Now I need y’all to help me out here. I really don’t understand what it is with these actors that make them decide they want to go into music. What exactly is wrong with the world today? Why can’t folks just be content with the amount of talent they have been allocated with in life… why do they want to force themselves into different aspects that they are CLEARLY not supposed to be in? When are you guys gonna get it into your brains that it is not gonna work, except… of course, you are Nkem Owoh or Patience Ozorkwo a.k.a Mama G (yea… I know, I was also shocked when I found out that she too had an album) whose albums were more comical than they were professional- totally understandable for their age. I even heard that they are giving Akanchawa a run for his money in the East.drama to Rap RnB could be better
comedians to highlife musicians doing well !hit song I GO CHOP YOUR DOLLAR Nkem Owoh aka Osuoffia
Mama G iyo gwo gwo
omotolas Dance feat rugged man
Jim iyke feat 2Face&Micheal blakson Who am I
Oh… don’t get me wrong; there are a few good eggs whose venture into music was not a wasted effort. I am talking about the likes of Stella Damasus Nzeribe who has a relatively good voice and a fairly good stage presence… nothing to make you go WOW but something to make you get that warm fuzzy feeling on the inside of you. Oh yea… that’s right! Some of y’all don’t know that she has remarried. Well, just keep logging on and I promise to give you an inside scoop on that gist. And of course there are the wanna bes like Omotola Jalade Ekeinde and Genevive Nnaji, both extremely gorgeous women with absolutely NO talent in music. All well and good, they are fantastic when it comes to acting but someone needs to tell them not to quit their day job to go into singing. It is a dead end… period!
9JABOOKSHAKARA TODAY Special Focus (JI) aka Jim Ikechukwu Jim Iyke .He can he become the P-diddy of Naijana wa o where was I going to with all this… (Scratch my head ) Ah yes! Reports have reached us that the talented and handsome actor, James Ikechukwu popularly known as Jim Iyke has been as busy as a bee lately. Why…? Well… apparently, he has put finishing touches to his (eyes rolling) album… yea! You heard me right… HIS ALBUM! Now before some of you ladies get all excited about your favorite actor venturing into music, I think it’s only fair that I remind you that others (actors) have tried and come up with nothing… NADA! ZILCH! Folks like Genevieve, Desmond Elliot, Omotola and the rest of them actors who tried… failed. So I wouldn’t be counting my chickens before they hatch if I were you. I mean, I could be wrong but I rarely am. Now the gist is that our boy Iyke has released his musical video which he spent quite a load of cheddar to shoot in South Africa. It is a video he features Two Face and Micheal Blakson the US based Standup comedian from Ghana. It is really amazing how everyone… and by everyone I mean actors, seems to have hopped onto this band wagon hoping to be the next 9ice or D’banj or Asa out of Nollywood. Yea… like that’s gonna happen. Pff! Iyke seems optimistic though and who could blame him?Now the boy is said to have golden fingers… who said it? I haven’t the foggiest but IT has been said on a few occasions. The boy is currently shuttling between the U.S where he is shooting a new home video. Reports call it a movie but we all know that it is actually a home video. You all know the difference right? Home videos are those really awful stories being played by absolutely untalented actors shot with the same kind of cameras folks use at funerals and oh… lets not forget the ridiculous dialogues and stupid soundtracks… (Head shake) (sigh) Sources say that Iyke’s new movie will have a lot of Hollywood stars… (eyes rolling) in it. Pa..leaseeee… they ought to say that the film has plenty oyinbo waka pass. Hollywood stars? Haba! Yea… I’ll believe that when akamu gets sold in Tesco UK and my man Osita aka Jadon the gangster grows 7feet tall and Nepa functions 24/7 non stop.Anyways, asides his successful career in acting and the non-existent but ‘here’s hoping’ one in music, Iyke is doing extraordinarily well for himself; having recently moved from his 3 bedroom apartment in Ikeja to a palatial mansion in lekki area, near Alpha Beach. The former model and proud owner of a car dealership who hails from Enugu state is showing that he has all it takes to be a typical Ibo man… Nna meeeen! All that’s missing are those trousers they all wear that reach their chests.Iyke has been voted one of ‘the most sought after five’ in Nollywood, as a matter of fact, he has occupied the all important A-list of male actors since the last four years. Yet, the process, rather than tire him out, has seen him rejuvenated and even better in the interpretation of his roles…. Now I stole this paragraph word for word from a local newspaper… you’ll forgive me if I don’t believe a word of it.I do have to say that Jim Iyke has fared better than most of his peers, as a matter of fact; he is, to an extent, a better actor that a good number of the male folks in the industry, even though he is fond of scaring the kids when he enlarges those massive eyes of his when he is in character. Between his and Segun Arinze’s, I don’t know who is better (pls your comment ). He has made a fortune from the acting. That’s right, movies have paid off so well that jim has transported himself from that role seeking, broke dude who just dropped in from Jos in the mid 1990s, to the super star he is today who is completely swimming in cash.Now, Iyke place in Lekki is said to have cost the Nollywood star a whopping N50 million; land, building and all. The duplex is also said to have 10 rooms with imported furnishings and marble works from Italy. Oh… and for all of y’all who have that little devil on your shoulder telling you to plan some kain strong thing for the brother, you will be wasting your time. Iyke’s security gadgets are one of a kind. What do you expect? He is Ibo, dem no dey play with dem money o!The house boasts of a swimming pool to impress the ladies, a well stocked bar for all his drunkard friends, a kitchen that ought to be in vogue homes, a private lounge and den and we must not forget to hype the bedroom. Careful ladies… try not to get a crease in your knickers okay? You know what…? on second thoughts, I am gonna skip this part before some of you ladies get any bright ideas.There is no doubt that lyke has it all. His taste in clothes and cars are impeccable. His wardrobe boasts of different brands of designers and I am not talking about the cheap ones. I mean the really big labels. From shirts to shoes to belts to sunglasses… you would think you were in the best fashion house for men in Naija. Not only does the dark handsome actor have an eye for clothes and cars, he is also a huge collector of accessories- bangles, rings, chains, wristwatches… name it. Bros dey rock jewelry pass woman. At least the lucky lady ought not to be scared about her man picking out her engagement and wedding rings but she should be worried that he wouldn’t rock the engagement ring as part of fashion… if you know what I mean.
