Pistorius had no mental disorder -Report

Oscar Pistorius did not have a mental disorder when he killed his girlfriend, a psychological report said as his murder trial resumed. The report was presented following an evaluation into his mental health. His defence team has argued he was suffering from an anxiety disorder at the time of the shooting. The athlete denies deliberately killing Reeva Steenkamp. He says he shot her accidentally in a state of panic after mistaking her for an intruder. Both prosecution and defence have accepted the results of the report. Pistorius would not have been criminally responsible for the shooting if the report had stated that he was mentally ill, says the BBC’s Milton Nkosi who is in court.

We Don't Know Chibok Girls Are -US

The United States said on Friday it had decreased its surveillance flights in the search for the about 219 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram, but added that the overall effort was unchanged due to more flights by other countries. It stated that it had no idea of the location of the girls, noting however that there is no letup in the efforts to locate and rescue them. “We don’t have any better idea today than we did before about where these girls are, but there’s been no letup of the effort itself,” Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby told reporters, according to Reuters. Kirby said the same level of effort was being sustained now through international involvement. A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said American flights had been reduced only after a body of intelligence had been gathered and that the cuts had been offset by the British and the French support.

Greece Players Turn Down World Cup Bonus

...I doubt whether the Super Eagles would ever think of doing this... This World Cup has been dogged with bonus rows. First with Cameroon, even before they set off to Brazil. And, most famously last week with Ghana where 3 million dollars had to be shipped out to Brazil ahead of their final game against Portugal. Now, the Greece team have written to their prime minister Antonis Samaras and told him they are not interested in their World Cup bonus but simply want the money to be put towards a sports centre for the national team. The Greek press report that the squad in Brazil wrote a short letter saying: “We do not want as extra bonus, or money. We only play for Greece and its people. All we want is for you to support our effort to find a land and create a sports centre that will house our National team.” This letter was written on Sunday June 29, 2014 and signed by all 23 squad members, it came as a result of Greece reaching the second round of the World Cup for the first time in their history. Presumably, the Greek squad realise they are all well-paid individuals and are concerned for the future of Greece in international football.

The Benefits of Eating Beans

Beans are an inexpensive protein source. Beans are an inexpensive and easy-to-use source of protein that can be very versatile. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends women consume 1 1/2 cups of beans weekly and men consume 2 cups. 1. Nutrition Although the exact nutritional composition of beans depends on the type you consume, beans contain an average of approximately 116 calories per 1/2-cup serving, along with 8 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and almost no fat. Beans are good sources of fiber, copper, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. 2. Heart Health Beans have a number of characteristics that make them heart-healthy, according to an article published in 2002 in the "British Journal of Nutrition." They are low in fat and saturated fat, and contain soluble fiber and a number of phytochemicals, both of which help lower your cholesterol levels. The folate in beans is also beneficial, since it helps lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that may increase the risk of heart disease when found in high amounts in the blood. 3.Diabetes Consuming more legumes may lower your risk for type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in January 2008 in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." Participants who consumed more beans were less likely to develop diabetes during the course of the study, perhaps due to the fiber and antioxidants contained in the beans or due to the low glycemic index of the beans compared to other carbohydrates. 4. Cancer A study published in "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention" in August 2000 found that men who consumed more legumes may be less likely to get prostate cancer. Source: healthyeating.sfgate.com/advantages-eating-beans-2808.html

Six (6) Most Expensive Secondary Schools in Nigeria (Alarming School fees)

Below is the list of six (6) Most Expensive secondary Schools in Nigeria and their School Fees per year. Here is the list arranged from the six to the highest paying school.…. Please don’t misunderstand this, it is NOT the sum of school fees of the entire students, it is just for a single students… lolEnjoy the view 6.Dowen College, Lekki They charge N2,000,000 annually for a boarding student and N1,250,000 for a day student. 5.Chrisland College, Ikeja They charge as high as N2,000,000 annually. Fees can be paid annually or termly but on or before thefirst dayof school. These include registration,tuitiondeposit,accommodation and feeding. 4.Atlantic Hall They charge as much as N2,270,000 for a student 3.Greensprings school,Anthony They charge a total of N3,185,200 annually for a boarding student and N1,925,200 for a day student 2.Lekki British International school, Lekki phase 1. They charge $19,500 + N200,000 development fee. In Naira, a student pays N4,000,300 per session including feeding,school uniform,hostel, sunday wear and textbooks. 1.British international school, Victoria island They charge $26,750 + N200,000 annually for a student. This includes boarding facilities, feeding, books,uniforms,textbooks etc. which is about N4,480,000 when converted to naira. Source: www.schoolangle.com/2014/06/six-6-most-expensive-secondary-schools.html

Six (6) Most Expensive Secondary Schools in Nigeria (Alarming School fees)

Below is the list of six (6) Most Expensive secondary Schools in Nigeria and their School Fees per year. Here is the list arranged from the six to the highest paying school.…. Please don’t misunderstand this, it is NOT the sum of school fees of the entire students, it is just for a single students… lolEnjoy the view 6.Dowen College, Lekki They charge N2,000,000 annually for a boarding student and N1,250,000 for a day student. 5.Chrisland College, Ikeja They charge as high as N2,000,000 annually. Fees can be paid annually or termly but on or before thefirst dayof school. These include registration,tuitiondeposit,accommodation and feeding. 4.Atlantic Hall They charge as much as N2,270,000 for a student 3.Greensprings school,Anthony They charge a total of N3,185,200 annually for a boarding student and N1,925,200 for a day student 2.Lekki British International school, Lekki phase 1. They charge $19,500 + N200,000 development fee. In Naira, a student pays N4,000,300 per session including feeding,school uniform,hostel, sunday wear and textbooks. 1.British international school, Victoria island They charge $26,750 + N200,000 annually for a student. This includes boarding facilities, feeding, books,uniforms,textbooks etc. which is about N4,480,000 when converted to naira. Source: www.schoolangle.com/2014/06/six-6-most-expensive-secondary-schools.html

BREAKING: Massive attack ongoing in village near Chibok

An attack, described as massive by residents, is currently ongoing in Kautikari village, seven kilometres away from Chibok town in the southern part of Borno state. Villagers in Chibok made a distress call to journalists and security operatives in Maiduguri calling for urgent help. A text message sent by a resident at about 9:30 a.m. reads; “Massive attack on Kautikari now. All security agencies should be notified, and call for divine help now.” An official of Department of Security Service confirmed the ongoing attack to PREMIUM TIMES but asked not to be named. “Yes, we also received the report, I believe action is being taken about now…but no one has been able to ascertain the nature or magnitude of the attack for now”, said the security source.

Vincent Enyeama Named Africa's Best Player

Vincent Enyeama has been impressive between the sticks for Nigeria at the ongoing 2014 Fifa World Cup finals in Brazil. His last minute save to deny Edin Dzeko a sure goal as Nigeria beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 1-0 in a Group F game on Sunday is probably his finest moment so far in Brazil. That moment of sheer genius is however just one of many so far provided by the goalkeeper who is currently ranked as the best of all shot-stoppers currently in Brazil by Fifa. The 31-year-old is currently ranked as Africa’s best player at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with 9.59 points in the latest Castrol Index Top 10 rankings released by the World football governing body. Only Karim Benzema (9.77), Robin Van Persie (9.72), Arjen Robben (9.67) and David Luiz (9.63) have amassed more ranking points than the Nigerian shot-stopper.

BREAKING: Truck crushes seven, injures others on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Truck crushes seven, injures others on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Details later…

We must beat Nigeria — Benzema

France top striker, Karim Benzema has warned his French squad to get serious for a tough encounter with the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the second round of the World Cup insisting that they must do everything to beat the African champions. Still savouring topping their group with seven points with the Real Madrid forward scoring three times, Benzema said that there are no pushovers again in the World Cup. France finished top of their group with 7 points with the Real Madrid forward scoring three times. Their reward is a clash with Nigeria in the Round of 16 and Benzema said the Super Eagles would be no pushovers.

Pandemoniun as car explosion hit fuel depot in Lagos

The busy Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos was thrown into pandemoniun, Wednesday night, when an explosives-laden car went off at Folawiyo Fuel Depot. Vanguard gathered that the explosion occurred at about 8:30pm; affecting four buildings, including two banks. At press time, it was gathered that no fewer than four people were feared killed in the blast. An eyewitness, Musa Ali, told Vanguard he narrowly escaped death during the blast. According to him; ” I am a truck conductor and my truck was on the queue. I was walking towards Folawiyo Junction when I heard the explosion. I thought it was an earthquake. When I looked up I saw a large ball of fire at the spot where I was to buy food and a woman in front of me was badly injured.”

Babatunde out of World Cup

It is not the best of news for a Nigerian team that zoomed into the second round of the World Cup with France as their next opposition. One of the new kids on the block, Babatunde Michael has been ruled out of the remaining matches of the World Cup due to injury. Babatunde Michael Babatunde’s hand inadvertently blocked the ferocious shot of Ogenyi Onazi which was goal-bound and it twisted his arm.

