Sunday, 27 April 2014
Revealed: Why Boko Haram Is Still Holding The Abducted Girls Hostage
The dreaded Boko Haram sect is believed to be keeping the abducted girls from Chibok in Borno so as to use them as human shield as the search for them and plans to rescue them by the military intensifies.
A highly placed source said, "Intelligence report confirmed that Boko Haram found it strategic to keep the girls to save their camps from bombardment by troops."
The abducted girls topped the discussion at the National Security meeting which held on Thursday, and the military was given a marching order to rescue the girls.
Troops are understood to be advancing on the area where the girls are being kept but they are being cautious so that the girls are saved and not harmed in the process.
According to a source, details of the exact location where the girls are being held hostage cannot be made public for security reasons and the military and the Borno State Government are not saying much for fear that Boko Haram with its widespread cells might pick up sensitive information.
The military operation is being co-ordinated by the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, who has been shuttling between Abuja and Maiduguri in the last one week.
Over 200 girls of Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno were abducted in night raid by Boko Haram insurgents. Some of the girls were said to have escaped while others are still being held hostage.
Parents of the missing girls have been searching in the forest but nothing has come out of it. Some aggrieved women in Borno even have plans of going into the Sambisa forest to search for the girls but it was learnt that it will not work.
A government source said, "No one will allow these women to go into the forest. These women will also not attempt it because of the delicate nature of the terrain."
UK, US join search for abducted schoolgirls
Britain and the United States of America have joined the search for the 234 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno, by the Boko Haram sect, SUNDAY PUNCH can authoritatively report.
The girls were kidnapped in their hostel on April 14 after members of the sect, pretending to be soldiers, lured the pupils away from their hostel before setting it ablaze.
About 30 of the girls escaped from captivity while about a dozen, who fled into the bush when the sect attacked the school, have since returned to the school.
The military had initially claimed that it had rescued all but 18 of the girls but the school principal, Asabe Kwabura, debunked the statement.
Parents who tried to rescue their children from the Sambisa Forest where the pupils are reportedly being kept by Boko Haram had to turn back when they learnt that the sect was heavily armed and that they might lose their lives in the process.
An enlarged Security Council meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday directed the military to do everything possible to rescue the schoolgirls.
On Friday, British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, said his country had begun talks with Nigeria over the incident.
He stated this in a response made available to our correspondent by the spokesperson of the British High Commission in Abuja, Mr. Robert Fitzpatrick.
Hague said, “The appalling abduction in northern Nigeria on April 14 is a stark reminder of the threat of sexual violence faced by women in conflict prone areas.
“I am very concerned that the majority of the girls are still missing. I spoke to Nigerian Foreign Minister, Wali, about this case on 18 April, and we are talking to Nigerian authorities about how best to assist in their efforts to secure the girls’ release and bring those responsible to justice.”
Similarly, in a response to SUNDAY PUNCH’s inquiry, the Canadian Counsellor in Abuja, Ms. Alexandra Mackenzie, said her country was disturbed by the news of the abducted girls.
She said, “We are very concerned about the case of the kidnapped girls in the North-East.
“The High Commission of Canada is following the development closely here in Nigeria.”
It was further gathered on Friday that the Federal Government had also enlisted the intelligence services of the United States in the search for the abducted pupils.
A competent security source said the Federal Government would rely on the higher technology of the US and UK to facilitate the search for the missing girls.
The source, who pleaded anonymity, stated that there would be no physical presence of operatives of the Western agencies in the operation to rescue the girls.
He added that security operatives engaged in the search for the pupils had made some arrests.
The source did not disclose the number of suspects arrested in relation to the incident.
It was gathered that those arrested included a security guard at the school and some members of the Chibok community, whose names came up during the military’s interaction with some of the girls who escaped from the insurgents.
The source stated, “The whole emphasis is on intelligence gathering; and that is why the Federal Government is contacting the US and the UK to assist in the area of intelligence gathering.
“Another thing you must know is that several arrests have been made, and a lot of efforts are being made.
“The security guard at the school in Chibok is being quizzed and some people from the community too have been arrested,” the source said.
When our correspondent contacted the Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen Chris Olukolade, for his comment on the search for the abducted girls, he said, “The search for the girls is being intensified.”
Swansea University storms Nigeria
An official delegation from SWANSEA University, one of the top universities in the United Kingdom, is in Nigeria, attending education fairs in various cities between April 28th and May 10th 2014.
A statement from the university described the visit as a “perfect opportunity to meet and speak to talented students who wish to study in the UK, because we recognize the high calibre of Nigerian students choosing to study with us. Swansea University offers opportunities for world class learning and we are glad to be able to help train Nigerian students to become future leaders.”
The Swansea delegation is led by Senior Lecturer, Dr. Andrew Iwobi, from the College of Law. Dr. Iwobi will be meeting law graduates at UKEAS Education Fair in Abuja on 29th April.
Elo Vivian Odede, Swansea University Regional Manager, will also be attending UKEAS, KOT and ESCC Education fairs at Port Harcourt, Accra, Calabar and Lagos where she would be spreading the Swansea Gospel.
Swansea University is based in the UK and it is currently ranked as a top 50 university. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and the 2014 QS World University Rankings by Subject show that Swansea University has maintained its top global 200 spot in a number of subjects , including Law and Legal Studies, Engineering (Civil, Structural and Mechanical) as well as English Language and Literature for the first time.
Guardiola ‘sad forever’ over Vilanova death
Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola on Saturday expressed his grief over the death of Tito Vilanova, his former assistant at Barcelona, saying his sadness will remain for the rest of his life.
“We were friends. My heart is with his parents, his wife and his children. The sadness will stay with me forever,” said Guardiola after Vilanova died on Friday following a long battle with cancer aged 45.
There was a minute’s silence before Bayern’s 5-2 win over Werder Bremen on Saturday at Munich’s Allianz Arena while the home players wore black armbands.
Vilanova was Guardiola’s right-hand man in one of the most successful periods in Barcelona’s history when the Catalans won 14 trophies in four years under their former captain, including two Champions Leagues, between 2008 and 2012.
When Guardiola stepped down at the end of the 2011/12 season to take a year’s sabbatical in New York before joining Bayern Munich, Vilanova was promoted to replace him.
But his only season in charge was disrupted by health problems as he had to spend two months in New York receiving chemotherapy treatment.
He returned to the job in time to see Barca seal their 22nd La Liga title with a record 100 points tally.
However, he was eventually forced to step down just two weeks before the start of the current campaign due to his ongoing health problems having been first diagnosed with cancer of the salivary gland over two years ago.
Beware! : One Chance robbers hit Abuja!
Robbers in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) now use taxis to dispossess passengers of their money and other valuables.
In fact, the activities of the robbers who pretend to be cab drivers in the city centre are assuming a frightening dimension.
The robbers operate mostly at night. They operate by carrying a passenger and driving to a lonely road. Then another member of the gang hiding inside the boot of the car comes out from behind the passenger’s seat and points a sharp object to the passenger’s head or neck.
The driver and his cohort will then snatch the belongings of the passenger and push him out of the moving vehicle leaving him with serious injuries.
There are two kinds of taxis that ply Abuja roads.
The first is charter which picks a single passenger a group to a destination without stopping to pick any more passengers and these are the regular ones that carry a maximum of five passengers usually at a park or bus stop. The second kind of taxis stop and pick passengers intermittently along the way at various bus stops.
Sunday Vanguard gathered that the new robbery tactic in Abuja, called ‘One Chance’, started with unpainted taxis but now, the painted green and white taxis have joined in the nefarious act.
Residents say they are no longer safe and it is really disturbing because it keeps happening everyday. Many of those who have been attacked are women. The ugly development has brought safety and security issues to the front burner amongst Abuja residents.
This reporter was waiting for a taxi at Area 3 and standing beside her was a woman who waved down a taxi. Immediately the green and white taxi got to her, the fat woman demanded in Pidgin English, ‘Open your boot make l see wetin dey inside’.
I promptly drew the woman’s attention before the taxi could zoom off to explain her action and, as if she was waiting to spit it out, she narrated, “My dear, my eye don see something with these taxis in Abuja. Just last week, I boarded a taxi from Berger where I have a shop to go to my house in Gwarinpa.
I observed that the driver took me through an unfamiliar route; it didn’t occur to me that he had a bad motive because I thought he was avoiding traffic only for him to stop on a lonely road not far from Gwarinpa and said he wanted to take a tool in the boot to check a fault in the cab.
Before I could say driver ‘hurry up’, he came into the cab with one other man from God knows where who pointed a dagger at me, dispossessed me of my bag and everything I had in it, then they threw me out of the cab and zoomed off. It was terrible”.
Another ‘One Chance’ incident involved a middle-aged woman who came out from a bank along Ahmadu Bello Way, Garki after withdrawing money. She boarded an unpainted Volkswagen Golf cab unknowing that four other passengers already seated in the cab were members of the driver’s gang.
Luck, however, ran out on the driver and his gang when a taxi sighted the Volkswagen car and discreetly followed the cab behind having sensed that the mission of the four men in the cab when they picked up the victim was suspicious.
While the criminal and his gang were busy robbing their victim, the taxi driver behind rammed his car into theirs thereby forcing them to stop. That was after they had snatched N57,000 cash from the woman’s handbag.
The other members of the gang escaped leaving the driver to his fate.
The shouts for help by the woman drew the attention of passersby who pounced on the driver and subjected him to serious beating. He was lynched by a mob.
In another experience, one Mr Joseph Fernadez said he boarded a green taxi around 7 o’clock on a Monday night, on his way to Dutse. According to him, as he was about to enter, the taxi man switched on the inner light.
He said when they got to a deserted road somewhere in Galadima, suddenly, there was a high volume of music inside the car, and, before he knew it, someone came from the back seat and put a knife to his neck threatening to waste him if he made any noise. He was robbed of his wrist watch, phones and documents. They then threw him out of the vehicle.
He recalled that there was nobody at the back seat when the taxi man switched on the inner light and thus concluded that the man that attacked him definitely emerged from the boot. “I guess Abuja green taxi booths are linked to the back seat”, he said.
Mr Bernard Eneki, Treasurer of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in Jikwoyi/Karshi Park at Nyanya, told Sunday Vanguard, in an interview, that the union impound vehicles that load in unauthorized areas without entering the park because most of those that engage in criminal activities do not enter the park; they drive pass to pick passengers on the road.
On what the union is doing about the ‘One Chance’ menace, he said, “We have our Marshals that load vehicles to various routes, like this one you see here is loading to Karshi and we know all our members here.
“If a passenger forgets any property like phone in the vehicle he or she can come to the park and tell us where he or she boarded the vehicle, from, and we will trace the number because all the vehicles loading from here to Karshi have specific numbers, so if you misplace anything in any of the vehicles we will located the vehicle and return your property to you”.
At Wuse/Berger Park, Mr Akande Sunday, a member of the Union of Painted Abuja Taxi, PAT, said painted taxis belong to a number of unions, aside the national union, NURTW, while he explained the colour type at the top of the taxi clearly states which union a taxi belongs to.
“You can differentiate the taxis with the colour on the top of the taxi to know which company a taxi is registered under. For instance, mine is painted blue which is under PAT and this other one (pointing to another taxi), you can see is painted orange which is under NURTW”, he said.
“Majority of the robberies that are being carried out by cabs are mainly by unpainted vehicles because there is nothing to identify them. For example, private vehicles are into the business of carrying passengers; if such operators commit crimes, they go scout free because no one can really identify or trace them”.
In an interview with the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Hyelhira Daniel, on what the police were doing to curb ‘One Chance’, she said they were sensitizing FCT residents on the need to be vigilant, careful and avoid unpainted taxis.
Jonathan replies Boko Haram : You will pay for your killings
President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, spoke tough as he vowed that no expense will be spared to ensure that members of the Islamic sect, Boko Haram, responsible for the wanton destruction of lives and property pay dearly for their atrocities.
The President, who spoke at the 4th annual presidential breakfast prayer held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, said: “No matter what government does, we cannot recover the dead, but our promise is that all those who took part in that will pay dearly for it.”
He said the annual presidential prayer session was held in honour of victims of Boko Haram attacks and their families.
The President spoke on a day Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako dismissed the claim that he was condemned at last Thursday’s National Security Council meeting, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, over his letter to northern governors, alleging genocide in the North against the Federal Government.
“Government is offering all assistance to support the affected families as security agencies work tirelessly to unravel the scourge of this evil and to forestall further senseless desecration of our homeland,”Jonathan stated.
“And, of course, no matter what the government does, we cannot recover the dead but one thing we promise is that all those who took part in that act will surely pay for it. We must all come together and have faith to combat the ignorance and intolerance of criminals”, he stressed.
According to the President, Nigerians’ love for their country gives him hope and encouragement to do more for the good of Nigeria.
“I urge you not to relent in your prayers and dedication because overcoming the present challenges we face may look impossible with men, but, with God, all things are possible. This is clearly seen in the scriptures and this is my article of faith. And, of course, this is one of the things that make me smile whenever you see me.”
He was optimistic Nigeria will overcome terrorism and “with these strides of development which the country is undergoing in many sectors, we will not be slowed down”. Jonathan added: “We must all increase our vigilance and alertness as well as cooperation and understanding to our men in uniform who are at the forefront on our behalf”.
In his remarks at the occasion, visiting President of Benin Republic, Boni Yayi, asked God to forgive those who abducted school girls in a school in Chibok, Borno State.
He emphasised that his country, West Africa and Africa stand by Nigeria because the country has a divine mission in the sub- region and the continent.
While stressing the importance of peace and stability, Yayi said Nigeria does not need Boko Haram.
Welcoming guests, Venerable Obioma Onwuizurumba, chaplain of the Aso Rock Chapel, explained that the breakfast was organised to celebrate Easter, the goodness of past years and ask God for more grace for the country ahead.
Professor Vincent Anigbogu, Director-General of the National Institute for Transformation and guest speaker at the event, urged Jonathan not to be distracted by the threats to nation-building.
Meanwhile, Governor Nyako of Adamawa State has vehemently denied that he was unanimously condemned during the National Security Council meeting which took place, Thursday, in Abuja, over his letter to northern governors, alleging genocide in the North against the Federal Government, saying the statement could only come from pathological liars.
Nyako, responding to a question during an interview with journalists, in Yola, Adamawa State capital, yesterday, said he was never condemned by anyone during the meeting.
“Neither my humble self nor my letter to northern governors was condemned. People made observations but nobody came out to ask why or how did I reach my conclusion and all that.
“Mr. President allowed everybody to speak, asked for comments and we were allowed to read the papers again and asked for comments and nobody condemned me for writing such a letter. For people to say that my letter was condemned was all nonsense,” Nyako stated.
He lauded Jonathan who, he said, presided over the Thursday meeting with decorum and allowed everyone to ventilate his opinion freely.
“Mr. President, to me, was really superb with the way he handled the Security Council meeting. He bore no anger, no sign of getting too involved and allowed everybody to speak and nobody condemned me for writing that letter. This is a democratic country and we are free to speak”, Nyako added.
The governor faulted the deployment of the military to curb insurgency in the three states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, saying history had shown that the involvement of the military to contain internal security situation always results in massive casualties and, as such, many countries had stopped the use of the military to contain internal security challenges.
He said knowing the implication of military involvement in internal security challenges, former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, refused to send the military to contain violent bloodletting during Zangon Kataf uprising and also failed to involve the military during the civil crisis that rocked Taraba State.
Saturday, 26 April 2014
Van gaal agrees Manutd deal
Popular broadsheet De Telegraaf says Dutch coach has "reached a deal" to replace David Moyes and will take over after World Cup
Manchester United have remained coy on reports in Holland that Louis van Gaal has "reached a deal" to join the club.
Popular broadsheet De Telegraaf claim that the Dutch coach will take over the reins at Old Trafford after the World Cup.
[Must Read] 10 Reasons You Might Never Get Rich!
1. Overspending
If you have a ferocious appetite for spending beyond your means, you’re not alone. According to a survey, of the 52% of people who habitually overspend, many balance the shortfall by taking from their savings, and 22% rely on credit cards. Blowing all your money each month is not a realistic pathway to wealth. Start tracking where your money goes each month, check where you can cut back, and create a ‘realistic’ budget that allows you to pay your bills and invest in a retirement account or an emergency fund. Continue after the cut.