Iyke is also an auto freak! He buys them, he drives them and he sells them. His garage looks like a freaking car dealership. Folks barge in, see his cars and make him an offer he can’t refuse. He takes it and then gets a better and more expensive model for himself, all for another friend to come pick it up. Ha! Ibo sense. But this is just like his second habitat because this original ibo boy has an auto sales business which his father manages for him.
Specially adapted and rewritten from various sources contact me for more details or if you have more details.
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akeem's real name is with held .
I am a 34 year old hapily married man with a fantastic wife and 2 kids.
My wife is the greatest, but last night I got tempted into going to a brothel to see what it's like after many of my friends told me that as long as you wear a condom you wont get hiv .
My firends normally call me woman wrapper and We went out clubbing one night i normally go out with my wife but this time she went for one owambe party/
I ended up going with this nice girl and she gave oral sex (unprotected) and then we had full sex. i was quite drunk too.
However the condom broke, I realised this after about 30 seconds and tried to withdraw but she held me back until ejaculation. She got a new condom, I put it on and then I finished.
She says that she has an AIDS test every 3 months and she has not had a test in 4months and must have had sex with over 60 men including students. But I was not sure until A friend of mine got tested positive recently and he flew out of the country for treatment. Rumours are he has slept with all the girls we had met at the party we went .All from Lasu (Lagos state university.) All the guys in my click have run tio take tests but no one is saying anything !
I am a very sad man, I do not understand why I did it and I WISH I could turn back the clock. I am sorry for myself today. I feel guilty as sin and pray to be forgiven.
What are my chances? I want to tell my wife to protect her but she may leave me and if not probably NEVER forgive and trust me again.
We have sex quite regular (without protection) and will know something is wrong if I don't want sex. I really do love her very much. I will NEVER ever do this again! What do I do?
it has been like 2months since and i am afraid to take a test !
Please help this foolish foolish man.
akeem
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PEP is a NGO Public Emlightment Program body
Story Adapted and rewritten from Sunnews online by Cosy Eko and Akin Osunlaja
Prostitution as family business
We have an interesting situation in a place called Amansea where it is family-based business; where you see a man, his wife and children. The husband is the pimp that collects the money and the customer goes in to sleep with the wife or daughters.
We have some of the situations there, in Amansea where they have daughters, 14, 15 years old who ought to be in school, but they engage in sex work. Now, apart from the Amansea situation, to also explain the reality that all of the girls don’t know about sexuality, how to protect themselves, you see some of them getting pregnant, you see some with pregnancy and when they give birth, they keep the children there with them.
So, you can imagine such children, we have another programme for such children. We call them orphans and vulnerable children, so for such children, we are looking for resources to get them out of those environments and put them in school. You can imagine a child watching, growing in such an environment, what kind of adult will that child be tomorrow in the society? So, if government is talking about holistic development in all its ramifications, then we need to target this segment of the society which nobody is talking about. You hear people talking about people with disabilities, widows, orphans, but what about commercial sex workers? So, we need to engage with them, engage with the brothel owners themselves who also can have other sources of income because it is their own source of livelihood and they will not be very happy to lose it.
Worried by the waste promising young girls have become by engaging in commercial sex work due to lack of jobs and financial bankruptcy, a non-governmental organization (NGO), Public Enlightenment Projects (PEP-Nigeria) has called on governments to put commercial sex workers in their development programmes.
PEP which is presently working in some local governments in Anambra State said over 73 of such sex workers spread across five council areas in the state have indicated interest to quit the job if they are offered alternative jobs to do.
Executive Director of PEP, Mrs. Lilian Ezenwa who spoke to Daily Sun in an interview explained that the intervention job her organisation has been doing for sex workers has revealed that they really need help.
One of such revelations was their stumbling into a family where the father of the house was the pimp that collects money from customers before they go in to sleep with his wife or daughters.
She also gave details of the intervention they were able to carry out and areas where they need help from the government and individuals.