Kefee was not pregnant — Sammie Okposo

Contrary to the news going viral that the remains of Delta state born talented gospel artiste, Kefee has arrived Nigeria, friends and colleagues in the Nigerian gospel industry led by front-line gospel artiste and Glo ambassador, Sammie Okposo, have debunked the rumour. The singer also said that Kefee was not pregnant as reported by some media houses. Kefee Hear him, “Kefee was not pregnant, though she had a medical history that was being properly managed in America. Her remains has not arrived the country yet. On that fateful day she died, she complained that she did not like the way she was feeling and they had to call for emergency. After examining her, they said that nothing was wrong with her. But she insisted that she was not feeling fine. Coupled with stress, she slumped. It has been agreed by the family members and the husband that she would be buried in her home town, Sapele and we are making all the necessary paper preparations to fly her down to Nigeria.

15 men gang rape 16-yr-old girl in Rivers

Police have arrested members of a 15-man gang that allegedly raped a 16-year-old girl in Gbuga area of Ogbunabali, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The state Police Commissioner, Mr Tunde Ogunsakin, told newsmen, yesterday, at the Police headquarters in Port Harcourt that the girl allegedly attended a party organised in the area, adding that she took a glass of strong drink offered her by one of the rapists which made her pass out before she was allegedly raped by 15 men. He said: “The victim reported that she attended a party at Ogbuga Street in Ogbunabali, Port Harcourt organised by one Tina. “While at the party, she was given a glass of strong drink by Tambari Dumlesi. That was the last memory she had before she was raped by 15 men. She woke up to find herself in torn boxers and with swollen privates.

Ekiti Election Was Fraudulent - Governor Aregbesola

Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, has faulted the Ekiti governorship pollon June 23 which saw PDP candidate Fayose emerge winner saying the All Progressives Congress lost the Ekiti State governorship polls due to fraud and irregularities. Governor Aregbesola Governor Aregbesola made this known while speaking during the continuation of his re-election campaign in Ikirun on Tuesday.

Ekiti Decides: I will not challenge election result – Fayemi

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the out-going governor of Ekiti State, on Monday, said he would not challenge the result of the June 21 governorship election in the state. Fayemi, who made the disclosure when he received the governor-elect, Mr Ayo Fayose, in his office in Ado Ekiti, said “I will not challenge the result of the election because I am not desperate to remain in office. “Election must not be seen as a do or die affair.’’ He said Fayose’s victory had assisted in “strengthen and deepening’’ democracy, especially in Ekiti State and the country at large. He added that “election by its nature generate tension and hot exchange of words, but to me, once the whole exercise is over, all those involved should take such with calmness and stop all acrimonious.

Let Boko Haram deflower me and release Chibok girls —Adokiye

Since pop singer and Imo State Peace Ambassador hit stardom, she has never ceased to be a surprise package. She astounded her fans recently when she confided inShowtimethat she is a virgin. At 23, looking hot and rather willing with her liberated personality, her fans found it hard to believe, but Adokiye said it is true and that whoever wants her virginity should be prepared to buy her mother the private jet she long promised her. But now it seems Adokiye is ready to give her coveted virginity for free, to members of the dreaded Boko Haram if they are ready to release the abducted Chibok girls in exchange. “ This is 11pm in the night and do you know what I am thinking about? Those little girls, where they are and what could be happening to them. It is just unfair. They are too young. I wish I could offer myself in exchange,” she told Showtime.

Ekiti election: U.S commends INEC, security agencies for successful polls

The U.S Mission in Nigeria has congratulated INEC, security agencies and electoral stakeholders for the successful conduct of the June 21 gubernatorial election in Ekiti. A statement issued by the embassy in Abuja on Monday commended INEC for overseeing “a credible, efficient process’’, which it said, by all accounts, reflected the will of Ekiti voters. Further, it commended the security forces for collaborating effectively and providing a safe and secure environment free of major incidents. “The parties and their supporters acted responsibly during and after the election and the magnanimity exhibited by all candidates afterwards speaks highly of them and the people of Ekiti.

BREAKING: Bomb blast rocks Kano school

Scores were feared dead Monday afternoon at the premises of Kano School of Health Technology located along Gida Murtala–B UK Road. The high calibre improvised explosive device went off aroud 2pm at a time the school is in session. The blast appeared to come from a parking lot next to the provost’s office of the School of Hygiene, a post-secondary training school, said a teacher who requested anonymity. Kano police spokesman Magaji Magia confirmed the blast but declined to provide details until he reached the scene. More Details soon.

Osaze Dedicates Bosnia Goal to His Kids

Nigeria's lone goal scorer against Bosnia early today, Peter Osaze, has dedicated the goal to his new born kids. He stated this in a tweet. He said: "@OdemwingieP: The goal ⚽️ was dedicated to our newborn kids. Theo and Chimamanda. Welcome to the world #babyswingcelebration"

Governor Kayode Fayemi Makes Concession Speech On Fayose's Victory

Few hours after the candidate of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, was declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as the winner of the June 21 governorship election in Ekiti State, western Nigeria, the incumbent governor, Kayode Fayemi has released a concession speech. It could be recalled that, according to results released by INEC, Mr Fayose had scored 203, 090 votes to beat the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Fayemi, who scored 120, 433. The electoral body also announced that the candidate of the Labour Party, Bamidele Michael Opeyemi, scored 18,135 votes to come third. While reacting to the results announced by INEC early Sunday morning, Governor Fayemi said: "If indeed this is the will of the Ekiti People, I stand in deference to your will. If the result of the elections is an expression of the voice of our people, we must all heed your voice."

PDP Candidate Fayose Wins Governorship Election in Ekiti

Mr Ayodele Fayose, the candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), was declared the winner of the June 21 governorship election in Ekiti State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Mr Fayose, according to the electoral body scored 203, 090 number of votes to beat the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Kayode Fayemi, who scored 120, 433 while the candidate of the Labour Party, Bamidele Michael Opeyemi scored 18,135 votes to come third. President Goodluck Jonathan posted Facebook message congratulating Ayodele Fayose with victory: Postby Goodluck Jonathan. "Ayodele Peter Fayose of PDP having certified the requirement of the law and scored the highest number of votes is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected," said the returning officer and Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Professor Isaac Azuzu.

Gospel Singer Sinach Gets Married Traditionally

In far away Ebonyi State, Gospel singer Osinachi Kalu, popularly known as Sinach got married traditionally to a Christ Embassy's Pastor Joe today. This occasion was attended by a lot of fans, friends and family members including lots of artistes. Sinach was thrilled by a dancing group that got everyone clapping and jumping around. Their white wedding would be coming up the last Saturday of this June, 28th of this month and it would be in Lagos where Pastor Chris Oyakhilome would be joining the couple together himself. Sinach has become one lady whose songs are everywhere in the country and any concert she attends is always jam packed.

​My Husband'll Return As Governor In 2014 – Fayose's Wife - The Punch

‎​Wife of a former governor of Ekiti State, Mrs. Feyisetan Fayose, on Monday predicted that her husband, Ayo, would return to the Ekiti State Government House as the elected governor in 2014. The former governor's wife said this in Ado-Ekiti during a meeting she had with the women wing of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state. She said Fayose was the best aspirant in the PDP, adding that he would win the governorship poll. Fayose promised the women in the state that she would fight for their interest by the time she would return as the first lady of the state. She said, I have served as the wife of the most active, action-packed, hardworking, courageous man and friend of the common man- Mr. Ayo Fayose, your former governor and the incoming governor come 2014.

Ekiti Election: Early Results Shows PDP Candidate, Ayo Fayose, Leading With A Wide Margin

Collation of results has begun in almost all the Sixteen local governments areas of Ekiti State. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ad hoc staffs are now announcing the results of the elections at the various polling units and wards across the state. Early results seen by Saharareporters shows that former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is leading and may likely win the final votes, if the trend continues. Some of the gubernatorial election results from Ekiti State are below: (1.) Iworoko Polling unit 008 :PDP - 109, APC - 63 (2.) Usi Ekiti Unit 009, Usi Grammar school : PDP-79, APC- 41, LP-3, Accord- 0, CPP- 1, PPA-1, PDC-2. (3.) Ado LG, Unit 004 ward 004 : PDP- 199, APC-84, LP-21. (4) Iworoko ward 005 :- PDP 64, APC-37, LP-8. (5).Iworoko Ward 009 : PDP-78, APC-19, LP-10.

Woman Whose Son Was Killed In Abuja Demolition Commits Suicide

Pandemonium took over the popular Kubwa-Zuba expressway yesterday, when angry natives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) staged a protest on the ever busy expressway following the death of a woman and her son during the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) demolition of Aluguyi Village, popularly known as Lungu Village in the FCT. The protesters who started the protest at about 12 noon, barricaded the expressway with burning tyres and bricks, protesting over the lives that were lost during what they described as unannounced and inhuman demolition of the community by the officials of the FCDA. According to a witness, Mr Joshua Iyah, officials of the FCDA in company of well armed military personnel stormed the community at about 10am, and started demolishing houses along with their belongings, not minding if people were inside or not.