2. Not Saving Enough
Welcome to the club! The personal savings percentage in the US is a measly 4.9% of disposable income. Saving should become a priority if you want to accumulate wealth. Start with an emergency fund. Once your emergency fund is substantial, you can redirect small amounts toward other goals like purchasing a home or paying for college.
3. You Have Too Much Debt
Certain debts are a precursor to financial success, like purchasing real estate or starting a business; however, a high-interest credit card balance is not. Pay off credit cards with the highest rates first.
4. You Don’t Have a Plan
Without a definite, clearly defined plan, becoming rich will seem like an unbelievable dream. This alone will solidify your excuses for overspending and not saving. As the saying goes, “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” Putting together a financial plan may seem tedious, but it doesn’t have to be, and you can get used to it.
5. You Don’t Have an Emergency Fund
Experts say you need at least six months of income saved in case of an emergency. Life is tricky, and not having some type of safety net can turn a comfortable situation into a disaster.
6. You Started Late
Time is slipping by. Just like starting an exercise routine, the most difficult part about saving is getting started. Even if you have debt, a small income, or many expenses, you can save something, even if it’s only a small amount.
7. You Complain Rather Than Commit
“I don’t earn enough money”; “Life is too expensive”; “It’s hopeless, I’ll never get out of debt.” Have you uttered any of these statements before, or perhaps all of them? Old habits die hard; however, as long as you do nothing to change, nothing will change. Stop complaining and making excuses. Instead, take responsibility for your non-productive habits and concentrate on how to change them – and then do it!
8. You Live for Today, and Forget About Tomorrow
It’s no fun getting serious and thinking about retirement and all that stuff. Nonetheless, eventually it has to be done. The problem is that impulsive and unregulated spending leads to debt… period! Do yourself a big favor: Get rid of the ‘buy now, worry later’ attitude, and switch to a ‘save now, get rich later’ way of thinking.
9. Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket
You might get lucky by wagering all your money on one type of investment. Just like you might get lucky winning the lottery. But that’s not a strategy to live by, or for getting rich. Putting all your money in one place is not advised because it puts you at too much risk. Your investment portfolio should include multiple investments with varied levels of risk and ROI potential and liquidity.
10. You Just Don’t Get It!
You may be one of those people who believe that somehow something will come along and save you, so why bother with saving or trying to get out of debt? Maybe you will get lucky and land a fantastic job, receive a big pay raise, inherit money, hit the lottery, or whatever! But ‘whatever’ won’t cut it if you really want to become rich. Yes, life is uncertain. No one knows what will, or will not, actually happen; therefore, why not focus on what you can control today? Get it together now and save yourself, in case someone or something else won’t.
One thing you can be sure of: You are already rich. Think about it. If someone came to you and offered you a million dollars for your arm, would you give it up? Why not, you have two; you can surely spare one of them! Of course the answer would be no! Being rich is more than physical ownership; it’s a state of happiness and well-being, while wishing the same for others. So while you are working on getting rich materially, remember to be happy along the way!
If you have a ferocious appetite for spending beyond your means, you’re not alone. According to a survey, of the 52% of people who habitually overspend, many balance the shortfall by taking from their savings, and 22% rely on credit cards. Blowing all your money each month is not a realistic pathway to wealth. Start tracking where your money goes each month, check where you can cut back, and create a ‘realistic’ budget that allows you to pay your bills and invest in a retirement account or an emergency fund. Continue after the cut.
2. Not Saving Enough
Welcome to the club! The personal savings percentage in the US is a measly 4.9% of disposable income. Saving should become a priority if you want to accumulate wealth. Start with an emergency fund. Once your emergency fund is substantial, you can redirect small amounts toward other goals like purchasing a home or paying for college.
3. You Have Too Much Debt
Certain debts are a precursor to financial success, like purchasing real estate or starting a business; however, a high-interest credit card balance is not. Pay off credit cards with the highest rates first.
4. You Don’t Have a Plan
Without a definite, clearly defined plan, becoming rich will seem like an unbelievable dream. This alone will solidify your excuses for overspending and not saving. As the saying goes, “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” Putting together a financial plan may seem tedious, but it doesn’t have to be, and you can get used to it.
5. You Don’t Have an Emergency Fund
Experts say you need at least six months of income saved in case of an emergency. Life is tricky, and not having some type of safety net can turn a comfortable situation into a disaster.
6. You Started Late
Time is slipping by. Just like starting an exercise routine, the most difficult part about saving is getting started. Even if you have debt, a small income, or many expenses, you can save something, even if it’s only a small amount.
7. You Complain Rather Than Commit
“I don’t earn enough money”; “Life is too expensive”; “It’s hopeless, I’ll never get out of debt.” Have you uttered any of these statements before, or perhaps all of them? Old habits die hard; however, as long as you do nothing to change, nothing will change. Stop complaining and making excuses. Instead, take responsibility for your non-productive habits and concentrate on how to change them – and then do it!
8. You Live for Today, and Forget About Tomorrow
It’s no fun getting serious and thinking about retirement and all that stuff. Nonetheless, eventually it has to be done. The problem is that impulsive and unregulated spending leads to debt… period! Do yourself a big favor: Get rid of the ‘buy now, worry later’ attitude, and switch to a ‘save now, get rich later’ way of thinking.
9. Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket
You might get lucky by wagering all your money on one type of investment. Just like you might get lucky winning the lottery. But that’s not a strategy to live by, or for getting rich. Putting all your money in one place is not advised because it puts you at too much risk. Your investment portfolio should include multiple investments with varied levels of risk and ROI potential and liquidity.
10. You Just Don’t Get It!
You may be one of those people who believe that somehow something will come along and save you, so why bother with saving or trying to get out of debt? Maybe you will get lucky and land a fantastic job, receive a big pay raise, inherit money, hit the lottery, or whatever! But ‘whatever’ won’t cut it if you really want to become rich. Yes, life is uncertain. No one knows what will, or will not, actually happen; therefore, why not focus on what you can control today? Get it together now and save yourself, in case someone or something else won’t.
One thing you can be sure of: You are already rich. Think about it. If someone came to you and offered you a million dollars for your arm, would you give it up? Why not, you have two; you can surely spare one of them! Of course the answer would be no! Being rich is more than physical ownership; it’s a state of happiness and well-being, while wishing the same for others. So while you are working on getting rich materially, remember to be happy along the way!
French woman with name sounding like al-Qaeda placed on US no-fly list
Aida Alic claims she was prevented from flying because her name, which appears on her passport as Alic Aida, sounds like al-Qaeda
A young French woman prevented from boarding a flight for New York this week says she has been blacklisted by the United States because her name, if pronounced wrongly, sounds like al-Qaeda.
Aida Alic, 33, arrived at Geneva airport on Wednesday with her husband and two children to set out on a US holiday but was told by Swiss airline that they had received notice from US border authorities that she was barred from entering the country.The airline gave no further explanation and the family had to turn around and head back to their home near Chambery in the French Alps, 2,700 euros out of pocket for the lost airline tickets.
Ms Alic said that she later searched official US travel sites to find out why she was stopped and came to the conclusion that it was because of her name, which on her passport is written with her surname first, resulting in Alic Aida.
“Alic Aida, al-Qaeda. When friends make the play on words to wind me up, I am used to it, but not this,” Ms Alic, who was born in Bosnia but now has French nationality, told Le Dauphiné Libéré newspaper.
“Especially since my name is actually pronounced 'Alitch’. It is of Yugoslav origin. And now here I am labelled as a risk.” The US embassy in Paris said it did not comment on individual cases of people on the US no-fly list.
Ms Alic, who had painted her finger nails in the colours of the US flag ahead of her planned trip, says she plans to persist in her enquiries with US authorities to find out why she has been banned.
A young French woman prevented from boarding a flight for New York this week says she has been blacklisted by the United States because her name, if pronounced wrongly, sounds like al-Qaeda.
Aida Alic, 33, arrived at Geneva airport on Wednesday with her husband and two children to set out on a US holiday but was told by Swiss airline that they had received notice from US border authorities that she was barred from entering the country.The airline gave no further explanation and the family had to turn around and head back to their home near Chambery in the French Alps, 2,700 euros out of pocket for the lost airline tickets.
Ms Alic said that she later searched official US travel sites to find out why she was stopped and came to the conclusion that it was because of her name, which on her passport is written with her surname first, resulting in Alic Aida.
“Alic Aida, al-Qaeda. When friends make the play on words to wind me up, I am used to it, but not this,” Ms Alic, who was born in Bosnia but now has French nationality, told Le Dauphiné Libéré newspaper.
“Especially since my name is actually pronounced 'Alitch’. It is of Yugoslav origin. And now here I am labelled as a risk.” The US embassy in Paris said it did not comment on individual cases of people on the US no-fly list.
Ms Alic, who had painted her finger nails in the colours of the US flag ahead of her planned trip, says she plans to persist in her enquiries with US authorities to find out why she has been banned.
Ryan Giggs is perfect for the Manchester United job, says Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson has thrown his weight behind Ryan Giggs to become the next manager of Manchester United, supported by the Class of '92
Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Ryan Giggs to become the next Manchester United manager.
Giggs, who takes charge of his first game as interim manager against Norwich City at Old Trafford on Saturday evening, has been placed in control of the team for the final four games of the season by executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward following the sacking of But despite Holland coach Louis van Gaal emerging as the leading candidate for the job in the wake of Carlo Ancelotti’s admission that he is happy at Real Madrid, Giggs has the support of players and staff within United and Ferguson has now voiced his belief that the 40-year-old possesses the attributes to take the job on a permanent basis.
Despite anointing the doomed Moyes as his successor, Ferguson will advise Woodward and United’s owners, the Glazer family, over the new manager and the Scot insists Giggs, alongside fellow Class of ’92 members Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Phil and Gary Neville, should get the job.
“I think that he [Giggs] is the one man they should go to really,” Ferguson said during a fundraising dinner in Manchester earlier this week. “He’s got 20-odd years of experience at Manchester United. I signed him as a kid at 13 years of age. He’s gone through the gamut of emotions at the club – he’s experienced all the highs and lows. He knows exactly what’s needed to be a Manchester United player and I was so pleased he brought Paul Scholes back in, and Nicky Butt of course – two great professionals.
“They understand the club, they are hard workers, they are straight as a die. So you have got the right combinations there, there’s no doubt about that.”
Speaking at his first press conference at United’s Carrington training ground on Friday, Giggs admitted he remained in close contact with Ferguson and would use the 72-year-old as an adviser during the final weeks of this campaign.
Giggs, a member of the coaching staff under Moyes, whose compensation package was settled on Friday, also refused to play down the prospect of him proving his credentials for the manager’s position during the next four games.
“He [Ferguson] was the first person I picked the phone up to,” Giggs said. “Why wouldn’t I? He has been through everything you can as a manager – as a young manager, as an experienced manager, as a successful manager.
“Yeah, he’s given me advice, he’s told me that he’s always at the end of the phone and that’s obviously given me a lot of comfort. It’s good to know I can turn to the manager if I ever need him.”
Giggs, who is expected to eschew a tracksuit in favour of a suit on Saturday in an effort to emphasise his managerial credentials, admits he has four games to impress Woodward and the Glazers.
“Well, I have got a chance to show what I can do and what I am capable of as a manager in a short space of time,” Giggs said. “That is my focus. After that, it is another conversation – we’ll see where it takes us. The next two weeks has to be my main focus. We’re playing Norwich, who are fighting for their lives, so I can’t be looking two or three weeks ahead.”
When it was put to Giggs that both Kenny Dalglish and Pep Guardiola, at Liverpool and Barcelona respectively, took manager’s jobs while younger than him, he conceded that others had already walked down that path.
“Yes, it can happen,” Giggs said. “But it’s not something I’m thinking of at the moment. That’s another conversation to be had three weeks, six weeks, whenever in the future.”
Ferguson’s support of Giggs could prove influential, although it is understood that Woodward and the Glazers favour the appointment of an experienced, world-renowned manager following the failed experiment in turning to a young, British coach in Moyes.
Ferguson believes, though, that United now have the opportunity to mirror the successful blueprint employed by Bayern Munich in handing key roles to former players.
“One of the things we have been criticised about over the years is succession planning,” Ferguson said. “It’s a very difficult industry to say you can have succession planning. But in the case of what we were doing in the last few years, with bringing Nicky Butt into the fold, Ryan into the fold, Paul Scholes into the fold, and Gary Neville was offered a position but he decided to go into television. He could easily come back. The model is Bayern Munich where they had [Karl-Heinz] Rummenigge, [Gerd] Müller, [Uli] Hoeness, [Franz] Beckenbauer and [Sepp] Maier all in the camp. They were all there with their knowledge of the great Bayern Munich teams. And that was our model, and it wasn’t really until David Gill came in we started doing that. And what’s what we see today.”
Ferguson added: “Paul Scholes is one of these guys who has few words but the few words are so succinct, accurate and to the point.
“He is brilliant at it. Many times I would bring in the older guard to discuss certain things that we maybe wanted their opinion on. Scholesy had three or four words – bang, bang, bang ... he was such a revelation for me for a young man to be so positive, a decision maker.
“I think Ryan will get the benefit of that now. That was the first thing Ryan did, he phoned up Scholesy, he was on holiday and called him back.”
Giggs, meanwhile, insists he will put “smiles back on faces” by demanding United-style performances in the next four games.
“I want to bring those standards back up to here [raises his arm high into the air] and where a Manchester United player should be,” Giggs said.
“And not just for one game, for every game. Every time you pull on the red shirt, you give everything you have got, otherwise you’re coming off. But I know what these players are capable of. I’ve seen it this week and I know they are better than the performances they have shown this year.
"I intend now to show the fans that these are good players and have a really positive end to the season.”David Moyes on Tuesday.
Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Ryan Giggs to become the next Manchester United manager.
Giggs, who takes charge of his first game as interim manager against Norwich City at Old Trafford on Saturday evening, has been placed in control of the team for the final four games of the season by executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward following the sacking of But despite Holland coach Louis van Gaal emerging as the leading candidate for the job in the wake of Carlo Ancelotti’s admission that he is happy at Real Madrid, Giggs has the support of players and staff within United and Ferguson has now voiced his belief that the 40-year-old possesses the attributes to take the job on a permanent basis.
Despite anointing the doomed Moyes as his successor, Ferguson will advise Woodward and United’s owners, the Glazer family, over the new manager and the Scot insists Giggs, alongside fellow Class of ’92 members Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Phil and Gary Neville, should get the job.
“I think that he [Giggs] is the one man they should go to really,” Ferguson said during a fundraising dinner in Manchester earlier this week. “He’s got 20-odd years of experience at Manchester United. I signed him as a kid at 13 years of age. He’s gone through the gamut of emotions at the club – he’s experienced all the highs and lows. He knows exactly what’s needed to be a Manchester United player and I was so pleased he brought Paul Scholes back in, and Nicky Butt of course – two great professionals.
“They understand the club, they are hard workers, they are straight as a die. So you have got the right combinations there, there’s no doubt about that.”
Speaking at his first press conference at United’s Carrington training ground on Friday, Giggs admitted he remained in close contact with Ferguson and would use the 72-year-old as an adviser during the final weeks of this campaign.
Giggs, a member of the coaching staff under Moyes, whose compensation package was settled on Friday, also refused to play down the prospect of him proving his credentials for the manager’s position during the next four games.
“He [Ferguson] was the first person I picked the phone up to,” Giggs said. “Why wouldn’t I? He has been through everything you can as a manager – as a young manager, as an experienced manager, as a successful manager.
“Yeah, he’s given me advice, he’s told me that he’s always at the end of the phone and that’s obviously given me a lot of comfort. It’s good to know I can turn to the manager if I ever need him.”
Giggs, who is expected to eschew a tracksuit in favour of a suit on Saturday in an effort to emphasise his managerial credentials, admits he has four games to impress Woodward and the Glazers.
“Well, I have got a chance to show what I can do and what I am capable of as a manager in a short space of time,” Giggs said. “That is my focus. After that, it is another conversation – we’ll see where it takes us. The next two weeks has to be my main focus. We’re playing Norwich, who are fighting for their lives, so I can’t be looking two or three weeks ahead.”
When it was put to Giggs that both Kenny Dalglish and Pep Guardiola, at Liverpool and Barcelona respectively, took manager’s jobs while younger than him, he conceded that others had already walked down that path.