Our organisation
Public Enlightenment Projects (PEP) is a non-governmental organisation founded in 1998, but we started working in 2000. We work in areas of HIV/AIDS education, children programme and participation and governance. Our head office is in Owerri, while we have our field office here in Awka. We also have zonal offices in the South-South and North West geo-political zones.
Activities in Anambra
In Anambra, we have been implementing a project called the AIDS Impact Mitigation Project (AIMP). This is a HIV intervention project that focuses directly on commercial sex workers.
What we do is that we go to brothels, we pay advocacy visit to the brothel owners or their managers and the chairladies of the girls themselves. We explain to them about this project on HIV and how we want to be of assistance to them, give them correct information about HIV, how it can be contracted, how they can prevent themselves from contracting it and if any of them is positive, what next to do; that is not the end of life because there are other intervention programmes from which people can get anti-retroviral drugs.
Our findings
Now in Anambra State, we’ve been working in six brothels across some local governments and we have quite some interesting findings. One of it is that most of these girls got to the brothels on a short time measure; either they had pressures, lack of resources, and poverty. Challenges of paying for school fees, continuing education or setting up a trade after learning and somehow, maybe somebody lured them or somebody informed them that oh, come and take up this trade, you will make quick money, good money easily and fast.
But interestingly, from our findings, because we conducted several business surveys with the girls, we asked them questions; how did you get here, everybody tells you their individual stories. From the analysis of the findings we discovered that although it may be easy to move into a brothel, it is not easy to move out.
The brothel system is designed in such a way that when you move in, you don’t move out or you find it difficult to move out. For example, these girls pay their rents on a daily basis; therefore, everyday your first thought is how to raise your rent for the day. And often, most of them are not allowed to cook, they have to buy food from the restaurant in the hotel, they have to put money together for their drugs, they have to put money together for ancillary services, like settling law enforcement agents from harassing them and things like that.
So, you find out that on a daily basis, before they have to make their own money, they must have saved enough to meet these basic services that they get. We also discovered that most of these are young girls in the ages of 18 to 20, 24. Some of them you know came to Awka because they want to go to school, they found out that they don’t get admission somebody promised them. As a half way measure, they tell their parents they are in school, but they are here.
Also, we discovered that if you claim that you are a student and you engage in commercial sex work it increases your economic value. People tend to respect you more, customers have this funny feeling that oh, undergraduates don’t carry HIV or sexually transmitted infections, that they are safe, whereas it’s not the truth
Another interesting finding we had from the field was also the fact that these girls also have dreams and aspirations like most of us. Many of them also want to marry; many of them also want to raise children, good children. If you ask them do they want their children to engage in this work, all of them will say no, they all want better life and a lot of them showed the zeal that if they are assisted, they will leave the trade.
Then another challenge we had was the challenge of information about HIV. Although HIV has been here for a long time and a lot of people know about HIV, we discovered that these girls don’t have the correct information about HIV. Many of them could not differentiate between HIV and AIDS. Many of them cannot even interpret what HIV really is and what AIDS really is, they’ll tell you, oh, they’ve been hearing about it. And you find out that some of their clients go to them, believing that oh, these are professional sex workers, they know about all these issues, they protect themselves very well; whereas in the field, you find out that it is not so.
We also discovered, I think I have said that before that many of them want to leave this trade because it is a very tasking profession, health-wise, emotional-wise, they get abused by the pimps, they get abused by their customers, sometimes, they are raided by the police and their monies are taken away, so it is a dangerous work.
We also asked them a particular question, is there anybody you know who has been in this trade, who went out and has not returned. Quite a lot of them said yes, because they know they also face the risk of even kidnappers or ritual murderers, especially as elections are around the corner. These are girls that if they miss nobody will ask questions, parents don’t know where they are, brothers don’t know where they are, so it is a very risky profession; it’s not the kind of profession that any state that claims to have good plans for its citizens should allow thriving.
Assistance for sex workers
In spite of this, we find out that the short term measures that some of our governments take is not the best, for example, demolition of brothels. Sometimes, you hear that oh, you go to your center where you normally work, the girls have been chased away, the brothel has been demolished, but that doesn’t solve the problem because the girls just go underground and relocate to other brothels.
The answer is not in demolishing of brothels, the answer is in discussing with these girls as human beings who have human rights just as we are doing. Finding out their stories, each of them has a compelling story because they are not the only one that has problems, but how do they get there? And what can be done to get them out if they are interested in moving out.
So, these are the issues that we are raising and we wanted to support 20 per cent of them with equipment grant. Right now, we have 97 per cent signifying interest to leave the sex trade, which means, our equipment grant could not go round. That’s one reason we want to raise additional resources, we want to create awareness about this group. The government has been focusing a lot about women, widows, they are not the only ones who have challenges, these are young girls, they are able-bodied young girls, but because many of them are not well educated, they can’t get good jobs.
Because of also the stigma the society has on them, they can’t come out and tell you to help them. Even for us to work with them, it takes a lot of time for them to build trust on us because initially, they will give you fake names, fake phone numbers because they too are investigating you to know whether we are law enforcement agents, whether we want to arrest them. So, it takes time to build trust between the organization and them and now that we know them and they know us and we know their issues, we are calling on government and other public spirited individuals to come and assist.
