2015 Wednesday daily devotion: DANGERS OF ENVY I

DANGERS OF ENVY I 

Memorise: A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones. - Proverbs 14:30

Read: Genesis 4:3-8 (KJV)

3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD.

4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering:

5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

6 And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 8-9; Ephesians 3

MESSAGE

"Some Africans are lazy fools only good at eating, lovemaking and stealing" – Donald Trump

Sorry this is coming late. It happened last week. The billionaire businessman and presidential candidate who has been calling for a wall to be built to keep Mexicans away from the US, slammed Africans in a new interview. He allegedly said

"I hear they abuse me in their blogs but I don’t care because even the internet they are using is ours and we can decide to switch it off from this side."

Lol. This man can yarn opas sometimes! Read the full article, written by Christine Mendoza for Politica where Mallam Trump was quoted blasting Africans, after the cut...

Supreme court throws out suit filed by Wike against Rivers election tribunal

The Supreme court has thrown out a suit filed by Rivers state governor, Nyesom Wike against the Rivers state election tribunal. Wike had approached the apex court, asking that the action of the tribunal to relocate from Rivers state to Abuja be regarded as unconstitutional. The tribunal had relocated to Abuja due to security threats in Port Harcourt.

Guber Tribunal Judgement: We’ve been vindicated - Rivers APC

….Urges security agents not to allow Wike escape

The Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says it has welcomed the judgement of the State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which on Saturday, October 24, 2015 afternoon in Abuja annulled the declaration of Chief Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner of the April 11, 2015 governorship poll in the State.

“We have been vindicated in our persistent claim that the election in Rivers State was a sham and that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) erred in declaring Wike governor. We repeat that there is no way under the heavens that Chief Wike can beat our candidate, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, in a free and fair election,” Rivers APC said in a statement issued in Port Harcourt and signed by its Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya immediately after the Tribunal judgement.

Ministerial Nomination Impasse: My story, by Amaechi

All eyes were on the Senate as the upper chambre screened 37 ministerial nominees sent to it for confirmation by President Muhammadu Buhari over the last two weeks. But none of the nominees proved as controversial as Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State, whose screening had to be deferred at least once owing to the deluge of petitions against his nomination, and for which he had to face the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee.

Finally, Amaechi was screened in plenary by the Senate on Thursday. The former governor tells his story in the course of the exercise. Excerpts: BY HENRY UMORU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

WHO IS CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI? 

I happen to be one of the best Nigerians to have served as Speaker for eight years.   In the period   I served, Speakers were impeached almost on regular basis. I have also served as a governor   of Rivers State under the PDP, but during my second term, I was  governor   of Rivers State under APC. Distinguished senators, it is a rare privilege  to stand here today to address  you.  I believe that this   is my first time of  addressing the Senate and I thank you. I thank   the President for this privilege. Whether I become   a minister or I not, this will go in the history book of mine that I once addressed   the Senate   of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but   truly   at the mercy of the Senate.

And as you know, this is a hallowed  chamber, so I am deeply humbled and honoured that I have been   nominated   by the President and to have been give the chance to address you on what I thought    would   be the little   contributions    I have made to the development of Nigeria. I told you earlier that my name is Chibuike Amaechi, I am truly a Nigerian.

Tribunal judgment: I will complete my tenure – Wike

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, sounded confident yesterday when he assured his supporters that he would complete his four years tenure as governor of the state, in spite of the tribunal ruling which nullified his election on Saturday.

Wike stated this at a thanksgiving service held at Obi Wali International Convention Centre, Port Harcourt, where the leadership and supporters of Peoples Democratic (PDP) gathered to honour God over the tribunal judgment delivered by Justice Suleiman Ambrosa.

Wike, who was received with jubilation by party supporters, as he mounted the rostrum, encouraged his supporters that their mandate would be regained.

“We will win and I will complete my four years tenure as the governor of Rivers State. The thanksgiving service today is very significant because, if what enemies planned had work, I wouldn’t have been governor today.

New Ooni of Ife: Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi

His appointment was announced in a press statement by the Government of Osun state moments ago. The Statement was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti. 

The statement reads: “The Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has approved the appointment of a new Ooni of Ife. He is Prince Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi of the Giesi Ruling House of Ile Ife State of Osun. 

This choice follows the completion of the due process by the kingmakers and the communication of their decision to the Government.” 

