We Can't Conduct Any Re-run In Rivers If Security Is Not Guaranteed, Says INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)declared yesterday that there would be no fresh polls in Rivers State until there the security and safety of life and property can be guaranteed.

The commission which is still smarting from the violence that marred last week’s National/State legislative re-run elections in the state said it would conduct fresh elections in areas where voting was disrupted during the rerun,under no circumstance would it expose anyone’s life to risk in the name of election.

A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member on election duties during the rerun, Okonta Samuel Dumebi was shot dead during the violence.

He was one of the several so killed.“INEC will, at a date to be decided, conduct fresh elections starting with accreditation and voting in all Local Government Areas, Constituencies, Registration Areas and Polling Units where the exercise was disrupted before voting was concluded on Saturday 19th March, 2016,” 

INEC’s Director of Voters’ Educationand Publicity, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, said in a statement.“While the Commission is committed to conducting free, fair and credible elections, it hereby reiterates its resolve not to return to Rivers State (or anywhere else where there was a breakdown of law and order in the cause of conducting elections) until there is a conducive atmosphere for the conduct of credible elections. 

As a responsible organization, it will not expose its stakeholders especially voters, its officials, observers, media personnel to any danger and even where dates have been fixed and published, it will not hesitate to again suspend the exercise where there is a clear danger or credible threat of a breakdown of law and order,” INEC said.

The Commission restated its decision to uphold the declarations and returns made in the Federal and State Constituencies where the exercise had been concluded, adding: “Similarly, the Commission will conclude and make returns in constituencies where it is satisfied that voting and collation were done in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act and our Guidelines,” INEC said.

It acknowledged some challenges in its operational efficiency, especially as it concerns the production and customization of the result sheets used for the conductof the election but insisted that no fake result sheet was used as alleged by PDP and APC.

INEC condemned the violence that characterised the elections,saying:“The Commission condemns in no uncertain terms all those who have been spewing hate speeches and making incendiary statements, which no doubt exacerbated an already tense situation.

“It will like to again commiserate with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the family, friends and colleagues of Samuel Dumebi Okonta, the Corps member who unfortunately lost his life in this patriotic service as a poll official. May his soul rest in peace.”

Gov. Fayose Rewards Detained Lawmaker, Afolabi Akanni With A Car

EKITI State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has rewarded a member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Afolabi Akanni, who was detained for 18 days by the Department of State Services witha car gift, Punch reports. 

At a ceremony held at the Jibowu Hall of the governor’s office while hosting the 26-member assembly, the governor again criticised the DSS.

He said the security agency had succeeded in tarnishing its own image by allegedly attempting to coerce members of the assembly to act the script of his detractors, which was to impeach him.

He said, “This House of Assembly is very unique and exemplary. You have refused to be bought over. 

Gov. El-Rufai, Dalung, Pinnick, Ighalo pick up Pitch Awards (See The Full List)

GOVERNOR Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, Sports Minister Solomon Dalung and NFF President Amaju Pinnick were among eminent Nigerians who personally graced and picked up honours at the third edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards inKaduna on Friday.

It was a night of celebration and eulogies as Super Eagles Captain and Chelsea FC of England midfielder, John Obi Mikel and forward Odion Ighalo of Watford FC also picked up deserved awards.

Obi, along with NFF boss Pinnick and former Nigeria international Olusegun Odegbami pickedup the Sam Okwaraji Award for Commitment to Nigerian Football, while Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Barrister Solomon Dalung, Super Eagles head coach Samson Siasia and former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro (now Chairman of the Police Service Commission) received the Special Achievement in Football Awards.

In the players’ category, Ikechukwu Ezenwa of Sunshine Stars FC picked up the Goalkeeper of the Year award. Other winners in this category are Chinedu Udoji of Enyimba FC (Defender of the Year), Paul Onobi of Sunshine Stars FC (Midfielder of the Year) and Odion Ighalo of Watford FC (Striker of the Year) and King of the Pitch. Asisat Oshoala retained her position as Queen of the Pitch.

Emmanuel Amuneke snatched the top prize for Coaches for his exploits with the Golden Eagletsin 2015 while Kadiri Ikhana won the Manager of the Year Award.  The Golden Eaglets and Enyimba FC won the Team of the Year and Club of the Year respectively. 

His Excellency, Nyesom Wike was voted Football Friendly Governor of the Year and Lagos emerged the State with the Best Grassroots Football Development Programme for the third consecutive year.

In the Media Category, Godwin Enakhena (Top Radio), Austin Okon-Akpan (Channels TV) and Tana Aiyejina (Punch) were announced winners.

Also at the brief but impressive ceremony were NFF 1stVice President Seyi Akinwunmi, 2ndVice President/LMC chairman Shehu Dikko, Board Members Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa,Sunday Dele-Ajayi, Babagana Kalli, Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande and Chris Green, as well as General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.

[Sports] Flamingos grab World Cup ticket

Nigeria has become the latest country to qualify for the fifth FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, after the Flamingos pipped hosts South Africa 1-0 at the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisaon Saturday.

Skipper Rasheedat Ajibade, who netted four in the Nigerians’ 6-0 win in the first leg in Abuja, made good again after the half-hour in the return, shooting aggregate scoreline to 7-0.

The Bantwana had no way whatsoever back into the fixture, and must have been grateful for the low scoreline outside Johannesburg as the Flamingos missed a hatful of chances.

Ajibade’s goal was her eighth in four qualifying matches, having netted three in both legs in the 9-0 whiplash of Namibia.

The 5th FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will take place in Jordan between 30thSeptember and 21stOctober this year. 

Nigeria has never failed to qualify for the finals since the competition was launched in 2008.

Garba Shehu Releases Disclaimer On Purported Forex Purchase As Alleged By PDP, Threatens Lawsuit

The Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu has refuted the claim of the Peoples Democratic  Party(PDP) on the alleged $800,000 that was claimed to have been bought and resold by him. 

In a statement issued on Saturday through his Facebook page, he maintain that the claim was a rumour and untrue. 

The statement reads:

"It is a lie by PDP to say I bought USD 800,000 from the CBN. I had only two FOREX purchases since coming into government: Eight thousand Dollars (USD 8,000) sent to  my daughter and nephews through UBA. This is verifiable.

