Search Our Blog Below

NAIJ Weekly Price Check: Traders lament as prices of goods fluctuate

– The fluctuating price of goods in the market has left many traders in disarray

– Checks by ZENITHBLOG.com at Onigbongbo market Maryland, Lagos reveals an increment in the price of provisional items, foodstuffs, perishable goods and a reduction in others

– Traders selling food items recounted the effects of the current economic conditions on their businesses

The continuous rise in the price of goods has become an issue of concern recently. This has subsequently forced some traders into helpless situations.

Traders selling food items have recounted the effects of the current economic conditions on their businesses.

Although the government officially confirmed that the economy was in recession after Nigeria experienced negative growth for two consecutive quarters but the fluctuating price of goods in the market has left many traders in disarray.

While most Nigerians have lamented the impact of the recession as well as worsening value of the naira on the foreign exchange market, traders are of the opinion that sales has drop less than few weeks after the festivities.

ZENITHBLOG.com correspondent paid a visit to Onigbongbo market, Maryland, Lagos and it was evident how the price of foodstuff, especially perishable items, have increased.

A trader at the market simply identified as Chuks, told ZENITHBLOG.com about the increase in price of foodstuffs.

He said: ““Last week a bag of egusi cost N55,000 but just recently, the price increased by 10 percent. A bag of Egusi (Handpeel) cost N65,000 while the machine cost N55,000 as against its old price of N40,000. For ogbono, the price keeps fluctuating. A bag of ogbono before ranges from N85,000 to N100,000 but now a bag costs between N100,000 and N120,000. For crayfish, a big nylon goes for N26,000 to N30,000.”

“Before, I used to sell stock fish, but the rise in the price of the item makes me wonder where we are heading to as a nation the state of the economy is worsening compared to the previous administration.

“I buy goods in the market and record about N20,000 profit a day but now, if I make N10,000 a day then I am a lucky. The rise in dollar rates and especially the increase in fuel price, whether we like it or not, is really affecting our business negatively.”

The federal government increased the pump price of fuel by about 70 per cent to N145 earlier last year and petrol importers now have to pay more to access dollars for purchase of the product.

Findings by our correspondent revealed fairly unstable prices of imported goods while locally produced consumer goods have maintained fluctuating prices.

Hike in transportation fare, insurgency, and exchange rate fluctuations are some of the major reasons for the price increase recorded.

For Victor, a rice dealer in the market, “foodstuffs are there in the market, but their prices have doubled, and have kept increasing due to recess in the economy. People who used to buy bags now settle for one bag. Buyers are really cutting down on their expenses this period.”

A bag of aroso rice that costs N16,500 now sells for N17,000; competing with Aroso rice that cost N17,500 as against its previous price of 18,500. Right now, I do not even have a bag of agric rice because people choose to buy at cheaper rates and they go to markets like Mile 12 where they can buy at affordable rates.

“This has made business a turn- around not for good but for bad because we just manage to sell the little ones we purchase so as to make ends meet and for survival as well,”” he stated.

Another trader in the market shares Victor’s view about scaling down their expenses since most people are adjusting to the current economy reality.

A trader identified as Moyo, who sells polythene bag (nylon) at the market, said prices of goods have increased and there’s a reduction in quality of production.

We used to buy a bundle of black nylon for N1,000 before but now, we buy for N1,300. And for Santana nylon, we buy a bundle N500 before but now we buy at N650. Also, a bundle of polybag nylon cost N900 before but now it cost N1,300 while a bundle of big black nylon cost N2,500 as against its old price of N1,900.

“”People do not buy as they use to sales has drop. Since the rise in prices of goods has increased, it has affected the price of the raw materials as well. The quality of the production of polythene so far has been affected. The quality has been affected and the buyers are complaining as well. Before I realize about N30,000 as profit but now, it is not even up to N20,000. We are just managing,”” she stated.

Meanwhile, the price of palm-oil and groundnut oil are not as affordable as they used to be as discovered by our correspondent in the market.

“We used to buy a 25 litre keg of palm-oil for N12,500 but now, it costs N21,000. Same goes for the price of groundnut-oil that cost N13,500 before, but now goes for N14,500 to 18,000,”” a trader who pleaded anonymity told our correspondent.

Similarly, a trader referred to as Ronke, who sells soup ingredients, sugar, salt and spaghetti said the rate of increase in prices scares some traders from approaching the distributors when they run out of stock but there has been a little reduction recently.

She said:“Before, the price of all brands of tomato paste had over a 30 percent increment. A carton of Gino tomato paste cost N3,000 but now it cost N3,000 while others cost N2,200 and a carton of spaghetti that cost N3,400 is now sold for N3,600.

“”Some of the goods will increase today, and before you finish selling the next day; the price will increase. Salt was N2,500 last year for the full carton. But the last time I bought, recently, I bought a bag of salt for N4,200.”

Musiliu, a meat seller at the market said the new selling prices have adversely affected business for traders.

According to him: ““Prices have all gone high and buyers just keep passing by and some of us even sleep-off in our shops, since low patronage makes the place dull. Now,the price of a full cow leg ranges from N50,000- 70,000 depending on the size of the cow; The bigger the cow, the higher the price. It is just a difference of N5,000 placed on it.”

People are buying but they are complaining because it is more expensive than before. A full cow before cost about N120,000 but now it cost N220,000. The continuous rise in the price of beef is influenced by the hike in transport fare and fuel price.”

While there have been general increase in prices for food items which are wholly or partially imported, it has been a mixed tale for fruits and vegetables, as well as other local farm produce.

Ifunaya who sells at the market, said fruits also witnessed hike in prices.

Yusuf, a trader who sells perishable items in the market, said the price of tomatoes have increased due to an unprecedented hike witnessed in transportation.

“The recent hike in transportation and insurgency in the northern part of the country has led to an increase in the price of tomatoes as well. A basket of Hausa tomatoes that cost N8,500 now goes for N10,000, same goes for pepper. Only the ones that are not fresh can be bought at an affordable rate.

For yams and other similar farm produce, the prices of some products remained as they were, while a few others have improved.

At the market, the price of yam remained relatively low compared to previous months. Before, five tubers of big yams cost N6,000 but now it goes from N3,500-N4,000. There are cheaper ones, but the size and location of market determine the price.

Despite the general increase in the price of non-farm produce, reduction in salaries of public and private employees have further weakened the purchasing power of most buyers.

Below is our weekly table of price changes before and now:

Table showing the changes in prices of food items before and now. Source: Esther Odili

Table showing the changes in prices of food items before and now. Source: Esther Odili

360naze

Share:

BREAKING: Customs declares two officers wanted over seized 661 pump-action rifles

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has declared two of its officers wanted in connection to the intercepted boxes of rifles in Lagos.

The NCS explained how it intercepted and seized a massive weapons haul of 661 brand new pump-action rifles in Lagos state.

In a press statement delivered by the Comptroller-General of NCS Hameed Ali at a briefing in Lagos on Monday, January 30, the outfit said the guns were intercepted on Sunday, January 22.

The statement read: “On Sunday 22nd January 2017, the Roving Team of the NCS Federal Operations Unit while on information patrol intercepted a Mack truck with registration number BDG 265 XG conveying a 1x40ft Container with Number: PONU/825914/3along Mile 2 Apapa road.

“The truck was immediately taken to the premises of FOU Zone A,Ikeja where Physical examination revealed49 boxes containing a total number of 661 pieces of pump action rifles concealed with steal doors and other merchandize goods.”

The Customs confirmed the arrest of three people in connection with the importation of the large arms. They suspects’ names were given as: Oscan Okafor (Importer) age 51, Mahmud Hassan (Clearing Agent) age 56 and Sadique Mustapha (who accompanied the consignment to its destination) age 28.