FG Finally Agrees 219 Girls Still Missing As Committee Submits Report

Chibok schoolgirls still missing – FG panel A total of 219 students of the Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, are still missing after the mass abduction carried out by members of the Boko Haram sect in the school on April 14. The 219 students were among the 276 girls said to have been snatched from the school during the midnight raid. The Chairman of the Presidential Fact-finding Committee on the Abduction of Chibok Schoolgirls, Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Sabo (retd.), disclosed this on Friday while presenting the committee’s report to President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He spoke just as the President said school owners, especially those in the North East, must henceforth be ready to provide adequate security if they must keep students in boarding houses.

BREAKING:Yaya And Kolo Toure's Brother Dies

Ibrahim Toure, the younger brother of football stars Yaya and Kolo Toure, has died yesterday at the age of 28. Two Ivory Coast stars learnt the news on Thursday, June 19, in Brazil, where both take part in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, BBC reports. Ibrahim followed his brothers' steps and also picked football as his profession, the young man played for Lebanese team Al Safa, Telegraph provided. The cause of death is believed to be the short battle with cancer.

Court Orders Polytechnic Student To Die By Hanging

A 22-year old student of Delta State Polytechnic, Eguono Akpeghughu, has been sentenced to death by hanging by a Warri High Court in southern Nigeria. PMNEWS reports that Akpeghughu was found guilty on a two-count charge of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and armed robbery after he was alleged to have robbed his victim of cash and other valuables worth over N30,000. According to the police prosecutor, the offences are punishable under section 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R 11 Volume 14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The court held that the prosecution proved essential ingredients of armed robbery against the accused beyond all reasonable doubt from the totality of evidence presented before the court.

Atiku Warns PDP-Led Federal Governemt Against Impunity

The former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar on Thursday, reacted to the grounding of the All Progressive Congress (APC), governors planes from taking off from their various federal government owned state airports. The former vice president, who made this known in a statement issued in Abuja from his media office said, the decision was part of measures to stop the APC governors from attending the campaign rally for their Ekiti State counterpart, Kayode Fayemi. The Turaki Adamawa, who warned the federal government against impunity stated that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP led administration under President Goodluck Jonathan is turning the country into a police state following the restrictions placed on the way of the governors and party members.

How I predicted Keefe’s death — Ara

The Nigerian female talking drummer, Ara has many other gifts aside drumming with which she is known worldwide. But none of them includes the gift of clairvoyance or seeing into the future as the beautiful drummer revealed recently. Ara, who is a friend to Late Kefee has disclosed on a Best of Nollywood’s chat forum that she had a dream concerning Kefee’s death and that she called the late singer to pray hard to avert it. In her words: “I want to use this forum to appeal to my colleagues in the music industry. Less than two years ago, I had a dream about Keffee and immediately called her and narrated it to her, I also appealed to her not to make a joke of it….the rest is history. Early this year, I had a dream and contacted Efe of NOW music as he’s the only one I could call and told him to please organise a forum for all musicians to assemble and pray against death amongst us (please confirm from Efe).

D-i-v-i-d-e-d! 3 camps tear Eagles a-p-a-r-t

When the Super Eagles step out against Bosnia-Herzegovina tomorrow in a make or mar encounter which would determine their stay in the Brazil 2014 World Cup, they may not be united Sports Vanguard can reveal authoritatively that a deep-rooted animosity in the camp has finally torn the team into three camps with each camp commanding their own loyalists. On one side of the camp are players who are loyal to skipper Joseph Yobo and who want him to make a record appearance for the Eagles after hitting 98 caps while the second group are loyalists to one of the assistant coaches of the team who has been described as very influential in the camp. This group consists of players he was said to have influenced their selection. They are alleged to be very bitter with Emmanuel Emenike who is the point-man of the Eagles. They alleged that Emenike has become swollen-headed, proud and arrogant and therefore have vowed to cut him to size by not giving him passes.

President Jonathan Appoints Bode George’s Wife As NDLEA Chief

Roli Bode-George President Goodluck Jonathan has appointed Roli Bode-George, the wife of a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Bode George, as the new Director General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). President's spokesperson Reuben Abati said this in a press release issued on Thursday. The appointment is with immediate effect, he added. NDLEA is a state agency aimed at eliminating illicit drug trafficking and consumption in Nigeria. Mrs Bode-George takes over from Olufemi Ajayi, who was on Wednesday appointed the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF). Mr. George (real name Olabode Ibiyinka George), a leader of the PDP in Lagos, is a delegate at the ongoing National Conference.

JUST IN: Court Stops Reps From Probing Diezani Over Jet Scandal

Information emanating from the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, indicates that a Federal High Court in Abuja has stalled the House of Representatives from probing Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke over the N10bn she allegedly spent in two years to charter a private jet, Challenger 850. It was gathered that the court ruled that the probe should be stopped pending determination of her suit. PUNCH reports that the case has been adjourned till July 3. Details of everything that transpired at the court today is still being expected.

AAUA Matriculates 3,634 As -Have the right Attitude to your Studies, Vice Chancellor tasks Students

The Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) on Tuesday matriculated 3,634 students, amounting to twenty per cent of the applicants that sought admission to the university. The matriculation ceremony witnessed the new students take the matriculation oath which was directed by the university’s Registrar, Mr Bamidele Olotu. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Femi Mimiko, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rotimi Ajayi, in his speech, congratulated the students and urged them to have the right attitude towards their studies to achieve academic success. He said: “I sincerely advise you to guide your admission jealously and avoid anything that may want to rob you of this golden privilege to study in the university. Your sole purpose of coming to the university is to achieve academic laurels and build your character so that you may become a more responsible citizen and be maximally useful to the society. Achieving this and coming out in flying colours start by having the right attitude to your studies from the beginning.” Prof. Ajayi also advised the newly-matriculated students to eschew any form of social vices that might deprive them of their admission, adding that the university had ‘zero tolerance for social vices.’ He however expressed concern over how difficult admission into university had become. “I specially congratulate our matriculants because admission into universities in our country has over the years become a stiff contest as there are millions of students jostling for the limited spaces available. In the last ten years or so, Nigerian Universities have not been able to offer admission to more than twenty per cent of the millions of applicants that are qualified for admission,” He said. Meanwhile, one of the matriculants, Akinrolayo Olushola, 100 level Public Administration department, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, expressed his joy and happiness towards the matriculation ceremony and promised to work hard to achieve academic excellence. Similarly, Molebi Ayoola, 100 level Economics department, told CAMPUSLIFE that he was full of joy towards his admission into the university despite all the challenges of gaining admission.

Contractors Deliver Senate Building to AAUA Management

The entire Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) community was alighted last Friday as the university management took delivery of its new four-wing and five-storey Senate building from Charvet Nigeria Limited. The senate building, which occupies a total floor area of 10,000 square meters, has over 250 offices, three lifts with seven stair halls, two large conference halls, senate chamber, council chamber, an open piazza that can occupy over 2,500 people among other facilities. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Femi Mimiko, who received the keys and photo album of the edifice, described it as ‘ a compelling architectural fabric.’ Prof. Mimiko stated that the structure would be a site to behold for all visitors in the university and would serve as an enduring legacy of his administration. Prof. Mimiko noted that the shortage of infrastructure which had confronted the varsity had been finally surmounted. He said: “When we came on board in 2010, we did promise to build a 21st century university properly called and one of the challenges we had to confront was the acute deficit of infrastructure in the university and four years down the time today, we are all witness to the rapid infrastructural development the university has witnessed. We can now confidently say that AAUA is on the march to greatness indeed and we can compare with many other universities in terms of infrastructure.” He further expressed his appreciation to the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; the immediate past governing council of the university; consultants and contractors of the project; among others. Meanwhile, the Architectural consultant, Architect Akin Olusola of the Akin Olusola and Associates, described the senate building as the biggest in Nigeria. He also commended the university management for its commitment towards the successful completion of the project.