The girls we saw
They are not bad girls, most of them didn’t set out to become bad girls, many of them are not enjoying what they are doing. For those who understand Igbo, there is a particular brothel we went to, the second day we got there, one of the girls rushed out of her room, I think she wasn’t around the first time we were there, the second time we were there, she just ran out of her room while we were interviewing others, we were having a focus discussion, she just started shouting, I want to repeat her cry in Igbo,
Desperate CRY FOR HELP“ashawo awuhu oru, onye ga enyere m aka, nyerenu m aka na ashawo awuhu oru” meaning prostitution is no job, anybody that wants to help me should come and help me. You can imagine, she was saying this and she was weeping.
All of us stopped, that is one thing that is pushing me on in looking for resources for these girls. Today, that girl is one of our peer educators because in each brothel, we raise peer educators, we train them on HIV, and we train them on essential life skills.
Essential life skills are things that everybody knows, you don’t need to be a commercial sex worker to know them. Skills like negotiation, communication, self-esteem, because a lot of them, it’s low self-esteem that got them there, conflict management. Today, that lady is one of our peer educators, educating her colleagues about correct and consistent condom use and about the need to migrate from the sex trade to other trades.
Equipment grant
Each time we go to them, we train them every week on different topics around HIV, reproductive health, what is HIV and how you can get it. Condom use, how to put on the condom, why people shouldn’t use condom more than once, they tell you different stories that some of their customers use condom twice, some lubricate condoms with groundnut oil. You may shake your head, but I am telling you real issues and then the condom will burst; the risk on the man if the man is positive. It may not just be HIV, what if he has sexually transmitted infections, or what if the girl has any of the infections, pain relief drugs because of the nature of their job.
Now for those of them who want to migrate from the sex trade, we plan to give 20 per cent of them equipment grant. Because when we were designing the project, of course, we didn’t know how they will receive us, so in our plan, we have 20 per cent to get equipment grant. The equipment grants are not more than N50, 000 each; which means if somebody say she wants to do hair dressing that can get her one dryer and maybe one small generator, the one they call “I pass my neighbour.”
There are a lot of them, but we are not working everywhere, in the areas where we are working is what I can talk about; we don’t have the resources to go to all the brothels in the state. We are working in six brothels in five local governments and in these brothels, we have over 800 people.
The girls who want to quit
We have 73 girls in this state who have signified interest to leave the sex work as soon as they can have alternative sources of income and we don’t have enough resources to go round these 73, so, we are calling on the government, we are calling on public spirited individuals, corporate organizations, religious bodies to come and join hands with us, let’s assist these girls and reintegrate them back into the larger society.
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Ehi Buckler Isibor is a graduate of the University of Benin. Her stroll into limelight was like a miracle as she describes it. She is thankful to mother luck for allowing top Nollywood director, Lancelot Imasuen discover her at the time he did. An opportunity at her first ever movie audition landed a lead role on her laps and thereafter she emerged the star of the movie. She played the role of “Ebuwa”, a Edo language film that exposes the dangers of prostitution, AIDS and the evils of child trafficking.Excerpts.Please introduce yourselfMy name is Ehi Buckler Isibor, I hail from Benin City, Edo State of Nigeria. I graduated from the University of Benin. I am presently plying my trade as an actress.For how long have you been acting?Two years now.Your first cut in acting was the lead role in Lancelot Imasuen's film; “Ebuwa”YesBy your estimation, do you think you did justice to the role?Yes I did.How was that possible, being your first time taking an acting job.I think acting came naturally with me. It is something I was born with. With some perfect tips from the director of the film, it was not difficult for me to deliver.Tell me, what do you think made it possible for you to grab the role, giving the fact that Nollywood is replete with stars that would have fitted better.All I can say is that it was a divine intervention, because in the first place I did not prepare to go for the auditions to select the cast for the film. I and the director ran into ourselves on the streets of Benin and he told me I fitted fine into a role he plans to showcase in his new film. Initially I laughed over it and did not take him serious, because I had never acted before. But coincidentally we met at another place, where my elder sister formerly introduced me to him. He repeated his offer and invited me to come for the auditions and I did. I was surprised that I emerged his choice for the role eventually.What were you doing at the time you met him?I was doing my final year project at the University.What year was that?Last year?Ebuwa was shot last year, was it not?It was.How were you able to cope with the project and at the same time going on location for shooting?The shooting of the film did not disturb the project, because by the time production commenced I had concluded the project.“Ebuwa” is an Edo language film, isn't it?Yes.Would you say that the reason you adapted to the role easily was because it was done in vernacular language.No. The medium of language adopted did not make any difference to me.How many other girls showed up to audition for the role.I did not count, but they were many.Would it be right to say, he merely favoured you by giving you the role?No, I don't think so, besides there was no reasons for me to be given preferential treatment.Maybe you have not observed, I think you are a head turner.(Laughter)Describe your experience during the auditions.When I got to the venue, I was shocked on seeing many people there. Initially I wanted to run away, especially when I realized that everybody present would be expected to read out loud from scripts. I am usually a shy type. But a lady who I met there encouraged me.