On Tuesday, January 31, the NCS released photos of two of its officers wanted in connection to the illegal importation and urged Nigerians to report to the nearest police station if any of them is sighted.

See photo below:

Customs declares two of its officers wanted

Customs declares two of its officers wanted

360naze

Share:

Breaking: Fire razes Yola market

One of the biggest markets in Yola, Adamawa state, popularly known as the “Old Market,” is on fire, Premium Times reports.

Breaking: Fire guts Yola market

According to witnesses the fire started at about 7 p.m after the market closed and all traders had gone home leaving only the security guards.

Officials of the state fire service are already on ground trying to put out the fire.

A large crowd has gathered at the market but security officials are denying people entrance.

Some of the crowd say they either want to help in putting out the fire or try to salvage their goods.

A security official attached to the market said: “Most of them trying to get in just want to go and loot. So far the fire service people are doing well and appear to be able to overcome this thing on their own soon”

The “Old market” is located not far from the main prison and mosque in Jimeta city.

360naze

Share:

How Nigerians are weeping more than the beavered US citizens – Analyst

Editor’s note: Philip Agbese, ZENITHBLOG.com’s guest contributor and analyst based in the United Kingdom writes ton the activities going on in the United States America since the assumption of office by President Donald Trump.

Agbese urges Nigerians to remain focused in issues of development in Nigeria rather than on things happening in the US.

OPINION: The beginning of the start by Philip Agbese

For a people without qualms about being addicted to imported toothpick and foreign bottled water I am totally not surprised by Nigerians weeping more than the bereaved about the (Donald) Trump presidency in the United States.

Trump’s executive orders, building a wall to keep out illegal migrants from Mexico and another one banning entry from Iraq, Libya, Yemen, Syria and four other countries into the US has been a source of ire for Nigerians.

Online newspaper, the Cable gave perspective with its analysis that showed that Nigerians may no longer enjoy the two year visitor’s visa if the federal government does not reciprocate to issue two year visas to Americans.

READ ALSO: CSO writes open letter to Father Mbaka, TB Joshua, others over Apostle Suleman

What Nigerians are losing sight of however is the history of these countries that are today pariahs to the United States.

The nationals of Iraq, Libya, Yemen and Syria once happily beckoned the western world to come intervene in their affairs, driven by the same misplaced logic that once it is western it is the best life can offer. In fairness to the larger part of the population, vocal minorities largely drove the processes that sent these countries into their current state of anomie.

The guilt of the majority was that they did not do enough to stop those that collaborated with foreign interests to destabilize their lands.

The destabilization plot may be targeting new countries but the key concepts and strategies have not changed: sell citizens some lies to make their leaders look bad, sponsor separatists and insurgents to carry out insurrections, commission NGOs to cash in on the situation, tele-guide the corporate mainstream media (MSM) to run damaging propaganda and convene circuses called international conferences to decide on the fate of nation’s hapless citizens without their input.

The consequences of these perverted interventions are predictable.

READ ALSO: 6 points raised by critics about Trump’s executive order to ban Muslims

The western economies, in need of manpower, need not sail slave ships to bring in captives to power their industries; citizens of destabilized countries willingly loaded themselves unto boats with higher casualty rate than the slave trade of centuries ago in their bid to report to their new slave masters. Whatever is left of the destroyed countries are handed over to prefects selected by the western masters using sham elections to give them an air of democratic acceptability.

The next phase is for the proxy governments to parcel out their country’s resources for prompt handover to their conquerors under the guise of foreign investors and other sugar coated name to mask the reality of the horror the citizens have signed up to.

These realities are the things that should give Nigerians concerns. The foreign influences have not relented in ramping up the assault on Nigeria’s sovereignty and integrity.

Boko Haram might have began as a piece of local misadventure but it grew to the monster it became because of a mix of too many factors that reek of western support – from the unprecedented access to military intelligence to the sophistication of their training and equipment there are questions Nigerians did not ask loudly enough.

READ ALSO: Vice President Yemi Osinbajo appears helpless – Fani-Kayode

The NGOs have been brought in same as compromised media both at local and international levels. Nigeria survived that onslaught.

We must therefore be worried that after failing with Boko Haram, international support seems to be ratcheting up for issues that were once local problems but that are fast assuming frightening proportions.

Not only are these issues festering even with the best of national efforts, there is a growing gang up using the international media to blackmail our leaders and label out country a failed state.

The mutation of the various insurrections since the routing of Boko Haram from Sambisa Forest has all the markings of the western interference that wrecked these other countries.

What could spell doom for us however is that unlike the mild resistance they met in other places, our citizens who are disgruntled for different and often irrelevant reasons are lending themselves as willing tools for the destruction of their country.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Iraq fires back at Trump, bans US citizens from entering their country

This is why we have an Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and MASSOB that have become unnecessarily provocative; Niger Delta militants that are killing themselves in installment with the destruction of their environment each time they blow up oil installations; cross-border killer herdsmen that the country cannot decisively deal with because of international conventions; and most recently purveyors of hate speech that are calling for fresh insurrection under the cover of religion.

IPOB for instance is making demands that have no basis in the constitution.

Its members and leaders know that using unconstitutional and unconventional means to ask for secession, which is a destabilization plot against the country and yet a segment of the international media were out like the back up singers for a possessed orchestra.

Their chorus persistently cast our military as an occupying enemy force that must be destroyed – their stories and special reports only stop short of asking Nigerians to lynch every single troop in the land. Their stories pressure nations from selling hardware to Nigeria using bogus allegations of human rights abuses.

With more notable persons from the south-east coming out to speak against the foolhardy pursuit of Biafra, the wrecking train has moved on to a newer location.

The herders/farmers’ clashes are the hottest canon to lob at Nigeria for that singular purpose of delivering on that failed state they desperately wish Nigeria was. But in case Nigerians are not aware, these interests are realization that religion sells in Nigeria and is being milked for all its worth.

So in addition to insurgent foot soldiers, questionable NGOs, thieving politicians and corporate media, the dimension of rogue clergymen have been added to the mix just to be sure that a meltdown of national proportion can be provoked.

READ ALSO: Trump is not the first! 6 other times US has banned migrants

The disdain in which they hold Nigeria and Nigerians is such that they did not even bother to shop for credible spiritual leaders but rather poached those that have pending warrants on their heads in some countries just to be sure that their new charges are pliable.

One of the preachers they have taken on retainership is currently a personal non-grata in the United Kingdom after failing to double money as he had promised during a crusade in England.

And therein lies the travesty. All those contracted to destabilize Nigeria – NGOs, compromised media, corrupt politicians and lately rogue clerics – are already international travelers that only need to get to the closest international airport to relocate out of Nigeria.

Some of them even hold the passports of other countries , secured for them by their handlers. The rest of us who are chanting hallelujah to their ‘praise the Lord’ would be left behind holding the short end of the stick when what they are asking for materializes. Even those who chose the silence of indifference would not be spared when it happens.

So it is our collective responsibility to ensure that Nigeria will not make the cut if President Trump ever has cause to expand the list of countries whose nationals are banned from visiting the United States. Let us make this the beginning of when we start to think of our country as our own and not an outpost that knows to the dictates of some foreign overlords.

Your own opinion articles are welcome at info@zenithblog.com — drop an email telling us what you want to write about and why. More details in Zenithblog.com’s step-by-step guide for guest contributors.

We’re ready to trade your news for our money: submit news and photo reports from your area using our Citizen Journalism App.

Contact us if you have any feedback, suggestions, complaints or compliments. We are also available on Facebook and Twitter. Subscribe to Zenithblog.com Opinion page!