Keshi May Drop Osaze

Stoke City striker Osaze Odemwingie could again be shut out from Nigeria first team after coach Stephen Keshi said he did not play to instructions when he was introduced in the second half against Iran. Osaze brought some urgency and creativity to the Eagles attack on Monday, but Keshi said the striker defied his instructions even though he was playing an unfamiliar role. Almeria midfielder Ramon Azeez could also be axed from the starting XI after he won his third cap against Iran on Monday. His most likely replacement will be Belgium-based Michael Uchebo, who was preferred to Azeez in the country’s warm-up games leading up to Brazil 2014. Skipper Joseph Yobo is expected to keep his place in the first team after Turkey-based defender Godfrey Oboabona was ruled out of Saturday’s cracker as a result of a foot injury he suffered against Iran. Yobo said that reaching a century of international caps would be an added bonus for him as he was already fulfilled to be at his third World Cup. “I’m just happy that I made it here because towards the end of the season I got injured and it was difficult for me,” he revealed. “Any other personal achievement will be great and I will enjoy it.” Source: www.vanguardngr.com/2014/06/keshi-may-drop-osaze/

Italy promises to assist Nigeria in fight against terrorism

The Italian Government on Wednesday in Abuja declared its support and willingness to assist Nigeria in the fight against terrorism. The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Fulvius Rusticu, gave this pledge during a courtesy visit to the Minister of State 1 for Foreign Affairs, Prof. Viola Onwuliri. Rusticu said Nigeria and Italy had a long tradition of military and security cooperation that could bolster the ongoing fight against insurgency in the country. He recalled that in April both countries conducted a joint naval parade in Lagos, which underscored the importance of the defence cooperation between both countries. Source: www.vanguardngr.com/2014/06/students-unrest-oau-shut-indefinitely/

Oboabona Now Out Of World Cup

AS Nigerians are yet to come to terms with the annoying goalless draw of the Eagles against Iran, officials of the team were left biting their fingers when Godfrey Oboabona was ruled out of the remaining World Cup matches by medics. The defender who was wheeled out of the match against Iran and replaced by skipper Joseph Yobo was said to have sustained a big cut on his toe which makes it practically impossible for him to wear boots. The sad news on Oboabona is coming at a time when there are fears of injury worries in the camp even as officials of the team deny their players are in good health. Media Officer, Ben Alaiya confirmed that Oboabona had been ruled out but noted that Chief coach Keshi was still nursing hopes that the defender could still recover. “Now, Oboabona and Gabriel Reuben are out of the games; Omeruo is just managing and we have as substitutes such players as Babatunde Michael, Michael Uchebo, Azubuike Egwuekwe and Kunle Odunlami. These are players we may field against Bosnia and Argentina. We are in trouble”, a distraught member of the team said. The source said that Omeruo received an injection on his thigh to enable him play against Iran on Monday.

Pregnant 300 Level Ekpoma Student commits suicide

Ometere Aduga, a 300 level student of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma has committed suicide by hanging at her family apartment. The deceased left no suicide note but is survived by one son and a husband-at-large. The woman who was two months pregnant had visited a private hospital where she disclosed her suicidal tendencies and attributed it to the pregnancy. Doctors reportedly counseled her and told her to report back for further examination. The woman reportedly left her son with a neighbour under the pretense that she was going to bathe. After she failed to return the neighbor went to investigate and discovered her lifeless body hanging from a ceiling fan. “Ometere was a very brilliant girl, who was a 300-Level medical student at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, but she was advised to withdraw due to health reasons. “She had some mental disorder. She later recovered and got married but her husband is not from here and she has been staying with her parents. “One cannot really say what could have led to her committing suicide; whether it was as a result of her pregnancy or a relapse of her mental illness,” a source told Punch

Kefee’s Corpse Arrives Nigeria

The body of late Nigerian gospel singer, Kefee Obareki, who died last Friday in America after being in coma for about 15 days, has arrived Nigeria. It was reported that the corpse of the late wife of Teddy Esosa Don-Momoh landed at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos around 4pm on Tuesday and was received by few family members. The death of the Delta State-born singer shook the entertainment industry in Nigeria, with many expressing shock over her demise. It was gathered that a service of songs will hold on Thursday in Los Angeles, USA in honour of her. The service is being organized by Gofamint House of Testimony, in conjunction with the Rhema House. Meanwhile, there are reports that Kefee’s ‘Branama Kitchen’, located in Maryland, Lagos, has been shut since the news of her death hit town. Source: http://www.osundefender.org /?p=172389 http://www.naijaolofofo.com /kefees-corpse-arrives- nigeria/

Pregnant 300 Level Ekpoma Student commits suicide

Ometere Aduga, a 300 level student of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma has committed suicide by hanging at her family apartment. The deceased left no suicide note but is survived by one son and a husband-at-large. The woman who was two months pregnant had visited a private hospital where she disclosed her suicidal tendencies and attributed it to the pregnancy. Doctors reportedly counseled her and told her to report back for further examination. The woman reportedly left her son with a neighbour under the pretense that she was going to bathe. After she failed to return the neighbor went to investigate and discovered her lifeless body hanging from a ceiling fan. “Ometere was a very brilliant girl, who was a 300-Level medical student at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, but she was advised to withdraw due to health reasons. “She had some mental disorder. She later recovered and got married but her husband is not from here and she has been staying with her parents. “One cannot really say what could have led to her committing suicide; whether it was as a result of her pregnancy or a relapse of her mental illness,” a source told Punch

Why FIFA Stops Nigerian Supporters Club From Match Venues In Brazil

Reports emanating from Brazil, venue of the ongoing 2014 World Cup indicate that football governing body, FIFA has banned Nigerian Supporters Club, as well as other nations' supporters club,from using their drums, trumpets and other instruments at the Mundial. According to the President General of the Nigerian Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, the club had their instruments confiscated when they arrived Curitiba, venue of Nigeria versus Iran match on Monday, 16 June, 2014. Mr. Ladipo informed that over three hundred Nigerian supporters had stormed the venue of the match with their regalias and costumes much to the delight of Brazillian fans before they were stopped by FIFA officials from entering the Stadium. It was gathered that the FIFA officials who seized the instrument told the Nigerian supporters that they were confiscated on the ground that they constitute 'nuisance'.

BREAKING: Adamawa Assembly Starts Impeachment Procedure Against Murtala Nyako

The Adamawa State House of Assembly has reportedly started the impeachment procedure against governor Murtala Nyako and his deputy Bala Ngilari. Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako According to Premium Times, the impeachment notice was directed to the two officials on Wednesday, June 18. At the same time, 19 out of 25 Adamawa House of Assembly Members signed Nyako's impeachment notice, containing the allegations of gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy. In a parallel development, the federal aviation authorities prevented the takeoff of Governor Nyako's chartered jet from at the Yola International Airport. The embattled governor inteded to depart for Abuja to witness the inauguration of the newly-elected leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Osaze Didn’t Play Role I Asked Him To Play - Keshi

(Whatelse does Keshi want o o o? Osaze should kill himself for Nig?) The no-love-lost relationship between Stephen Keshi and Stoke City wonder-boy Osaze Odemwingie that saw him nearly miss the World Cup is still very much in the team. Osaze had apologized to Keshi before he was recalled to the national team and to the World Cup but Keshi sacrificed Ike Uche, another red-hot Nigerian attacker who scores goals with eyes closed on charges of being ‘technically indisciplined”.Osaze And on a night that Keshi’s team were rudderless except for Osaze who brought vim and vitality to the attack, Keshi still threw potshots at Osaze for not playing to instructions. A journalist had complained about the blunt attack of the Eagles but singled out Osaze for bringing fire to the attack when Keshi bared his fangs on the Stoke City player. ‘’No. No, No. Osaze didn’t play well. What he played was not the role I asked him to play”, he said leaving many journalists bewildered. On a night that Emmanuel Emenike was a shadow of himself and instead of being the point man, decided to be playing wide from the wings coupled with wrong passes from Mikel and Ogenyi Onazi, the introduction of Osaze at least brought a sparkling ray of hope. At one instance, he fired a ferocious shot that got everybody standing on their feet as the ball narrowly missed target. He passed balls accurately but Keshi would not have that credit go him.

Man Machetes Ghanaian for Mocking Eagles In Lagos

Unending drama as regards Eagles' match... A mild drama unfolded Monday night at Ilasan area of Lekki, Lagos, during the barren World Cup match between Nigeria and Iran, after a drunk went berserk and macheted some viewers for mocking the Super Eagles. One of the viewers, a Ghanaian,was said to have sustained deep cuts while others managed to escape from the viewing centre.Reports said the drunk, identified as Sunday Usman, was in a bar which also served as a viewing centre alongside other football lovers, when the Ghanaian identified simply as Kofi, started booing the Super Eagles over their failed attempts to score a goal. At that point, an eye witness said: “Usman staggered to his feet and warned Kofi to stop showing solidarity with Iran. But Kofi continued, saying he had every right to support whichever team he liked. Some viewers, who were also not satisfied with the Super Eagles performance, supported Kofi.

Police Officer Slumps In Anambra Over Transfer To Borno

The fear of Boko Haram! Very funny though! An Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) attached to the Central Police Station, Nnewi in the Anambra State Police Command, yesterday reportedly slumped following a directive from the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IG) posting him to Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. The officer, who is of South-east extraction, and reports said had less than a year left to retire from the service was among the 149 officers affected by the postings to different parts of the country. Borno State is the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency, which has led to the death of over 12,000 Nigerians. Just 66 days ago, the terror sect abducted over 200 schoolgirls from a secondary school in Chibok, Borno State. The officer, however, was said to have been revived by doctors and other medical personnel at a private hospital in Nnewi where he was rushed to after he slumped. The transfer of almost 150 senior police officers serving in the state has cast a dark cloud on the entire command. It was gathered that the letter of transfer signed by Dan Azumi Job, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, indicated that officers within the ranks of ASP and Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) were affected in the mass transfer.