I'm not a FOREX trader. The day I choose to start trading in FOREX I will resign as Presidential spokesman.

If I know the coward and psychopath behind the official PDP handle, I will launch a defamation suit against him/her.

And I will claim money in millions as damages!", it ended. 

See The Full List Of All Current Governors In Nigeria (As At March, 2016)

Today I bring to you the list of all the incumbent governors in Nigeria, together with their parties and year of assumption of office. 

Read and be updated. 

See the list below:

• Abia State Okezie Ikpeazu PDP 2015 
• Adamawa State —Jibrilla Bindow APC 2015 
• Akwa Ibom State — Udom Gabriel Emmanuel PDP 2015 
• Anambra State Willie Obiano APGA 2010 
• Bauchi State — Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar APC 2015 
• Bayelsa State — Henry Dickson PDP 2011 
• Benue State — Samuel Ortom APC 2015 
• Borno State — Kashim Shettima APC 2011 
• Cross River State — Benedict Ayade PDP 2015 
• Delta State -— Ifeanyi Okowa PDP 2015 
• Ebonyi State — Dave Umahi PDP 2015 
• Edo State Adams — Oshiomhole APC 2008 
• Ekiti State — Ayo Fayose PDP 2014 
• Enugu State — Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi PDP 2015 
• Gombe State — Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo PDP 2011 
• Imo State — Owelle Rocks Okorocha APC 2011 
• Jigawa State — Badaru Abubakar APC 2015 
• Kaduna State — Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai APC 2015
• Kano State — Abdullahi Umar Ganduje APC 2015
• Katsina State — Aminu Bello Masari APC 2015 
• Kebbi State — Abubakar Atiku Bagudu APC 2015
• Kogi State — Yahaya Bello APC 2016
• Kwara State — Abdulfatah Ahmed APC 2011
• Lagos State — Akinwunmi Ambode APC 2015 
• Nasarawa State — Umaru Tanko Al-Makura Silas Ali Agara APC 2011
• Niger State —Abubakar Sani Bello APC 2015 
• Ogun State — Ibikunle Oyelaja Amosun APC 2011 
• Ondo State — Olusegun Mimiko PDP 2009 
• Osun State — Rauf Aregbesola APC 2010 
• Oyo State — Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi APC 2011 
• Plateau State — Simon Lalong APC 2015
• Rivers State — Ezenwo Nyesom Wike PDP 2015 
• Sokoto State — Aminu Waziri Tambuwal APC 2015 
• Taraba State — Mr. Darius Ishaku PDP 2015 
• Yobe State — Ibrahim Geidam APC 2011 
• Zamfara State — Abdul-Aziz Yari Abubakar APC 2011 
• Abuja F.C.T. — Muhammad  Bello

Ekiti Varsity To End Campus-Couple Syndrome

To curb the cohabitation of male and female undergraduates otherwise known as “campus couple”, authorities of Ekiti State University (EKSU) has promised to build more hostels and make the institution fully residential.

The Vice Chancellor of EKSU, Prof. Samuel Bandele, who expressed concern on the development, said provision of more hostels by the management, well-meaning individuals and corporate organizations would be vigorously pursued to curb the practice.

Prof. Bandele also vowed to punish any lecturer caughtin the web of sexual harassment of female undergraduates.Owing to very limited hostel accommodation on the campus, many EKSU students live in nearby Iworoko community as live-in lovers.

Bandele said: “We are going to build more hostels to house our students on the campus to make them concentrate on their primary assignment as students and this will help us reduce a situation on which they live together as if they are married.“

Opinion: Like Hon Afolabi Akanni, Like Ayo Dada; A Tale Of Two Sons Of Ekiti

It is not out of place to state that the duo of Honourable Afolabi Akanni popularly known as Afo guarantor and Ayo Dada made the news all over Nigeria.

They are both from the fountain of knowledge, Ekiti State. Hon. Akanni was arrested and detained by the operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS) on alleged questionable roles played in the build up of the last gubernatorial election in the state while Dada was outstanding in the last UNILAG convocation where he broke a jinx of making the maximum CGPA of 5.00. 

Earlier this week, Akanni was released by the DSS and the governor of Ekiti State, Mr Ayodele Fayose arranged an heroic welcome for him. He even went a step further to charter an helicopter. 

Governor Ayodele Fayose welcoming detained Honourable Afolabi Akanni 

But in Dada's case, it is as if Mr. Governor is not interested in the feat achieved by the illustrious son. I'm yet to read an official congratulatory message either for the governor or the government of Ekiti State till now. 

I think the governor should explain to us why he is treating Dada's uncommon  achievement with disdain, unlike the detainee. 

Thanks for the distinguished members of the House of Representatives that celebrated him a couple of days ago. Though generally in Africa, we celebrate mediocrity over excellence, Olajumoke Agege bread seller a perfect and resent case study.

Ayo Dada stepping into the hallow chamber of the House of Representatives 

I nearly cried when I heard that Dada was about to be evicted in his house due to his inability to pay for the rent, but thanks to a popular OAP that savaged the ugly situation. 

Be that as it may, we should change our orientation and start celebrating people that worth celebrating. 

Dada should be celebrated not only by Ekiti State Governor but all Nigerians. It will be a morale booster. 

#BetterNigeriaIsPossible 

-PFB 

Nigeria facing CAF sanction for overcrowding at Kaduna Stadium

Nigeria is likely to receive sanctions from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), for allowing the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna to be overcrowded, during Friday’s AFCON 2017 qualifier between the Super Eagles and Egypt, Daily Post reports. 

The 25,000-capacity stadium overflowed with more than 40,000 spectators, as the state government threw the gates open for fans to watch free of charge.

Many supporters stood on the athletics tracks to watchthe game, while the stands was packed.

“Nigeria will most likely be penalised by CAF for this poor crowd control even though there was no major incident before, during and after the match,” a top official told African Football.

“Sanctions for such a shortcoming would be a fine anda warning.”

In 2009, the Ivorian FA was fined $47,000 by FIFA, after poor crowd control led to the death of 19 people.

#BringBackOurGirls Campaigner Proposes April 14 As Nigerian Student's Day

The #BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group has proposed that April 14, the day when the school girls in Chibok, Borno stated were abducted by the Boko Haram sect, be earmark as the Day of the Nigeria student.