360naze

Share:

Declassified 1967 CIA files predicted the first 'Biafra' civil War

Recently, some secret documents were recovered from the archive of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). These files analysed and assessed many sectors of the Nigerian economy and also made predictions about the things that are most likely to happen in the future.

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

A page of the declassified CIA files.

Most importantly, the declassified files revealed some facts about Nigeria and the things that happened in the past. These facts are useful in measuring or studying the economic trend of the nation as a whole.

They also recorded the roles of the past leaders of the nation while assessing the major impacts of the activities that molded Nigeria.

The Nigerian civil war ended in January 1970 and it left so many people in doubt. People were skeptical about the way things would be after the war, particularly if the highly populated country would be divided by the secession.

A recent peak into one of the declassified CIA files showed that there were speculations over the occurrence of the first civil war also known as Biafra. The Biafra would always remain relevant in the history of Nigeria as a nation because there are still agitations from that war presently.

Check out some of the things that was revealed in the declassified CIA document about the first civil war below:

1. The supposed cause

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

A page of the declassified CIA file showing the prediction of Biafra.

The uneasy military-political movement in Nigeria contributed to the increased armed clashes. The clash between the eastern region and the federal military government created a violent disorder.

The disorders apart, some US interests like the petroleum producing companies were threatened because of the conflicting groups.

READ ALSO: Brief report of the things that have happened since Buhari went on vacation

2. The rift between General Gowon and Ojukwu

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

A page of the declassified CIA file showing the prediction of Biafra.

The mutual disrespect between Colonel Gowon of the FMG and Colonel Ojukwu, the military governor of the east increased and the resolution planned yielded no result.

The degeneration of east federal military government relations was considered to be the most dangerous aspect of the deteriorating political-military milieu.

Also, the CIA file that has been declassified noted that the Yorubas of the western region and ill-disciplined Northern troops stationed there could erupt into violence.

3. The stubbornness of the east and FMG

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

A page of the declassified CIA file showing the prediction of Biafra.

The reluctance of the east or the FMG to bear the onus for breaking up Nigeria contributed to the war. This is not to ignore Gowon’s preference for a peaceful solution and the lack of confidence in the reliability and capability of his armed forces.

Ojukwu’s fault lied in his willingness to accept some sort of confederal arrangement short of eastern independence. The willingness of the military extremists in both camps to carry out their threats was also some form of friction.

4. Emotional responses from Ojukwu and Gowon

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

A page of the declassified CIA file showing the prediction of Biafra.

The secret document revealed that Gowon and Ojukwu were hardening their stands while thinking of moves that will always anger the other person.

The east was hell bent on securing the oil revenues derived from its region which was a source of revenue to the FMG.

Gowon may also decree the establishment of new states among the minority areas in the east as an inflammatory step. There were speculations that he could withdraw Ojukwu’s appointment as governor if Ojukwu failed to obey him.

The documents also noted that Ojukwu was disillusioned by the lack of support from the UK and the US and this made him turn to the French for military equipment.

5. Acquisition of arms

Declassified 1967 secret CIA files revealed that the first 'Biafra' civil war was predicted before it ever happened

The FMG had already acquired arms from private Italian firms. The document revealed that the fourth battalion in northern Nigeria has moved from its base in Kaduna to positions along the eastern region border.

This move was perceived to increase the chances of a military clash; an FMG attack on the east and an eastern preemptive military operations against the north.

READ ALSO: 6 basic points analysed by critics about Trump’s executive order to ban Muslims

6. Armed conflict between the east and the FMG

As mentioned above, armed conflict between the east and the FMG would out the US in an awkward position.

Although the files recorded that the violence would not be directed against the whites but some US citizens spread across the nation may be exposed to danger. There was also a potential threat to US petroleum producing companies.

360naze

Share:

What are University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees?

Nowadays, the topic of postgraduate schools is very popular. People are willing to study and get the proper quality education. In this article, we will talk about University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees and some important details for the future students.

black student

University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees

Ibadan University

Ibadan University

University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees

The University of Ibadan is one of the oldest and the most prestigious universities in the whole African continent. The University of Ibadan awarded the first postgraduate degree about 64 years ago, in 1952 when it was called a University College.

It worked under the scheme of some special relationships with the famous University of London. Already in1962, the University College managed to transform into the modern University of Ibadan. At first, 64 people registered to get the higher degrees, they transferred their registration to the new University of Ibadan.

happy students

University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees

READ ALSO: University of Ibadan admission requirement in 2017

In 1963, the Senate of the University of Ibadan decided to create the Higher Degrees Committee. It had to administer all the higher degree programs. After a while, the number of higher degrees applicants increased and it was clear that very cumbersome procedure, which was involved in the long-term processing of postgraduate matters from Faculty Boards of Studies through Faculty Boards and then to the Higher Degrees Committee and just after that, to Senate. It often took a year to pass the long road to Senate.

In 1976, Senate decided to approve the Board of Postgraduate Studies reorganization. Senate upgraded it in its status to new School of Postgraduate Studies. Senate approved The Postgraduate School.

University of Ibadan school fees

University of Ibadan school fees

University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees

University of Ibadan Acceptance Fee Amount was changed on November 22nd, 2016 in Nigeria. The applicants will have to pay N30, 000:00. It is called an acceptance fee.

Beware of the numerous fraudsters

postgraduate school

University of Ibadan postgraduate school fees

Students or Applicants must beware of different fraudsters who claim to be the Postgraduate School’s agents. You should never make any payments into any personal account or have any dealings with such agents. They are fraudsters. You should be warned!

READ ALSO: How to reprint JAMB slip for 2017 UTME?

360naze

Share:

Presidency responds to 2Baba’s planned nationwide protest

– Femi Adesina responded to those calling for a protest against Buhari’s administration

– He described them as people who are pained Jonathan lost the presidential election

The presidency has reacted to plans to organise a nationwide protest led by 2Baba Idibia to complain about the situation of things in the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The veteran musician had promised to be part of a protest due to the economic situation in the country and this has received support from Nigerians and some musicians.

READ ALSO: Blackface blasts 2baba for planning protest against Buhari

However, Mr Femi Adesina who is the special adviser to the president on media and publicity spoke on Talk 91.3fm in Lagos describing those who are planning the protest are people who supported Goodluck Jonathan’s government and are still pained that he lost.

He said: “This is a country of about 180 million people. It is impossible for 180 million people to think the same way. Yoruba has a saying that is you all sleep and put your head in the same direction, then you are all foolish because you would be breathing in one another’s mouth and lungs. Dont forget the last election and how it went. Somebody scored 12.5 million votes, another scored about 15 million votes. There are some people who are still in that election mode.

READ ALSO: Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

”They have not gotten out of it and till today, they are still living and “rheumatisizing” about the past. What they don’t know is that that past is gone and gone forever. Majority of those calling for the protest are still in election mode. Majority of them are people that have resolved not to see anything good in this administration simply because the man they wanted lost at the polls.”

360naze

Share:

President Buhari joins Nigeria in mourning sports minister's wife

– President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with Solomon Dalung, the minister of youth and sports, on the death of his wife

– The president in a statement prayed God to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest, promising his support to the family of Dalung in their moment of grief

– Mrs. Dalung died after a brief illness in the early hours of Sunday, January 29

President Buhari mourns with minister of sports Solomon Dalung

President Buhari mourns with minister of sports Solomon Dalung

Nigeria’s president, Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with Solomon Dalung, the minister of youth and sports, on the death of his first wife, Briskila Dalung.

READ ALSO: Buhari may live longer than those wishing him dead – Oshiomhole

In a statement issued by Nneka Anibeze, the media aide to Dalung on his Facebook page, said President Buhari telephoned Dalung on Monday night, January 30, from London where he is currently on vacation.