BREAKING: Two Bus Loads Of Boko Haram Members Escape To Rivers State

Following the arrest of 486 suspected Boko Haram members in Asa in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, southeast Nigeria, there are indications that two bus loads of the suspects managed to escape to RiversState.The Chief Press Secretary to the Abia State Governor, Charles Ajunwa statedin a telephone chat withP.M.NEWSthis morning.He, however declined to give further details in the wake of last Sunday’s interception of a convoy of 33 buses conveying 486 suspected insurgents including eight females between Aro Ngwa and Imo Gate along the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway.The Commissioner for Information andStrategy, Abia State, Dr. Eze Chikamnayo, also explained that two buses escaped with their occupants. The buses appear to be at large as none of them has been tracked down at the time of filing in this report. The 144 Battalion of the Nigerian Armyintercepted the suspects at about 3a.m. on Sunday. They claimed to have come from different parts of the Northern states and aged mainly between 16 and 24 and were said to besearching for jobs.

Prostitute Stabs Soldier To Death For Refusing To Pay In Bayelsa

A commercial sex worker has stabbed a soldier attached to the Joint Military Task Force to death for failing to pay for her service after engaging her till day break. The soldier (name withheld), was reportedly stabbed twice with knife in the stomach by the prostitute. The unnamed prostitute is said to be a Bini lady from from Edo State. Punch reports that the incident, which occurred about 4.00am on Tuesday, threw the popular ‘Red Light zone’ on Hospital Junction along DSP Alamieyeseigha Way, Yenagoa, into pandemonium. Most of the customers that slept over with other prostitutes in their shanties, quickly dressed up to avoid being detected by onlookers who thronged the area. Some sex workers, who spoke with PUNCH Metro claimed that the stabbing forced the intestines of the soldier to come out and he bled profusely.

Okocha blames Keshi for Iran draw

Super Eagles Captain, Austin Jay Jay Okocha has said Coach Stephen Keshi should be held responsible for the lame approach the team adopted in the goaless draw against Iran last night. Speaking as an analyst on Supersport after the match, Okocha said, “Keshi should be held responsible for the way the team played. Before the match he said African teams are tactically not disciplined and he did not bring anything new to the table. Iran’s defender Khosro Heidari and Iran’s midfielder Andranik Teymourian (C) fights for the ball with Nigeria’s midfielder John Obi Mikel (R) during a Group F football match between Iran and Nigeria at the Baixada Arena in Curitiba at the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 16, 2014. AFP PHOTO / JEWEL SAMAD “His changes were poor. He took out Moses and brought in Ameobi. I think that was a wrong change. “We saw how Osaze came in and showed a lot of creativity. That is the kind of thing we expected. Iran match would have been our strongest point but we missed it.” Meanwhile, Coach Stephen Keshi has said that the Super Eagles did their best to defeat Iran.

Dora Akunyili To Be Buried August 28th

Former Minister of Information and Communications, Late Dora Akunyili who died on the 7thof June in an Indian Specialist Cancer hospital will be buried on the 28thof August her husband has said. Mr Akunyili thanked Nigerians who stood by her during her 2-year battle with cancer, and those supporting them now after her demise. He encouraged anyone who has a tribute or testimonial in her honour to send a mail to any of the below addresses and also call any of the below phone numbers if need be. He also thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the special valedictory session of the Federal Executive Council held in her honour.

Dora Akunyili To Be Buried August 28th

Former Minister of Information and Communications, Late Dora Akunyili who died on the 7thof June in an Indian Specialist Cancer hospital will be buried on the 28thof August her husband has said. Mr Akunyili thanked Nigerians who stood by her during her 2-year battle with cancer, and those supporting them now after her demise. He encouraged anyone who has a tribute or testimonial in her honour to send a mail to any of the below addresses and also call any of the below phone numbers if need be. He also thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the special valedictory session of the Federal Executive Council held in her honour.

Super Eagles Players Demand N12m Each

The Super Eagles are reportedly asking for sum of $75,000 about N12.2m appearance fee which is the amount being paid to each of their Ghanaian counterparts by the Ghana Football Association. According to Vanguard report, the Super Eagles made their request known to the Senate President, David Mark when he came visiting them on Friday, June 13. They also requested to be relocated from their Victoria Concept hotel in Campinas to a more ideal place. They described their hotel as isolated which makes them look like prisoners unlike other World Cup teams whose Federations lodged them in better and more ideal places. David Mark was said to have listened attentively as they tabled their grievances, after which he appealed to the coaches and the players to put aside anything that would distract them from victory, while also reassuring them of the determination of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to give them the necessary support in the tournament to make Nigeria proud.

BREAKING: Police Avert Explosions In Owerri Church

Imo police have reportedly averted an explosion in the church of state capital Owerri, having arrested 6 suspects and having recovered 2 IEDs. Sunday morning the worshippers of Port Harcourt Road branch of Winners Chapel miraculously cheated death, as the local police discovered the explosives and detonated them, Premium Times reports. This was officially confirmed by the Police Commissioner Abdumajid Ali. One of the worshippers identified as Onumara Onyekachi, said: "I was about getting ready for the second service when a friend posted this 'Breaking News!!!!!! Police Anti Bomb squad has just detonated two bomb explosives planted at Winner Chapel PH road Owerri'. I made a few calls and confirmed that it was true." Although the details of the incident have not been provided yet, the police believes that the IEDs were planted yesterday night to enable the bomb go off after the people gathered in the church on Sunday.

Fayose Shares 30,000 Bags Of Rice To Students, Market Women

Only God knows when Nigeria will grow out of a case where Nigerians will base their votes on gifts... The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Mr. Ayo Fayose, yesterday distributed over 30, 000 bags of rice to students, market women and workers in the 16 council areas of the state. Over 6,000 Students of the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti (EKSU) yesterday scrambled to benefit from free food items and N2, 000 cash, distributed to them by Fayose. Besides the 6,000 students, Fayose also declared that about 10,000 bags of rice will be distributed to market women, 6,000 bags allotted to each of the 16 council areas while 15,000 bags are to be distributed to other selected groups as palliatives. The students had besieged the Spotless Hotel in GRA , Onigari as early as 6am following radio announcement by Ayo Fayose Campaign Organisation that the PDP flag bearer will be supporting the students with a bag of rice each and N2,000 to be able to sustain them till June 21 governorship poll. Addressing the highly elated students, who sang his praises, the PDP flag bearer, said the gesture was borne out of the passion he has for students in the state, assuring that he would slash their school fees from N100, 000 being paid presently to affordable rate if elected governor.

Edo State Former Governor, John Oyegun Emerges APC Chairman

John Odigie Oyegun, the former Governor of Edo State has emerged the first National Chairman of All Progressives Congress APC, in Nigeria. John Odigie Oyegun, National Chairman of All Progressives Congress APC Oyegun, who was the Executive Governor of Edo State between 1992 and 1993, during the aborted Nigerian Third Republic, was born on August 12, 1939, in Warri, Delta State. Meanwhile, Oyegun's, succession of ex-Governor Bisi Akande, followed intense negotiations and horse trading among various contending forces in the party as Oyegun's candidature was promoted by a national leader of the party and former Governor of Lagos state, Bola Tinubu. He attended St. Patrick's College, Asaba, and then went to the University of Ibadan where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Economics. He has served in various capacities as a federal civil servant working as a development planner.

Kefee Died Of Lung Failure, Was Not Pregnant - Manager

It was originally peddled that she had died of pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, otherwise known as pre-eclampsia in the medical field. But her manager, Adeline Adelicious Adebayo has indicated the contrary. Update – Official Statement On behalf of the family….It is with a great sadness but grateful hearts that we announce the passing to glory due to Lungs failure this morning of our God’s mouth piece, chorus leader, daughter, wife, sister, friend Kefee Branama Queen … May her beautiful, gentle and precious soul rest in perfect peace. AMEN!!! PS: In contrast to all earlier rumors and stories in circulation, I do state that Kefee wasn’t 6 months pregnant and neither did she have pre-eclampsia. For the family Adeline Adelicious Adebayo (Kefee’s UK Manager)

Multi-award winning gospel singer, Kefee Branama is dead

Multiple award-winning gospel singer, Kefee Don Momoh, has been confirmed dead. She passed on in the early hours of today, after being in coma for weeks in an undisclosed American hospital. She went into a coma, after collapsing on a 14-hour flight on her way to Chicago for an event about a two weeks ago. A close family source revealed she was diagnosed of having pre-eclampsia – pregnancy induced high blood pressure. OAP Yaw, a close friend of her husband, OAP Teddy Don Momoh confirmed the news on Wazobia Fm this morning, saying: “One of her our very own is dead. May her soul rest in peace.” Kefee whose music career started at age eight in her church choir, was famous for her gospel songs ‘Branama’ and ‘Kokoroko’. She won several awards including the best collaboration Headies Award in 2010. Until her death, she resided happily with her husband in the US and managed her restaurant, Branama Kitchen, in Lagos.