Prince Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi’s Profile: 

Open Heavens 26 October 2015 Monday daily devotion: HELP AFTER LOSING HOPE

 

HELP AFTER LOSING HOPE 

Memorise: For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion. - Ecclesiastes 9:4

Read: Luke 7:11-15 (KJV)

11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.

12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.

13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.

15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 4:15-5:33; Ephesians 1

MESSAGE

Open Heavens 21 October 2015 Wednesday daily devotion: ENVY: NOT COMELY

ENVY: NOT COMELY 

Memorise: Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. - Psalm 37:1

Read: Psalm 37:1-2 (KJV)

1 (A Psalm of David.) Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 32, Galatians 2:15-3:14

MESSAGE

Radio Biafra continues broadcast despite Kanu’s arrest

Controversial Radio Biafra continued broadcasting on Monday despite the arrest of the director of the radio, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.

Kanu was purportedly arrested by the men of the Department of State Services on Saturday when he arrived Lagos from his base in London.

Ardent listeners to the radio told our correspondent that the Internet-based radio continued with its broadcast issuing ultimatum to the Federal Government to release its director within 48 hours or face a revolt.

However, attempt by our correspondent to download the Radio Biafra app from the Internet on Monday failed.

Attempt to speak with broadcast industry regulator failed as calls to the spokesperson for the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Awwalu Salihu, in Abuja on Monday, were not picked.

Alleged rapist, Baruwa, not our employee, UNILAG insists

 

Baruwa

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon Bello, has insisted that a lecturer standing trial for rape, Dr. Afeez Baruwa, is not an employee of the institution.

This, Bello said had contributed to the inability of the university authorities to punish him for allegedly raping an admission seeker in the school.

Baruwa allegedly raped an 18-year-old female who was seeking admission to the university.

But at a briefing on Monday, Bello said the university had no relationship with Baruwa, hence it could not directly punish him as it did when its personnel were involved in sexual harassment in the

past.

He also noted that the institution had no relationship with the alleged victim.

Open Heavens 20 October 2015 Tuesday daily devotion: ANGELS ON ASSIGNMENT

 

ANGELS ON ASSIGNMENT 

Memorise: For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. - Psalm 91:11

Read: Daniel 6:19-22 (KJV)

19 Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions.

20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?

21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.

22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 30-31, Galatians 2:1-14

MESSAGE

One of the markers indicating that a life is blessed of God is the receipt of support from heaven. Such support can be manifested as heavenly bodies working to advance the objectives of the blessed. When the wise men from the East were looking for Jesus, and they did not know where He was, it took stars to guide them there (Matthew 2:1-11). If God could use the stars to lead the wise men to Jesus, He can still do so now. The Lord will use the stars to direct your customers, contracts and favours to you this season in Jesus’ Name! The good thing about this is that whenever God decides to use anything to assist or direct you, they will not fail you or stop half way, just as the star successfully led the wise men all the way to Jesus.

Moreover, as the blessed of the Lord, when Heaven supports you, the beings that live in Heaven, such as angels, are also released to advance your cause. For instance, when Elijah was hungry, discouraged and depressed, so much so that he asked God to take his life, it was an angel that God sent to bring him food (1 King 19:4-8). Also, in our Bible reading, when the hungry lions were ready to pounce on Daniel as their potential prey, it was an angel that came to seal their mouths for as long as he was in their den. Have you been thrown into the den of spiritual, physical or financial lions? The Lord will send his angel to rescue you from harm’s way in Jesus’ Name! The supporting operation of angels was also manifested when Sennacherib besieged King Hezekiah and his people (2 Kings 19:32-37)? It was just one angel that God sent to their rescue, and he single-handedly destroyed 185,000 soldiers in just one night. In the Name that is above every other name, both seen and unseen forces of darkness that are mobilised against you and yours from the air, land, sea and under the earth shall be razed down today by an angel of the Lord! In addition, it was an angel that warned Joseph in a dream of Herod’s intention to kill the child Jesus, and the angel told him to escape to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15). After the death of Herod, an angel also informed him in a dream that it was time to return home, and he directed him on where to go to specifically (Matthew 2:19-22). Angels are always on assignment to help the blessed. If you are blessed of God, you can also send angels on assignment to help your cause. The Holy Spirit revealed this truth about angels in Hebrews 1:14;

“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”

From today, you shall be a recipient to angelic visitations and guidance in Jesus’ Name. 