“Yes, it can happen,” Giggs said. “But it’s not something I’m thinking of at the moment. That’s another conversation to be had three weeks, six weeks, whenever in the future.”
Ferguson’s support of Giggs could prove influential, although it is understood that Woodward and the Glazers favour the appointment of an experienced, world-renowned manager following the failed experiment in turning to a young, British coach in Moyes.
Ferguson believes, though, that United now have the opportunity to mirror the successful blueprint employed by Bayern Munich in handing key roles to former players.
“One of the things we have been criticised about over the years is succession planning,” Ferguson said. “It’s a very difficult industry to say you can have succession planning. But in the case of what we were doing in the last few years, with bringing Nicky Butt into the fold, Ryan into the fold, Paul Scholes into the fold, and Gary Neville was offered a position but he decided to go into television. He could easily come back. The model is Bayern Munich where they had [Karl-Heinz] Rummenigge, [Gerd] Müller, [Uli] Hoeness, [Franz] Beckenbauer and [Sepp] Maier all in the camp. They were all there with their knowledge of the great Bayern Munich teams. And that was our model, and it wasn’t really until David Gill came in we started doing that. And what’s what we see today.”
Ferguson added: “Paul Scholes is one of these guys who has few words but the few words are so succinct, accurate and to the point.
“He is brilliant at it. Many times I would bring in the older guard to discuss certain things that we maybe wanted their opinion on. Scholesy had three or four words – bang, bang, bang ... he was such a revelation for me for a young man to be so positive, a decision maker.
“I think Ryan will get the benefit of that now. That was the first thing Ryan did, he phoned up Scholesy, he was on holiday and called him back.”
Giggs, meanwhile, insists he will put “smiles back on faces” by demanding United-style performances in the next four games.
“I want to bring those standards back up to here [raises his arm high into the air] and where a Manchester United player should be,” Giggs said.
“And not just for one game, for every game. Every time you pull on the red shirt, you give everything you have got, otherwise you’re coming off. But I know what these players are capable of. I’ve seen it this week and I know they are better than the performances they have shown this year.
"I intend now to show the fans that these are good players and have a really positive end to the season.”David Moyes on Tuesday.
'Please Stop Blaming Her' - Jude Okoye Defends Peter Okoye's Wife
The P-Square break up saga which went viral some days ago after their elder brother and manager, Jude Okoye tweeted bbout being done after 10 years.
According reports, Lola who got married to Peter Okoye last year and has two kids for her husband was the root cause of the fight between the brothers.
Peter Okoye with wife, Lola and Jude Okoye
However Jude Okoye just tweeted that Lola had nothing to do with the issues between the Okoye brothers.
Meanwhile, the brothers have reconciled their differences.
Jude, Paul and Peter Okoye took to twitter to make it known that they were stronger than ever.
According reports, Lola who got married to Peter Okoye last year and has two kids for her husband was the root cause of the fight between the brothers.
Peter Okoye with wife, Lola and Jude Okoye
However Jude Okoye just tweeted that Lola had nothing to do with the issues between the Okoye brothers.
Meanwhile, the brothers have reconciled their differences.
Jude, Paul and Peter Okoye took to twitter to make it known that they were stronger than ever.
THEY KEEP ON MARCHING OFF: Top Obasanjo Loyalists Dump PDP For APC
Top Stakeholders associated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo have left the Peoples Democratic Party ship and defected to the All Progressives Congress.
According to PUNCH, these loyalists of OBJ decided to switch parties because they felt they where not being supported enough by the ruling party.
These loyalists had wanted to defect with OBJ but the Ex-president urged them to stay on with the ruling party, after PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu'azu paid him a visit this January.
These supporters who mostly hail from the South-West feel ignored by the PDP and want nothing more to do with the party.
They also said that most of the points raised in OBJ's letter to former Chairman, Dr. Bamanga Tukur have not been looked at by the party.
A source close to the the group said:v"We continue to behave as if we do not want the old man and his supporters in the party. Mu'azu promised to address those points when he visited Baba (Obasanjo) in January, but nothing has been done."
The history of the crisis in the South-west PDP worsened in the start of 2013, when Tukur took down the party executive in Ogun State led by Senator Dipo Odujirin also an OBJ loyal.
Tukur also took out Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and National Auditor, Chief Bode Mustapha who are also strong loyalists of Obasanjo.
When Chief Bode Mustapha was called, he immediately told journalists that he has defected with his supporters to the APC.
He said: "I cannot continue to remain in a party where injustice is the order of the day; where the leader of the party does not deem it right to address the injustice that was meted out to me; where a person, who did not contest an office, is today occupying the office. They think it is the norm.
"It only smacks of one thing: that I am not wanted in the party; that I am seen as somebody who has no value in the party. Whether I have value or not, we shall see at the polls.
"I left the party on my own free will. Baba Obasanjo is my Baba (father). At the same time, at 64, if I don't know where I am going, I should know where I am coming from. I should know when to appreciate that I am not wanted in an environment.
"Let neophytes continue to tell lies to Mr. President. I wish all of them well, but if they are planning to rig, I want to tell them that they can only rig where they are popular."
The PDP Chairman in Ogun State, Chief Bayo Dayo has however laughed off his threats, saying Mustapha is worthless and has absolutely no political value.
He said, "Bode Mustapha has no value. If he has any value, tell him to go and give it to the APC. I can tell you that he cannot even win his ward."
The PDP has made it clear that they will only worry when Obasanjo himself comes out and questions them.
According to PUNCH, these loyalists of OBJ decided to switch parties because they felt they where not being supported enough by the ruling party.
These loyalists had wanted to defect with OBJ but the Ex-president urged them to stay on with the ruling party, after PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu'azu paid him a visit this January.
These supporters who mostly hail from the South-West feel ignored by the PDP and want nothing more to do with the party.
They also said that most of the points raised in OBJ's letter to former Chairman, Dr. Bamanga Tukur have not been looked at by the party.
A source close to the the group said:v"We continue to behave as if we do not want the old man and his supporters in the party. Mu'azu promised to address those points when he visited Baba (Obasanjo) in January, but nothing has been done."
The history of the crisis in the South-west PDP worsened in the start of 2013, when Tukur took down the party executive in Ogun State led by Senator Dipo Odujirin also an OBJ loyal.
Tukur also took out Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and National Auditor, Chief Bode Mustapha who are also strong loyalists of Obasanjo.
When Chief Bode Mustapha was called, he immediately told journalists that he has defected with his supporters to the APC.
He said: "I cannot continue to remain in a party where injustice is the order of the day; where the leader of the party does not deem it right to address the injustice that was meted out to me; where a person, who did not contest an office, is today occupying the office. They think it is the norm.
"It only smacks of one thing: that I am not wanted in the party; that I am seen as somebody who has no value in the party. Whether I have value or not, we shall see at the polls.
"I left the party on my own free will. Baba Obasanjo is my Baba (father). At the same time, at 64, if I don't know where I am going, I should know where I am coming from. I should know when to appreciate that I am not wanted in an environment.
"Let neophytes continue to tell lies to Mr. President. I wish all of them well, but if they are planning to rig, I want to tell them that they can only rig where they are popular."
The PDP Chairman in Ogun State, Chief Bayo Dayo has however laughed off his threats, saying Mustapha is worthless and has absolutely no political value.
He said, "Bode Mustapha has no value. If he has any value, tell him to go and give it to the APC. I can tell you that he cannot even win his ward."
The PDP has made it clear that they will only worry when Obasanjo himself comes out and questions them.
I am not undisciplined, Osaze declares
As Nigerian football fans wait and wonder, if coach Stephen Keshi will recall Peter Osaze Odemwingie to the Super Eagles for the 2014 World Cup, the Stoke City striker has said that he was not an unruly player as he as been portrayed in the media.
He argued that he was only demanding to be respected and that has nothing to do with his performance on the field of play.
Osaze Odemwingie
“When people talk about discipline, in reality in football, discipline is what you do on the pitch. Everything else – what you do in the media – is all about people’s opinions. We are all different… there are no angels in the game. As stubborn as many people say players like Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] or Mario [Balotelli] are, they are big players. There are things about Messi that people don’t know.
“The discipline in sport is what you do on the pitch. An undisciplined player is one who comes to training late all the time, gets red cards all the time. All the things off the pitch are about your personality, and you can’t please everyone. Things don’t have to be taken personally. There are a lot of boring athletes that never say anything,” said the player in an interview with four-four-two magazine.
He submitted that he has made up with coach Keshi and was looking forward to a call up.
“It’s fine. We’ve been speaking. We’re on good terms now. Last time I spoke with him was when he arrived in Nigeria. I heard he landed and I read your [FFT] piece with him. I called him and wished him all the best, because it will not be an easy period for him since he has raised the bar high and our fans have tasted success.
He argued that he was only demanding to be respected and that has nothing to do with his performance on the field of play.
Osaze Odemwingie
“When people talk about discipline, in reality in football, discipline is what you do on the pitch. Everything else – what you do in the media – is all about people’s opinions. We are all different… there are no angels in the game. As stubborn as many people say players like Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] or Mario [Balotelli] are, they are big players. There are things about Messi that people don’t know.
“The discipline in sport is what you do on the pitch. An undisciplined player is one who comes to training late all the time, gets red cards all the time. All the things off the pitch are about your personality, and you can’t please everyone. Things don’t have to be taken personally. There are a lot of boring athletes that never say anything,” said the player in an interview with four-four-two magazine.
He submitted that he has made up with coach Keshi and was looking forward to a call up.
“It’s fine. We’ve been speaking. We’re on good terms now. Last time I spoke with him was when he arrived in Nigeria. I heard he landed and I read your [FFT] piece with him. I called him and wished him all the best, because it will not be an easy period for him since he has raised the bar high and our fans have tasted success.
Man hacks neighbour to death for sleeping with his wife
There was heightened tension yesterday at Abinse town, in Guma local government area of Benue state, when a middle aged man, Benjamin Fakande allegedly hacked his neighbour, one Jacob Unumbe, to death after he caught the deceased in bed with his wife.
Saturday Vanguard gathered from an eyewitness that Benjamin had been suspecting and accusing his wife of infidelity but when he confronted her on the issue, she denied and threatened to quit the marriage.
”The man had been accusing his wife of infidelity, but when the rumour became rife for several weeks, the man decided to spy on the wife until he got proof that she was actually having an affair outside her matrimonial home with the deceased.
”He was forced to confront the deceased whom he cautioned to stay away from his wife because he was destroying his marriage, or be prepared to face the consequence of his inglorious acts.
”But from all indications, the duo continued in the immoral act because the rumours were all over the place and this further enraged Benjamin who also pleaded with family members to prevail on his wife, but that did not also yield anything positive.
”Unfortunately Benjamin caught them in one of their escapades in a neighbour’s house. At that point, the man became confused and grabbed a big stick and chased after the two of them.
”He eventually caught up with Jacob and hacked him down, inflicting severe injuries on his head after which he left him in his pool of blood.”
According to the witness, the cry of Mrs. Fakande attracted the attention of neighbours who got to the scene of the attack and rushed the victim to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Saturday Vanguard gathered that the death of Jacob Unumbe angered his family members who threatened reprisal attack on his killer but for the quick intervention of the Divisional Police Office in Gbajimba, which arrest the suspect and ensured the restoration of peace in the community.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Superintendent Daniel Ezeala on phone to confirm the incident failed, but a reliable Police source at the Command headquarters confirmed the incident and arrest of the suspect adding that the matter was already being investigated.
Saturday Vanguard gathered from an eyewitness that Benjamin had been suspecting and accusing his wife of infidelity but when he confronted her on the issue, she denied and threatened to quit the marriage.
”The man had been accusing his wife of infidelity, but when the rumour became rife for several weeks, the man decided to spy on the wife until he got proof that she was actually having an affair outside her matrimonial home with the deceased.
”He was forced to confront the deceased whom he cautioned to stay away from his wife because he was destroying his marriage, or be prepared to face the consequence of his inglorious acts.
”But from all indications, the duo continued in the immoral act because the rumours were all over the place and this further enraged Benjamin who also pleaded with family members to prevail on his wife, but that did not also yield anything positive.
”Unfortunately Benjamin caught them in one of their escapades in a neighbour’s house. At that point, the man became confused and grabbed a big stick and chased after the two of them.
”He eventually caught up with Jacob and hacked him down, inflicting severe injuries on his head after which he left him in his pool of blood.”
According to the witness, the cry of Mrs. Fakande attracted the attention of neighbours who got to the scene of the attack and rushed the victim to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Saturday Vanguard gathered that the death of Jacob Unumbe angered his family members who threatened reprisal attack on his killer but for the quick intervention of the Divisional Police Office in Gbajimba, which arrest the suspect and ensured the restoration of peace in the community.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Superintendent Daniel Ezeala on phone to confirm the incident failed, but a reliable Police source at the Command headquarters confirmed the incident and arrest of the suspect adding that the matter was already being investigated.
Friday, 25 April 2014
Former Barca coach Tito vilonova is dead
Former Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has died at the age of 45, the club have announced.
Barca said in a statement: "The club expresses their deepest condolences over the passing of Tito Vilanova, who died today in Barcelona at the age of 45."
Vilanova, a former midfielder who spent his playing career largely in the Spanish second division, was diagnosed with cancer of the salivary gland more than two years ago and was forced to step down as Barca boss last July.
He was Pep Guardiola's assistant during a glorious four-year spell for Barcelona between 2008 and 2012 during which the club won 14 trophies.
Vilanova took over from Guardiola at the start of the 2012/13 season, but he had to take four months off between December 2012 and April 2013 for treatment in the United States after a recurrence of the throat cancer which had been first diagnosed in November 2011.
Barca went on to win the Spanish La Liga title, equalling the record points tally of 100, in his only season in charge before he finally resigned because of ill health.
Vilanova, who was admitted to a hospital in Barcelona last week, is survived by his wife, Montse Chaure, and two children. His son Adrian is currently in Barcelona's youth academy.
Barca sent their "deepest condolences" to Vilanova's family and said they would be opening a space in the main grandstand at the Nou Camp for people to express their condolences.
The club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Twitter: "Tito Vilanova was a wonderful person, and will never be forgotten at FC Barcelona. Thank you for everything you taught us. Rest in peace."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho had several run-ins with Vilanova during his time in charge of Real Madrid, infamously poking him in the eye in one clash.
Mourinho said on Chelsea's Twitter account: "Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends.
"On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time."
Barca said in a statement: "The club expresses their deepest condolences over the passing of Tito Vilanova, who died today in Barcelona at the age of 45."
Vilanova, a former midfielder who spent his playing career largely in the Spanish second division, was diagnosed with cancer of the salivary gland more than two years ago and was forced to step down as Barca boss last July.
He was Pep Guardiola's assistant during a glorious four-year spell for Barcelona between 2008 and 2012 during which the club won 14 trophies.
Vilanova took over from Guardiola at the start of the 2012/13 season, but he had to take four months off between December 2012 and April 2013 for treatment in the United States after a recurrence of the throat cancer which had been first diagnosed in November 2011.
Barca went on to win the Spanish La Liga title, equalling the record points tally of 100, in his only season in charge before he finally resigned because of ill health.
Vilanova, who was admitted to a hospital in Barcelona last week, is survived by his wife, Montse Chaure, and two children. His son Adrian is currently in Barcelona's youth academy.
Barca sent their "deepest condolences" to Vilanova's family and said they would be opening a space in the main grandstand at the Nou Camp for people to express their condolences.
The club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Twitter: "Tito Vilanova was a wonderful person, and will never be forgotten at FC Barcelona. Thank you for everything you taught us. Rest in peace."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho had several run-ins with Vilanova during his time in charge of Real Madrid, infamously poking him in the eye in one clash.
Mourinho said on Chelsea's Twitter account: "Tito Vilanova's passing is a sad day for football, for Barcelona and most importantly for his family and friends.
"On behalf of everybody at Chelsea Football Club I send my deepest condolences at this most difficult time."
Breaking news: P-Square reconciles!
Vanguard reported yesterday, that Peter had given his family condition for peace which was to accept and respect Lola; his wife and mother of his two children.
For a week, news of a possible split of the singing duo gripped their fans across the globe, who flocked to their social media pages begging and praying that the brothers remain together.