24-year-old Bags Ph.d In UNILAG

A 24-year-old, Olaoluwa Oluwadara, has bagged a Ph.D degree in Mathematics at the just concluded 2012/2013 session convocation ceremony at the University of Lagos. Olaoluwa, who bagged his first and second degrees in Mathematics and Physics in 2007 and 2008 respectively from the Universite de Bangui in Central African Republic, graduated with a Cummulative Gross Point Average (CGPA) of 5.0 [first degree]. Olaoluwa’s feat supersedes that of Olabisi Adeyemi, a 26-year-old female who bagged a Ph.D with a CGPA of 4.98 in 2012 and Opeyemi Shodipe, 25 of Babcock University. While speaking during the convocation, the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Professor Rahmon Bello, appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to urgently intervene in the resolution of the over 10-month strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics and the Academic Staff Union of Colleges of Education of Nigeria (ASUCEON).

Adamawa Govt Imposes Indefinite Ban Viewing Centers

Government of Adamawa has imposed an indefinite ban on the work of football viewing centres in the state. According to statement released by Director Press and Public Affairs to Gov Murtala Nyako, Ahmad Sajoh, this was made for security reasons following the advice by the Nigerian military. Punch reports with reference to NAN that the state authorities regretted the inconvenience caused to football fans and centres owners. It would be recalled that last Sunday the local bar in Mubi was rocked by a ghastly explosion, which claimed scores of lives. Meanwhile this happened in the course of military presence in the state, as the National Assembly has recently extended the emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. A viewing centre in Jos, Plateau State capital, also became target of bombing on May 24, when a lot of people came to watch the final match of UEFA Champions League.

2015 ELECTION: I’ll Defeat Jonathan If Given APC Presidential Ticket – Governor Okorocha

Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha who made his intention of running for President in 2015 Electionearlier this year has proudly said that if given the presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC he will defeat President Jonathan at the polls. Governor Rochas Okorocha Okorocha made this declaration at St. Paul's Anglican Church, Umuaka in Njaba Local Government Area of the state, venue of the Orlu Diocesan Synod which ended on Tuesday. Governor Okorocha who said in March that electing an Igbo as the next president could be the answer to the problems in the countryis confident that with his achievements in Imo state in the last three years would help him in defeating the President Jonathan while saying he would fix the country the manner he had fixed the state. The Governor who described himself as an unconventional governor while clearing the air on the report that he has dumped his presidential ambitionsaid:"If I am going to contest for president in 2015, then my one term ends. If I am going to contest for president in 2019, then it is better to face what I am doing".

Tuition: Police fight LASU students with teargas

Policemen on Tuesday chased away students of the Lagos State University who stormed the Lagos Governor’s Office to demand reduction in the tuition. The policemen bombarded the students with teargas canisters and shot into the air in a bid to disperse them. The protesters had arrived at the Governor’s Office in three BRT buses and blocked the entrance. They chanted anti-government songs before the policemen, many of whom were attached to the state’s Rapid Response Squad, swooped on them. The policemen shot sporadically into the air and released teargas canisters into the midst of the students, causing them to scampering different directions. The policemen chased the students to the other side of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where they pitched near the Magodo Estate gate. It was learnt that two students and the driver of one of the BRT buses were arrested by the police, while the bus was impounded. The policemen later barricaded the road leading to the Governor’s Office from the Lagos State House of Assembly. President, LASU Students Union, Yusuf Nurudeen, said the students came to know why the state government had not announced the reduction in the school’s tuition after the committee set up by Fashola submitted its report on Monday. He added, “We also learnt that the government will be meeting with the Governing Council of the school today and that is why we came. We were singing peacefully at the entrance of the Governor’s Office when the policemen started firing at us. “It is sad because we came to hear the announcement of the reduction in school fees. The police cannot do this without the order of the governor.” The LASU SUG president said three students were injured and had been rushed to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, while two others were arrested. He said, “They pursued and shot at us, but we will continue to protest.”

Alleged Akunyili would-be assassins mourn her death

Two suspects, Olisa Igbokwe and Christopher Mba, awaiting trial in prison custody for allegedly attempting to assassinate the late former Director-General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Professor Dora Akunyili, in 2003, have joined millions of Nigerians in mourning her death. This came as Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, CNPP, Anambra State chapter, yesterday joined in mourning late Akunyili. The accused persons conveyed their condolences to the Akunyili family from their prison custody yesterday, when Mr. Okemonwu Akuma, Chairman of Anambra State chapter of Nkporo Youths Association, Ohafia, Abia State, of which one of the suspects, Igbokwe, is an indigene, visited them in the custody. They noted that although they were being falsely accused and detained, they were still expressing dissatisfaction with her untimely exit, even as they recalled that the late Akunyili had told them that she was blaming the court for their incarceration in jail, and that justice delayed was justice denied.

2014 W/Cup: Super Eagles Arrive In Brazil

Nigeria's Super Eagles have finally arrived Brazil for the 2014 World Cup starting on Thursday, 12 June, 2014. The coach Stephen Keshi led team had left their camp venue in Florida, United States on Tuesday, 10 June, 2014. The Nigeria Football Federation had said in a statement released on Tuesday that the team would fly aboard an American Airline flight from the Miami International Airport and would land at the Guarulhos International Airport, Sao Paolo, Brazil 9pm local time. The team are expected to move to their base, Hotel Campiness, on the outskirts of Sao Paolo. The statement added that NFF president Aminu Maigari was already in Sao Paolo, for the 64th FIFA Congress scheduled to hold on June 10 and 11. The congress precedes the 20th FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday with hosts Brazil confronting Croatia in the opening match.

LASU Crisis: LASG May Reduce Fee

Indication yesterday emerged that Lagos state government might today announce between 30 and 40 percent reduction in the controversial tuition fee of the Lagos State University, LASU that has pitched the students against the government. This came as the government confirmed the receipt of the report of the Executive committee set up by governor Babatunde Fashola to look into all issues surrounding the tuition fee. The committee it was learnt submitted its findings to the state Executive Council which subsequently, had over five-hour deliberation on it. Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Lateef Ibirogba, who spoke with Vanguard at the end of the weekly Monday Executive Council meeting last night, confirmed that the state government received the committee’s report and deliberated on it before adjourning to today.. According to Ibirogba, “The Exco meeting on the decision of the recommendations made by the committee on LASU has been adjourned till tomorrow (today).

Jonathan Nominates Alison- madueke As Secretary- general Of OPEC

Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been nominated by President Goodluck Jonathan to become Secretary-General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), when the tenure of incumbent Abdullah al-Badri of Iraq expires in December 2014. If the move sails through, Alison-Madueke will become the first female Secretary-General of OPEC. Seventy-four-year-old al-Badri has been Secretary-General of OPEC since 2007. He was also Libyan Minister for Oil and Electricity between 1990 and 2000. Alison-Madueke, who like al-Badri, is a long-serving government official, was appointed Minister of Transportation by then President Olusegun Obasanjo on 26th July, 2007. In a cabinet reshuffle in 2008, she was moved to the Mines and Steel Development ministry. In 2010, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed her as Minister of Petroleum Resources.

Super Eagles Demand Appearance Fees For World Cup

EXCLUSIVE: Nigeria stars demand World Cup appearance cash AfricanFootball.com can exclusively reveal that Nigeria stars led by skipper Joseph Yobo and Mikel Obi have met with the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to demand an appearance fee for the World Cup. This is outside the match bonus, which starts at $10,000-a-man for a first round match win, announced for the players for Brazil 2014. “The players led by Yobo and Mikel met with NFF president Aminu Maigari and some of his officials to demand for their own share of the cash FIFA will pay the country for at least featuring in the first round of the World Cup,” a top source informed AfricanFootball.com Nigeria will already earn more than $9 million for qualification and participation in the first round of the 2014 World Cup and they will get more if they reach the knockout stages of the competition. For the World Cup warm-ups against Scotland, Greece and USA, each player received an appearance fee of $3,000.