Action Point: Thank God for the angels on assignment over your life, family and church.

Lagos State Cabinet members sworn-in by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode earlier today

 

Please find below the names and portfolios of the Lagos State Cabinet members sworn-in by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode earlier today.

The Commissioners appointed and their portfolios include:

Gbolahan Lawal, Commissioner for Housing;

Dr. Jide Idris, Commissioner for Health;

Folarin Coker, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture;

Seye Oladejo, Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations;

Engr. Ganiyu Johnson, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure;

Mr. Oluwatoyin Suarau, Commissioner for Agriculture;

Mr. Rotimi Ogunleye, Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives;

Mr. Akinyemi Ashade, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget;

Dr. Babatunde Adejare, Commissioner for Environment;

Mr. Olawale Oluwo, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources;

Dr. Benson Akintola, Commissioner for Establishment, Training and Pensions;

Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi, Commissioner for Finance;

Dr. Abdul-Hakeem Abdul-Lateef, Commissioner for Home Affairs

Open Heavens 19 October 2015 Monday daily devotion: WHEN HELP IS VOLUNTEERED

WHEN HELP IS VOLUNTEERED 

Memorise: Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. - Luke 12:32

Read: Esther 5:1-3 (KJV)

1 Now it came to pass on the third day that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

2 And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.

3 Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 28-29, Galatians 1

MESSAGE

Open Heavens 16 October 2015 Friday daily devotion: MARRIED TO IDOLS?

 

MARRIED TO IDOLS? 

Memorise: Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone. - Hosea 4:17

Read: Deuteronomy 4:15-20 (KJV)

15 Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire:

16 Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,

17 The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air,

18 The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth:

19 And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.

20 But the LORD hath taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, even out of Egypt, to be unto him a people of inheritance, as ye are this day.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 21:31-23:12, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33

MESSAGE

Ministerial Screening: Drama, Comedy As Senators Screen Lai Mohammed 13/...

Cristiano Ronaldo wins record 4th Golden Shoe award

Cristiano Ronaldo has received a record fourth Golden Boot after leading all scorers in Europe’s domestic leagues last season.

The Real Madrid forward scored 48 goals in 35 Spanish league games to claim his third Golden Boot with the Bernabéu club. His other award came with Manchester United in 2007-08. No other player has won four.

Open Heavens 14 October 2015 Wednesday daily devotion: THE SUPER NEED

THE SUPER NEED 

Memorise: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. - Luke 10:42

Read: Luke 10:38-42 (KJV)

38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.

39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.

40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:

42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 18-19, 2 Corinthians 10

MESSAGE

Copy of the second batch of ministerial list sent to the senate for confirmation

  

Shared by Bukola Saraki on his Facebook wall...

Has Buhari really brought change? (Must Read)

CHANGE was the slogan of the now ruling party during elections, from one state to another the screaming of change JONATHAN was sang everywhere, there wanted power at the "center" now they do have it, aside changing the president, has Nigeria and Nigerians actually felt any change in the conditions of our lives and that of our dear country? 

An amount of Nigerians can agree that the power supply has become better, but sadly enough it has not CHANGED! Slightly improving power from 3000+ megawatts to 4000+ megawatts is really not change, we wanted a complete change not a temporary because of the better rainfall change! Can they guarantee us that after the rainy seasons, they would be high power supply? We want upwards of 

40,000 megawatts that's change! 

How we kidnapped Olu Falae - Abductors

Abdullahi Usman (AKA Kadiri) on Monday narrated how he helped to pinpoint “a big man who goes to his farm in Toyota Hilux van” who could be kidnapped to provide Sallah and wedding funds to some of his friends.

Narrating the genesis and finale of how Chief Olu Falae was abducted in his farm last month while he and another suspect Babawuro Kato by operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) at their headquarters in Abuja, Usman said he was approached by some of his friends in Kwara State shortly before the last Eid El-Kabir during a wedding ceremony.

Usman continued that one Datijo approached him complaining that he was so broke that he might not be able to satisfactorily celebrate the coming festival unless he (Usman) was able to give information on any big man that could be abducted for money. 

He said:

Man sentenced to 885 years for child pornography

 

A Seminole County judge sentenced a man to 885 years in prison for possession of a massive amount of child pornography, Attorney General Pam Bondi's Office of Statewide Prosecution announced on Monday.