Also as at yesterday, close friends had intensified efforts in resolving the crisis which had thankfully paid off.
The pop duo’s elder brother and manager Jude Engees Okoye on April 18, exposed the crisis rocking the family on twitter with his infamouse tweet. Since then the twins went silent and underground as the storm raged.
Peter reportedly gave condition for peace, saying his wife, Lola, must be accepted and respected by the family or risk total isolation from him.
Several sources contacted by Vanguard confirmed that this was his only condition for peace.
Thursday, 24 April 2014
Read why court is convicting a 12 year old boy
A 12-year-old boy, (names withheld), was on Thursday sentenced to 12 strokes of the cane by a Grade 1 Area Court in Karu, Federal Capital Territory, for stealing a mobile phone valued at N8, 500.
The presiding judge, Malam Hassan Ishaq, found the minor guilty of two counts of trespass and theft.
The judge sentenced the minor after he pleaded guilty to the charges.
He also ordered him to cut the grass around the court premises, and advised the convict to be of good behaviour.
Ishaq also advised the boy's parents, who were present in court to train him properly.
Inspector Silas Nanpan, the prosecutor had told the court that a neighbour of the convict, Phillip Boniface, reported the crime at Nyanya Police Station on April 22.
He said that the boy entered the complainant's room and stole the phone while he was sleeping.
The prosecutor further revealed that the phone was recovered from the convict during police investigation.
Nanpan informed the court that the offence was punishable in the Penal Code.
The presiding judge, Malam Hassan Ishaq, found the minor guilty of two counts of trespass and theft.
The judge sentenced the minor after he pleaded guilty to the charges.
He also ordered him to cut the grass around the court premises, and advised the convict to be of good behaviour.
Ishaq also advised the boy's parents, who were present in court to train him properly.
Inspector Silas Nanpan, the prosecutor had told the court that a neighbour of the convict, Phillip Boniface, reported the crime at Nyanya Police Station on April 22.
He said that the boy entered the complainant's room and stole the phone while he was sleeping.
The prosecutor further revealed that the phone was recovered from the convict during police investigation.
Nanpan informed the court that the offence was punishable in the Penal Code.
Teen Who Repeatedly Raped His 9-Yr-Old Sister Jailed For 10 Years
A teenager who sexually abused his younger sister within two years was imprisoned for ten years.
The boy started to molest his sister when they were little innocent kids - she was nine and his was thirteen. Threatening with reprisal he raped his victim more than 50 times, Lincoln Crown Court heard this week.
Shocked with the case, Recorder Gareth Evans, referred to the boy saying that it was he who caused her physical and emotional suffering. That it was he who systematically raped her sister and it was he who deprived her childhood and innocence.
The judge added that the boy mercilessly exploited his sister for his own satisfaction. He forced her to keep his nightmarish secret for a very long time.
And if this story had not been revealed he would have continued to abuse the girl. Although the defendant denied six charges of rape between 2008 and 2011, a jury found him guilty.
The judge ordered the boy to serve 10 years in a young offenders' institution.
The boy started to molest his sister when they were little innocent kids - she was nine and his was thirteen. Threatening with reprisal he raped his victim more than 50 times, Lincoln Crown Court heard this week.
Shocked with the case, Recorder Gareth Evans, referred to the boy saying that it was he who caused her physical and emotional suffering. That it was he who systematically raped her sister and it was he who deprived her childhood and innocence.
The judge added that the boy mercilessly exploited his sister for his own satisfaction. He forced her to keep his nightmarish secret for a very long time.
And if this story had not been revealed he would have continued to abuse the girl. Although the defendant denied six charges of rape between 2008 and 2011, a jury found him guilty.
The judge ordered the boy to serve 10 years in a young offenders' institution.
Terry G Exchanges Blows With Hotel Manager In Lagos
Popular Nigerian singer and producer, Gabriel Amanyi popularly known as Terry G the 'Akpako Master' was involved in a messy fight at the Treasures Exclusive Garden, off Bola Tinubu Road, Iju, Lagos.
According to report, the incident happened at about 6p.m. yesterday, April 23 when Terry G and his boys came to the hotel to relax. One of Terry G's boys forcefully jumped into the pool without paying and was asked to come out by one of the security guards and the owner of the hotel, Mr. George Obot but he turned a deaf ear. He was then dragged out of the pool and his colleagues reportedly reacted violently which resulted in a free for all fight.
The musician was said to have worsened the situation when started abusing Mr. Obot. He did not just abuse him but also slapped and rained blows on him as he was trying to calm him down.
Mr. Obot who confirmed the incident said he was disappointed in Terry G.
However, a Patron of the said hotel who pleaded anonymity had a slightly different story to tell. His version is that, Terry G and two others wanted to dive into the pool but were told they couldn't. This resulted in a shouting match which brought Mr. Obot to scene. He also insisted Terry G and his crew couldn't dive into the pool. When Terry G refused to listen to them, Mr Obot was said to have thrown a punch at him and that's when the fight erupted.
Speaking on the incident, the club supervisor, Felix Alonge said it was not the first time Terry G would come and disrupt the peace in the hotel, adding that he always causes chaos anytime he visits.
Meanwhile, Terry G's manager when contacted denied the singer physically assaulted anyone.
"It is not true. Terry G witnessed the whole scenario but never engaged anyone in a fight. When the whole issue happened and it was getting messy, he just walked away from the place since he was aware of his celebrity status," Terry G's manager said.
According to report, the incident happened at about 6p.m. yesterday, April 23 when Terry G and his boys came to the hotel to relax. One of Terry G's boys forcefully jumped into the pool without paying and was asked to come out by one of the security guards and the owner of the hotel, Mr. George Obot but he turned a deaf ear. He was then dragged out of the pool and his colleagues reportedly reacted violently which resulted in a free for all fight.
The musician was said to have worsened the situation when started abusing Mr. Obot. He did not just abuse him but also slapped and rained blows on him as he was trying to calm him down.
Mr. Obot who confirmed the incident said he was disappointed in Terry G.
However, a Patron of the said hotel who pleaded anonymity had a slightly different story to tell. His version is that, Terry G and two others wanted to dive into the pool but were told they couldn't. This resulted in a shouting match which brought Mr. Obot to scene. He also insisted Terry G and his crew couldn't dive into the pool. When Terry G refused to listen to them, Mr Obot was said to have thrown a punch at him and that's when the fight erupted.
Speaking on the incident, the club supervisor, Felix Alonge said it was not the first time Terry G would come and disrupt the peace in the hotel, adding that he always causes chaos anytime he visits.
Meanwhile, Terry G's manager when contacted denied the singer physically assaulted anyone.
"It is not true. Terry G witnessed the whole scenario but never engaged anyone in a fight. When the whole issue happened and it was getting messy, he just walked away from the place since he was aware of his celebrity status," Terry G's manager said.
REVEALED: Why Most Men Reach Orgasm Within Two Minutes Of Sex
An urologist from New York Presbyterian Hospital, USA, Dr Harry Fisch, has finally revealed why most men reach orgasm within two minutes of starting penetrative sex.
According to the leading sexual health doctor, early ejaculation is a question that most couples wonder about constantly - but no one really knows the answer to.
Dr Fisch claimed that though an average couple has sex two to three times a week but many men are not able to hold out long enough to satisfy their partners due quick ejaculation.
He believes this is much too quick for the average woman adding that most women need five to seven minutes to reach orgasm.
The doctor says it is not uncommon for men to reach orgasm within minutes of sex because an average man has 11 erections a day and that some young men see having sex many times a day as normal.
He believes an average couple has sex every one to three days in their 20s and that this drops to about twice a week for those between 30 and 50.
He says married couple over the age of 50 tend to have sex less than once a week.
Dr Fisch added that most couples have sex at least once a day when they are first together but that this declines over time.
However, he went on to say that what each individual couple is happy with varies.
He says some couples are happy with frequent sex, while others prefer quality over quantity.
Dr Fisch says that it is absolutely fine as people should do whatever is normal and appealing to them.
But, he adds that it is not normal not to want any sex at all.
"That's really the point: not how much sex you're having, but whether you and your partner are happy with the sex you are having.
'Quality wins out over quantity every time. It's all about the satisfaction," he wrote in Nerve.com.
He went on to explain that an average couple has sex for 7.3 minutes at a time and that this is not always long enough for women, who tend to take longer than men to orgasm.
He concludes by suggesting that men who take less than two minutes, or more than 40, to orgasm should consider visiting their doctors.
Fulani Herdsmen Invade Cameroon, Murder 20, Burn Schools, Destroy Crops
On Tuesday, dozens of Cameroon citizens were killed and thousands vacated their villages located near the border with Nigeria after Fulani herdsmen assault.
According to Voice of America, the official broadcasting company of the U.S. FG, herdsmen in their hundreds were forced to leave Taraba and Benue states and unleashed their wrath when Cameroonian farmers demanded that they leave the area.
Eyewitnesses say the cattle breeders were heavily armed, set local schools and buildings on fire, destroyed crops. Their attack on the Efung, Afu, Gayama and Mayi villages was unexpected.
At least twenty people were reported dead by the authorities, but local residents insist the actual number might be higher, as victims were scattered on both sides of the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
According to Voice of America, the official broadcasting company of the U.S. FG, herdsmen in their hundreds were forced to leave Taraba and Benue states and unleashed their wrath when Cameroonian farmers demanded that they leave the area.
Eyewitnesses say the cattle breeders were heavily armed, set local schools and buildings on fire, destroyed crops. Their attack on the Efung, Afu, Gayama and Mayi villages was unexpected.
At least twenty people were reported dead by the authorities, but local residents insist the actual number might be higher, as victims were scattered on both sides of the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
Read how Mexican beauty queen was killed in a shootout
A Mexican beauty queen was killed during a weekend shootout in Sinaloa, a northern state known for drug-fueled violence, authorities said Monday.
Maria Susana Flores Gamez, 20, was the 2012 Woman of Sinaloa. She was killed Saturday in a gun battle between military troops and suspected criminals in the municipality of Mocorito. Two others were also killed.
Sinaloa State Attorney General Marco Antonio Higuera said a rifle was found near the beauty queen's body, but it was not clear whether she had fired it. It was also not clear who shot her.
"All we know is that it happened during a confrontation that the army had with criminals, and that she was with the group of criminals," he told reporters, according to a transcript from his office.
Four people were detained, he said, and authorities seized various weapons, drugs and vehicles.
Flores Gamez was a student of communications. She was crowned Woman of Sinaloa in February, beating more than a dozen young women for the title.
In addition to the Woman of Sinaloa pageant, Flores Gamez had participated in the 2012 Our Sinaloa Beauty contest. Organizers of that pageant released a statement upon news of her death, offering condolences to the family, which received her body Monday.
"We are dismayed by the news -- a beautiful young person, happy, and with a big future ahead of her, " the pageant organizers said. "Rest in peace Susy."
The beauty queen is not the first in Mexico to make headlines for something other than her good looks.
In 2008, Laura Zuniga, who was then the reigning Our Sinaloa Beauty, was taken into custody along with seven men.
Maria Susana Flores Gamez, 20, was the 2012 Woman of Sinaloa. She was killed Saturday in a gun battle between military troops and suspected criminals in the municipality of Mocorito. Two others were also killed.
Sinaloa State Attorney General Marco Antonio Higuera said a rifle was found near the beauty queen's body, but it was not clear whether she had fired it. It was also not clear who shot her.
"All we know is that it happened during a confrontation that the army had with criminals, and that she was with the group of criminals," he told reporters, according to a transcript from his office.
Four people were detained, he said, and authorities seized various weapons, drugs and vehicles.
Flores Gamez was a student of communications. She was crowned Woman of Sinaloa in February, beating more than a dozen young women for the title.
In addition to the Woman of Sinaloa pageant, Flores Gamez had participated in the 2012 Our Sinaloa Beauty contest. Organizers of that pageant released a statement upon news of her death, offering condolences to the family, which received her body Monday.
"We are dismayed by the news -- a beautiful young person, happy, and with a big future ahead of her, " the pageant organizers said. "Rest in peace Susy."
The beauty queen is not the first in Mexico to make headlines for something other than her good looks.
In 2008, Laura Zuniga, who was then the reigning Our Sinaloa Beauty, was taken into custody along with seven men.
P-SQUARE: Peter gives condition for peace
Nearly one week after Jude Okoye, elder brother to singing duo Paul and Peter Okoye (P-Square) posted on twitter that he was ‘done’, the stand-off in the Okoye family is far from abating with insiders telling Vanguard that Peter had refused to be appeased despite interventions from close friends.
Peter reportedly gave condition for peace, saying his wife, Lola, must be accepted and respected by the family or risk total isolation from him.
Several sources contacted by Vanguard confirmed that this was his only condition for peace.
One insider said: “Peter is tired of the long years he has had to plead with his family to accept the woman he has decided to spend the rest of his life with.
“He wants Lola to be welcomed in the family just as Anita (Paul’s wife) has been accepted irrespective of her tribe or age. This is his condition.”
Although the twins had fought at their dance rehearsal earlier in the month, Vanguard learnt this was not what had ultimately prompted Peter to severe his relationship with P-Square.
The source said Peter “has taken their attitude towards Lola even more to heart than what role he plays in P-Square, be it singing or dancing.
“He can no longer endure the ill-affection concerning his wife.”
Sources further said that the crisis had escalated after it was learnt that Peter had allegedly bought a house for Lola in the United States of America, USA.
Paul dilemna
Vanguard learnt that Peter’s twin, Paul is currently confused as he does not know who to support. Vanguard gathered that the twins had returned to talking terms, but that Paul is yet to show full support for Peter’s cause.
The source said: “The twins adore their mother and before she passed on, she had made it clear she was not in support of Peter and Lola’s union.
“Maybe that is why it is difficult for Paul. He does not want to be seen as being completely against the wish of their mother.”
Vanguard leant that he is the one making the most effort to bring an end to the crisis by appealing to Peter and the rest of the family.
Jude Okoye
Their elder brother, Jude Engees Okoye, has also refused to be placated.
According to the source, “there have been accusations and counter-accusations between Jude and Lola, each alleging that the other is rude and disrespectful.
“Jude holds on to this as his reason for not accepting Lola. But this is not the only reason.”
Peacemakers, who are industry friends and close business associates have however intensified efforts in resolving the crisis.
Hope
Also their social media pages show that they still identify with their pop brand name.
At press time, on Peter’s twitter wall, the pop star still goes with the handle @PeterPSquare, CEO P-Classic; Konvict Muzik/Square Records/Universal Music Group.
Paul Okoye also goes by his famous handle, @rudeboypsquare.
Jude Okoye, despite his “it over! I’m done!” tweet, his handle still goes by @judeengess, President/CEO Square Records, Northside Music Inc and Northside Entertainment Ltd. PSquare’s Manager/Producer/Director.
Sources, however, warn that the brand is still in dangerous territory, saying “anything can still happen tomorrow.
“You could wake up to hear the group has officially disintegrated or reconciled. We can only watch, wait and pray.”
Peter reportedly gave condition for peace, saying his wife, Lola, must be accepted and respected by the family or risk total isolation from him.
Several sources contacted by Vanguard confirmed that this was his only condition for peace.
One insider said: “Peter is tired of the long years he has had to plead with his family to accept the woman he has decided to spend the rest of his life with.
“He wants Lola to be welcomed in the family just as Anita (Paul’s wife) has been accepted irrespective of her tribe or age. This is his condition.”
Although the twins had fought at their dance rehearsal earlier in the month, Vanguard learnt this was not what had ultimately prompted Peter to severe his relationship with P-Square.
The source said Peter “has taken their attitude towards Lola even more to heart than what role he plays in P-Square, be it singing or dancing.
“He can no longer endure the ill-affection concerning his wife.”
Sources further said that the crisis had escalated after it was learnt that Peter had allegedly bought a house for Lola in the United States of America, USA.
Paul dilemna
Vanguard learnt that Peter’s twin, Paul is currently confused as he does not know who to support. Vanguard gathered that the twins had returned to talking terms, but that Paul is yet to show full support for Peter’s cause.
The source said: “The twins adore their mother and before she passed on, she had made it clear she was not in support of Peter and Lola’s union.
“Maybe that is why it is difficult for Paul. He does not want to be seen as being completely against the wish of their mother.”
Vanguard leant that he is the one making the most effort to bring an end to the crisis by appealing to Peter and the rest of the family.