LASU Fees: Lagos Govt To Make Decision Known Today

Following series of protests by students of the Lagos State University (LASU) alongside various activist groups, the Lagos State government has said it will make its final decision on the LASU fees known today. The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Lateef Ibirogba, who made this known last Wednesday, described the protests as unnecessary, as, according to him, the government was taking steps to resolve the issue. He said the committee set up to address the LASU fee issues would submit its report today, appealing for calm as the government worked on a final resolution of the issue. The students had, last week, organised protests, first on Tuesday, during which the police had to repress them, while some students got arrested. The students, again, on Thursday, took their protest to the Governor’s Office at Alausa, blocking the entrance, which they turned to a kitchen, where they cooked beans and threatened not to leave till they the fees were reduced by the state government. However, they had to leave when there was a rainfall. Again on Friday, another protest was taken to the Governor’s Office, causing intense traffic snarl. Source: http://www.tribune.com.ng /news/news-headlines /item/7447-lasu-fees-lagos- govt-to-make-decision- known-today

My Mother’s Final Moments – Akunyili’s Daughter

Chidiogo, one of the children of the late former Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Dora Akunyili, has described the final moments she spent with her mother. The Economics and International Relations graduate of Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, United States, in a tribute to her mother said she was happy to have spent some quality time with her mum last week before her death. Chidiogo said during their discussion, she seized the moment to appreciate her mother for being an inspiration to her and her siblings. Writing on Facebook, Chidiogo added that while she was with her ailing mother, she comforted her and informed her of how she had impacted the lives of many Nigerians. She wrote, “To many, she was an icon, to others, she was an inspiration, to me, she was my mother and all of the above. What I told her just last week stays with me, ‘I am your daughter, and you raised me, you have been in the midst of everything, mummy and that is the strength that is now mine and all of us your children. “‘It is also the strength of a whole nation; you touched so many lives, and that is a blessing that must not be taken lightly.’

BREAKING: Sanusi Is The New Emir Of Kano

Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the expelled Central Bank of Nigeria Governor as emerged as the new Emir of Kano. Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who made the announcement this afternoon, said the former Central Bank Governor was edged by four kingmakers from the Kano Emirate.

Just In: Kano Government denies reports of new emir

The Kano State Government has denied rumours making the rounds, especially on the social media, that a new emir has been selected to replace late Ado Bayero. There are widespread reports that the son of the late emir, Sunusi Ado-Bayero, had been selected. Mr. Bayero is considered a frontline contender for the position, as is a former governor of the Central Bank, Lamido Sanusi. The Senior Special Assistant on Media, to Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, Jaafar Jaafar, told PREMIUM TIMES Sunday afteenoon that Mr. Kwankwaso was yet to make the announcement. “Contrary to recent media reports that the new Emir of Kano has been announced, the Governor of Kano State did not make such announcement at the moment. As promised, he is expected to take decision and make announcement later today,” Mr. Jaafar said.

BREAKING: Female Suicide Bomber Targets Military Quaters in Gombe

Female suicide bomber on Sunday, June 8, allegedly detonated a bomb near Military Quarter Guard along Biu Road in Gombe State. According to a source, the "explosion occurred at about 11am along Military Quarter Guard along Biu Road in Gombe." Reportedly, the woman had the explosive in her bag, but the bomb went off before she reached her destination, the military quarters. The woman was scattered by the explosion. It was gathered that the female suicide bomber as well as a soldier died during the explosion. Several days ago, a massive explosion rocked Governor of Gombe state, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo's private residence around the GRA/Pantami area of the state, killing four people. More details shortly.

Jonathan’s war against media enters second day

The President Goodluck Jonathan regime on Saturday continued its onslaught on the media by impounding packs of major newspapers, their circulation vehicles and arresting drivers. The clampdown, which began on Friday, entered its second day on Saturday with greater ferocity. Our correspondents, who monitored developments round the country, report that early on Saturday morning, soldiers stormed newspaper distribution centres in the Federal Capital Territory and other parts of Nigeria. In Abuja, Saturday Punch could not distribute early because soldiers barricaded the newspaper distribution centre at Garki, ‘Area One’, marching out newspaper marketers, distributors and vendors around 2am. This was similar to what happened on Friday when soldiers and officials of the State Security Service tore wrappers of The Punch at the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, damaging copies of the newspaper in the process.

OBITUARY: How misdiagnosis led to Dora’s death

When Mrs Dora Nkem Akunyili was the Zonal Secretary (South-east) of the Petroleum (Special) Trust Fund in 1998, Nigerian doctors gave her what many of her family members considered to be a health scare. They said she had a growth and needed surgery. Akunyili, then 44, decided to travel to the United States, first to get a second opinion and then undergo the prescribed surgery. The bill for the medical trip was $17,000, including $12,000 for the surgery. During pre-surgery check-up in the US, the doctors told her the Nigerian doctors had made a wrong diagnosis and that she did not need any surgery. It was said to be a minor issue that medication would solve. She thanked the doctors and, to their surprise, said she was going to return the money meant for the surgery to PTF. That was strange. Nigerian government officials had devised a way of making sure such monies were not returned to the treasury. The hospital informed the PTF, under the leadership of Major Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, about one honest Nigerian they had found. Buhari, himself a straightforwardperson, was very impressed. He wrote a letter to Akunyili commending her honesty. NAFDAC Then came 2001. President Olusegun Obasanjo wanted to appoint a director-general for the National Agency for Drug and Food Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and asked for the recommendation of an honest Nigerian pharmacist. Akunyili’s name promptly came up. Someone who had heard about her PTF record recommended her. There was a little problem, a Nigerian problem. Objections were raised that the minister of health, Prof. ABC Nwosu, was an Igbo from Anambra State and NAFDAC, being a powerful agency under the ministry, should not be headed by another Igbo from Anambra. It was also argued that the market for fake and substandard products were controlled by the Igbo, with Onitsha – also in Anambra State – a major centre for the illicit business. She was going to protect “her people”, the antagonists said. Obasanjo, stubborn to the cause, ignored the observations and appointed her. She went on to do a credible job and ended up as one of the most outstanding public officers in Nigeria’s history, celebrated locally and globally. She had lost a sister to fake drugs, and that was perhaps the impetus she needed to go on the offensive. Misdiagnosis Meanwhile, Akunyili always went abroad for check-ups and she was always given an all-clear. She continued to look robust and energetic, and took up another government job as minister of information and communications. But on July 13, 2013, something strange happened to her. She was preparing to travel to the United States to receive an award. The following day was her birthday. Her 59th, precisely. Then she fell ill. She was physically weak and having pains. She decided to go ahead with her trip and attend to her health in the United States. It was while she was there that new checks were carried out. Alas, she had cancer. The original diagnosis in 1998 was right. But the diagnosis at the point of surgery was wrong. She became seriously ill and there were fears she could lose her life. She was in the hospital for months and only returned to Nigeria this year when the doctors said she was improving. Her last public appearance was at the National Conference in Abuja, where she was a delegate. Pictures of a frail-looking Akumyili soon went viral on the internet. TheCable could not ascertain the type of cancer, but there are several reports pinpointing cervical. Globally, cervical cancer is the second most common and the fifth deadliest cancer in women, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Akunyili died on June 7, 2014 in India after surviving many death rumours.

Professor Dora Akunyili Passes Away in India Aged 59

As family sources have disclosed to Sahara Reporters, former Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and ex minister of Information, Professor Dora Akunyili, has died today. She passed away at the age of 59 at an Indian Hospital where she has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment. She was born Dora Nkem Akunyili in July 1954 in Makurdi, Benue State. Apart from holding highest offices in the NAFDAC and Ministry of Information and Communications, she was a pharmacist and governmental administrator. For her achievements, she gained international recognition and won hundreds of awards for her work in pharmacology, public health and human rights sectors.

LASU Students Storm Lagos Govt House, Cook And Dance There

Students of the Lagos State University (LASU) yesterday, June 5th stormed the Lagos State Government House in Alausa ,Ikeja, protesting the recent hike in their school fees. They barricaded the main entrance with their buses and remained there for hours, saying they would not leave until their school fees were reduced and their arrested colleagues released unconditionally. LASU students at Lagos state government house, protesting fees hike The students who came with mats, mosquito nets, cooking pots and other things, were said to have arrived at about 3pm in over 10 buses. LASU studentsprotesting fees hikeat Lagos state government house The students set up firewoods which they used to prepare beans near the entrance of the Governor Fashola's Office. Firewood and pot set up by LASU students LASU students cooking in front of government house The students refused to be discouraged by the rain, as they danced to solidarity songs and held mid-day prayers to seek divine intervention.

Second Son Succeeds The Late Emir Of Gombe

The Gombe State Government on Friday approved the appointment of Alhaji Abubakar Shehu-Abubakar as the new Emir of Gombe. He succeeds his late father, Alhaji Shehu Abubakar, who died in a London hospital on May 27, 2014. Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Bage, presented the letter of appointment to the new emir at the Gombe Central Mosque on Friday. Shehu-Abubakar, who will be enthroned as the 11th Emir of Gombe, is the second son of the late emir. Until his appointment, he was the Santurakin Gombe. Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo reconstituted the council of kingmakers of the emirate after the death of his father; and out of 10 applicants for the throne; they submitted the names of three candidates to the government. After consultations with stakeholders, Dankwambo approved the appointment of Shehu-Abubakar.

13 Year Old Girl Arrested For Spying For Boko Haram

Special Forces of the Nigerian Army Unit in Gwoza, Borno State, have arrested a 13-year-old girl for spying on the military formation for the members of Boko Haram, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) has reported. A security source said the soldiers who picked up the girl were said to be stunned when they found an AK 47 assault rifle in her residence. It was further gathered that the girl led the soldiers to three other girls who were also said to have been recruited by Boko Haram to spy on military formations. However, the source did not say whether the soldiers found any lead in the residents of the other girls said to be undergoing interrogation. It was further stated that there were fears in security circles that the insurgents might have embarked on the recruitment of innocent children to get information on military formations for possible attacks.