Unveiling the activities for the Global Week of Action to commemorate the two years anniversary of the abduction of the Chibok girls, one of the leaders of the group, Aisha Yesufu stated that the day should always be used to remember students in Nigeria and the need for the government to protected them in their search for education.

Recall that the Chibok girls were abducted in their school by the Boko Haram on April 14 and are still in the hands of their abductors nearly two years after their abduction.

Revelling other activities line up for the global week, Yesufu stated that the event which will begin on April 8 would last for a week culminating on April 14 with a World Press Conference.

The event which will start on the April 8 will begins with an Islamic prayers and talk which is aimed at praying for the safety and quick return of the abducted girls.

According to the group, the activities of the week will also involve a Walkaton, red-ribbon Day and evening of arts which are aimed at reawakening the minds of the people and reminding them that despite all effort, the Chibok girls are yet to be rescued from the hands of their abductors.

It also added that there will be Christian Prayers and Talk, including a special church service in the Sunday that falls in the Global week of action to commit the girls and effort to bring them back into God’s hands.

The group also stated that the activities will also involve a national conference on education which is aimed at raising critical conversation on the safety of schools for learning to provoke relevant actions.

Apart from the national conference on education, the group stated that it will also hold a global conference on violence against women and girls, aimed at ensuring high level conversation on the state of girls’ education in Nigeria in a view to developing a common position that would shape further engagement , inform decisions and cause relevant action.

The group will also visit UN and embassies of countries that had pledged to support in finding the girls, which is aimed at getting feedback and updates as well as the outcome of the support they have pledged.

UNN Staff Reject VC's Chicken Gift For Easter (See Why)

Workers of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, have flayed Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, for the one live chicken per staff offered them as Easter gift.

The workers on Thursday, after a joint meeting of Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU), National Association of Academic technologist (NAAT) and Non Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU), argued that the gift was grossly inadequate and that it was a far cry from the N20,000 and N10,000 for senior and junior staff usually given them.

Addressing newsmen, the chairman of UNN-SANNU Mr. Paul Erua, expressed dissatisfaction and disappointment that all of a sudden the bonus was reduced to three -months live chicken to both each junior and senior staff of the university.

“During 2015 Christmas, we were not given any Christmas bonus and when inquired management t said it will be redeemed during Easter.“We are surprise that both Christmas and Easter bonus have been reduced to mere three-month old chicken.“

How can one chicken be used to replace bonus of N10,000 usually given senior staff and N5,000 for junior staff, that is why we rejected it because if we as accept it, the management will put it on record that it has celebrated Christmas and Easter for staff of the university,‘ he said.

Men with Zika virus should wait six months before unprotected sex say US health experts

New warning from US Centres for Disease Control says men should abstain from unprotected sex for six months, The Telegraph reported. 

Men who have been diagnosed with the Zika virus or have symptoms of the illness should wait at least six months before having unprotected sex, US health authorities said on Friday.

Meanwhile, women confirmed to have Zika or who have its symptoms should wait at least eight weeks after the illness first appears before trying to become pregnant, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention saidin its updated interim guidelines on ensuring healthy pregnancies and babies amid the outbreak.

The recommended waiting periods are the same for sexually active couples who are not trying to get pregnant.Zika has been linked to microcephaly in babies born tomothers infected while pregnant.

Microcephaly is a serious birth defect that leaves babies with small heads and incomplete brain development.There is no vaccine to prevent Zika virus and no medicine to treat it.

Although Zika is generally spread by mosquitoes, it can also be sexually transmitted. The CDC has reported six cases of sexually transmitted Zika in the US since February,all by men infected while travellingin Latin America who passed it on to their female partners.

Brazil is the epicentre of the current outbreak, with about 1.5 million people infected, although most cases only cause mild symptoms including fever, rash, pink eye, headache and muscle and joint pain.

The CDC guidance was based on the longest-known risk period, multiplied by three, the health authority said in a news release.In one case, Zika was detected in an infected man's semen 62 days after the onset of symptoms, the CDC said.Men with pregnant partners are advised to use condoms for vaginal, anal or oral sex or to abstain from sex throughout the duration of the pregnancy.

For men and women without symptoms who may have been exposed to Zika through travel or sexual contact, the CDC recommends waiting at least eight weeks before trying to become pregnant.

The latest CDC figures show 273 cases of Zika in the United States,all related to travel to areas where the virus is actively transmitted.

Among US overseas territories, Puerto Rico is the most affected, with 261 cases, mostly transmitted by mosquitoes.

The CDC said increasing access to contraception is critical to fighting Zika in Puerto Rico,where two-thirds of pregnancies are unintended. 

The agency estimated 138,000 women there may be at risk of unintended pregnancy.

Mariah Carey Cancels Brussels Gig Over Safely Concern

Mariah Carey 

Multi-talented and Grammy award winning artist, Mariah Carey has cancelled an upcoming gig in Brussels over safety concerns, in the wake of Tuesday's terror attacks in the Belgian capital.

The pop star was scheduled to perform in the city on Sunday night - the day of her 46th birthday - but a message on her website revealed the show has been postponed.

"I love my fans in Brussels and at this time I am being advised to cancel my show for the safety of my fans, my band, crew and everyone involved with the tour," the singer tweeted.

"I hope to see you soon and send my prayers and eternal love, laughter and light."

An alternative date is yet to be set for the gig at the Forest National arena, and her cancellation came after the venue said all of its events would be continuing - albeit with tighter security.

The venue had told fans: "Guests are asked to come early and not bring any luggage, backpacks or large handbags, to respond to any requests of security services, and to stay alert."

Following on from November's Paris attacks, U2 delayed their shows in the French capital - but later performed at a special gig in the city with Eagles Of Death Metal, whose concert at the Bataclan music hall was one of the public places targeted.

Ondo2016: Olusola Oke Lampoon Ondo PDP Leadership, Officially Declares Intention To Run

Chief Olusola Oke 

Former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olusola Oke, has said the set of people that made up the party’s leadership in Ondo state now comprises of bad elements that lacks vision.

Oke made the disclosure during his official declaration to contest again the 2016 governorship seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held at the party’s secretariat on Oyemekun road in Akure, the Ondo state capital.