Read the full statement below:

“President Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with the Minister of Youth and Sports Barrister Solomon Dalung on the death of his wife, Mrs. Briskila Dalung who died after a brief illness in the early hours of January 29, 2017 in Jos.

In a telephone call made to Barrister Dalung by the President on Monday night from London where he is currently on a short vacation, he prayed God to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.

President Buhari regretted the death of Mrs Dalung which came at such an unripe age and prayed that God will forgive her sins and give the family she left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.

The President promised his unflinching support to the family of Dalung in their moment of grief.

DOWNLOAD: Zenithblog.com current affairs app for android to get the latest news

Mrs Dalung is survived by her husband and 5 children.”

Mrs. Dalung died after a brief illness in the early hours of January 29, 2017 in Jos.

The minister announced the demise of his wife via his official Facebook saying it is a huge loss that he could barely continue.

360naze

Share:

Good or bad news? Global oil output falls by 1.07 million bpd in January

– The global oil output has fallen by 1.07 million barrels per day

– The supply cut deal by OPEC has led to successful results

– Combined output in January from all members is about 520,000 bpd

Global oil output falls by 1.07 million bpd in January

Global oil output falls by 1.07 million bpd in January

The supply cut deal by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), has been successful as the output of member states is set to fall by more than 1 million barrels per day (bpd) in January.

According to Reuters, the fall in supply shows the first supply cut deal in eight years is set to experience success.

OPEC and its members agreed to cut its output by about 1.2 million bpd from January‎ 1 to prop up oil prices and reduce a supply glut.

READ ALSO: Expert gives reasons why Nigeria’s economy will come out of recession

According to a survey, the supply from the 11 OPEC members with production targets under the deal has averaged 30.01 million bpd, down from 31.17 million bpd in December.

Nigeria and Libya are exempt from this supply cut because both countries have undergone output losses caused by conflict.

Also Iran, which was allowed to raise output under the OPEC deal because sanctions had crippled past supply, pumped an additional 20,000 bpd.

As far as January is concerned, combined output from all members is about 520,000 bpd above the target, adjusted to remove Indonesia, the survey showed.

READ ALSO: Ex-militants vow to continue to support President Buhari

The reduction is good news for Nigeria, as an end seems in sight for the economic recession plaguing Nigeria for about two years.

It was earlier reported that oil might be about $60 in coming months.

Bloomberg reports that the minister of state for Petroleum Emmanuel Kachikwu, said that crude oil prices, hovering around $55 a barrel since early December, will climb by about $10 in the coming months as OPEC-led measures to curb a glut take hold.

360naze

Share:

Fayose, Ekiti lawmakers are shameless attention seekers and busybodies – Ekiti youths support Fayemi over $40 billion alleged fraud

– Ekiti Youth Vanguard threw their support behind the former governor of Ekiti state, Kayode Fayemi over the allegation of $40 billion fraud made against him by the state House of Assembly

– The Youths accused Governor Fayose of trying to divert the attention of the public away from his looting

Ekiti youth vanguard has come out to criticized the state House of Assembly over call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate former Governor Kayode Fayemi over an alleged N40 billion fraud.

The Ekiti state House of Assembly gave the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), 21-day ultimatum to commence investigation into the allegation of N40 billion fraud made against the immediate past governor of the state and minister of mines and steel development, Dr Kayode Fayemi and others, or face legal action, accusing the anti-corruption commission of compromise.

Ekiti Youth Vanguard throws support behind Fayemi over $40 billion fraud

Ekiti Youth Vanguard throws support behind Fayemi over $40 billion fraud

According to The Sun, the youth group described the move as a tactic by Governor Ayodele Fayose and “his men in the House of Assembly” to divert the attention of Ekiti people from the “mindless looting of the state treasury by Fayose’s administration while workers remain unpaid for six months”.

READ ALSO: Femi Fani-Kayode lambasts Osinbajo for not defending Christians

Giving a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the group coordinator said: “The Assembly men headed by Pastor Kola Oluwawole have been a huge disaster over the master-slave relationship they have with Governor Fayose.

“Besides colluding with the governor to destroy the tenets of democracy and governance, they have also been irresponsible in the discharge of their responsibilities, choosing to be more of a rubber-stamp by passing every bill sent to them by the governor without proper scrutiny and acting as Fayose’s attack dogs when the governor is asked to be accountable in running the government.

“More annoyingly, they watch helplessly as Fayose diverts Ekiti money illegally to purposes not appropriated in the budget, including doing nothing on the internally generated revenue incomes allegedly kept in private accounts not known to the state’s financial system,” the statement explained.”

The group alleged that because the House of Assembly worked in cahoots with the governor to divert the first bailout package received by the state, members could not say anything when workers protested against failure to use the bailout for the purpose it was approved by the Federal Government.

“The bailout that Fayose diverted was specifically for the payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities and severance packages of former political office holders, but because these questionable characters in the Assembly were accomplices in the illegal funds diversion scheme, they kept quiet only to find their voices now to accuse others of corrupt practices even when they are more guilty of same.”

The statement added: “It is even more disgusting that such accusation of fraud against Fayemi could be coming from Fayose and his men who have got all the opportunities in the world to prove their case against the former governor but refused to do so until now when it has become crystal clear to Ekiti people that Fayose is determined to play smart with them with the reckless diversion of bailout cash resulting in salary payment default and failure to keep campaign promises.

“We wonder why it took the assembly members this long to coincide with the time Ekiti people are asking Fayose to account for the about N20b bailout he took before they suddenly realised that they must ask EFCC to probe Fayemi, all this in an attempt to divert Ekiti people’s attention from criminal diversion of their money to the private use of government’s leaders.

“While we are not holding brief for Fayemi, who we know as a public official ought to be accountable for everything done under his watch, we find it rather curious, annoying and nauseating that Governor Fayose after more than two years in the saddle is still making Fayemi an issue over debts and failure to pay salaries.

“For more than two years, Fayose did not look into the books that Fayemi handed to him in his handover notes, but now Fayose is making inflammatory statements and baseless allegations that lack logic.

“For Instance, when Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State accused his predecessor of corruption, he did not try him in the media, neither did he wait for the EFCC to investigate him; he rather set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry on his assumption of office to looked into the books and the panel came out with their findings and recommendations.

“This is what we had expected Fayose and his men to do instead of wailing endlessly and making baseless accusations and smear campaigns in the media to divert attention for political advantage.”

READ ALSO: FRSC recommends nationwide ban on commercial motorcycles

The group urged the House of Assembly members to devote their energies to lawmaking and oversight functions, instead of acting as partners in alleged looting of the state to the advantage of the governor while the people suffered.

The group said: “The lawmakers that are now acting Fayose’s script said nothing when news broke that alleged Fayose’s mistress made away with N75m out of Ekiti meagre resources, including keeping quiet when the governor’s aides stole $50,000 in the Government House because the governor has more than enough of Ekiti money in his private purse.”

Meanwhile, the APC has called on the EFCC to thoroughly scrutinize the Delta state government finances for alleged diversion

The party alleged that the looting of Delta state treasury has become another recurring occurrence with the Okowa PDP-led government

The APC called on the governor to clear the air on the allegation that he misappropriated the sum of N48.6billion DESOPADEC funds

360naze

Share:

Is 2face being used by some politicians to attack Buhari? (Photos)

– Former Plantashun Boiz member, Blackface accused 2face of being used by political opposition to attack President Buhari’s administration

– 2face called for a massive nationwide protest against the current economic situation of the country

– The protest will hold on February 5, 2017

Following a call by veteran hip-hop musician, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2baba or 2face, for a nationwide protest against the current economic situation of the country, his former friend and co-member of the defunct music group – Plantashun Boiz, has accused him of being used by politicians to disrupt the peace of the country.