Are you still a shy person?Not anymoreWhat has playing the lead role in the film done for you?It personally exposed to me, the dangers of prostitution and the evil of human trafficking. Secondly the film instantly shot me to limelight.Describe your life on campus.I was very friendly, yet some saw me as a difficult person.Were you giving the guys who approached you difficult times?No. But I remember as a young girl, I resisted any attempt by people, especially men to be friendly with me.Did you get the impression they were afraid to approach you?I never thought about it. But why should they be afraid?How do you relate to persons of the opposite sex?I grew up with a lot of boys. I have five brothers and so many cousins. I enjoy good relationship with men. I have a lot of men as friends, but the moment they start saying I love you I get scared.Why?If you start talking love, it becomes difficult for me to be free with you. If I consider you just a friend and you start talking love to me you kill the relationship automatically.excerpted and adpated from citytracker by azuka mordi
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Lawmakers are going for the jugular of Education Minister, Sam Egwu, 48 hours after the Trade Union Congress (TUC) demanded his sack for the shoddy way he has handled the strike by university lecturers.
Members of the House of Representatives crafted a motion on Monday, to be tabled at plenary this week, to probe his alleged spending of N120 million to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary.
All the heads of tertiary institutions who participated in the lavish gig will also be investigated.
The motion, sponsored by Halims Agoda, wants a mandate for the Education Committee to inquire into the sources of the N120 million.
It also wants the Committee to probe the sources of funds "used by university administrators, Provosts of colleges of education, Rectors of polytechnics and heads of parastatals of the ministry of education who attended the wedding anniversary in terms of expenses on transportation, travelling basic allowances, and other logistics, including media coverage, and recommend appropriate action to the House of Representatives."
The motion demands "an immediate and an unconditional public apology from Egwu to university students and their parents and guardians for conducting himself in a manner suggestive of disregard for the current plight of students."
It asked lawmakers to call on President Umaru Yar'Adua to "re-engineer his cabinet in order to give purposeful leadership to the country by cautioning his appointees whose conduct, actions or inactions portend a frontal onslaught on the sensibilities of the Nigerian people."
The motion noted that Egwu ought to proffer immediate and workable solutions to the strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) now threatening the survival of the university system.
It lamented that "without due regard to this basic fundamental of (his) responsibility, (Egwu), in a brazen show of contempt, insensitivity and a breach of acceptable social values, rather than get himself concerned with and involved in getting our universities re-opened, felt that it would serve greater public interest to tell Nigerians that his marriage is 25 years old with lavish celebrations."
Egwu had argued at the weekend that take it or leave it, the government has conceded enough, and shot down further demands by university lecturers who have been on strike since June 22.
Both TUC President General, Peter Esele, and General Secretary, John Kolawole, reacted on Sunday by saying that "the latest utterances from Egwu are a pointer that he is not capable to lead the education sector. We therefore call on the government for his immediate removal or face the wrath of Labour."
The ASUU itself on Monday accused the Federal Government of insincerity, despite its offer of 40 per cent increase in the salary of lecturers.
ASUU National President, Ukachukwu Awuzie, told journalists in Abuja that the lecturers are not in a hurry to end the strike, saying the government has abandoned agreements reached in negotiations.
His words: "You must have also heard the Minister of Labour, Hassan Mohammed Lawal, unilaterally pronouncing dead the ASUU-FG negotiation process that had reached its conclusion stage.
"(Lawal) declared strangely that those academics who left Nigeria for foreign countries did so, not because of lack of attractive conditions of service, but because they did not love their country."
ASUU Chairman at the University of Ibadan (UI), Abiodun Aremu, also accused the government of insincerity, and urged the public not to take Abuja seriously.
''ASUU has only one demand, which is for the government to sign an agreement we both freely reached as far back as last year. It is just engaging in mere propaganda and we are not moved," he said.
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A NEW dimension was added to the armed struggle of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) last Sunday night extended its theatre of battle to Lagos, Nigeria's commercial nerve centre, with an attack on an offloading jetty gantry and Naval base that left about nine people dead and property damaged.Destroyed Receptor pipeline for refined petroleum products at the Atlas Cove Jetty which is responsible for 35% of the nations daily consumption of petroleum products by MENDAn unconfirmed report said three three Naval personnel-an officer and two ratings- as well as six civilians lost their lives.The Guardian gathered that MEND used dynamite in the operation which also left Naval offices shattered and windows smashed.It was also learnt that the incident which occurred at about 8.00 p.m. affected the main manifold of the Atlas Cove jetty gantry used for offloading of imported petroleum products as well as vessel onsite.The militants were said to have come in three speed boats and after about an hour gun battle, they wreaked the havoc on the oil receptor facilities as well as the Naval office at Lagos Naval dockyard.A statement by MEND's spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, said: "A boardroom or creek battle of epic proportion which will either emancipate the Niger Delta from over 50 years of tyranny or subject her to perpetual slavery was flagged off tonight by Hurricane Moses with a plague of warning attacks."Led by a pillar of fire, heavily armed MEND fighters today, Sunday, July 12, 2009 at about 2230 Hrs carried out an unprecedented attack on the Atlas Cove Jetty in Lagos State. The depot and loading tankers moored at the facility are currently on fire."The two-pronged approach of combining dialogue and intensifying attacks throughout the course of negotiations, will be the unique characteristics of Moses."The Aaron team that will be put together after due consultations with stake holders from around the globe, militant commanders and Henry Okah, will present the time framed demands of the Niger Delta region to the President through the Timi Alaibe-led Federal Government of Nigeria delegation."MEND will as usual update the public on the progress being made as well as plagues being delivered."We want to assure our people and well wishers that we will not sell our birth right for a bowl of porridge because we are not committed to anyone but the people of the Niger Delta"The mother of all plagues will be used as a last resort if the Nigerian Pharaohs show stubbornness over reasoning just as Moses did with the plague on the firstborn in ancient Egypt and the Americans with the plague of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki."We sincerely hope for the sake of avoiding a total calamity that Egypt will not harden its heart and the exodus of our people to the promised land can commence as soon as possible."God save Nigeria. God bless the Niger Delta. God bless our Freedom Fighters."Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) officials who visited the scene of the incident yesterday morning told The Guardian that oil operations have been suspended at the Atlas Cove Jetty/Depot as activities for receiving petroleum products have been shifted to Apapa depot."We cannot pump fuel to our other depot now; it is also not possible to receive fuel through Atlas Cove jetty because of destruction to the main mani-fold... we have directed other import vessels to Apapa jetty," an NNPC source said.