Oke was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ondo state governorship candidate in 2012 before joining theAll Progressives Congress (APC) last year, shortly after erstwhile President Goodluck Jonathan lost the Presidential election to incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.‎

The APC governorship aspirant said that the people of the state are tired of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state and are already yearning for change in the government, adding that the forthcoming governorship election would be a success for the opposition All Progressives Congress in the state.

He added that the ‎opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) would win the governorship election already slated for November 2016, and tasked the leadership of the party to make effort in chosen a credible and popular candidate ahead of the poll.

Oke also expressed optimism of becoming the next governor of the state judging from his own personal experience and being the oldest among the APC aspirants, with a promise to create more employment opportunities for jobless youths and residents of the state.

“I am the most qualified and oldest in term of experience among the aspirants and I do not need further introduction to the people of the state.“And APC needs a person that will respect and understand it and most importantly one that can win for the party and here I am”, he said.

The APC chieftain also accused the incumbent PeoplesDemocratic Party (PDP) government of Governor Olusegun Mimiko embezzling close to N1 trillion received from the federation account with any recourse to the living standard of the residents in the state.

He decried the high rate of corruption in the state, promising to eradicate the menace if he becomes the next state governor before it (the menace) eat deep intothe political system of the government in the state.“

Corruption is killing us in Ondo State because the present administration is ruling without budget but mere proposal. 

Virtually all projects have been abandoned despite N1 trillion being received in seven years of the administration.“There has been no open employment since the administration began till now for unemployed youths, and poverty has degenerated the people of our state unlike former administrations where the state was highly recognised for affluence and probity, and whatever have been looted would be retrieved back to the state account” Oke added.

The governorship aspirant hopeful, however, assured the APC stakeholders that the party is already filled with people of high integrity with the desire to occupy the Alagbaka Governor’s Office by February 2017.

Isaac Kekemeke, the Ondo state Chairman of APC, described Oke as a respected politician and party leader who had shown great enthusiasm for the growthand development of the party since joining APC.

Kekemeke added that since Oke joined the party, its fold had increase and advised him to ensure his supporters didn’t flout the APC rules and regulations asthe governorship election intensify.

Piece Of Debris Of Crashed Malaysian Airline Flight MH370 Found In South Africa

Debris which could be from Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has washed up on a beach in South Africa, Sky News has reported. 

A local archaeologist found the chunk of debris which is stamped with part of engine maker Rolls-Royce's logo.Neels Kruger discovered it near Mossel Bay, a small town in Western Cape province.

He came across it while walking with his family along a river mouth, and immediately contacted the authorities.It was discovered by archaeologist Neels Krugeron the beach. 

Malaysia's transport minister said a team will now be sent to South Africa to examine the piece, to see if it is from the missing plane.Mr Kruger said: "I contacted the South African Civil Aviation Authority and sent them images and the location here, the location of the find."

And also, then I came in contact with the Australian air traffic safety bureau, and they then advised me to please just kind oftry and preserve it in more or less its original state or the state that I found it in and just keep it secure.

He was walking with his family at the time"So we bubble wrapped it and try to just keep it safe for now."He said he hopes his discovery will help bring investigators closer to finding out what happened to the plane.

Flight MH370 disappeared on 8 March 2014 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing.It had 239 people on board, most of them Chinese nationals.

Two pieces of debris were washed up in Mozambique earlier this monthA huge search effort in the southern Indian Ocean, where the flight is presumed to have ended its journey, has not found its wreckage.

Two other pieces of possible debris were found earlier this month in Mozambique.

Malaysian officials said this week that they are consistent with parts on a Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777, and are likely to have come from the missing flight.

Funke Akindele Releases Bedroom Photo With Boo (See The Photo)

The Famous Nollywood Actress, Funke Akindele has found love yet again in the arms of our very own JJC Skillz, her fiancee and she’s enjoying every second of it.

The couple who some weeks ago got engaged have once again rubbed it in their haters’ face with a bedroom picture posted on snapchat via the Actress’ account.

The couple, 39-year-old Funke and Skillz, 38, have so far tried their best to keep the relationship on a low andaway from the prying eyes of the media but with occasional snippets to show the relationship is going smoothly.

Funke on her account captioned the picture “Back to bed with my boo”. 

One can tell the father of three, Skillz, is a Gentleman lover and of course Funke, smitten.

see snap below:

Presidency Rubbishes #IStandWithBuhari Group, Dissociates Itself From Its Activities

President Muhammadu Buhari 

The  presidency has dissociated itself from all the activities of the so-called #IStandWithBuhari Movement as it tagged it as distractions to its government. 

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu. 

The statement reads:

The Presidency formally dissociates  itself from the #Istandwithbuhari  advocacy group and demands that the group should immediately stop claiming any alliance with the Buhari Administration.

The Presidency also demands that the persons behind the controversial  #Istandwithbuhari  group should stop using President Muhammadu Buhari's name and that of his wife, Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari to promote themselves and their activities.

Among other reasons, we have found it necessary to distance the Presidency from the #Istandwithbuhari  group because its premature and ostentatious  celebration  of the present administration's achievements is totally  inconsistent with President Buhari's philosophy of service with humility.

While the present  administration has indeed recorded significant successes in its priority areas of improving security across the nation, ending the Boko Haram insurgency, curbing official corruption and revamping Nigeria's economy, President Buhari is well aware that his government still has a lot of national challenges to overcome.

The President prefers to give his fullest attention to addressing those challenges without the unsolicited and unwelcome distraction of untimely praise-singing from groups with dubious and questionable motives, it ended. 

Samson Siasia Names Eagles Starting XI Against Egypt (See The Full List)

Super Eagles Handler, Samson Siasia 

Nigeria caretaker coach Samson Siasia has sprung a number of surprises for today’s must-win AFCON qualifier against Egypt by dropping Chelsea loanee Victor Moses to the bench, while starting youngsters Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon.

Victor Moses has been on superb form for both West Ham as well as in Eagles since he last featured for Nigeria at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Siasia has instead of banking on the vision and dribble runs of Victor Moses, opted for the speed and directness of Kaduna-born Moses Simon to start against Egypt.

Manchester City starlet Iheanacho will get his first Eagles start.