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Blackface alleged in a post he shared on his Instagram page that 2face is part of the people desperately trying to discredit the Buhari’s administration.

He said: “Is it because you are part of desperate plot to poison the hearts and minds against a fantastically incorruptible President who fights the corrupt no matter whose ox is gored?”

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

According to blackface, 2face was mute over several allegations against governors who were allegedly misappropriating the bailout funds given to them by President Buhari but he (2face) is quick to call for a protest against the President.

Could this be the governor using 2baba to attack Buhari?

An alleged investigation by PM news, infers that a former Akwa Ibom state governor is the chief sponsor of the planned massive nationwide protest being orchestrated by 2baba.

The protest, planned to hold on Sunday, February 5, had in the last two weeks generated much hue and cry with some Nigerian celebrities queuing behind the move, while others had kicked against the intention.

The Benue-born had taken to his Instagram page to confirm that the protest will hold as scheduled.

He wrote: “A call for good governance. A call for urgent explanation into the reckless economic downturn nationwide. A call for nationwide protests as we say no to the Executive, no to legislatures, no to judiciary… You have all failed us.

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

“We the people are tired. We can no longer continue with all of you. All your excuses and mistakes are not funny. We do not wish to continue with a system and government that is not working but afflicting the people…”

But on Monday, a source revealed that 2face was being used as a stooge to drive the protest aimed at smearing the Buhari-led Federal Government.

According to PM News, this said former governor, now a Senator, has never hidden his love for the ‘African Queen’ crooner and had in the past said to have showered award winning musician with cash and gifts worth several millions of naira.

It would be recalled that 2face and his wife, Annie Macaulay, in 2013, were gifted two brand new Prado SUVs by this former governor as their wedding gift which they graciously accepted.

2face has however, come under severe criticism by some fans who feel he was silent during the previous administration where massive corruption, lawlessness and poverty were the order of the day, with some concluding that there was more behind the protest.

“2face should come out clean and tell Nigerians the real reason behind this protest rather than hiding under the guise of clamouring for good governance. Where was he during Chief Olusegun Obasanjo era? Where was he when Goodluck Jonathan and his men were ripping Nigeria off?

“If he is not careful, this move might just signal the beginning of the end of his musical career. He is threading on a path where he is a complete novice,” the source said.

Education versus rationality

Following the proposed massive protest against the federal government which is lead by Nigerian music legend 2baba Idibia, Nigerian professor, Akindele Adetoye, has come out to blast the singer over his actions.

He said: “You are a bloody illiterate. You had s*x with all manners of girls without using condoms. You impregnated them and made babies all over the place.

You now want to lead protest against the government because of lack of governance! Have you governed your own personal life? Charity, they say begins at home. Nonsense!”

Support from other artistes

Regardless what many have said in favour and against 2baba’s proposed protest, some very popular musicians like Burna Boy and Davido have publicly promised to join the march.

Similarly, Ruggedman, Nigerian hip-hop icon, has slammed fellow veteran Blackface for endorsing a post that derided the activism of 2baba Idibia, his former band mate.

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Is 2face being used to attack Buhari by politicians?

Hours after sharing the post and noting that it was “copied”, Ruggedman responded by saying he was disappointed in Blackface.

Apparently oblivious to the fact that Blackface added the caveat “copied”, the rapper said it’s become “too obvious” that Blackface had unresolved issues with 2face.

He wrote in part: “This your move right here is very disappointing. You sang hard life and all when things were even a bit bearable, but now that things are really messed up you have kept quiet but here you are mouthing off over a 2face move?

The reply by the veteran rapper fully reads: “BLACKFACE FACE WHAT’S REAL

@blackfacezenithbloga you be my guy and@official2baba na my guy but I will tell you that this your move right here is very disappointing. You sang hardlife and all when things were even a bit bearable, but now that things are really messed up you have kept quiet.

But here you are mouthing off over a 2Face move? Guy you fall my hand. Talking about educating people…..1. It is not a protest being lead by 2face.

He said he saw the post and thought to lend his voice to it. Something a few other artists and people have done. 2. So you knew about all the governors embezzling funds and yet you said nothing. But you are quick to shout now because 2face name has come out on something.

But you make it too obvious you have something against 2face and you should have let all this go by now. NIGERIANS are suffering and you are just monitoring 2face. Atleast he has chosen to lend his voice to something all Nigerians believe is needed.

What have you done? You have details that should be out there for all to see but you only decided to speak cos 2face is involved. Guy change your ways. I know you as a crusader and not a 2face hater.

The people need voices that can be heard, I know you are one of them. Do the right thing brother. Life in Zenithbloga now is harder than it ever was and Buharis people should let Nigerians know what they are doing right and also let Nigerians know who and who is doing wrong.

You cant say you are doing great things when the people cant feel it. You cant say you are fighting corruption yet not one corrupt official has been jailed in 2 years.”

Further investigations into this case are ongoing, as we are yet to get a concrete reply from 2face who have been accused of delving into politic as a puppet for the yet to be named politician.

360naze

Share:

Like Nnamdi Kanu, FG insists on secret trial for Dasuki

– The federal government has made a second application to try the former national security adviser Sambo Dasuki secretly

– The Nigerian government prayed the court to protect witnesses that will testify against the former security adviser

– FG said the names and addresses of the witnesses should be hidden from the general public

Like Nnamdi Kanu, FG insists on secret trial for Dasuki

The federal government on Tuesday, January 31, applied for a protection of its witnesses in the trial of the former national security adviser Sambo Dasuki.

In its second application for secret trial, prosecuting counsel, Oladipo Okpeseyi prayed the court to protect the witnesses that will testify against Dasuki.

The application dated January 23 and filed on January 24 urged the court to protect the witness by not allowing their names and addressees to be exposed in the public domain.

But in his objection, counsel to Dasuki asked the court to dismiss the application.

Ahmed Raji said the application brought by the federal government lacks merit.

READ ALSO: How Dasuki allegedly hid N750 million in a hospital account – Witness

He also said the application constitutes a gross abuse of court process.

Raji also argued that there was no justification for the federal government to have brought the motion for secret trial for the second time having lost in the first motion.

He also pointed out that the Nigerian government had contradicted itself by placing the charges and identities of the witness to be used against the former security adviser in the public domain.

He added that bringing the same motion to the same court constituted a gross abuse of court process and that what the prosecution ought to do if not satisfied with the decision of Justice Ademola, was to have gone to court of Appeal to ventilate its anger.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Despite over a year in detention, Abuja high court insists former NSA Dasuki is on bail

The former security adviser with an attached copy of an earlier court ruling urged the court not to allow the motion for secret trial.

He said allowing such will violate his right to fair hearing which is contrary to the principle of the rule of law and natural justice

However, due to the prosecution’s inability to respond to the motion raised by the defendant the judge over the case, Ahmed Mohammed, adjourned the matter to Wednesday, March 1, for hearing of the motion before the court.

Recall that in a similar manner, the federal government had applied for a secret trial for Nnamdi Kanu after the application was denied and reviewed by Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court.

The application was later approved by Justice Binta Nyako after Tsoho disqualified himself from the matter.

360naze

Share:

El-Rufai, DSS director are Fulani men – Man fumes over Southern Kaduna killings (Video)

– The president of Buhari Support Group, Blessing Agbomhere (BHS) has warned Kaduna state governor to stop his alleged persecution of Apostle Suleman

– Agbomhere said both El-Rufai and DSS director are both Fulani man and alleged that El-rufai is using the DSS for his personal vendetta against Apostle Suleman

– The group warned that they will not condone any person bent on ruining the administration of President Buhari over personal vendetta against others

Blessing Agbomhere, deputy director of Buhari Support Organisation (BHS) claimed Kaduna state governor gave the order for initial arrest of Apostle Johnson Suleman which was thwarted by Governor Fayose of Ekiti state.