The Guardian learnt that one of the security men at the jetty is missing.The NNPC official who spoke on the basis of anonymity said a vessel was discharging fuel into the Atlas Cove Depot when the incident occurred.Speaking with reporters at the scene yesterday, the NNPC's Group Managing Director, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi Barkindo, said that it was unfortunate that militant groups have shifted their activities to the onshore sector of the nation's petroleum industry.He explained that the attack on the NNPC facility would not stall the distribution of petroleum products nationwide, assuring that the corporation has enough stock of products.He said that this was the first time in the history of Atlas Cove that an attack of such a magnitude occurred.He said that the workers of the corporation were moved to Bonny Camp for safety.His words: "Last night at about 11.50 pm, we were contacted in Calabar, where we have converged with our management staff in the management's retreat on the way forward with the industry reforms. And shortly after dinner, we got an alarm call from our colleagues here in Atlas Cove that some unfortunate incident was going on at that time. And of course, we immediately began to get in touch with authorities including the Chief of Naval Staff, the NPA, Lagos State Government and other agencies for them to arrange for a rapid response, first of all, to save lives of our staff who are on duty and other military personnel particularly the Navy, and the security of this facility which is more or less one of the key sources of supply and distribution of petroleum products in the country."Reports reaching us up to the wee hours of this morning were that the staff of NNPC who were on duty were safely evacuated to Bonny Camp Military Mess. No live was lost; we thank God for that. And the fire itself at the facility was finally put off around 4:10 am."Fellow comrades and countrymen, as far as we are concerned, this is the first time that this type of incident has happened in Atlas Cove and its environment. Therefore, literally, almost everybody concerned was taken by a big surprise, because this facility has been secured on 24 hours basis, seven days a week, we have never had any incident. We have had excellent relations with the surrounding community here who have been extremely helpful to us as a corporation. But it is unfortunate that this incident has happened. I therefore would like to use this opportunity to condole (with) our Chief of Naval Staff for the loss of his gallant personnel."In his own remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Ishaya Ibrahim, said that the attack was a surprise to him, pledging that security at the jetty would be strengthened to protect the facility.He noted that the oil and gas sector was the economic energy of the nation, stressing that the militants should graciously receive the amnesty offered to them by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.Ibrahim, however, said the Navy lost two men.The leader of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc Vessel team that put out the fire yesterday, Captain Geofrey Boukoru, told The Guardian that five burnt bodies were found at the scene.He explained that the attackers may have over-powered the securitymen at the depot and gained access to the place adding that his team were able to control the fire.The captain said his men arrived at the scene at 10pm about two hours after the attack.Also commenting after assessing the damage yesterday, the Executive Secretary, Major Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr.Obafemi Lawore, described the development has several implications for the petroleum downstream activities and the economy as a whole.According to him, with this attack getting foreign vessel to bring fuel imported by either the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and MOMAN will be difficult adding that this may also affect adequate fuel supply to domestic markets saying he would not be surprise if Nigeria would not go through lingering scarcity before the situation is stabilised.Lawore disclosed that MOMAN will seek a meeting of key stakeholders in fuel distribution including NNPC,depot owners and the government to design measures aimed at safe guarding oil/depot facilities in Apapa area of Lagos.Also speaking yesterday,Managing Director and Chief Executive of Capital Oil and Gas company limited Mr.Ifeanyi Patrick Ubah said the development does not augur well for private depot owners operation in the area.Ubah said there will be urgent need for the private depot owners and other stakeholders to meet and adopt security measures to check unforseen incidents around their depots or oil facilities.Atlas Cove located on Takwa Bay area of Lagos hosts the foremost oil receptor and depot for all imported fuel into the country as well as products from the refineries meant for South West market including parts of North Central of the country.The Atlas Cove jetty is the hub of NNPC distribution network tagged system 2E which supplies products through pipeline network to NNPC's depots in Ejigbo, Mosimi in Ogun , Ibadan in Oyo State and Ilorin in Kwara State.The 2E distribution network also connects Ore depot in Ondo State."We are aware of the attack on the Atlas Cove Jetty but the details are still sketchy. But we must say that the MEND has exaggerated in its statement," a naval spokesman, Captain Henry Babalola, told AFP."We have heard of the attack but we are trying to get facts surrounding it," Lagos State police spokesman, Frank Mba was quoted to have said.The violence has forced Royal Dutch Shell, U.S. oil company Chevron and Italy's Agip to shut in crude oil production estimated at over 1.3million barrels per day.Within Shell operations alone,MEND attacked the EA field in February 2006 which has capacity for 115,000 barrels per day. In June 2008 Bonga offshore facility was attacked ,the Offshore vessel has capacity for 225,000 barrels production and can store two million barrels of oil.Other attacks on Shell operations include Utorogu-Ups trunk line in January 2009,Amukpe-Rapele manifold also in January,Trans-Escravos-Forcados River manifold in February,Trans-Forcados Pipeline(Chanomi Creek) manifold and Trans Ramos Pipeline both in June 2009.Chevron and Agip have also had their own share of the attacks.President Umaru Yar'Adua has offered a 60-day amnesty programme to militants and criminals in hope of restoring peace to the region.