As expected, Portugal-based Stanley Amuzie will start ahead of Elderson Echiejile of Monaco at leftback and Shehu Abdullahi will start at rightback.

Oghenekaro Etebo is the only player from the domestic league and he will play alongside skipper Mikel Obi in a withdrawn role in midfield.

Nigeria Starting XI against Egypt

Carl Ikeme – Shehu Abdullahi, Stanley Amuzie, Godfrey Oboabona, Efe Ambrose – Mikel Obi (Skipper), Oghenekaro Etebo, Kelechi Iheanacho – Ahmed Musa, Moses Simon, Odion Ighalo.

Palmchat Turns FUOYE Undergraduate A Millionaire (See How)

Janet Abiodun Lawal

Janet Abiodun Lawal, a 400 level theatre arts student of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), recently won the sum of 1 million naira from Palmchat’s #CrazySelfie competition.

The #CrazySelfie competition which ran between December 2015 and January 2016 took place on the Palmchat app and witnessed severalentries from participants who were required to take selfies with funny gestures and stances. 

The individualwith the highest likes and shares was to be crowned the winner.Afmobi Nigeria, owners of Palmchat and Palmplay announced Lawal as winner of the #crazyselfie competition at the award ceremony which held at the Palmchat office in Ikeja.Yemisi Oluwaseun, Business Development Manager in a statement revealed, “Apart from creating awareness for the Palmchatapp, the competition was also a way of giving value to the users.  

The idea behind the competition, was to empower young Nigerians to create new social experiences through building fun and rewarding social networks,” she said.After winning, the overwhelmed Lawal said, “The money received would go a long way in furthering myeducation and bring me closer to my dream of helping make Nigeria a better country”.Afmobi Nigeria, also used the medium to officially announce the launch of the newest update of its app Palmchat version 5.2 which is available on the Google Play store.

According to the Enterprise Generated Content Manager for Afmobi Nigeria, Mr Ejodahmen Oseghele, “Palmchat app is fast becoming one of the favorite social media and Instant messaging apps used by Nigerian youths because it is driven by rich local content and helps users connect with those around them easily.

”Speaking further, he said: “Palmchat app has become one of the most used apps by Nigerian youths with a global user base of about 100 millionworldwide with subscribers and dailysign ups of over 100 thousand new users joining the family.”Afmobi Group Nigeria intends to keep Palmchat app at the top by providing entrepreneurship opportunity for users, through projects like the Ladies First initiative and establishment of PalmClubs in tertiary institutions.

[herald] 

[Sports] Adam Johnson Bags Six-Year Jail Term For Sexual Activity With 15-Year-Old Girl

Disgraced former Sunderland footballer, Adam Johnson has been sentenced to six years in jail for sexual activity with a minor.

The winger was sentenced by a Bradford Crown Court on Thursday afternoon after previously admitting to grooming the 15-year-old and one count of sexual activity.

The convict was ordered to pay £50,000 of the £67,132 incurred as costs by the prosecution while the case lasted.

Earlier in the day, Johnson was seen running into the court for his sentencing, a move that was believed to be aimed at avoiding journalists’ cameras.

At the sentencing, the judge said he “showed no remose” and that his action was “deliberate”.

Shocking!! Man In Police Net For Failing To Return A VHS Movie He Rented In 2001

A man has revealed he was arrested while taking his daughter to school after failing to return a VHS movie he rented in 2001.

James Meyers, 37, posted a video on his YouTube channel describing the moment he was pulled over on Tuesday in Concord, North Carolina, for a broken taillight.

But after officers ran his licence he was asked to step out of the vehicle and informed there was a warrant for his arrestfrom 2002 for not returning the movie Freddy Got Fingered to a rental store in Kannapolis.

Meyers said he initially thought the officer was joking.

He was allowed to drop his daughter off at school and go to work after agreeing to turn himself in to police later that day, but was then arrested.

He said: "The officer said 'I don't know howto tell you this but there's a warrant out for your arrest from 2002. 

Apparently you rented the movie Freddy Got Fingered and never returned it'."The rental store has since closed, but Meyers has been given a court date of 27 April. 

He could face a fine of up to $200 if convicted.

Tom Green, who starred in and wrote Freddy Got Fingered, said he would help out Meyers financially.

The 44-year-old comedian offered to help after one of Meyers' friends shared his story on Twitter.

He told the New York Daily News: "If it's 200 bucks of course I'll pay it for him, just for the principle of the thing."

Unbelievable!! Boko Haram Leader, Abubakar Shekau Soft Pedal As He Asks God To Forgive The Sect In A New Video (Watch & Download)

Boko Haram Leader, Abubakar Shekau 

Abubakar Shekau apologise –It’s been almost to a year since Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau made an appearance. It was reported by many that the leader was dead, even some reported that he had fled..

But as of today, 24th of March, 2016, a video by the Leadership, shows the kingpin, Abubakar Shekau who was rumoured to have been killed, advising his followers to “surrender to save themselves”.

Shekau in the video below appeared to have surrendered to constant bombardments by the Nigerian army troops.

Shekau who spoke in Arabic for most part of the video, did not cut the angry, blood thirsty maniac yelling “kill,kill,kill ” in grainy videos, common in the hey days of the terrorist group.

But more remarkably he apologised for some of the insurgent group’s actions. 

According to him he has listened to the plea from true believers. He subsequently ended the speech with: “May God forgive us our sins.”

See the video below. 

Can’t see video? Download it using the link below:

--->>> Click here to download

Mikel Obi Becomes Super Eagles Captain As Ahmed Musa Deputies

Chelsea playmaker, John Mikel Obi has been named as Nigeria’s new captain.

The Nigeria international was widely tipped to take over from Vincent Enyeama who quit the national team following fallout with former Super Eagles’ coach Sunday Oliseh, but Ahmed Musa was handed the armband instead.

“I’m no longer the Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi is the Super Eagles captain,” Ahmed Musa said to ovation from the media.

Mikel made his Nigeria debut 10 years ago described Musa as a “wonderful professional”. 

“It takes a man to come out to do what he did,” he said.

As it is now, Musa is the assistant captain. This development will go a long way in settling the rift within the players. 