Agbomhere said El-Rufai has a personal vendetta against Apostle Suleman and he is using the DSS to fight against him.

Man accuses El-Rufai of using DSS to settle personal scores with Apostle Suleman (video)

Man accuses El-Rufai of using DSS to settle personal scores with Apostle Suleman (video)

READ ALSO: CAN says Apostle Suleman will honour DSS invite alone

After the DSS failed in its attempt to arrest Apostle Suleman, the security agency invited the Apostle for a ‘friendly chat’ on what he meant in his controversial video where he ordered his church member to kill any Fulani herdsmen found around his church.

Agbomhere who is in support of Apostle Suleman’s preaching about Fulani herdsmen said rather than the DSS allowing themselves to be used by Governor El-Rufai against Apostle Suleman, the agency should focus more on how to create peace in the disturbed part of Southern kaduna.

Agbomhere in a video press compress, said: “Everyone has a right to express his opinion. Apostle Suleman did what he did in a way of protecting himself from a threat against his life.

“El-rufai rather than concentrating on what happened around the world, he should concentrate on affair of Kaduna state and find a solution on the massacre going on in Kaduna state.”

READ ALSO: Obama attacks Trump over ban on Muslims

Meanwhile, another Pastor has followed suit in Apostle Suleman’s footstep by allegedly ordering a reprisal attack on Fulani herdsmen.

Senior pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministries, Chris Okafor, says it is now time for Christians all over Nigeria to be battle ready and defend themselves.

Okafor urged Christians to kill any Fulani herdsman that attacks and tries to kill them because “enough is enough.”

Watch Agbomhere’s video below:

360naze

Share:

How to scale through hurdles of entrepreneurship in Nigeria

Editor’s note: Bakare Moshood Oladejo, the ZENITHBLOG.com partner blogger, in this article reveals how aspiring business owners in Nigeria could scale through the hurdles of becoming successful entrepreneurs. He also explains why many advocates of self-employment could not tell people what they really need to scale the hurdles.

Bakare, a writer, blogger and trainee computer programmer, has Bachelor degree in Educational Technology from the University of Ilorin.

He could be contacted via: http://ift.tt/2kmV0HJ or moshbakare@outlook.com

More details in ZENITHBLOG.com’s step-by-step guide for guest bloggers.

With the way National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) officials, university lecturers and of late, secondary school teachers scream self-employment nowadays, you would be left wondering why you went to school in the first place. But if there are no more jobs as they say, is self-employment the solution?

How to scale through hurdles of entrepreneurship in Nigeria

The self-employment advocates coaching prospective business owners

Self-employment comes with a host of problems that only those who have veered into it successfully or unsuccessfully can understand. There is always the problem of financing and depending on how big or complicated the business, production, buying, staffing, logistics, quality control, market suitability, advertisement, location, warehousing, costumer relations, selling and most importantly, risk is.

READ ALSO: This is how President Buhari can solve unemployment problem

NYSC, schools and painfully, entrepreneurs, self-employed persons, resource persons and every other person in between, lay too much emphasis on the production aspect while they deliberately or ignorantly leave out the other aspects, most especially that of risks and selling.

The risk and selling aspects mark the difference between a successful, a not-so-successful and a failed business. Selling is as important; if not more important than production or what is the essence of producing without selling? You could have just flushed your money down the toilet and spent your time watching a dog chase its tail.

The risk aspect is in a class of its own. It could mean the difference between the life and death of a business and its owner.

I have gone into the self-employment/entrepreneurship niche twice and I still plan to go into it again. But first, I’ll like to share my experience with Nigerians.

In early 2014, I went into the importation business. It was my first time and I decided to go into an untapped niche, which was a risk. I was also buying the product through the internet, from people I have not and would probably never meet in my life. That’s a big risk, which becomes much bigger when you realize I am buying from faraway China and shipping it through some Nigerian middlemen.

I imported a teeth whitening kit. I bought twenty pieces (for testing purposes) but the product did not work as specified, so I never sold it. I kept it at home and I currently use that strange-looking contraption with the white light label as a flashlight. About 30,000 naira went down the drain. Not many people can afford to forfeit such amount. But I did! And mind you, I was in my third year in the University.

I returned again towards the end of 2014 and this time, it was power banks. I bought 19 pieces in four different capacities for testing. The smallest capacity of which I had the most units did not work as expected and the biggest spoiled easily. So, I pulled the smallest out of the market and kept the biggest for personal use. Then, I proceeded to sell the rest.

I printed a black and white advertisement, bought some starch and safety pins, sacrificed my safety and sleep and started pinning my adverts on notice boards inside the school at night and on walls around the school in the early mornings. I remember some ferocious looking dogs chased me one morning, barking and grunting like the scumbags they were.

DOWNLOAD: Zenithblog.com current affairs app for android to get the latest news

The business was very profitable and I made my capital back in the first day of sales. I cannot remember how much I invested in it but I know it was either a little below or above 30,000 naira. This was just a test run and I was supposed to import more. I never did and went on to spend my capital and profits for reasons I did not understand. This was my fourth year in the University.

All said, I just wanted us, most especially the self-employment advocates, whom I realised are rarely self-employed to know that self-employment and entrepreneurship is not for everybody. The truth is that most self-employed persons and entrepreneurs would fail and many more would never make any tangible income. More of the successful few would also never rise above a profit ceiling. Only a handful will ever make it.

How to scale through hurdles of entrepreneurship in Nigeria

So, when next someone screams self-employment into your ears and tells you motivational stories of success, don’t get carried away. Self-employment is much more complicated than they tell you. The problems involved are so big; one needs serious determination to go through.

READ ALSO: How to fight unemployment rate and become entrepreneur In Nigeria

However, you should not totally ignore the self-employment advocates because some of what they teach can make you some money by the side.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial policy of ZENITHBLOG.com.

ZENITHBLOG.com welcomes writers, bloggers, photographers and all sorts of “noise makers” to become a part of our Bloggers network. If you are a seasoned writer or a complete newbie – apply and become Nigeria’s next star blogger.

Send us some info about your career, interests and expertise and why you’d like to contribute to the Blogger Network at blogger@corp.zenithblog.com Also, please send us the link to your blog and three examples of your work.

More details in ZENITHBLOG.com’s step-by-step guide for guest bloggers.

360naze

Share:

Nigerian govt shares N426 billion in December 2016 (See some states allocations)

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has said the sum of N426.88bn was disbursed to the three tiers of government in December 2016.

Nigerian govt, states shares N426 billion in December (See some states allocations)

President Muhammadu Buhari

The disbursed sum, which comprised of N240.12bn, was broken down as N38.85bn from the Statutory Account; N66bn from exchange gain from Excess Petroleum Product Tax (PPT) Account and N75.58bn from Valued Added Tax (VAT).

It also include N6.33bn which was refunded to the Federal Government from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

According to the report, the federal government received a total of N163.59bn from the N426.88bn shared.

READ ALSO: Court refuses Wike’s application to stop probe of Rivers rerun violence

States governments received a total of N110.53bn while Local governments received N82.64bn.

The report also noted that the sum of N26.42bn was shared among the oil producing states as 13% derivation fund and N33.67bn transferred to the Excess Petroleum Product Tax (PPT) Account.

The report also went further to add that revenue generating agencies such as Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) received N3.54bn, N5.28bn and N1.21bn respectively as revenue collection cost.