A 36-year-old Lagos-based auto parts dealer, Anabaronye Ken, was on Wednesday arrested by officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, while preparing to board a France flight en route to Milan, Italy. Speaking to newsmen, Ofoyeju Mitchel, the agency's Public Relations Officer said the suspected excreted 52 wraps of substances that tested positive for cocaine after defecating for four days. According to Mitchel, the arrest was made possible by the scanning machine at the airport. "Anabaronye Ken was tested positive for drug ingestion during the outward screening of Air France passengers at the departure hall. While he was under observation, he excreted 52 wraps of substances that tested positive for cocaine with a weight of 900 grammes. Anabaronye is helping us in our investigation" the spokesperson said.

Breaking News: The Emir Of Kano Is Dead

One of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional rulers, Ado Abdullahi Bayero, the Emir of Kano has died. The Emir died early today in Kano according to family sources.

REVEALED: Why Jonathan Made Shekarau, Others Ministers

The hidden intention behind President Goodluck Jonathan's current nomination of four ministersis alleged to have been connected with his 2015 second term ambition. The ministers who were appointed on Wednesday are Ibrahim Shekarau, a former Governor of Kano State, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, Dr. Stephen Orhu and Dr. Abdul Bulama. The new ministers have all in one way or the other gotten their pound of flesh against their previous parties. It was gathered that Shekarau was part of moves by the President to generate support for his 2015 ambition in Kano State as the state recorded the highest number of voters in the country as at 2011 election with about 5,135,415 voters. Shekarau, who is one of the founding fathers of the All Progressives Congress, contested the presidential election in 2011 on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party. He recently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party when his political foe and the state Governor, Rabiu Kwakwanso, dumped the PDP for the APC. His anger became aggravated when the APC national leadership handed over the party's structure to Kwakwanso, asking him to go and work with the state governor.

NOTICE OF CLOSURE OF AAUA EDUPORTAL

It has been observed that the returning students have been lackadaisical in their course registration,not minding the deadline set by senate in the academic calender for 2013-2014 session. Students are enjoined to note that course registration is central to ALL academic activities for the semester/session as it would affect lecture,time-tabling,preparation for examination materials, examination halls and examination time table among others. You are futher reminded that non-registration at the appropriate time amounts to voluntary withdrawal except where leave of absence is duly applied for and approved. Consequently, all students are admonished to avail themselves with the current opportunity of leaving the portal open and register immediately. Whenever the portal is closed, it might attract penalty fee or non-registration as the case may be, with the attendant full application of the rule i.e. voluntary withdrawal. Please take necessary action to register before the end of this week i.e. 6th June, 2014. Signed. A. A. Adedeji Deputy Registrar (Academic), AAUA

President Jonathan Appoints Shekarau, Three Others As Ministers

The Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has appointed four new ministers and sent their names to the Senate for confirmation.One of the new appointees is Ibrahim Shekarau, former governor of Kano State who recently left the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, to join the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP. The other nominees are Abdul Bulama from Yobe State, Adedayo Adeyeye from Ekiti State, and Stephen Oruh from Delta State. Mr. Oruh is the National Vice Chairman, South South, of the Peoples Democratic Party. The Senate announced the nominees during its plenary session on Wednesday. They are to be screened at a later date.

Keshi Explains Why He Dropped Mba From 23-Man Squad

The Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has explained why he did not include Sunday Mba in the final 23-man squad for 2014 FIFA World Cup. The list, which was made public on Monday, sparked a lot of controversies among the Nigerian football fans. Many lamented that Mba, who played key role in winning 2013 AFCON in South Africa, was dropped. Speaking with Fifa.com Keshi attributed his decision to Mba not being hardworking enough ahead of the upcoming tournament. "His lateness to camp contributed (to his missing out) but outside that he did not show the hunger, the fight, we expected from him. We have only two and half weeks to prepare for the World Cup and he was not giving us what we wanted. He was very relaxed and it was unlike him." Meanwhile Sunday reacting to his absence in the list made no disguise of his feelings and took to Twitter to express his disappointment saying: "Gutted to not make the 23 man team to the World Cup. Really wanted to fight & sweat for the glory of the team nd my beloved country."

Army Officers Found Guilty of Aiding Boko Haram

Following the alarm raised by the Nigerian Army and the Defence headquarters, more than 15 senior military officers including 10 generals have been tried and found guilty of giving information and ammunition to members of the dreaded Islamist sect- Boko Haram. This was made known on Monday by a high ranking military source who pleaded anonymity because he was not obligated to disclose detailed information about the development. It was gathered that the Army and the Defence headquarters had alleged that some of their officers and men were giving vital official information to Boko Haram members. The allegation, however, brought about the arrest and arraignment of some officers who were court-martial in the army divisions in the northern part of the country. According to the source, some of the apprehended officers and men were being tried at their various division levels, adding that they still have a lot of hope until the final review of their judgment at the army headquarters in Abuja.

Brazil 2014: Nigeria picks Yobo, Osaze, 21 others; drops Nsofor, Mba

Nigeria’s captain, Joseph Yobo, will play in his third FIFA World Cup finals and has the opportunity to become Nigeria’s first ever player to have 100 international caps after he was named in the African champions’ final list of 23 for Brazil 2014. Also going to their third World Cup are goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama and Austin Ejide. Midfield anchorman, John Mikel Obi, will only be attending his first finals after Nigeria narrowly missed qualifying for Germany 2006 and he was omitted from South Africa 2010 due to injury. Former junior international defender, Elderson Echiejile, and Olympic silver medalist, Osaze Odemwingie, who were also in South Africa four years ago, make the cut for the biggest showpiece in football, which starts on June 12. The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations top scorer, Emmanuel Emenike, is joined in the attack by England-based duo of Victor Moses and Shola Ameobi, as well as former junior international, Uche Nwofor. But there is no place for Olympic silver medalist, Obinna Nsofor, and nimble–footed Nnamdi Oduamadi. Home based goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi; ex-Inter Milan midfielder, Joel Obi; South Africa 2013 hero, Sunday Mba; former U-23 star, Nosa Igiebor; and 2014 CHAN most valuable player, Ejike Uzoenyi; also miss out on the trip to South America.

Over 40 Football Fans Feared Dead At Mubi Explosion, Two Suspects Arrested

An explosion at a bar that was screening a televised football match located near a major military base in Mubi, Adamawa State, killed and injured over 40 people. Two people suspected in the bombing were arrested. The explosion happened yesterday, June 1, at a popular relaxation centre, Kabang, usually visited by both civilians and military patrons. For now, at least 14 people have been confirmed dead and over 40 may have lost their lives too. Adamawa Police Command as well as the 23rd Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Yola, confirmed the bomb blast. And the Command's spokesman, Mallam Othman Abubakar, reported that the explosion happened at about 6 p.m. It has not been determined whether the victims were soldiers or civilians.

Top 10 Nigerian States With Highest Federation Account Allocation in 2013

The Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has named top 10 recipients of Federation Account allocations in 2013. Credit: Nigerian Tribune Okonjo-Iweala said this on Sunday while delivering a commencement address at the 12th convocation ceremony and award of degrees to graduating students of Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State. According to the minister, the top 10 allocations in 2013 went to the following states (the data do not include internally generated revenue of these states): *.Akwa Ibom (N260 billion or $1.7 billion) *.Rivers (N230 billion or $1.5 billion) *.Delta (N209 billion or $1.3 billion) *.Bayelsa (N173 billion or $1.1 billion) *.Lagos (N168 billion or $1.1 billion) *.Kano (N140 billion or $0.9 billion) *.Katsina (N103 billion or $0.7 billion) *.Oyo (N100 billion or $0.6 billion) *.Kaduna (N97 billion or $0.6 billion) *.Borno (N94 billion or $0.6 billion).

Jonathan’s Secret Negotiator: Chibok Girls Very Ill

Some of the 219 schoolgirls still in the custody of Boko Haram insurgents have taken ill, according to a prominent Australian cleric, Dr. Stephen Davis. Davis, a hostage negotiator, said the online publication of a British newspaper, The Mail on Sunday, was hired by President Goodluck Jonathan to broker the release of the girls. According to the newspaper, the clergyman who was once the Canon Emeritus at the Coventry Cathedral in London and a friend of The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, has been in Nigeria working secretly on the release of the girls for almost a month now. It added that he was asked by the President to come to Nigeria after previously brokering a truce between the Federal Government and Niger Delta militants in 2004. Along with Welby, he was frequently blindfolded and held at gunpoint during his peace work in the Niger Delta. In the email, Davis revealed he had had ‘‘ongoing contacts’’ with the groups involved in the kidnapping in the North-East for seven years.