Jude Okoye
Their elder brother, Jude Engees Okoye, has also refused to be placated.
According to the source, “there have been accusations and counter-accusations between Jude and Lola, each alleging that the other is rude and disrespectful.
“Jude holds on to this as his reason for not accepting Lola. But this is not the only reason.”
Peacemakers, who are industry friends and close business associates have however intensified efforts in resolving the crisis.
Hope
Also their social media pages show that they still identify with their pop brand name.
At press time, on Peter’s twitter wall, the pop star still goes with the handle @PeterPSquare, CEO P-Classic; Konvict Muzik/Square Records/Universal Music Group.
Paul Okoye also goes by his famous handle, @rudeboypsquare.
Jude Okoye, despite his “it over! I’m done!” tweet, his handle still goes by @judeengess, President/CEO Square Records, Northside Music Inc and Northside Entertainment Ltd. PSquare’s Manager/Producer/Director.
Sources, however, warn that the brand is still in dangerous territory, saying “anything can still happen tomorrow.
“You could wake up to hear the group has officially disintegrated or reconciled. We can only watch, wait and pray.”
If You Mess Up In Ekiti And Osun, You Will See Our Reactions – Tinubu Warns PDP
The #1 opposition force of Nigeria, the All Progressives Congress (APC), warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the other contestants of the upcoming Ekiti and Osun gubernatorial races that rigging at the elections would not be tolerated.
A former governor of Lagos State and APC National Leader Bola Tinubu made this declaration in his speech at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, where he was given a doctoral degree in Management Science and decorated as the chancellor of the university on April 23, 2014, Wednesday.
"We are prepared not to go to court but to drive you out. We will not take it anymore. If you mess up in Ekiti and Osun states, you will see our reactions. For every action, there must be a reaction."
The ceremony at the university was attended by Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku Abubakar, Bisi Akande, Abiola Ajimobi, Rauf Aregbesola, Abdulfatah Ahmed among others.
Tinubu confirmed APC's previous declarations on readiness to form an alliance with Jonathan's Administration in the war against terrorism in Nigeria, however, noted that his government was "married to corruption".
"Patriotism is about country, not about self or religious bigotry. On this issue all Nigerians must stand bi-partisan, united and in complete solidarity against the threat to our nation."
APC leader debunked the allegations that his party has pacts with Boko Haram insurgents or with any other violent groups.
"We seek your votes, not your lives. Boko Haram is our enemy because the Nigeria we seek has no place for their wicked recreation."
He further advised Jonathan to seek solution for Boko Haram violence at the regional level, by improving cooperation between Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Niger, as well as within the African Union
Tinubu said that the war being unleashed on Nigeria by the insurgents had reached a point where Jonathan should develop a grand strategy to put an end to the criminal activities of the insurgents.
The governorship poll is scheduled for June 21, 2014, in Ekiti and for August 9, 2014 in Osun. The Independent National Electoral Commission has already found out massive irregularities during voters' registrations in the two states.
A former governor of Lagos State and APC National Leader Bola Tinubu made this declaration in his speech at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, where he was given a doctoral degree in Management Science and decorated as the chancellor of the university on April 23, 2014, Wednesday.
"We are prepared not to go to court but to drive you out. We will not take it anymore. If you mess up in Ekiti and Osun states, you will see our reactions. For every action, there must be a reaction."
The ceremony at the university was attended by Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku Abubakar, Bisi Akande, Abiola Ajimobi, Rauf Aregbesola, Abdulfatah Ahmed among others.
Tinubu confirmed APC's previous declarations on readiness to form an alliance with Jonathan's Administration in the war against terrorism in Nigeria, however, noted that his government was "married to corruption".
"Patriotism is about country, not about self or religious bigotry. On this issue all Nigerians must stand bi-partisan, united and in complete solidarity against the threat to our nation."
APC leader debunked the allegations that his party has pacts with Boko Haram insurgents or with any other violent groups.
"We seek your votes, not your lives. Boko Haram is our enemy because the Nigeria we seek has no place for their wicked recreation."
He further advised Jonathan to seek solution for Boko Haram violence at the regional level, by improving cooperation between Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Niger, as well as within the African Union
Tinubu said that the war being unleashed on Nigeria by the insurgents had reached a point where Jonathan should develop a grand strategy to put an end to the criminal activities of the insurgents.
The governorship poll is scheduled for June 21, 2014, in Ekiti and for August 9, 2014 in Osun. The Independent National Electoral Commission has already found out massive irregularities during voters' registrations in the two states.
Wednesday, 23 April 2014
David Moyes offers no thanks to Manchester United players
In David Moyes's farewell statement, there is no mention of the Manchester United players, who have kept tight-lipped since he left the club
David Moyes has broken his silence after his sacking as Manchester United manager - and pointedly made no mention of his players.
The 50-year-old released a statement via the League Managers Association in which he spoke of his gratitude to Sir Alex Ferguson, the fans and the staff at Old Trafford.
David Moyes has broken his silence after his sacking as Manchester United manager - and pointedly made no mention of his players.
The 50-year-old released a statement via the League Managers Association in which he spoke of his gratitude to Sir Alex Ferguson, the fans and the staff at Old Trafford.
'I Threw Tear Gas Into Church To Teach Pastor A Lesson' – Dismissed Police Officer Confesses
A dismissed police officer, Jonathan Gyanet who threw tear gas into a church, Transformation Assembly in Akwanga, Nasarawa state has said he did so to punish the Pastor.
Jonathan said the Pastor, John Chia-Aondo Igbasue has been 'exploiting him', collecting money from him for prayers to make God get him back into the police force. The pastor had promised that if he pays his tithe for 6 months, God will make a way for him back into the force but when nothing happened after the said period, he decided to teach the pastor a lesson.
"He has been taking my money. I have been paying tithe for about six months, so when six months passed and I didn't see anything working, I decided to go to him and he was not happy with me. That is why I used the tear gas," Jonathan said.
Recounting what happened on the day of the incident, Pastor Igbasue said they were having a church service when suddenly they heard an explosion around the window of the church. They ran out and reported to the police who came to investigate the matter, and later told them it was tear gas, not explosives.
He however denied exploiting Jonathan who he agreed was a member of his church.
"Where is he going to get money to pay me? I don't operate a prayer house that collects money from people to pray for them," Pastor Igbasue said.
Parading the suspect yesterday at the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Lafia, the Nasarawa state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Idris, said the suspect will be charged to court for illegal possession of tear gas, and for using same without authorization from the police.
Jonathan said the Pastor, John Chia-Aondo Igbasue has been 'exploiting him', collecting money from him for prayers to make God get him back into the police force. The pastor had promised that if he pays his tithe for 6 months, God will make a way for him back into the force but when nothing happened after the said period, he decided to teach the pastor a lesson.
"He has been taking my money. I have been paying tithe for about six months, so when six months passed and I didn't see anything working, I decided to go to him and he was not happy with me. That is why I used the tear gas," Jonathan said.
Recounting what happened on the day of the incident, Pastor Igbasue said they were having a church service when suddenly they heard an explosion around the window of the church. They ran out and reported to the police who came to investigate the matter, and later told them it was tear gas, not explosives.
He however denied exploiting Jonathan who he agreed was a member of his church.
"Where is he going to get money to pay me? I don't operate a prayer house that collects money from people to pray for them," Pastor Igbasue said.
Parading the suspect yesterday at the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Lafia, the Nasarawa state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Idris, said the suspect will be charged to court for illegal possession of tear gas, and for using same without authorization from the police.
B’Haram: President, govs set for stormy meeeting today
President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to meet the 36 state governors and security chiefs on Wednesday (today) in continuation of his administration’s efforts at ending the security challenges in parts of the country.
The enlarged meeting of the National Security Council is a follow-up to an earlier one the President had with the Peoples Democratic Party governors on Thursday.
The All Progressives Congress governors had stayed away from the first meeting because their party leadership informed them that an official of the Presidency called one of them to announce the postponement of the Thursday meeting.
However, to ensure that its governors attended the rescheduled meeting, the APC shifted its state congresses earlier fixed for Wednesday (today) to Saturday.
But there were concerns in the Presidency that the meeting could turn out to be a stormy session if Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako, decided to confront the President with the allegations he made in a memo he addressed to his colleagues in the Northern Governors’ Forum.
Nyako, in the memo, had accused the President of carrying out genocide against the North in the Federal Government’s fight against insurgency.
He had also accused the present administration of allegedly being the most corrupt and greedy administration in the history of the country.
The content of the memo has already been slated for discussion by the Northern state governors on Thursday alongside the outcome of the President’s meeting with the governors.
“There is no way Nyako will make such inflammatory remarks against the government and the issue will not come up during the meeting. Either he attends personally or he sends his deputy, the issues raised in the memo will definitely come up for discussion,” he said.
The APC is known to be highly displeased with Jonathan’s campaign against Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East.
Only on Monday, its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, said the Federal Government’s war against insurgency was unconvincing.
Mohammed had argued that recent statements credited to the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party and the alleged actions of Jonathan were enough to convince members of the APC and other Nigerians that the PDP was not telling all it knew about the insurgency.
He added, “The statement credited to the Governor of Akwa Ibom, Godswill Akpabio, to the effect that President Jonathan should sack the three governors of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states is worrisome because it will give the PDP an advantage in 2015.
“That again gives us concern that probably the manner the government has been handling the Boko Haram insurgency has been with a view to 2015 elections.”
A Presidency source however told our correspondent on Tuesday that the enlarged meeting would review latest incidents in the country, especially as they concern security.
Some of the latest incidents are the abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State and the bomb explosion in Nyanya bus station in Abuja.
The source added that the meeting might take a position on the emergency rule declared in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States which expires in May.
There have been divergent opinions on the desirability or otherwise of extending the emergency rule in the affected states with some Northern leaders opposing the move.
The governors of the affected states – Murtala Nyako (Adamawa); Ibrahim Geidam (Yobe) and Governor Kashim Shettima (Borno) – are also of the view that the one-year emergency rule be lifted.
Another Presidency source told our correspondent that President Goodluck Jonathan had not taken any decision on the matter yet.
“The President is committed to listening to the views of all stakeholders before a decision that will be acceptable to all will be taken and that was one of the reasons he insisted at the Thursday meeting with the PDP governors that their APC counterparts must be given the opportunity to be part of the meeting,” he added.
The meeting, according to another source, would listen to the security chiefs and deliberate on their new approach to tackle the insurgency in the country.
The President had hinted while receiving a delegation of Abuja residents who were in the Presidential Villa, Abuja to rejoice with him on Easter Monday that there would be a change in the government’s anti-terrorism tactics.
“Boko Haram will come and go. We are working very hard, we are changing our approaches, God’s willing we will end Boko Haram,” he had said.
The enlarged meeting of the National Security Council is a follow-up to an earlier one the President had with the Peoples Democratic Party governors on Thursday.
The All Progressives Congress governors had stayed away from the first meeting because their party leadership informed them that an official of the Presidency called one of them to announce the postponement of the Thursday meeting.
However, to ensure that its governors attended the rescheduled meeting, the APC shifted its state congresses earlier fixed for Wednesday (today) to Saturday.
But there were concerns in the Presidency that the meeting could turn out to be a stormy session if Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako, decided to confront the President with the allegations he made in a memo he addressed to his colleagues in the Northern Governors’ Forum.
Nyako, in the memo, had accused the President of carrying out genocide against the North in the Federal Government’s fight against insurgency.
He had also accused the present administration of allegedly being the most corrupt and greedy administration in the history of the country.
The content of the memo has already been slated for discussion by the Northern state governors on Thursday alongside the outcome of the President’s meeting with the governors.
“There is no way Nyako will make such inflammatory remarks against the government and the issue will not come up during the meeting. Either he attends personally or he sends his deputy, the issues raised in the memo will definitely come up for discussion,” he said.
The APC is known to be highly displeased with Jonathan’s campaign against Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East.
Only on Monday, its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, said the Federal Government’s war against insurgency was unconvincing.
Mohammed had argued that recent statements credited to the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party and the alleged actions of Jonathan were enough to convince members of the APC and other Nigerians that the PDP was not telling all it knew about the insurgency.
He added, “The statement credited to the Governor of Akwa Ibom, Godswill Akpabio, to the effect that President Jonathan should sack the three governors of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states is worrisome because it will give the PDP an advantage in 2015.
“That again gives us concern that probably the manner the government has been handling the Boko Haram insurgency has been with a view to 2015 elections.”
A Presidency source however told our correspondent on Tuesday that the enlarged meeting would review latest incidents in the country, especially as they concern security.
Some of the latest incidents are the abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State and the bomb explosion in Nyanya bus station in Abuja.
The source added that the meeting might take a position on the emergency rule declared in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States which expires in May.
There have been divergent opinions on the desirability or otherwise of extending the emergency rule in the affected states with some Northern leaders opposing the move.
The governors of the affected states – Murtala Nyako (Adamawa); Ibrahim Geidam (Yobe) and Governor Kashim Shettima (Borno) – are also of the view that the one-year emergency rule be lifted.
Another Presidency source told our correspondent that President Goodluck Jonathan had not taken any decision on the matter yet.
“The President is committed to listening to the views of all stakeholders before a decision that will be acceptable to all will be taken and that was one of the reasons he insisted at the Thursday meeting with the PDP governors that their APC counterparts must be given the opportunity to be part of the meeting,” he added.
The meeting, according to another source, would listen to the security chiefs and deliberate on their new approach to tackle the insurgency in the country.
The President had hinted while receiving a delegation of Abuja residents who were in the Presidential Villa, Abuja to rejoice with him on Easter Monday that there would be a change in the government’s anti-terrorism tactics.
“Boko Haram will come and go. We are working very hard, we are changing our approaches, God’s willing we will end Boko Haram,” he had said.
Deadlock: NFF holds back Keshi’s list
Ahead of the nation’s pre-parations for the World Cup in Brazil, a meeting between the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Technical Committee and Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi ended in a deadlock yesterday.
The meeting which lasted for about three hours was attended by Chairman of the football ruling body Alhaji Aminu Maigari, Keshi and other members of the Technical Committee.
Keshi
Indications that the meeting ended in a deadlock emerged after Keshi had informed sports reporters that he had submitted a tentative list of 37 or 38 players to the Committee only for Paul Bassey who spoke on behalf of the Committee to decline releasing the list. He only stated that NFF needs to make more consultations before releasing the list in a week’s time.
Bassey further said the Committee focused on the preparation programme of the Technical Committee for the Mundial adding that NFF would surely meet the deadline of May 10 for the submission of a provisional list of 30 players to FIFA.
According to Bassey: “We have decided to shelve release of the list until further consultations are made. We took the opportunity to look at the preparation programme of the Technical Committee.
This includes the issue of personnel and others.”Keshi had earlier on said: “ I have submitted the list to the NFF Technical Committee. Mr Paul Bassey would tell you more about that. I submitted a list of 37 or 38 players. From that, I will draw up another provisional list of 30 which is what FIFA needs.”
Commenting on the criteria he used for selecting players in his list, Keshi said it was only by watching them play in the national team’s matches and those of different clubs they belong to.
In response to another question he said he didn’t yet know how many local players would be on his final list since the final list wasn’t yet out.
Earlier on, Chairman NFF Alhaji Aminu Maigari said the football ruling body would welcome any support from the Presidency towards ensuring the successful outing of the team at the mundial adding that the composition of the final team list remains the prerogative of the Coach.
Policeman rapes, impregnates pastor’s 13-yr-old daughter
A police sergeant (names withheld) has been arrested in Anambra State for allegedly raping a 13- year-old daughter of a popular pastor at Nkpor in Idemili Council Area of the state.
The young girl, said to be two months pregnant told her parents last Saturday who was responsible for her pregnancy.
According to a close family source, who does not want to be quoted, the girl told her parents that the policeman had threatened her against telling anyone about the affair.
The source said the threat made her keep the secret until few days ago when she complained to her mother about some symptoms, which after thorough investigation led to her confession of being pregnant.
According to reports, the policeman initially denied the allegation and was supported by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, which made the victim’s parents to petition a human rights group and the state Commissioner of Police.
After the petition, the policeman was said to have accepted responsibility and agreed to take care of the girl till delivery.