Shawn Ryan Thomas, 31, was sentenced to 885 years in prison on 59 counts of possession of child pornography, 15 years for each count.

According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Thomas communicated online with an informant regarding a disturbing plan to kidnap a child, kill the parents and sexually batter the child while filming the acts to produce child pornography.

Bayelsa state declares 7 days mourning as flags fly at half mast for Alamieyeseigha

Bayelsa State Government yesterday declared 7 days of mourning in honour of its former governor Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who passed away last Saturday and directed that flags in all public buildings and premises across the state be flown at half mast.

The Bayelsa State Government, in a statement by Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Esueme Dan-Kikile, said within the period of mourning, all its official engagements will be cancelled.

According to Vanguard, the 7 days mourning period and the flying of the flags at half mast, according to the statement, started on Monday, stating that the government will work with the Alamieyeseigha family to give the former governor a befitting burial.

Election Tribunal upholds Stella Oduah's Senatorial election

 

The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Anambra state yesterday October 12th upheld the election of Stella Oduah as the senator representing Anambra North Senatorial District. The senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Dubem Obaze and his party had petitioned the tribunal over the emergence of the former Aviation minister as the Senator representing the senatorial zone in the March 28th election.

 Delivering his judgment, the Chairman of the tribunal Justice Hezekiah Solanke, dismissed the petition for lacking in merit, stressing that the petitioners failed to prove their allegation.

Oyinlola, Odimegwu and Others make Buhari’s Second batch of ministerial nominees

 A former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, a former Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and ex Senator, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and a former Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries and ex-chairman of the National Population Commission, Chief Festus Odimegwu made the second batch of names forwarded to the Senate by President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday for confirmation as Ministers.

 Though Senate President Bukola Saraki is expected to formally make the names of the nominees public at Tuesday’s plenary, the identities of some of the prospects were leaked to the press on Monday night.

UK to support Nigeria with N67bn yearly

 The ​United Kingdom (UK) has pledged to support Nigeria’s effort towards ensuring stability and development with a commitment worth £218 million (N67 billion).

 The country’s minister for Africa, Grant Shapps, said on arrival in Abuja on his maiden visit to Nigeria that the two countries would work together to increase the nation’s prosperity in the areas of trade and security.

 He said the UK government would provide a comprehensive package of support to Nigeria, by expanding military training and intelligence cooperation.

 According to him, the UK would also assist Nigeria on anti-corruption capacity building and investigative support, and an annual development programme worth £218 million (about N67 billion).

 He said the country would also contribute to the increasing prosperity at the heart of a thriving trade relationship worth £6.1 billion per year (about N1.8 trillion).

 He praised the UK’s close relationship with Nigeria and set out how the two countries would work together to increase prosperity, trade and security.

Open Heavens 13 October 2015 Tuesday daily devotion: ELEMENTS PROVIDE SUPPORT

 

ELEMENTS PROVIDE SUPPORT

Memorise: The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. - Psalm 121:6

Read: Joshua 10:12-14 (KJV)

12 Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.

13 And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.

14 And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the LORD fought for Israel.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 16-17, 2 Corinthians 9

MESSAGE

Lekki Free Trade Zone MD Killed In Land Fracas In Lagos

Tajuden Disu

The Managing Director of the Lekki Free Zone Ltd, Mr. Tajudeen Disu is among persons killed as Ibeju-Lekki villagers and mobile police officers clashed in  Okunraiye community near Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, this morning.

The villagers said they were on a peaceful protest against "forceful takeover" of their land by the Lagos state government on behalf of Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko  Dangote and the Lekki Free Zone Ltd when policemen  attacked them reportedly killing two of the protesters instantly. 

The villagers said the killing resulted in a crisis.

A local chief in the area told Saharareporters that the Lekki Free Zone Ltd called in anti-riot policemen of "Mopol 49" to kill the protesters because they had insisted too long ago against forceful acquisition of the community land by the Lekki Free Zone Ltd for the construction of a large petrochemical  refinery owned by Mr. Dangote. The chief said the Mopol were led and supervised to the protest scene by Managing Director of the Lekki Free Zone Ltd, Mr. Disu. 

Vincent Enyeama, Ahmed Musa make CAF Player of the Year list

Super Eagles’players, Ahmed Musa and Vincent Enyeama have made the Confederation of African Football (CAF) 2015 African Player of the Year Glo-CAF award list.