Shocking!! Salesgirl In Police Net For Bitting Neighbour To Death

Onyinyechi Okoro

Policemen attached to the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department at Panti, Yaba in Lagos, are investigating a 20-year-old lady, Onyinyechi Okoro for allegedly biting her neighbour to death.

The Daily Times gathered that Onyinyechi and the deceased, one Pius Ezema, an engineer, were neighbours at No. 15 Ondo Street, Okobaba in Ebute Meta area of Lagos. 

Trouble started on March 12th when Pius allegedly quarreled  with  Onyinyechi for singing loudly near his window in the ‘face-me-I-face-you’ rooms apartment where they lived as next door  neighbours.

Police source stated that the quarrel snowballed into a fierce fight, during which Onyinyechi bit Ezema who died the following day.

Narrating what transpired between the late Ezemaand herself on the fateful day, Onynyechi denied allegations that she killed her neighbour. 

“I only defended myself from Ezema’s brutal attack. I have been living in that house for the past six years with my sister. I am a sales girl at Balogun Market in Lagos Island.“

About 6 in the morning on March 12th, I woke up to pray and I put on my earpiece and turned on myphone music. 

I started my morning devotion by praising God alone because my sister was not around; she had gone to assist one of our sisters to take care of her new baby.“I was alone in the room praising God. 

Sometimes last year, I  used to praise and pray outside our room but Pius, my neighbour warned me not to pray close to his window. I apologised to him and I started praying in my room ever since.

"Why did she have to sing so loud as to cause a fight?“ I was singing loudly because I was enjoying the morning devotion. All of a sudden, Pius barged into my room. 

He was shouting and said I refused to take instructions not to disturb him. He held my clothes and started slapping me. 

I begged him to stop beating me but he continued. He was very mad at me and he locked my door and continued to hit my face.“

He brought out a whip and used it to flog me all over my body. I was screaming and yelling that heshould stop hitting me. Our neighbours heard my shout for help and they came to my rescue but Pius had locked the door. 

The other neighbours appealed to him to open the door but he refused.“When he had beaten me to his satisfaction, he unlocked the door and left me crying in the room. The other neighbours came into my room and they asked why Pius beat me. 

I told them that I was singing loudly and it infuriated him. The neighbours called him into my room and said he should explain why he beat me mercilessly like that but he said I should come out. As soon as I stepped out, Pius descended on me again. 

This time, he brought out a knife and held my throat. He wanted to slit my throat!

“I had to bite him on his thumb so he can release his grip on my neck. It worked and he left me crying. 

I had to call my boyfriend to help beg him so he wouldn’t beat me again since he refused to listen to the other neighbours. 

My boyfriend came and begged him and he told him to warn me not to disturb his peace again. That was how we settled the matter that day.”

Onyinyechi denied ever having a relationship with the deceased. “We were never involved in anything like that; he never wooed me and I never fancied him.

Pius is not my boyfriend and he has never asked me out. He has a fiancée and they are planning to get married in July this year. After the beating I received from him that morning,  

I became too scared to even sleep in my room alone, so I went to my friend’s house to sleep.“I came back  on March 14, two days after he beat me and I learnt that Pius was dead. 

I was shocked. I asked our neighbours who killed him? How did he die? They told me that Pius did not come out of his room the previous day and his brother was worried as he could not reach him on his mobile phone; so he decided to check him in his room.

“I was his brother knocked and knocked but Pius did not answer. They attempted to break his door but still he did not respond. 

When they finally forced his door opened, they found him laying faceup and foaming from his mouth. 

My neighbours told me that I killed Pius with my bite. I was confused. I don’t know what they were talking about. 

Some neighbours told me to run away but I refused since I know that I did not poison him.“The police later came from Denton Police station and arrested me. 

They said my teeth is poisonous and caused Pius’ death. If that is true, I didn’t intend to kill Pius. 

I am a Catholic and I forgave him all he did to me. I want police and governmentto carry out an autopsy on Pius and they should conduct medical examination on my teeth. 

I don’t know why I am in this trouble, but God will see me through.”

None of Onyinyechi’s neighbours around was willing to talk when our correspondent visited the house as they all declined any comment on the incident.

Daily Devotion On This Day, 24th of March, 2016

For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. (James 1:20 KJV)

Here we are given the reason for James’ earlier admonition that every Christian ought to be slow to wrath. “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”

A great number of Christians are in need of this reminder, for many seem to be ignorant of this truth or have conveniently forgotten about it. Christians so often foolishly burst into wrath without having full understanding of a matter, or worse, after having misunderstood or misjudged a matter. 

One’s impatience and ungoverned temper often numb his mind from exercising proper reasoning and righteous judgement. A volatile temperament will also certainly hinder one from exercising Christian graces such as patience, mercy, and forgiveness.

Nigeria Police To Recruit 10,000 Personnel As Portal Opens On April 1(See How To Apply)

THE Police Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday announced that the process of the recruitment of 10,000 police men as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari at the National Security Summit last year in Abuja has commenced.

A statement by the spokesman of Police Service Commission (PSC) Ikechukwu Ani said the Commission had on Tuesday, March 22nd in Abuja unveiled the internet website portal for the recruitment.

Ani said the chairman of the Commission Mike Okiro who unveiled the portal at a ceremony attended by the management team of the Commission announced that the portal will be opened to the public on the 1st of April, 2016 which indicates the commencement of the recruitment exercise.Okiro said the unveiling of the portal was in actualization of the presidential directive on the recruitment of the 10,000 Police Men.

He also said the Commission considers the exercise remarkable since there has not been recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force for more than five years due tofinancial constraints.

He explained that the Commission could not commence the exercise last year because the funding was not captured in the 2015 budget.

The PSC added that with the commencement of the process on April 1, interested Nigerians should access the portal through the Commission’s website www.psc.gov.ng or that of the Nigeria Police Force, www.npf.gov.ng.

The PSC Chairman also announced that there will be no charges for the processing of the forms which will be done on-line.

Ani quoted the Chairman as saying: “we are not charging money. 

It is free, absolutely free.”He also reportedly noted that the portal has been structured in a way that there will be no short cut; “Everybody must go through due process”, he said.

The Commission also said it will be recruiting candidates into the three entry points of the Nigeria Police Force which are Constable, Cadet Inspector and Cadet ASP.