He promised to be giving the girl’s family N20,000 monthly for the girl’s up keep, which the father turned down, demanding N300,000 to enable him take proper care of her daughter till delivery.
In the girl’s statement to her parents, she was quoted as saying that the policeman ordered her at gunpoint to have sex with him on her way from school, a claim the suspect denied, saying the action was carried out mutually between them and not by force.
When contacted, the state PPRO, Emeka Chukwuemeka confirmed that the command received such report but said investigations were ongoing with a view to ascertaining the level of culpability of the said policeman.
The command image‑maker, stated that proper investigation in the matter was necessary, because the state Commissioner of Police, Usman Gwary, does not tolerate acts of indiscipline by his officers and men.
According to him, “the matter is under investigation and I will brief the press on it later.”
The young girl, said to be two months pregnant told her parents last Saturday who was responsible for her pregnancy.
According to a close family source, who does not want to be quoted, the girl told her parents that the policeman had threatened her against telling anyone about the affair.
The source said the threat made her keep the secret until few days ago when she complained to her mother about some symptoms, which after thorough investigation led to her confession of being pregnant.
According to reports, the policeman initially denied the allegation and was supported by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, which made the victim’s parents to petition a human rights group and the state Commissioner of Police.
After the petition, the policeman was said to have accepted responsibility and agreed to take care of the girl till delivery.
He promised to be giving the girl’s family N20,000 monthly for the girl’s up keep, which the father turned down, demanding N300,000 to enable him take proper care of her daughter till delivery.
In the girl’s statement to her parents, she was quoted as saying that the policeman ordered her at gunpoint to have sex with him on her way from school, a claim the suspect denied, saying the action was carried out mutually between them and not by force.
When contacted, the state PPRO, Emeka Chukwuemeka confirmed that the command received such report but said investigations were ongoing with a view to ascertaining the level of culpability of the said policeman.
The command image‑maker, stated that proper investigation in the matter was necessary, because the state Commissioner of Police, Usman Gwary, does not tolerate acts of indiscipline by his officers and men.
According to him, “the matter is under investigation and I will brief the press on it later.”
Tuesday, 22 April 2014
JUST IN: Parents Put The Number Of Kidnapped GGSS Chibok Schoolgirls At 234
The updated figure of Government Girls' Secondary School (GGSS) Chibok kidnapped female students came as a shock. According to the figures obtained by Associated Press (AP), about 234 girls were abducted one week ago, significantly more than the figures reported by the government of Borno State.
AP reported that the Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, insisted on a visit to the troubled town under protection of a military escort on April 21, 2014, Monday.
The desperate parents complained to Shettima that officials ignored their words when they drew up their list of names of missing children and the total reached 234.
The difference in numbers is striking and controversial. The official reaction on these fresh statements by the Western media is awaited.
The timeline of schoolgirls' kidnap:
April 14-15, 2014 - Chaos in Chibok town during Boko Haram raid. GGSS building, Chibok Local Government secretariat, houses on fire. BBC Hausa puts the number of girls taken away to over 200. Reports from other sources give the figure of 103.
April 16, 2014 - The State Government confirms the kidnap the puts the number of abducted students to 129. However, the biggest lie comes in the evening, when the DHQ released a statement that only 8 girls remain in captivity.
April 17, 2014 - The school principle, Asabe Kwambura, claims that none of the girls were rescued, at least 115 remain missing, while 14 were able to escape.
April 18, 2014 - The Army admits the mistake, confirms that the rescue operation goes on. Parents of missing girls joined the search for the students in the Sambisa Forest, not far from the town.
April 19, 2014 - The Presidency apologises for the incorrect numbers. According to reports, the number of girls who were back to school and to their parents grows to 44, with 85 unaccounted. However, the parents quit search and rescue operation, lament that it is too dangerous for unarmed groups to continue it, while the military is not really helpful.
April 20, 2014 - In his Easter message Governor Shettima assures that only 77 students are yet to be found.
So, what is the true situation? Will we ever find out the truth?
AP reported that the Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, insisted on a visit to the troubled town under protection of a military escort on April 21, 2014, Monday.
The desperate parents complained to Shettima that officials ignored their words when they drew up their list of names of missing children and the total reached 234.
The difference in numbers is striking and controversial. The official reaction on these fresh statements by the Western media is awaited.
The timeline of schoolgirls' kidnap:
April 14-15, 2014 - Chaos in Chibok town during Boko Haram raid. GGSS building, Chibok Local Government secretariat, houses on fire. BBC Hausa puts the number of girls taken away to over 200. Reports from other sources give the figure of 103.
April 16, 2014 - The State Government confirms the kidnap the puts the number of abducted students to 129. However, the biggest lie comes in the evening, when the DHQ released a statement that only 8 girls remain in captivity.
April 17, 2014 - The school principle, Asabe Kwambura, claims that none of the girls were rescued, at least 115 remain missing, while 14 were able to escape.
April 18, 2014 - The Army admits the mistake, confirms that the rescue operation goes on. Parents of missing girls joined the search for the students in the Sambisa Forest, not far from the town.
April 19, 2014 - The Presidency apologises for the incorrect numbers. According to reports, the number of girls who were back to school and to their parents grows to 44, with 85 unaccounted. However, the parents quit search and rescue operation, lament that it is too dangerous for unarmed groups to continue it, while the military is not really helpful.
April 20, 2014 - In his Easter message Governor Shettima assures that only 77 students are yet to be found.
So, what is the true situation? Will we ever find out the truth?
Manchester United: three reasons why David Moyes had to go
The Telegraph's Jim White outlines the three decisive factors that led to the departure of Manchester United manager David Moyes
David Moyes, who has only been in charge of Manchester United since July, paid the price for a hugely disappointing season on Tuesday when it was announced that he has left the club.
The Telegraph's Jim White outlined the three mistakes which cost the manager his job.
"The first and most critical [mistake] was that he did a clear out of Sir Alex Fergusson's coaching staff ... the problem was the guys already in place at Manchester United knew how Manchester United operated, they knew the players."
The 50-year-old Scot was appointed on the personal recommendation of Alex Ferguson who retired at the end of last season after 26 years in the job having steered United to the title for the 13th time in his reign and 20th time overall.
A 2-0 defeat at Everton on Sunday was the final straw for the club's owners, the Glazer family, as seventh-placed United have failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 1995-96.
David Moyes, who has only been in charge of Manchester United since July, paid the price for a hugely disappointing season on Tuesday when it was announced that he has left the club.
The Telegraph's Jim White outlined the three mistakes which cost the manager his job.
"The first and most critical [mistake] was that he did a clear out of Sir Alex Fergusson's coaching staff ... the problem was the guys already in place at Manchester United knew how Manchester United operated, they knew the players."
The 50-year-old Scot was appointed on the personal recommendation of Alex Ferguson who retired at the end of last season after 26 years in the job having steered United to the title for the 13th time in his reign and 20th time overall.
A 2-0 defeat at Everton on Sunday was the final straw for the club's owners, the Glazer family, as seventh-placed United have failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 1995-96.
BREAKING NEWS: Manchester United confirm Giggs as interim boss
Manchester United have revealed that Ryan Giggs will assume first-team responsibilities as interim coach until a permanent successor to David Moyes is appointed.
More to follow...
More to follow...
Manchester united sack Moyes
jDavid Moyes' short time as Manchester United manager is over.
Moyes has been sacked less than one season into the six-year deal he signed on replacing Sir Alex Ferguson last summer.
United confirmed the news on their Twitter feed around 8:30am on Tuesday, although reports of his imminent exit had been circulating for almost 24 hours amid silence from the club.
A short statement thanked Moyes for "the hard work, honesty and integrity he brought to the role" during his time in charge.
Ferguson's successor has overseen a slump from Premier League champions to seventh in the table, and United will not play Champions League football next season.
United are also guaranteed their lowest points total in the Premier League era, and Sunday's comprehensive defeat at Everton - the club Moyes left for Old Trafford - was a final humiliation.
Moyes took just six points from 12 games against the six teams above United in the table, but as recently as Sunday he appeared confident he would be given time and money to reshape the club's playing squad.
He did sanction deals worth more than £60m for Marouane Fellaini and Juan Mata, but the task of spending a summer transfer fund reported to be in the region of £150m will now fall to his successor.
Moyes has been sacked less than one season into the six-year deal he signed on replacing Sir Alex Ferguson last summer.
United confirmed the news on their Twitter feed around 8:30am on Tuesday, although reports of his imminent exit had been circulating for almost 24 hours amid silence from the club.
A short statement thanked Moyes for "the hard work, honesty and integrity he brought to the role" during his time in charge.
Ferguson's successor has overseen a slump from Premier League champions to seventh in the table, and United will not play Champions League football next season.
United are also guaranteed their lowest points total in the Premier League era, and Sunday's comprehensive defeat at Everton - the club Moyes left for Old Trafford - was a final humiliation.
Moyes took just six points from 12 games against the six teams above United in the table, but as recently as Sunday he appeared confident he would be given time and money to reshape the club's playing squad.
He did sanction deals worth more than £60m for Marouane Fellaini and Juan Mata, but the task of spending a summer transfer fund reported to be in the region of £150m will now fall to his successor.
UK sport paper review
(Source: skysport)THE SUN
Louis Van Gaal wants to become Manchester United's new manager and is hot favourite to replace David Moyes, who will be sacked after losing the support of the players and boardroom.
Jose Mourinho refused to discuss Keepergate as his own player Thibaut Courtois stands between him and Champions League glory.
Papiss Cisse will miss the rest of Newcastle's season after suffering a fractured kneecap.
On-loan Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov wants to join Monaco on a permanent basis.
Arsenal are trailing Ghanaian midfielder Afriyie Acquah, who is currently on loan at Parma from Hoffenheim.
DAILY MIRROR
Raheem Sterling last night told Liverpool's title challengers: "Nothing you say will deflect us now."
Real Madrid will launch a summer bid for Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero.
Arsenal are keeping tabs on Benfica's young winger Goncalo Guedes.
DAILY STAR
Chelsea are set to confirm that on-loan keeper Thibault Courtois has signed a deal with them until 2018.
Per Mertesacker has backed Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey to propel Arsenal over the line in the race for a top four spot.
DAILY MAIL
Sir Alex Ferguson is likely to have little or no say in who the next manager will be at Manchester United after David Moyes' expected dismissal.
Louis Van Gaal wants to become Manchester United's new manager and is hot favourite to replace David Moyes, who will be sacked after losing the support of the players and boardroom.
Jose Mourinho refused to discuss Keepergate as his own player Thibaut Courtois stands between him and Champions League glory.
Papiss Cisse will miss the rest of Newcastle's season after suffering a fractured kneecap.
On-loan Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov wants to join Monaco on a permanent basis.
Arsenal are trailing Ghanaian midfielder Afriyie Acquah, who is currently on loan at Parma from Hoffenheim.
DAILY MIRROR
Raheem Sterling last night told Liverpool's title challengers: "Nothing you say will deflect us now."
Real Madrid will launch a summer bid for Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero.
Arsenal are keeping tabs on Benfica's young winger Goncalo Guedes.
DAILY STAR
Chelsea are set to confirm that on-loan keeper Thibault Courtois has signed a deal with them until 2018.
Per Mertesacker has backed Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey to propel Arsenal over the line in the race for a top four spot.
DAILY MAIL
Sir Alex Ferguson is likely to have little or no say in who the next manager will be at Manchester United after David Moyes' expected dismissal.
Robbers raid eight Lagos streets, destroy 30 car
There were fears and tension in the Mushin area of Lagos State on Monday morning after about 60 robbers operated on no fewer than eight streets and destroyed about 30 vehicles.
Some residents told our correspondent that the robbers also raped some young ladies and operated unchallenged for about seven hours.
The hoodlums, who reportedly belonged to two cult groups – Akala boys and Toheeb’s gang – ravaged New Balogun, Euba, Ayonuga, Tiamiyu, Haruna, Ereko, Oyedele streets and Coker Lane.
A mosque on Coker Lane was not spared as the worshippers, who slept in the mosque after a vigil, were robbed by the hoodlums.
One of the people in the mosque told PUNCH Metro that the robbers fired bullets for over one hour before robbing from house-to-house.
He said, “It was around 12am on Monday morning that we started hearing gunshots. It lasted for about an hour.
“Around 1am, they started going from house-to-house, robbing the occupants. They stole about seven laptops from the house opposite this mosque. They stole phones, money and everything they saw. They came inside the mosque and took our phones and money. People were crying throughout the night. It was terrible.”
Another witness said the robbers were not in a haste. He said they robbed till 5am and came back at 6am to continue before leaving around 7am.
Our correspondent observed that a generator was also removed from its shed by the robbers. Vehicles parked on the streets were vandalised by the robbers, just as two Toyota Hilus van were burnt.
Our correspondent counted 20 vehicles, but some residents said about 10 damaged cars had been taken away by their owners for repairs.
Kasali Daramola, a driver who spoke while fighting back tears, told our correspondent he owned one of the burnt vehicles.
He said, “This is the third time they will do this to me. What have I done to them? The first was a Lexus car my younger brother bought for me, which I was planning to sell to acquire a commercial bus to take care of my four kids and wife. I sold the scrap for N30, 000. I used the money I raised to get a bus and I was paying for it by installment. I have not finished the payment when they destroyed it.”
Daramola said the men entered his house and some of the ladies living there were raped.
He said attempts to bring in the police were abortive as they kept saying they were on their way without showing up.
A resident said, “For over five years now this area has not known peace. Will the police say they cannot do anything about it? Around 7am that policemen came here, they still saw some of those robbers around, but did not do anything. Why? I believe the police know all the people causing trouble here and if they want to do something, it doesn’t take them anything.”
Tosin Gbolahan, a resident, said a policeman attached to Alakara Police Station was with the hoodlums on Monday morning.
He said the hoodlums took advantage of a carnival that was held the previous night on Ojo Street to perpetrate the havoc.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Ngozi Braide, said she would call back, but she had yet to do so as of press time.
Some residents told our correspondent that the robbers also raped some young ladies and operated unchallenged for about seven hours.
The hoodlums, who reportedly belonged to two cult groups – Akala boys and Toheeb’s gang – ravaged New Balogun, Euba, Ayonuga, Tiamiyu, Haruna, Ereko, Oyedele streets and Coker Lane.
A mosque on Coker Lane was not spared as the worshippers, who slept in the mosque after a vigil, were robbed by the hoodlums.
One of the people in the mosque told PUNCH Metro that the robbers fired bullets for over one hour before robbing from house-to-house.
He said, “It was around 12am on Monday morning that we started hearing gunshots. It lasted for about an hour.
“Around 1am, they started going from house-to-house, robbing the occupants. They stole about seven laptops from the house opposite this mosque. They stole phones, money and everything they saw. They came inside the mosque and took our phones and money. People were crying throughout the night. It was terrible.”
Another witness said the robbers were not in a haste. He said they robbed till 5am and came back at 6am to continue before leaving around 7am.
Our correspondent observed that a generator was also removed from its shed by the robbers. Vehicles parked on the streets were vandalised by the robbers, just as two Toyota Hilus van were burnt.
Our correspondent counted 20 vehicles, but some residents said about 10 damaged cars had been taken away by their owners for repairs.
Kasali Daramola, a driver who spoke while fighting back tears, told our correspondent he owned one of the burnt vehicles.
He said, “This is the third time they will do this to me. What have I done to them? The first was a Lexus car my younger brother bought for me, which I was planning to sell to acquire a commercial bus to take care of my four kids and wife. I sold the scrap for N30, 000. I used the money I raised to get a bus and I was paying for it by installment. I have not finished the payment when they destroyed it.”
Daramola said the men entered his house and some of the ladies living there were raped.
He said attempts to bring in the police were abortive as they kept saying they were on their way without showing up.
A resident said, “For over five years now this area has not known peace. Will the police say they cannot do anything about it? Around 7am that policemen came here, they still saw some of those robbers around, but did not do anything. Why? I believe the police know all the people causing trouble here and if they want to do something, it doesn’t take them anything.”
Tosin Gbolahan, a resident, said a policeman attached to Alakara Police Station was with the hoodlums on Monday morning.
He said the hoodlums took advantage of a carnival that was held the previous night on Ojo Street to perpetrate the havoc.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Ngozi Braide, said she would call back, but she had yet to do so as of press time.