The list was released yesterday from the CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt. Other players listed for the African Player of the Year Award includes England-based stars Riyad Mahrez from Algeria, Yannick Bolasie of DR Congo, Andre Ayew of Ghana, Mame Diouf from Senegal, Kenya’s Victor Wanyama and Gabon skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Reigning and African Player of the Year, Yaya Toure is also on a long list of nominees.

Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode joined other world leaders including US Secretary of State John Kerry at a World Climate Conference tagged "Our Cities Our Climate parley" which held at the State Department, Washington D.C., USA, on Thursday, October 8th.

Buhari will pick his ministers from the 36 states - Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina says contrary to popular opinion, President Buhari will be picking all his ministers from the 36 states of the federation. He said this via his twitter handle this morning. 

Continue to see more of his tweets..

Ministerial list: Tinubu, others under security watch

 Security agencies have launched a surveillance ring around a lead­er of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others, including some members of the National Assembly, over an alleged plot against President Mu­hammadu Buhari.

 The plot, which presidency sources said is not unconnected to the decision of President Buhari to dump several nominees submitted by some party leaders and political godfa­thers for ministerial appointments, has led to a move to mend fences between the two ma­jor contending forces in the Senate.

 Intelligence reports had revealed that some state governors, party leaders and political godfathers, whose nominees were dumped by the President for his preferred candidates, have begun to “unleash their goons in a well coordinated media campaigns and groups’ protests against Mr President’s choice of ministerial nominees”

Blame Obasanjo for Yar’Adua, Jonathan’s failure – Pastor Bakare

 The Serving Overseer of the Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, spoke to Punch correspondents BAYO AKINLOYE and TOBI AWORINDEabout President Muhammadu Buhari’s list of ministerial nominees, among other issues.

What do you think about President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial nominees so far and what input did you have in the selection process?

 We all waited for President Buhari’s list to come out. We have seen it and we trust God for the best as regards these people he (Buhari) chose by himself after due consultation with the Vice President (Prof. Yemi Osinbajo) and the party (the All Progressives Congress). We trust that as some of them had performed well in time past (in areas) that we can point to, they would had the grace to also do extraordinarily well for the citizens of Nigeria.

Diepreye Alamieyeseigha’s death: Group blames APC

 The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been accused of being behind the death of first civilian governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Dieprieye Alamieyesiegha, who passed away in Port-Harcourt just this evening.

 A socio-cultural organisation, Izon Brotherhood in the Diaspora, which made this known in a statement widely distributed to the media from Germany yesterday said the recent extradition notice by the United Kingdom aggravated the health of the former governor and his subsequent death.

 Alamieyesiegha’s health was said to have deteriorated and rushed to a private hospital in Port-Harcourt where he slipped into comma as doctors were said to have battled to save his life until he passed on.

 Spokesman of the group, Arc. Pere Jones, however, lambasted the APC which he claimed was behind the recent extradition notice that must have aggravated the health of former Ijaw leader who allegedly died of heart attack.

Ministerial Screening: Rivers APC woos senate

 The Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the weekend made a strong case for the immediate past governor of the State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, to be among the few who should be given special consideration by the Senate during the screening of ministerial nominees.

 The party in a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt by the State Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, commended the Senate for decision to be thorough in the forthcoming screening exercise but appealed to it not to totally discard the tradition of asking deserving ones to take a bow and go.

 “We wish to respectfully appeal to the Distinguished Senate to put Rt. Hon. Amaechi on the list of nominees to be honoured with the ‘bow and go’ tradition because he is a distinguished former lawmaker and, indeed, the only Nigerian who apart from being the Speaker of a State House of Assembly for eight years from 1999 to 2007, but also meritoriously served as Chairman of the Nigerian Speakers Forum, thereby greatly contributing to the legislative evolution of Nigeria,” Rivers APC said.

NFF Bans Super Eagles from Social Media Use in Camps

 The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has hinted that Super Eagles players will be restricted on their use of social media while on international duty following the face off between Sunday Oliseh and Vincent Enyeama last Tuesday.

 NFF supremo Amaju Pinnick made this known after a meeting in Belgium on Saturday with the main protagonists involved in the dispute.

 Lille numero uno Vincent Enyeama made headlines last week after he took to Instagram to express his disappointment on how he was mistreated by Sunday Oliseh.

Biafra: Buhari raises hope – MASSOB

Movement for Actuali­sation of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has be­gun to re-strategise on how to successfully establish a sovereign state of Biafra.