DOWNLOAD: Zenithblog.com current affairs app for android to get the latest news

The report further revealed that the sum of N141.64bn was disbursed to the FGN consolidated revenue account while N2.89bn was divided as share of derivation and ecology; N1.45bn as stabilization fund; N4.87bn for the development of natural resources; and N3.59bn to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.

Below are some local government allocations according to National bureau of statistics (NBS).

ABUJA

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

Abuja

ADAMAWA STATE

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

Adamawa State

ABIA STATE

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

Abia State

AKWA IBOM

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

Akwa Ibom

ANAMBRA STATE

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

BAUCHI

How Nigerian govt, states shared N426 billion in December

Bauchi

360naze

Share:

MUST READ: 4 key things that have happened ever since President Buhari went on leave

The absence of President Muhammadu Buhari is no longer news as Nigerians are aware of the fact that he is on vacation.

Brief report of the things that have happened since Buhari went on vacation

File photo of President Buhari.

Although the news of his leave came at a time people did not expect, they were still able to wrap their heads around the need for the president to rest since the yoke of this nation is not a light one.

The president who is presently on a 10-day working leave in the United Kingdom is set to come back in first week on February 2016. The Nigerian leader has only been on vacation three times ever since he assumed office in May 2015.

In the absence of the former military head of state, a lot has happened in the country and many more events are still unraveling. Unlike the times of General Gowon who did not designate a deputy for the time he traveled, President Buhari assigned everything to Vice President Osinbajo who is now the acting president.

Major decisions could be taken in the absence of the president; this means that the governance of this country is not on hold and things are going on smoothly.

Find below the key points of the major events that have happened in the absence of the president:

1. Naira crashed to all-time low of 500/dollar

Never has it been recorded in the history of Nigeria for the Nigerian currency to be this low. The Nigerian Naira on Monday, January 30, became 500/dollar.

The speculated drop in the rate followed the persistence of the greenback scarcity with the Central Bank of Nigeria cutting supply to foreign exchange operators.

READ ALSO: Nigeria on the map of the most dangerous countries in the world, see others

2. Apostle Suleman was invited and interrogated by the DSS

The popular Apostle Suleman of the Omega Fire Ministries was taken in by the DSS for questioning after the attempted arrest at Ado Ekiti failed.

He went in unaccompanied to the DSS’ office and was engaged in a friendly chat with the agent coordinating the interrogation for about an hour.

3. 661 pump action rifles were seized in Lagos

Some officials discovered weapons inside a 40-foot container that was said to contain “steel doors and other merchandise goods” at Lagos port.

There were other things in the container too as they were packed to conceal the weapons that were being taken in.

The comptroller-general of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (retd.), said the container came from China, but was routed through Turkey to “cause confusion.”

READ ALSO: Top companies you should not patronise if you do not like Donald Trump

4. Boko Haram bombers struck UNIMAID again

The bombing of the prestigious University of Maiduguri happened some days before President Buhari went on leave.

It was a devastating news as lives were lost and the northern city was thrown into mourning. The president consoled the families of the affected persons when the first bombing happened.

Sadly, another bomb went off in the early hours of today, January 31, at a mosque opposite the University of Maiduguri. According to the report, an unspecified number of persons have been killed.

360naze

Share:

You cannot discriminate against people because of their religion – Obama attacks Trump over Muslim ban

– Former US President, Barack Obama spoke out against Muslims ban by Donald Trump

– Trump had earlier placed a ban on seven Muslim-majority countries, barring them from entering US

– The former president is however happy that Americans are standing up to protest the ban

Former president of the United States (US), Barack Obama, on Monday, January 30 kicked against President Donald Trump’s ban on 7 Muslim-majority countries.

Trump had on Friday banned seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States for the next 90 days and suspended the admission of all refugees.

Obama protests against Trump’s ban on Muslims

Obama protests against Trump’s ban on Muslims

READ ALSO: 26 ships carrying food and petroleum expected to arrive Lagos ports

Several Muslim travelers are been sent back from American airports by the US immigrations and a lot of American immigrant have started complaining about their loved ones locked out of the country due to President Trump’s order.

Obama’s statement reads: “President Obama is heartened by the level of engagement taking place in communities around the country. In his final official speech as president, he spoke about the important role of citizen and how all Americans have a responsibility to be the guardians of our democracy — not just during an election but every day.

“Citizens exercising their constitutional right to assemble, organize and have their voices heard by their elected officials is exactly what we expect to see when American values are at stake.

With regard to comparisons to President Obama’s foreign policy decisions, as we’ve heard before, the President fundamentally disagrees with the notion of discriminating against individuals because of their faith or religion.”

READ ALSO: Group calls for immediate arrest of Kashamu

Meanwhile, Trump fired acting Attorney General Sally Yates Monday night for “Trump fired acting Attorney General Sally Yates Monday night for “refusing to enforce a legal order designed to protect the citizens of the United States,” the White House said.

“(Yates) has betrayed the Department of Justice,” the White House statement said.

Dana Boente, US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, the White House said, and was sworn in at 9 p.m. ET, per an administration official. A few hours later, Boente issued a statement rescinding Yates’ order, instructing DOJ lawyers to “defend the lawful orders of our President.”

360naze

Share:

Oba of Lagos blasts Atiku, Lawal Daura for plotting his removal from Nigeria Police in 2002

– The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu has disclosed how he left the Nigeria Police Force (NPF)

– The traditional ruler named those who plotted his ouster from the NPF

– Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Director-General of Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Lawal Daura were mentioned

The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu has disclosed how he was forced out of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in 2002.

Oba Akiolu berates Atiku, Daura for expelling him from Nigeria police

Oba Rilwan Akiolu

Oba Akiolu accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Director-General of Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Lawal Daura of plotting his removal along with other people he did not name.

According to the monarch, it was possible for them to convince former President Olusegun Obasanjo to summarily retire him from the Nigeria Police because the Police Service Commission (PSC) “is a toothless bull-dog.”

READ ALSO: Oba of Lagos speaks about Buhari’s government

The monarch made this revelation during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Victoria Island Lagos, recently, Thisday reports.

He described his retirement from the force as conspiracy by chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to win the 2003 elections in Lagos.

He also lamented the state of the Nigeria Police, which he said, was crippled by the previous military regimes, especially from 1984 to 1999 and outright neglect by the successive administrations.

His words: “Then Atiku, Daura and others sat down and advised President Obasanjo that if he wanted to win Lagos in 2003, I should be removed. It was written on paper.”

The monarch therefore, defended the former president, whom he said, argued that he “did not know anything about it. He had to send for the Inspector-General of Police (IG) because the then Chief of Staff challenged the plan to retire me.

“For someone to sit at the PSC and determine who retires from the police is unfair. This is not how to run a very efficient and effective police force,” Akiolu lamented.

Oba Akiolu also accused the military of killing the efficiency and performance of the Nigeria Police.

READ ALSO: Stop acting like a military man – Oba of Lagos tells Buhari

Meanwhile, Oba Akiolu has advised Nigerians to persevere despite the current economic hardship in the nation.

360naze

Share:

DSS were professional – Apostle Suleman

– The founder of the Omega Fire Ministries Apostle Johnson Suleman has said that operatives of the State Security Services (SSS) acted very professional in their dealing with him

– Suleman also thanked all those who stood by him all through his ordeal

– He said he is still amazed by the love and solidarity shown to him by many Nigerians

The DSS were professional – Apostle Suleman

Apostle Johnson Suleman said operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) were professional

The founder of the Omega Fire Ministries Apostle Johnson Suleman has said that operatives of the State Security Services (SSS) acted very professional in their dealing with him on Monday, January 30.

Suleman was invited by the secret police for questioning on his comments on the attack by some Fulani herdsmen.