Monday, 21 April 2014
REVEALED: Why Pastor Kumuyi ‘Broke Down’ During Easter Retreat
More revelations have emerged over the recent failing health of the General superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi during the just concluded national Easter Retreat of the church.
It was reported on Sunday that the former university don broke down during the retreat and was forced to rest on Saturday after losing his voice the previous day.
Explaining why the preacher broke down, the church secretary, Pastor Jerry Asemota, while addressing the congregation at the weekend, said the sudden health failure of the pastor was connected to his recent marathon engagements across the continent.
* Pastor Kumuyi was said to be too tired to preach at the just ended retreat
Asemota said: "With much pleading, we had to convince our pastor to rest. You could recall that lately, he was engaged in series of rival meetings across the continent. Only recently, he was in Abuja, Taraba, Bayelsa, Imo, Edo, Akure and Ibadan. He was also in Ghana, Namabia and Togo and other West African countries.
"He's human and needs to rest, so we enjoined you all to pray for God's strength upon his life and bear with us at this time. He is not going on holiday but he needs serious rest. I am very sure that before the programmes end, your Pastor will bounce back to complete what he had started."
It was gathered that Kumuyi, who eventually bounced back during the last day of the retreat, did not make any reference to his health condition during his ministrations.
However, he was seen very agile and vibrant during the last day of the power-packed programme.
The soft-spoken preacher in his last sermon entitled "Reigning Through the Victory of Jesus" said, once you have the vision with Jesus Christ, you can achieve anything.
It was reported on Sunday that the former university don broke down during the retreat and was forced to rest on Saturday after losing his voice the previous day.
Explaining why the preacher broke down, the church secretary, Pastor Jerry Asemota, while addressing the congregation at the weekend, said the sudden health failure of the pastor was connected to his recent marathon engagements across the continent.
* Pastor Kumuyi was said to be too tired to preach at the just ended retreat
Asemota said: "With much pleading, we had to convince our pastor to rest. You could recall that lately, he was engaged in series of rival meetings across the continent. Only recently, he was in Abuja, Taraba, Bayelsa, Imo, Edo, Akure and Ibadan. He was also in Ghana, Namabia and Togo and other West African countries.
"He's human and needs to rest, so we enjoined you all to pray for God's strength upon his life and bear with us at this time. He is not going on holiday but he needs serious rest. I am very sure that before the programmes end, your Pastor will bounce back to complete what he had started."
It was gathered that Kumuyi, who eventually bounced back during the last day of the retreat, did not make any reference to his health condition during his ministrations.
However, he was seen very agile and vibrant during the last day of the power-packed programme.
The soft-spoken preacher in his last sermon entitled "Reigning Through the Victory of Jesus" said, once you have the vision with Jesus Christ, you can achieve anything.
Don’t break up, celebrities beg P-Square
CELEBRITIES and fans of the Nigerian singing duo, Peter and Paul Okoye, P-Square, have appealed to them to reconcile whatever differences they might have and shelve their planned break-up.
Ace DJ, Jimmy Jatt, said: “You are brothers. You have no choice. You just have to stay together.
“It is normal for siblings to have issues, but please do not let it tear you apart. I believe in you, I have great faith you will remain together.”
Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, who is a close friend of the twins, likened the impending break-up to death and implored their wives to do something to salvage the situation
She said: “When you break up, your whole identity is shattered. It is like death. The love of twins is undisputed, Paul and Peter. You have been together for years, making great songs like Senorita, Do me, Story, More than a friend, Omoge mi, Busy body, Alingo, Personally, Testimony; the list is endless! Why break it up now?
“Please learn. Two heads are better than one. Mrs Lola and Anita, they say a woman makes a home. This is the time to show the world that both of you are women with great substance, which I believe you are,” she appealed in a post on Instagram.
For days now the rumour mill has been ablaze with news that the singing duo have gone their separate ways over issues many have come to tag ‘irreconcilable differences’.
Since news of the crisis broke, fans have taken to every known social media page to beg the twins to stay together.
Jude Okoye
The rumour was given wings by their brother and manager, Jude Okoye, following his tweets: “After 10 years it’s over. Am done.” It sent shock waves through the entertainment world, with their fans fearing the worst.
But according to findings, it seems their worst fears might have been realised as Vanguard can authoritatively reveal that the alleged rumour of break-up is no more rumour. The two brothers are actually at daggers drawn, and look set to have nothing to do with each other again.
Though their publicist, Bayo Adetu, has come out to debunk the break-up rumour, saying “I am too busy to pay attention to some wannabe blogger traffic because I don’t know where that report is coming from.
“Maybe they just want to get traffic to their site. It’s baseless and untrue.”
But according to a reliable source, who begged for anonymity, “Bayo was only doing his job and did the first thing any normal publicist would do to protect his job and his employers.
“The truth of the matter is that the brothers have been going at each other for months, with Jude caught in the middle, trying to see if he could settle them.”
Insider scoop
The source further revealed that Peter is bitter, partly because unhealthy innuendos have been hurled at him as the passive member of the group.
The source said: “The way things are, we may find Jude and Paul staying together, while Peter walks away.
“All the moves to reconcile them right now is targeted at changing Peter’s mind, who looks all resolved to end all relationship with his brother.
“On whether or not they have shared everything they own, I cannot really say because they are not even on talking terms. Everything that has to do with the brand name. P Square has been put on hold.”
Issues
It would be recalled that some of the reasons Peter wants out is that he claims his brothers do not respect his wife and that their brother, Jude, has been disrespecting Lola for years.
This, according to reports, prompted his packing out of Squareville mansion in Omole where he lived with his brothers for years to Lekki Phase 1 with his wife Lola Omotayo and their children.
Ace DJ, Jimmy Jatt, said: “You are brothers. You have no choice. You just have to stay together.
“It is normal for siblings to have issues, but please do not let it tear you apart. I believe in you, I have great faith you will remain together.”
Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, who is a close friend of the twins, likened the impending break-up to death and implored their wives to do something to salvage the situation
She said: “When you break up, your whole identity is shattered. It is like death. The love of twins is undisputed, Paul and Peter. You have been together for years, making great songs like Senorita, Do me, Story, More than a friend, Omoge mi, Busy body, Alingo, Personally, Testimony; the list is endless! Why break it up now?
“Please learn. Two heads are better than one. Mrs Lola and Anita, they say a woman makes a home. This is the time to show the world that both of you are women with great substance, which I believe you are,” she appealed in a post on Instagram.
For days now the rumour mill has been ablaze with news that the singing duo have gone their separate ways over issues many have come to tag ‘irreconcilable differences’.
Since news of the crisis broke, fans have taken to every known social media page to beg the twins to stay together.
Jude Okoye
The rumour was given wings by their brother and manager, Jude Okoye, following his tweets: “After 10 years it’s over. Am done.” It sent shock waves through the entertainment world, with their fans fearing the worst.
But according to findings, it seems their worst fears might have been realised as Vanguard can authoritatively reveal that the alleged rumour of break-up is no more rumour. The two brothers are actually at daggers drawn, and look set to have nothing to do with each other again.
Though their publicist, Bayo Adetu, has come out to debunk the break-up rumour, saying “I am too busy to pay attention to some wannabe blogger traffic because I don’t know where that report is coming from.
“Maybe they just want to get traffic to their site. It’s baseless and untrue.”
But according to a reliable source, who begged for anonymity, “Bayo was only doing his job and did the first thing any normal publicist would do to protect his job and his employers.
“The truth of the matter is that the brothers have been going at each other for months, with Jude caught in the middle, trying to see if he could settle them.”
Insider scoop
The source further revealed that Peter is bitter, partly because unhealthy innuendos have been hurled at him as the passive member of the group.
The source said: “The way things are, we may find Jude and Paul staying together, while Peter walks away.
“All the moves to reconcile them right now is targeted at changing Peter’s mind, who looks all resolved to end all relationship with his brother.
“On whether or not they have shared everything they own, I cannot really say because they are not even on talking terms. Everything that has to do with the brand name. P Square has been put on hold.”
Issues
It would be recalled that some of the reasons Peter wants out is that he claims his brothers do not respect his wife and that their brother, Jude, has been disrespecting Lola for years.
This, according to reports, prompted his packing out of Squareville mansion in Omole where he lived with his brothers for years to Lekki Phase 1 with his wife Lola Omotayo and their children.
Champions League: Real Madrid Gets A Boost Ahead Bayern Visit
Real Madrid has been handed a boost ahead of the first leg of their Champions League semifinal against Bayern Munich holding at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.
According to reports, World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to take his place in the Real side for the last four match after returning to full training on Monday.
The Portuguese star has been sidelined by a hamstring injury since the first leg of Real's quarter final against Borussia Dortmund three weeks ago.
* Ronaldo is set to play against Bayern Munich on Wednesday
Gareth Bale has carried the burden of responsibility in Ronaldo's absence with three goals in the last four games, including a sensational winning goal as Real claimed the Copa del Rey with a 2-1 win over Barcelona last week.
However, it was the Welshman who missed training on Monday due to a cold, although his participation in the Bayern game in not believed to be in doubt.
Chelsea will travel to Madrid to play Atletico Madrid in the other Champions League semi final match billed for Tuesday.
According to reports, World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to take his place in the Real side for the last four match after returning to full training on Monday.
The Portuguese star has been sidelined by a hamstring injury since the first leg of Real's quarter final against Borussia Dortmund three weeks ago.
* Ronaldo is set to play against Bayern Munich on Wednesday
Gareth Bale has carried the burden of responsibility in Ronaldo's absence with three goals in the last four games, including a sensational winning goal as Real claimed the Copa del Rey with a 2-1 win over Barcelona last week.
However, it was the Welshman who missed training on Monday due to a cold, although his participation in the Bayern game in not believed to be in doubt.
Chelsea will travel to Madrid to play Atletico Madrid in the other Champions League semi final match billed for Tuesday.
David Cameron Blasted For Saying That United Kingdom Is A Christian Region
British Prime Minister David Cameron has been blasted by 55 top public figures for saying in his Easter message that Britain is still a "Christian country".
They have accused him of sowing sectarianism and division and feel he is trying to build relations with the Church.
The 55 include writers Philip Pullman and Terry Pratchett, Nobel Prize-winning scientists John Sulston and Harold Kroto.
Commentators suggest he is trying to build bridges with the Church, which opposed government plans to introduce gay marriage, and following vocal criticism from many clergy about the impact of the government's austerity measures.
"Some people feel that in this ever more secular age we shouldn't talk about these things. I completely disagree," the Conservative prime minister wrote in the Church Times, an Anglican newspaper.
"I believe we should be more confident about our status as a Christian country, more ambitious about expanding the role of faith-based organisations, and, frankly, more evangelical about a faith that compels us to get out there and make a difference to people's lives." Cameron's claims.
Cameron has always never hidden his faith but he has never been evangelical about it. A spokeswoman for Cameron said the prime minister had made clear as far back as December 2011 that he believed Britain was a Christian country, although he recognises the importance of different faith groups.
They have accused him of sowing sectarianism and division and feel he is trying to build relations with the Church.
The 55 include writers Philip Pullman and Terry Pratchett, Nobel Prize-winning scientists John Sulston and Harold Kroto.
Commentators suggest he is trying to build bridges with the Church, which opposed government plans to introduce gay marriage, and following vocal criticism from many clergy about the impact of the government's austerity measures.
"Some people feel that in this ever more secular age we shouldn't talk about these things. I completely disagree," the Conservative prime minister wrote in the Church Times, an Anglican newspaper.
"I believe we should be more confident about our status as a Christian country, more ambitious about expanding the role of faith-based organisations, and, frankly, more evangelical about a faith that compels us to get out there and make a difference to people's lives." Cameron's claims.
Cameron has always never hidden his faith but he has never been evangelical about it. A spokeswoman for Cameron said the prime minister had made clear as far back as December 2011 that he believed Britain was a Christian country, although he recognises the importance of different faith groups.
Read why Student Hangs, Kills Landlord’s Daughter In Imo State
The residents of Amaisi Uvuru, a community in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State are in deep shock and agony following the horrible death of four-year-old Adaeze Gloria Eze, who was hanged by 18-year-old Franklin Njoku, a tenant in the home of her father, Martin Eke, a building contractor.
Franklin, a native of Ohekelem, Ngor Okpala, Imo State, hanged the innocent child on a stunted palm tree in a nearby bush, in a futile attempt to extort N100,000 from the girl's parents to register for the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination.
Franklin made the revelation in a confessional statement to the police after he was arrested by men of the State Criminal Investigation Department (Homicide Division) of the Imo State Police Command.
As Sunday Sun gathered from the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Abdulmajid Ali and grief-stricken parents and relations of the deceased four-year-old, the tragic chain of events that led to little Adaeze's death began in the evening of Saturday, April 5, 2014, when her parents could not find her at home. They searched for her within the neighbourhood to no avail. Promptly other neighbours joined the search for the little girl in all the nooks and crannies of the village in vain. Even more curious was the fact that Franklin joined in the search for the missing child.
Incidentally, Eke had received had received an anonymous letter a week before the disappearance of his late daughter. In the letter he was instructed to pay the sum of N100,000 with a warning that if he failed to comply, he should kiss the life of his daughter goodbye. Eke dismissed the letter, which was unsigned as a joke. On the fateful Saturday, Franklin made good the threat to kidnap the little girl. In a chat with Sunday Sun, he recounted how he abducted the girl.
He said: "On April 5, I went to the market and on my way I saw my landlord's daughter playing with her age mates. Immediately I called her to follow me. She was used to me. I took her into the bush and used some clothing items to cover her face. I put a rope around her neck and then suspended her from the top of a short palm tree around noon. From time to time I went into the bush to check on her and see whether she was in good condition.
"When the parents started searching for her, I joined them. Then I told them about a native doctor in my village who can tell them the whereabouts of the child and reveal the identity of the person responsible for the girl's disappearance. The parents agreed and the father gave me N300 for transport to get the herbalist. I actually didn't have any herbalist in mind but I was looking for money to pay for my WASCE which is N100,000. When I got somewhere I wrote a list of fake items, which I said were required by the herbalist. I rented the house from the girl's parents two months ago and I was staying there until the incident happened."
But the bubble burst for Franklin when the girl's father noticed that the handwriting looked similar to the one in the anonymous letter. This discovery made Eke suspicious that his tenant might be responsible for the disappearance of his four-year-old daughter. Promptly he invited the police to interrogate Franklin. He confessed and eventually took the police to the isolated bush where he hanged the four-year-old on a stunted palm tree. By this time, the girl was dead as the rope used to suspend her had inched up the neck and choked her to death. The case was instantly transferred to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in-charge of the State CID, Owerri, Mr David Folawiyo, who then ordered the officer in-charge of Homicide Unit, Supol Innocent Obi and his team, who moved to recover the body of the dead girl.
Investigation by Sunday Sun revealed that Franklin was expelled from the hostel of the Evangel International Academy earlier in the year for allegedly pilfering the items of his roommates. This made him seek alternative accommodation at the residence of Eke, which happened to be within a walking distance to his school.
Reverend Innocent Nwannehiudo, Superintendent of Assemblies of God Church, owners of the school, confirmed to Sunday Sun in an interview that the authorities of the school had actually expelled him from the hostel but allowed him to sit for the senior school certificate examination.
Shocked at the alleged deed of his son, Franklin's father, Jude Njoku bluntly said that his son must bear the consequences of his action, stating that Franklin had caused him and the entire Njoku family too many problems. He disclosed that Franklin had earlier had an incestuous relationship with a female member of the extended family, which had cost him N120,000 to cleanse the land in keeping with the tradition of the community to prevent his entire family from being ex-communicated.
The distraught father of the little girl told Sunday Sun: "It is unbelievable that Franklin Njoku hanged my four-year-old daughter, Gloria. He is used to our little daughter and we didn't expect him to do what he did. Life is terrible."
Franklin, a native of Ohekelem, Ngor Okpala, Imo State, hanged the innocent child on a stunted palm tree in a nearby bush, in a futile attempt to extort N100,000 from the girl's parents to register for the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination.
Franklin made the revelation in a confessional statement to the police after he was arrested by men of the State Criminal Investigation Department (Homicide Division) of the Imo State Police Command.