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He is the Ramsey Nouah of Ghana movie industry. In fact it is being said that he has displaced our dear Ramsey on marketers’ most-sought-after list since he made incursion into Nollywood.He is the face of Ghana movie industry and unarguably the most recognized world wide. So, if Van Vicker is in the news, Ghana movie is.Van was in the news penultimate week. He was reported to have fainted on a movie location, but in response to Sunday Sun enquiries, the fair-skinned actor cried out that the report was false. “I think it’s necessary I make this public statement because ever since the paper went to town with the unsubstantiated news I’ve been receiving numerous texts and calls from fans wishing me well. I do appreciate all that, but I want to make it clear that the report is false. I did not faint on location. I am hale and hearty. My fans should not worry”Van just returned from the United States of America and would be heading to South Africa with other Glo Ambassadors to shoot series of commercials.After that, Van will be attending a film school and would be away from Nollywood for a month. “my goal is to improve my acting and film making skills, and network in the film industry in America.”Fans of Van can catch up with him on What’s New magazine on Dana airplane.Dark-skinned and sultry Nollywood actress, Uche Elendu, has changed her name. She will now be known as Uche Elendu-Igweanyiba."I'm Mrs. Uche Elendu-Igweanyiba and please don't even call the Miss when my husband is around because he would not like it," she giggled when Klieglights approached her for an interview.For a young lady who has had so many male and female fans in the last eight years, after the father of her friend, actor Larry Koldsweat, introduced her to the world of make-believe, how has she been able to cope as a married actress?"Well, when I'm on set, I'm an actress and when I return home I become a mother of an eight-month-old and a wife to my darling husband. I've been able to distinguish the two so as to be able to fulfil my obligations adequately."So, when I'm on set, I sincerely do all I can and forget that I'm a mother or wife but when I'm at home, I'm the wife and mother," she quipped.Unknown to many, Uche had met and fallen in love with her businessman hubby while at the top of her career. So how are the male fans behaving?"My hubby was actually a fan and he understands what it takes for fans to pester you. I'm a celebrated actress and I expect fans, men and ladies, to want to talk to me but I know how to draw the line because I'm married and I don't engage in extra marital affairs."The man I married is my number one fan and he knew me through my movies and started talking to me and after sometime, I decided to give him a chance and that was it. He is my kind of man and till date he watches my films," Uche said.But some films, which Uche starred in as a lead act might have warranted questions and bad blood from her husband as a result of the kissing and romance on set. So, how does her he react to this?