 The group’s Deputy Na­tional Director of Informa­tion, Mazi Chris Anierobi Mocha, in a statement made available to Daily Sun yesterday said the recent speech by President Muhammadu Buhari at the United Nations General Assembly meeting raised hope for the actualization of the State of Biafra because the president pressurised member nations to grant freedom to Palestine from the State of Israel and other nations seeking self seces­sion in the world.

 Mocha noted that the out­come of President Buhari’s speech at the just-conclud­ed meeting had encouraged nations seeking freedom to step up their separatist agi­tations.

 “Some of the enclaves and proposed nations that have stepped up their sepa­ratist activities included Palastine, the new Biafra, Northern Spain, Tibet, Northern Canada, Western Sahara and 20 others,” he said.

Open Heavens 12 October 2015: Monday daily devotion

CHANGE THROUGH CONTACT 

Memorise: But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.  - 1 Corinthians 1:24

Read: 2 Kings 2:19-22 (KJV)

19 And the men of the city said unto Elisha, Behold, I pray thee, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord seeth: but the water is naught, and the ground barren.

20 And he said, Bring me a new cruse, and put salt therein. And they brought it to him.

21 And he went forth unto the spring of the waters, and cast the salt in there, and said, Thus saith the LORD, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or barren land.

22 So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the saying of Elisha which he spake.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 14:20-15:41, 2 Corinthians 8

MESSAGE

EFCC arrests 2 men with 556 ATM cards and travellers’ cheques

  

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,EFCC, has arrested 2 men identified as Jonathan Odu Isikwei and Paschal Onuora Udeh with 108 ATM cards and 448 travelers' cheques.

Jonathan Odu Isikwei was found with 448 travelers’ cheques, while Pascal Onuora Udeh, 34, was arrested with 108 ATM cards on his way to China.

A statement issued by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren stated: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign one Jonathan Odu Isikwei for unlawful possession of 448 travelers’ Cheques.

“Isikwei 51, a native of Igbodo in Aniocha local government area of Delta State, was arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, by the Operatives of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during the outward clearance of passengers on a Belgium- bound flight.

The Madueke family release statement on Diezani's travails

Below is statement issued by the Alison-Madueke family on the travails and media trial of the former minister. 

Read below...

The Truth Versus The Media Hysteria Against The Madueke Family

1. In this era of cyber terrorism, decency dictates that one should respond to false and defamatory allegations with silence. But there is a limit to how much any reasonable person can bear the tactics of these cyber terrorists. We all know that what makes a lie fly is the little truth contained therein. This happens to be the weapon used by most online news media to feed their weird obsession with defaming highly placed people. 

Open Heavens 9 October 2015 Friday daily devotion: STEALING HIS GLORY?

 

STEALING HIS GLORY? 

Memorise: For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? And I will not give my glory unto another. - Isaiah 48:11

Read: Acts 12:20-23 (KJV)

20 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.

21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

22 And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

Bible in one Year: Numbers 8:1-10:10; 2 Corinthians 4:1-5:10

MESSAGE

Footballer Lionel Messi to be tried in Spain on tax fraud charges: court

Argentina and Barcelona star Lionel Messi and his father Jorge are to stand trial on three counts of tax fraud that could carry prison sentences, a Spanish court confirmed on Thursday.

In a court filing, the judge in charge of the case rejected the request of the public prosecutor to try only the footballer’s father.

The pair were accused in 2013 of defrauding the taxman out of 4.16 million euros ($4.69 million) in taxes related to Messi’s image rights between 2007 and 2009 through the creation of fake companies in Belize and Uruguay.

Issa Hayatou will serve as acting president of Fifa, the world governing body has announced.

Fifa said on Thursday morning that Sepp Blatter had been relieved of his duties and that Issa Hayatou, the head of African football from Cameroon, would be acting president.

The Fifa statement said, “Today, in accordance with Fifa’s code of ethics, Joseph S. Blatter was relieved of all his duties as Fifa president following the decision to provisionally ban him from all football activities on a national and international level.

“Joseph S. Blatter, for the duration of the 90-day ban, is not allowed to represent Fifa in any capacity, act on the organisation’s behalf, or communicate to media or other stakeholders as a Fifa representative.

“Issa Hayatou, as the longest-serving vice-president on Fifa’s executive committee, will serve as acting president of Fifa.”