READ ALSO: Apostle Suleman yet to honour DSS 10am invitation

The pastor had in one of his preaching last week, told his church members to kill any herdsman that attacks them or their family members.

However, days after his comment, the SSS made an attempt to arrest the cleric in Ekiti state, an effort which was foiled by the governor of the state Ayodele Fayose.

Following the foiled arrest of Apostle Suleman, the SSS sent an invitation asking the cleric to visit its headquarters in Abuja on Monday, January 30.

Suleman after honoruing the SSS’s invitation in a tweet said: “Just finished with DSS…they were professional.. it’s well.”

READ ALSO: DSS were right to invite me for questioning – Apostle Suleman

He also appreciated all those who stood in solidarity with him during the ordeal with the secret police.

“I appreciate everyone who showed love.still in awe..love you all immensely..may God fight your battles in Jesus name.. still amazed..,” Suleman said.

360naze

Share:

REVEALED: Former governor allegedly behind 2baba’s planned protest

– Investigations have revealed that former Akwa Ibom state governor is the chief sponsor of the proposed nationwide protest to be led by 2baba Idibia.

– The protest is aimed at demanding answers from the government over different issues in the country

– According to 2baba, the protest will hold in February

Former Governor Behind 2face’s Planned Protest

2baba Idibia

Investigations as reported by PM news revealed that former Akwa Ibom state governor is the chief sponsor of the planned massive nationwide protest led by 2baba Idibia.

READ ALSO: Nigerian professor blasts 2face over protest against the FG

The protest which is planned to hold on Sunday, February 5, had generated some controversies with some celebrities supporting 2baba and others against him.

Monday, January 20, a source revealed that 2face was being used as a stooge to drive the protest aimed at smearing the Buhari-led Federal Government.

READ ALSO: Celebrities promise to support 2baba against the Federal Government

Former Governor Behind 2face’s Planned Protest

2baba and Annie Idibia

In 2013, 2face and his wife,Annie Macaulay were gifted two brand new Prado SUVs by this former governor as their wedding gift which they amiably accepted.

Meanwhile, Nigerian professor Akindele Adetoye has come out to blast the singer over his actions calling a bloody illiterate.

360naze

Share:

Riot in Lagos as Hausa man allegedly killed Yoruba driver over N30 (Photos)

– A tribal riot started in Igando, Lagos, after a Hausa man allegedly killed a Yoruba driver

– The duo reportedly fought over N30 ($0.06, black market rate) which led to the death of the driver

– Friends of the deceased took to the street and attacked every Hausa man they could find

Riot started on Monday, January 31, on Mojeed street, Igando Lagos, when a 40-year-old Hausa trader, Ibrahim Adamu, allegedly killed a bus driver, Lekan Adeleke.

Residents and family of the deceased reportedly blocked the street, made bon fire and chased Hausa traders out of the area.

According to a report by ThePunch, trouble started when the deceased had bought noodles worth N230 from the suspect’s son on Sunday, January 29, around 10.30pm.

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

He was reported to have paid N200 and promised to pay the balance of N30 the following day, which did not go down well with the suspect’s son.

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

READ ALSO: Iraq responds Trump, bans US citizens from their country

The son allegedly reported to his father, Adamu, who became angry and attacked the 30-year-old Adeleke with a spiked plank.

The victim reportedly slumped and hit his head against the concrete edge of a gutter in the area.

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

Hausa trader allegedly kills Yoruba driver over N30 in Lagos

A friend of the victim, Kehinde Akinduro, said Adamu had a kiosk where he sold confectioneries, while the son sold noodles beside the kiosk.

He explained that Adeleke had actually paid the balance of N30 to the suspect’s son.

He said: “He was joking with the boy that despite being a customer, he went and reported him to his father. They started abusing each other. At this time, the son was already preparing noodles for me on the instruction of Adeleke.

“The next thing I saw was that Adamu, who was eavesdropping, brought out a spiked plank and hit Adeleke with it. I cautioned him, but he faced me and hit me in the leg. I sustained some injuries.

“When Adeleke saw that he could no longer handle the situation, he took to his heels. But the man followed him and hit him in the head as he tried to jump the gutter. He fell and hit his head against the edge of the gutter.

“When Adamu saw that he had become unconscious, he took him into his kiosk and poured water on his head. He was doing this when a large number of residents stormed the place. When he sighted them, he abandoned the man and took to his heels.”

He said the suspect, speaking in Hausa, asked his son to flee in another direction.

“The boy escaped, but we were able to get Adamu. We called the police and handed him over to them.”

The mob was said to have destroyed Adamu’s kiosk and set it on fire after Adeleke died around 12am on Monday.

The police public relations officer, SP Dolapo Badmos, said investigations were ongoing.

She said: “It was a case of murder. One Adamu used a plank to hit a bus driver, Adeleke, in the head which led to his death. The corpse was deposited in the Mainland General Hospital morgue for autopsy.”

READ ALSO: Oil mogul donates items to less privileged in Abuja and environs

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has explained how it intercepted and seized a massive weapons haul of 661 brand new pump-action rifles in Lagos state.

In a press statement delivered by the Comptroller-General of NCS Hameed Ali at a briefing in Lagos on Monday, January 30, the outfit said the guns were intercepted on Sunday, January 22.

The statement read: “On Sunday 22nd January 2017, the Roving Team of the NCS Federal Operations Unit while on information patrol intercepted a Mack truck with registration number BDG 265 XG conveying a 1x40ft Container with Number: PONU/825914/3along Mile 2 Apapa road.”

360naze

Share:

Saraki, Dogara react to alleged diversion of N630m

– Senate president, Bukola Saraki, describes claims by the CATBAN group that four principal officers of the National Assembly diverted N630m as false

– Saraki says the current leadership of the National Assembly will not be part of any illegal payment to anybody

Saraki, Dogara react to alleged diversion of N630m

Saraki has said there is no truth to the claim by the CATBAN group that that four principal officers of the National Assembly diverted N630m for official accommodation purposes.

Senate president, Bukola Saraki has described a report credited to a group known as Citizen Action to Take Back Nigeria (CATBAN) that the National Assembly leadership collected rent for official accommodation as false.

READ ALSO: Osinbajo, Dogara, Senate leader meet over Budget

Sahara reporters had on Monday, January 30, reported that four principal officers of the National Assembly; including the Senate president, Bukola Saraki; his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu; House of Representatives speaker, Yakubu Dogara; and his deputy, Lasun Yusuf collected the sum of N630m for official accommodation.

But the Senate president in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu on Tuesday, January 31, said though the four presiding officers were legally entitled to official accommodation, they have been living in their personal residences and do not get paid by any Federal Government agency, Daily Post reports.

“There is no truth to the claim by this group. In fact, during the preparation of the budget, the Senate President and Speaker directed the FCDA to remove the 10 billion Naira voted for the construction of their official residence to save cost,” Saraki said.

READ ALSO: You must go! Senators tell Babachir Lawal

The statement said the current leadership of the National Assembly will not be part of any illegal payment to anybody.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State House of Assembly has given the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), 21-day ultimatum to commence investigation into the allegation of N40 billion fraud made against the immediate past governor of the state and minister of mines and steel development, Dr Kayode Fayemi and others, or face legal action, accusing the anti-corruption commission of compromise.

The House of Assembly, in a letter reminding the EFCC of the petition it submitted to the commission on October 27, 2016, said; “should the EFCC fail, refuse and or neglect to act on this petition within 21 days of receipt of this letter of reminder; we shall have no option than to institute legal action against you. Consequently, we shall be asking for an order of mandamus compelling you to perform your duties according to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the EFCC Act 2004.”

360naze

Share:

Popular Posts

Blog Archive