As Sunday Sun gathered from the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Abdulmajid Ali and grief-stricken parents and relations of the deceased four-year-old, the tragic chain of events that led to little Adaeze's death began in the evening of Saturday, April 5, 2014, when her parents could not find her at home. They searched for her within the neighbourhood to no avail. Promptly other neighbours joined the search for the little girl in all the nooks and crannies of the village in vain. Even more curious was the fact that Franklin joined in the search for the missing child.
Incidentally, Eke had received had received an anonymous letter a week before the disappearance of his late daughter. In the letter he was instructed to pay the sum of N100,000 with a warning that if he failed to comply, he should kiss the life of his daughter goodbye. Eke dismissed the letter, which was unsigned as a joke. On the fateful Saturday, Franklin made good the threat to kidnap the little girl. In a chat with Sunday Sun, he recounted how he abducted the girl.
He said: "On April 5, I went to the market and on my way I saw my landlord's daughter playing with her age mates. Immediately I called her to follow me. She was used to me. I took her into the bush and used some clothing items to cover her face. I put a rope around her neck and then suspended her from the top of a short palm tree around noon. From time to time I went into the bush to check on her and see whether she was in good condition.
"When the parents started searching for her, I joined them. Then I told them about a native doctor in my village who can tell them the whereabouts of the child and reveal the identity of the person responsible for the girl's disappearance. The parents agreed and the father gave me N300 for transport to get the herbalist. I actually didn't have any herbalist in mind but I was looking for money to pay for my WASCE which is N100,000. When I got somewhere I wrote a list of fake items, which I said were required by the herbalist. I rented the house from the girl's parents two months ago and I was staying there until the incident happened."
But the bubble burst for Franklin when the girl's father noticed that the handwriting looked similar to the one in the anonymous letter. This discovery made Eke suspicious that his tenant might be responsible for the disappearance of his four-year-old daughter. Promptly he invited the police to interrogate Franklin. He confessed and eventually took the police to the isolated bush where he hanged the four-year-old on a stunted palm tree. By this time, the girl was dead as the rope used to suspend her had inched up the neck and choked her to death. The case was instantly transferred to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in-charge of the State CID, Owerri, Mr David Folawiyo, who then ordered the officer in-charge of Homicide Unit, Supol Innocent Obi and his team, who moved to recover the body of the dead girl.
Investigation by Sunday Sun revealed that Franklin was expelled from the hostel of the Evangel International Academy earlier in the year for allegedly pilfering the items of his roommates. This made him seek alternative accommodation at the residence of Eke, which happened to be within a walking distance to his school.
Reverend Innocent Nwannehiudo, Superintendent of Assemblies of God Church, owners of the school, confirmed to Sunday Sun in an interview that the authorities of the school had actually expelled him from the hostel but allowed him to sit for the senior school certificate examination.
Shocked at the alleged deed of his son, Franklin's father, Jude Njoku bluntly said that his son must bear the consequences of his action, stating that Franklin had caused him and the entire Njoku family too many problems. He disclosed that Franklin had earlier had an incestuous relationship with a female member of the extended family, which had cost him N120,000 to cleanse the land in keeping with the tradition of the community to prevent his entire family from being ex-communicated.
The distraught father of the little girl told Sunday Sun: "It is unbelievable that Franklin Njoku hanged my four-year-old daughter, Gloria. He is used to our little daughter and we didn't expect him to do what he did. Life is terrible."
A MUST READ: Why Sex Is Better At Old Age
Contrary to most people's belief, a new research carried out on 26,000 people who are over 50 years in 29 countries, has revealed that lovemaking does get better with age.
In the study, 88 percent of men and women said their relationship was very or extremely physically pleasurable. At least 94 percent agreed they were emotionally satisfied by their partner.
* Research says sex during old age is good
According to sex therapist and relationship counsellor, Julia Cole, a great sex life is one of the best kept secrets among older couples.
"When we're younger, all we tend to think about is intercourse, with orgasm as the goal. But as we get older, we find we enjoy the sensations along the way just as much: the view on the journey, if you like, not just the arrival.
Cole says older people also tend to be in their relationships for longer, which creates an intensity between them that improves the sex."
Other benefits about older sex include:
Fewer hang-ups:
Particularly after having children together, couples gain what Cole calls "body wisdom". "It's a greater acceptance of how you look and an understanding that there's so much more to us than our appearance.
"In our twenties, we are so concerned with our body image and comparing ourselves to our friends. When we get older, we are more into what pleases us and our partner and don't care so much about what our friends are doing. This makes our capacity for enjoyment greater."
Better orgasms:
Cole says research into the sexual responses of women in their forties has shown that they tend to have more intense orgasms than younger women.
"Through experience, they have learnt that the longer foreplay goes on, the better their orgasm will be. Younger women tend to rush into intercourse more quickly."
Improved communication:
Older couples are better at expressing their needs and wants to each other, says Cole. "Good communication requires subtlety and practice,and many people don't achieve this until they are in a long-term relationship.'
Contentment:
When we're younger, the thought of settling down with the same person for the rest of our life may be terrifying. We fret: How will we stave off boredom?
In fact, those in long-term relationships in their forties and beyond are likely to be anything but bored, as Cole explains:
"The mid-life crisis everyone talks about actually happens much earlier. It's the thirties that are the killer period for sex and relationship problems.
"This is when we worry most about getting older and start questioning everything in our life. At this age we're close enough to our twenties to remember what we looked like then and to keep comparing the way we look now; we're likely to have a young family so we're often tired, bored or resentful."
Cole says the romantic phase of our relationship has passed, and it's likely we'll look at our life and think: "Is this what I really wanted?"
"It's no coincidence that this is the age at which most couples fall prey to affairs, break up or go for counselling."
If you've been through a soul-searching thirties and your relationship has survived, you could have had your mid-life crisis and not even noticed it. It's time to have some fun.
Brazil 2014 watch: Oboabona scores first goal, Ideye lifts Dynamo
Rizespor defender, Godfrey Oboabona, scored his first goal for his club in their 3-1 win at home against Konyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig on Sunday.
The Nigerian hit the target in the 35th minute to give his club the lead. His goal was later followed by goals from Korkmaz and Lomano Lualua in the 52nd and 65th minutes before Vukovic got one back for the visitors in additional time.
The win now places Rizespor in 12th with 36 points from 30 matches. Oboabona had previously scored two own goals against his club.
In Ukraine, Brown Ideye scored his third goal of the season against Vorskla to further push Dynamo Kyiv to challenge for a Champions League spot.
Ideye, who has not enjoyed first team start for a while, was a 62nd minute substitute for Younès Belhanda before netting an equaliser 20 minutes later. Dynamo later won 2-1.
Ogenyi Onazi was an unused substitute as SS Lazio drew 3-3 with Torino at home on Saturday.
Also in Italy, Victor Obinna was an unused substitute Chievo Verona’s 1-0 away loss at Sassuolo on Saturday. The forward has yet to score a goal for the club this season.
Taye Taiwo played for 90 minutes in the 1-0 defeat of Elazigspor by his club, Bursarspor at home on Saturday. The goal was scored in the fourth minute by Fernandao through a penalty.
Taiwo has played all matches for his club in the league this season.
Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, was sidelined for the second consecutive week by Norwich City as he was unlisted in the 3-2 home loss against Liverpool. His compatriot, Victor Moses, was however a 76th minute substitute for Philippe Coutinho.
Mikel Obi was also an unused substitute in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss on Saturday. The midfielder has so far found playing time hard to come by in the club since manager Jose Mourinho’s return to the bridge.
Kenneth Omeruo made his 13th appearance for Middlesbrough on Saturday in their 2-1 loss at home to Millwall. The defender has only failed to play four matches for the club this season.
In Spain, Ramon Azeez played for the entire duration of the match as Almeria lost 4-2 at home against Celta Vigo on Saturday. The loss has worsened the relegation woes of the club as they now sit 19th in the log with 30 points from 34 matches.
In France, Elderson Echiejile was not listed in Monaco’s 1-0 home win over OG Nice on Sunday. The left back has only made one appearance for the club since joining them in January.
Stoke City played 1-1 away at Cardiff City. Osaze Odemwingie played for 90 minutes and fired blanks for his club.
In Russia, CSKA Moscow defeated Kuban Krasnodar 4-0 on Sunday. Nigerian forward, Ahmed Musa, was not listed for the match.
The Nigerian hit the target in the 35th minute to give his club the lead. His goal was later followed by goals from Korkmaz and Lomano Lualua in the 52nd and 65th minutes before Vukovic got one back for the visitors in additional time.
The win now places Rizespor in 12th with 36 points from 30 matches. Oboabona had previously scored two own goals against his club.
In Ukraine, Brown Ideye scored his third goal of the season against Vorskla to further push Dynamo Kyiv to challenge for a Champions League spot.
Ideye, who has not enjoyed first team start for a while, was a 62nd minute substitute for Younès Belhanda before netting an equaliser 20 minutes later. Dynamo later won 2-1.
Ogenyi Onazi was an unused substitute as SS Lazio drew 3-3 with Torino at home on Saturday.
Also in Italy, Victor Obinna was an unused substitute Chievo Verona’s 1-0 away loss at Sassuolo on Saturday. The forward has yet to score a goal for the club this season.
Taye Taiwo played for 90 minutes in the 1-0 defeat of Elazigspor by his club, Bursarspor at home on Saturday. The goal was scored in the fourth minute by Fernandao through a penalty.
Taiwo has played all matches for his club in the league this season.
Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, was sidelined for the second consecutive week by Norwich City as he was unlisted in the 3-2 home loss against Liverpool. His compatriot, Victor Moses, was however a 76th minute substitute for Philippe Coutinho.
Mikel Obi was also an unused substitute in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss on Saturday. The midfielder has so far found playing time hard to come by in the club since manager Jose Mourinho’s return to the bridge.
Kenneth Omeruo made his 13th appearance for Middlesbrough on Saturday in their 2-1 loss at home to Millwall. The defender has only failed to play four matches for the club this season.
In Spain, Ramon Azeez played for the entire duration of the match as Almeria lost 4-2 at home against Celta Vigo on Saturday. The loss has worsened the relegation woes of the club as they now sit 19th in the log with 30 points from 34 matches.
In France, Elderson Echiejile was not listed in Monaco’s 1-0 home win over OG Nice on Sunday. The left back has only made one appearance for the club since joining them in January.
Stoke City played 1-1 away at Cardiff City. Osaze Odemwingie played for 90 minutes and fired blanks for his club.
In Russia, CSKA Moscow defeated Kuban Krasnodar 4-0 on Sunday. Nigerian forward, Ahmed Musa, was not listed for the match.
Bookies suspend Moyes sack bets
Leading British bookmakers stopped taking bets on David Moyes being sacked as Manchester United manager Monday after several national newspapers said Moyes was about to be fired.
Sky Bet cut their odds on Moyes leaving United before the end of May to 1/4 from 9/4 before suspending betting.
Ladbrokes installed United great Ryan Giggs, currently a player/coach at Old Trafford, as the 5/1 favourite to replace Moyes before they too suspended betting on their “next manager to leave” market.
Speculation about Moyes’s future intensified following Sunday’s 2-0 loss at Everton — the Scot’s former club — which condemned reigning champions United to their 11th defeat of the season and meant they could not qualify for the Champions League.
David Moyes
Moyes was the chosen successor of former United boss Alex Ferguson — British football’s most successful manager — following his retirement at the end of last season.
But Moyes has endured a torrid first season at Old Trafford and United will only secure a place in next term’s Europa League, European football’s second-tier competition, if they overhaul a six-point gap between themselves and Tottenham.
United’s owners, the US-based Glazer family, have so far been supportive. But doubts have now surfaced over whether they will allow Moyes to oversee the club’s final four matches of the season, against Norwich, Sunderland, Hull and Southampton.
Earlier Monday, Moyes — who clearly believes he still has a future at Old Trafford — told MUTV, United’s in-house television station: “We need to end the season on a high.
“We want to finish by winning all of our games. We’ll do everything we possibly can to make that happen.”
Moyes received backing from Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard, who said the home fans at Goodison had been wrong to boo the club’s former boss when he emerged from the tunnel on Sunday and jeer him throughout the game.
“We have brilliant fans, but that was unfair on him,” Howard said of Moyes, who spent 11 years as Everton manager.
- ‘Brilliant manager’ -
“He was the second coming, the messiah 12 months ago, and I don’t think as Evertonians we should ever forget that.
“I love David Moyes. I think he is a brilliant manager,” said the American, who spent four years at United.
There was fresh uncertainty at United after reports emerged that forward Danny Welbeck is considering his future at the club following a lack of game time this season.
Meanwhile Juan Mata, United’s club record £37.1 million ($61.2m, 44.8m euros) signing, apologised to fans for the team’s performance at Goodison Park by writing on his personal blog: “I feel very disappointed.
“This is how you feel when you spend two weeks waiting for a game, getting ready for it, and then things don’t go the way you wanted. It happened in Goodison Park and the truth is this is not the first time, as you know.
“I hate this feeling.
“What the Premiership table shows now is something that neither the club nor the fans deserve.
“I hope the next game comes as soon as possible because, as you can imagine, this bad taste makes me mad.”
After Sunday’s match, Moyes said “rank” and “rotten” defending had led to Everton’s two goals, a penalty converted by Leighton Baines and Kevin Mirallas’s shot from a tight angle.
It was a point emphasised by United’s former Everton striker Wayne Rooney.
“We conceded two really sloppy goals which we need to cut out because we’re making it hard for ourselves to get back into games,” Rooney said.
“For the second one, we should have stopped the counter-attack. They ran in behind us. It’s not good enough.”
Sky Bet cut their odds on Moyes leaving United before the end of May to 1/4 from 9/4 before suspending betting.
Ladbrokes installed United great Ryan Giggs, currently a player/coach at Old Trafford, as the 5/1 favourite to replace Moyes before they too suspended betting on their “next manager to leave” market.
Speculation about Moyes’s future intensified following Sunday’s 2-0 loss at Everton — the Scot’s former club — which condemned reigning champions United to their 11th defeat of the season and meant they could not qualify for the Champions League.
David Moyes
Moyes was the chosen successor of former United boss Alex Ferguson — British football’s most successful manager — following his retirement at the end of last season.
But Moyes has endured a torrid first season at Old Trafford and United will only secure a place in next term’s Europa League, European football’s second-tier competition, if they overhaul a six-point gap between themselves and Tottenham.
United’s owners, the US-based Glazer family, have so far been supportive. But doubts have now surfaced over whether they will allow Moyes to oversee the club’s final four matches of the season, against Norwich, Sunderland, Hull and Southampton.
Earlier Monday, Moyes — who clearly believes he still has a future at Old Trafford — told MUTV, United’s in-house television station: “We need to end the season on a high.
“We want to finish by winning all of our games. We’ll do everything we possibly can to make that happen.”
Moyes received backing from Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard, who said the home fans at Goodison had been wrong to boo the club’s former boss when he emerged from the tunnel on Sunday and jeer him throughout the game.
“We have brilliant fans, but that was unfair on him,” Howard said of Moyes, who spent 11 years as Everton manager.
- ‘Brilliant manager’ -
“He was the second coming, the messiah 12 months ago, and I don’t think as Evertonians we should ever forget that.
“I love David Moyes. I think he is a brilliant manager,” said the American, who spent four years at United.
There was fresh uncertainty at United after reports emerged that forward Danny Welbeck is considering his future at the club following a lack of game time this season.
Meanwhile Juan Mata, United’s club record £37.1 million ($61.2m, 44.8m euros) signing, apologised to fans for the team’s performance at Goodison Park by writing on his personal blog: “I feel very disappointed.
“This is how you feel when you spend two weeks waiting for a game, getting ready for it, and then things don’t go the way you wanted. It happened in Goodison Park and the truth is this is not the first time, as you know.
“I hate this feeling.
“What the Premiership table shows now is something that neither the club nor the fans deserve.
“I hope the next game comes as soon as possible because, as you can imagine, this bad taste makes me mad.”
After Sunday’s match, Moyes said “rank” and “rotten” defending had led to Everton’s two goals, a penalty converted by Leighton Baines and Kevin Mirallas’s shot from a tight angle.
It was a point emphasised by United’s former Everton striker Wayne Rooney.
“We conceded two really sloppy goals which we need to cut out because we’re making it hard for ourselves to get back into games,” Rooney said.
“For the second one, we should have stopped the counter-attack. They ran in behind us. It’s not good enough.”
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