There will also be recruitment into the Specialist cadre, the PSC statement said.

“For Police Constables, applicants are expected to posses five credit level passes including Mathematics and English Language at Senior School Certificate Examination in not more than two sittings,” Ani said.

He added that for Cadet Inspectors, in addition to having the requirements of Police Constables, candidates would be expected to have an Ordinary National Diploma (OND), Advanced Level (A level), National Certificate of Education (NCE) or their equivalents.

“Candidates for Cadet ASPs must possess a University degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND),” the Police Service Commission stated.

Revealed!! #IStandWithBuhari Movement Budgets 1.2bn For Just match (See Evidence)

A pro-Buhari group, #IStandWithBuhari a supposed non-governmental organisation that claims to be in support of President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-graft war has gotten N2billion Naira from the Presidency is now asking government agencies for N1.2billion.

This was contained in a tweet from the verified handle of  the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), letters of request and say budget was included. 

Even if I'm to believe that the PDP’s claim of N2bn is politically motivated but what of this budget of N1.2bn????

Photo credit: PDP 

If this so-called group can be budgeting over a billion naira for just walk? I'm afraid they are out there merely to find a platform where they can amass wealth to themselves. 

A simple question for the coordinator, were you coerced to float this platform or out of your own volition? 

No wonder that the alleged founder, who is of questionable character resigned as coordinator. Imagine this same igbo man floated something similar in support of ousted President, Goodluck Jonathan. 

Over the week it's National Coordinator, Mustapha Ramadan also resigned, citing that  he had to step down because he was not convinced on the path being toed by the organisation. 

One can't but agree without an iota of doubt that, this ignoble group is just a 'money making venture'. 

Nonsense!!!! 

Payback Time? Governor Nyesom Wike Increases Allowance Of NYSC Members

Governor Nyesom Wike addressing corps members during his condolence visit to the state NYSC HQ.

Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike has increased the monthly allowance of National Youth Service Corps members serving in the oil-rich state by N5,000.

Speaking at the Rivers State National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, headquarters in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Wike announced an increment in the monthly allowance of corps members serving outside Port Harcourt from N10,000 to N15,000.

He also increased the state monthly allowance of corps members serving in Port Harcourt from N5000 to N10000.

He also promised that the state government will immortalise slain corps member, Samuel Okonta, who was killed during the rerun parliamentary polls in Rivers.“

The death of this corps member is unfortunate and condemnable. I urge the police to thoroughly investigate the crime. 

The outcome of the investigationshould be made public so that those involved are prosecuted. The killing of this corps member must not be swept under the carpet,” he said.

Senate Today: Senate Proceedings For Wednesday, 23rd of March, 2016

Following the approval and adoption of the votes and proceedings of the last plenary on March 22, 2016, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria had a productive legislative day as summarised below:

PETITIONS:

Senator David Umaru presented a petition from the Law Students' Society of the National Open University of Nigeria, who was denied admission to the Nigerian Law School by Council of Legal Education.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu also raised a petition against the Nigeria Army from her constituent who was unlawfully dismissed and abused.

Senator Obinna Ogba as well raised a petition from his constituent for unlawful dismissal from the Nigerian Police force.

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, referred he petitions to the committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions to report back in 2weeks.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS

1. Emergency Powers Bill 2016 (SB. 182) by Senator John Owan Enoh (Cross River Central)

2. Prisons Act CAP P29 LFN 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 (SB. 191) by Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central)

3. University Teaching Hospitals (Reconstitution of Boards etc) Act CAP U15 LFN 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 (SB. 194) by Senator Chukwuka Utazi. (Enugu North)

4. Police Act CAP P19 LFN 2004 (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill 2016 (SB. 200) by Senator Obinna Ogba (Ebonyi Central)

5. Explosives Act CAP E18 LFN 2004 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2016 SB. 227 by Senator Danjuma La'ah (Kaduna South)

6. National Research and Innovation (Est. Etc.) Bill 2016 SB. 239 by Senator David Umaru (Niger East)

7. National Inland Waterways Act CAP N47 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill, 2016 (SB. 240) by Senator Andy Uba (Anambra South)

8. Federal Polytechnic Act CAP F17 LFN 2004 (Amendment) Bill, 2016 (SB. 241) by Senator Ali Wakili (Bauchi South).

PRESENTATION OF REPORTS

The Senate received four reports today from the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions and one from the AdHoc Cttee on Import Duty Waivers, Concessions and Grants.

The reports were laid by the chairman of the committee Senator Samuel Anyawu (Imo East) and Senator Adamu Aliero  ( Kebbi Central) respectively They are:

1.       Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions in respect of a petition from Dr. George Uboh of Panic Alert Security system (PASS) against Chevron Nigeria Limited for fraud of over four Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Four hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand, One Hundred U.S Dollars ($4,926,464,100.00).

2.       Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions in respect of a petition from Mrs Oluwafemi Fakiyesi and one other against the Nigerian Navy over the sudden death of Lt. Commander Oluwafkiyesi while on duty.

3.       Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions in respect of a petition from Association of Resident Doctors of Resident Doctors of Nigeria, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna against the Hospital Management over the non-implementation of the consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and skipping allowance.

4.       Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions in respect of a petition from Mrs Regina Poto against Diamond Bank Plc. For Alleged forced disengagement from the service of the bank.

5.       Report of the Ad-Committee on Import Duty Waivers, Concessions and Grants in respect of the motion on indiscriminate use and abuse of waivers.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS

The senate also considered the following reports;

1.       Diplomatic Immunities (Regional Episcopal Conference of West Africa) Order, 2016.  By Senator Ali Ndume.

2.       Report of the Conference Committee  on the 2016, 2017 and 2018 Medium Term Expenditure Frame work (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper, (FSP) by Senator John Owan Enoh

3.       Report of the Committee on Appropriations on the 2016 Appropriation Bill, 2016. By Senator Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central)

ADJOURNMENT

Leader of Senate after the consideration of the 2016 appropriation asked that the Senate should suspend other items on order paper and adjourn to 2pm to pass the votes and proceedings of today,  they reconvened approved the votes and proceedings and adjourned plenary  to 11th April, 2016

Funny?? Man Refuses To Come Down From A Huge Tree In Seattle, US #ManInTree

Police in Seattle are continuing their efforts to coax a man from the top of an 80-foot conifer tree in the city's centre.

Officers were alerted to the drama on Tuesday morning but when they arrived onthe scene the man refused to speak to them.

He then threw an apple, branches and a pine cone at a medical team and passers-by.

Police say the incident has caused disruption to traffic in the area, close to theMacy's department store, as roads nearby were closed as a precaution.

They say they determined the man, who claimed to have a knife, was posing a danger to himself and others.

Court Halts Proposed Ekiti Airport Project (See Why)

The Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose’s dream of building an airport has suffered a setback as land owners and plantation farmers displaced from the landon Wednesday secured a major court victory.

A High Court in Ado-Ekiti ruled that the forceful takeover of the land for the airport project and the destruction of economic trees, crops and buildings erected there were unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal, null, void and of no effect.

Justice Dele Omotoso, in his judgment, also ordered the payment N5million as general damages to the claimants for the loss they suffered for the damage of their crops and economic trees.

The claimants are Faluyi Ayeni and eight others, who sued for themselves and on behalf of land owners and farmers of Iwajo, Aso Ayegunle Farm Settlement alongAdo-Ijan Road.

The defendants are Fayose, Commissioner for Works, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, and Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state.Justice Omotoso held that the purported revocation of the Right of Occupancy of the claimants to their respective parcels of land was unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal, null and void and of no effect.

Another relief granted in favour of the claimants was a declaration that the forcible entry into their farmsteads by the Defendants ,their agents, servants, privies and assigns on October 2, 2015 was unlawful, illegal, unconstitutional, inequitable, wreak of injustice and violation of their fundamental human rights.

The court further held that the forcible entry into the farmsteads of the claimants on October 2, 2015 and subsequent occasions to clear and remove their crops and buildings without proper enumeration of the crops thereof while purportedly acting on Notice of Revocation dated September 18, 2015 was unlawful, illegal, unconstitutional and ineffective to divest the Claimants of their interest rights on their respective land.

The court equally granted an order of injunction restraining the Defendants, their agents, servants, privies, workmen, appointees, consultants from treating the Rights of Occupancy of the Claimants as having been revoked by virtue of the Notice of Revocation captioned Land Use Act Nigeria dated September 18, 2015.

The defendants and their agents were also restrained from forcibly entering, trespassing, coercing, intimidating, harassing or in any other manner whatsoever from gaining access to the farms and landed property of the claimants.

The court also granted an injunction sought by the claimants restraining the defendants from further removing, harvesting, clearing or otherwise damaging the economic crops, buildings and chattels on the land.

Opinion: #2016Budget: Now That The Budget Has Been Passed, What Next?

The Senate earlier today passed the much awaited cum controversial 2016 budget. It will be recalled that the appropriation bill which was presented personally by President Muhammadu Buhari on December last year before the joint session of the National Assembly.

The Budget which which was tagged 'Budget of Change" triggered controversy when it was rumoured to have been stolen in the hallow chamber. 

Many Nigerians gave knocks for Buhari and his party, All Progressives Congress (APC) of trying to edit or replace the controversial budget through the back-door. 

President Buhari latter wrote the National Assembly officially for the withdrawal of the said 'budget'. Which gave the presidency the ample opportunity to right the wrong but alas, the edited version was also a subject of ridicule as some ministers denied their budget before the appropriation committee of the Senate. 

Some of them blamed 'rats' for the shoddy aspects of their ministry’s budgets. 

But the good news is that, the 2016 budget which was assumed to have been prepared by Mr President has finally scaled through after thorough deliberations but the senators. 

On that premise, permit me to believe that the budget wasn't prepared in proxy and was tailored towards achieving the electioneering promises of the ruling All Progressives Congress. 

All is now set for Buhari-led administration to hit the ground running, no more excuse. The blame game must end now. 

All what we need from the retired warlord is to justify the confidence reposed on him at the poll. This administration was voted into power on the premise of accountability and probity. 

My candid advice to his Excellency is not to be deterred and that he should reinforce his zeal towards making us realising Nigeria of our dreams. 

And to the Ministers, they should work with the President towards making the budget workable, because it might not be business as usual. 

In conclusion:

Like I normally say, we have the right to change the CHANGE if there is need for it. 

-PFB 

Daily Devotion On This Day, 23rd of March, 2016

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. (James 1:19 KJV)

This verse begins with the connective particle “wherefore”, which refers us to James’ discussion in the preceding verse that God begat Christians according to His will by the truth of His Word. All genuine Christians are the children of His family. In this regard, James addressed fellow believers “my beloved brethren”. Then he exhorted them as to how they should conduct themselves as children of God’s family.

The first conduct of a child of God that James teaches, is that he ought to “be swift to hear”. The primary emphasis of this advice is that every Christian ought to be eager and ready to hear God. Listening attentively to the instructions of the divine truth, by which every Christian is begotten, is paramount in the life of God’s child. The Christian’s foremost calling is to be a student, rather than a teacher, of God’s Word. He must be teachable and have a great appetite to feed on God’s truth. A holy curiosity and a receptive spirit are paramount if he is to grow in the knowledge of God.

The second conduct of a child of God that James teaches, is that he ought to be “slow to speak”. This is certainly not an advice to promote some kind of unsociable reserve. There is no virtue in being uncommunicative. We are not forbidden from speaking altogether. We are not taught to abstain from speaking entirely, but to be slow to speak. The admonition is against talkativeness and hastiness to be a teacher. Such restraint in speech has been taught in the wisdom books of the Bible. Proverbs 10:19 reminds us, “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” 

Proverbs 17:27 says, “He that hath knowledge spareth his words”. In Ecclesiastes 5:2, we are warned: "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter anything before God."

The third conduct of a child of God that James teaches, is that he ought to be “slow to wrath”. Quick-temperedness and fiery outbursts will lead to many great and heinous offences and sins. So we are to control our temper. Moreover, to be a good learner of God’s Word, one needs to be patient in spirit. Let us not be angry, especially when we are rebuked and corrected by His Word. Proverbs 14:29 reminds us, “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding”. He who is slow to anger shall attain wisdom and honour, but the wrathful man, only foolishness and shame.