>>whosonline<<"My husband understands my job because he knows what I do and as such, he loves me unconditionally. And since I got married to him, I don't think I have noticed anything different in his reaction when he is watching my movies, he's just cool and okay. Even if he doesn't like it, he has never for once shown it in words or actions. So, I believe he understands my job and flows with it," was her response.Known to have distinctively made her mark despite the crowded movie industry-with female stars rising every now and then-Uche strongly believes that her breakthrough was as a result of God's love and her ability to interpret roles efficiently.In her words: "Well, I would say God and my ability to interpret, roles gave me the break. If you know my story into Nollywood, you would know that I only went to drop something for my friend when her father and a colleague asked me to try out a role and because I was not camera shy and just myself, I was able to do what they required and that was it. I stopped along the line because I had to complete my education and then my father wasn't in full support. I came back fully after I finished my education in 2004 and since then, it's been a sweet story all the way."Speaking further on her ability to interpret roles and win the heart of fans worldwide, the mother of one, who readily boasts that she's back to reclaim her fame called to mind some of the toughest roles she has had to play."When it comes to interpretation of roles, I'm always able to be as diligent as possible because I know this is what I love doing and what I have always craved for, so, I do my films very well."The one I would say was tough was on the location, which took us through the bushes.It was so tough adapting to the bush and the village setting but I was able to interpret my role to the best of my knowledge and delight of the director. Another was when I had to play the role of a witch goddess in Last Occultic, it was quite tough," Uche reminisced.Uche, whose luscious lips have stood her out on the set of many a movie, once had a crush on a dashing young man and family friend."I once had a crush when I was still very little, it was on a neighbour and family friend. He's now grown though and all that is gone."But then he never really got to know about the crush because I was just crazy over him and anytime he walked pass, I went crazy."We are friends now but when I see him, I wonder why I was so crazy about him then. It's so crazy back then and even now, he doesn't know," she recalledCharles Novia is a movie producer and acclaimed scriptwriter. His name, at different times, conjurs brilliance, controversies and achievements in Nollywood.In his kitty are Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) - sponsored blockbuster, Covenant Church, Missing Angel and Caught in the Middle among others.A usually cool and unassuming but very professional producer, who is responsible for the success of some players in the Nigerian movie industry like Desmond Elliot, Empress Njamah and Grace Amah, is doing new things.In this interview with Gbenga Bada, he spoke on issues ranging from his reality TV show Majek Fashek, who is on his music label, November Records, here in Nigeria.Is it true that you have struck a bond with Majek Fashek despite all that is going on in his life?He is the most misunderstood person. People think he is crazy and that he is on drugs. I want to get the story of Majek Fashek out to the people. Many people don't know that Majek Fashek is just one man that never dies and has so much to give. He's like our own hero, who has placed Nigeria on the world map and those things I see in him can never be discouraged by what people say about him. People don't just understand who and what that man stands for. Majek should be celebrated and treated as a hero, somebody somewhere has to be there for him and that is why I have taken it upon myself to do this. He might have his own downfalls but for me, he is a magnificent musician, who would continue to serenade people with good music if given the opportunities. He would always fall like a human and rise again unlike some of the people we have around. All he needs is love from everyone. We are going to show all that in a movie, which will be shot on celluloid.Why have you decided to be on the sidewalk of Nollywood?I take my time these days. I'm an advocate of Nollywood's achievement but I think we have lost direction because we've allowed stupid interest, especially from the marketers to override genuine business intentions. These so-called marketers started the industry, invested in the industry but they are also killing the industry. The reputation of storylines and the over usage of actors have made people less enthusiastic about us. The buying public is weary; they are tired of seeing the same storyline and the same faces. I don't have anything against these actors, but I think the so-called big actors are overused. No Nigerian actor can stand to say I've done 500 movies that are outstanding. It is only two to three movies they've done that are outstanding. Now, several people who belong to the middle class are now in the league of millions of people who go to Silverbird Galleria to get the worth for their money.Is this the reason for your venture into reality TV show?Yes, because these are the ones who will take over the industry because their taste is high. These people need to see new and fresh ideas, new storylines, new faces, new talents, and new breakthroughs in cinematography. It is not about shooting the movie in 10 days but it's about getting the right distribution outlet and getting people to appreciate those talents. For me, we are on the look out for new faces, new talents, fresh and talented people who are hungry to do what they are passionate about and love. We need new people, new faces, new movies.You are known to have always gotten new stars from your movies, why trying to make a reality TV show instead of making a movie?Over the years I have always been hardworking and I bring out talents. I could remember when I was young, I had so much talent but there was no one to encourage me the way I wanted it to be. When I grew up, I found out that those opportunities are still there and I decided to take them up as a challenge. I see a lot of people out there everyday and they just don't know how to get into the pool where their talents can be refined to something that could attract the public. I thought of a way of helping these people, and that has given birth to this reality TV show, which is tagged Charles Novia Screen Test.How would you describe your reality TV show?Well, it's another one coming from Charles Novia. It's not an easy thing and I know ideas are all over the world with no particular one original. But this is needed to help resuscitate the dying state of Nollywood. The reality TV show would have people that have natural dramatic instincts in them coming out and showing themselves in a dramatic forms and a realistic series and that is why I call it a 'dramality' show. It would not be right at this point to compare or say why it is going to be different but one thing that I'm certain about is the ability and competence of my production outfit to do something different. In this state, you would be seeing Charles Novia in all forms of nomenclature. I would be giving these young lads a platform, training and opportunity, which they would remember and cherish in several years to come. I want to look at myself and be confident to say that guy or lady signing an endorsement came to professionalism as a result of my help and push or that the person is my protËgË.Is it all about doing a show or what really is the essence for you?Without being fictitious, we might have like two million Nigerians or less, who are willing and are aspiring to become the next big thing in Nollywood but they don't have the chance, so if I can get just 25 people to train, I know in the next two or three years, those 25 would also impact directly or indirectly on the ambition of some other people. I have found out that the Nollywood we have today is all comedy, there is no more arts in the profession and what I'm trying to do is bring back the art into the job. The public is already complaining about the videos and now people have to go back and get their acts together in order to help them give the people worth for their money. Now everyone is waiting for the next blockbuster; this would not be possible without good production and getting their art right. The actors and actresses have to be new on the scene. That's what I'm looking out for. They must also be talented; that's a factor. At the end of the day, we should all look forward to a fresh generation of talents, who will be box office hits in Nollywood in a matter of time.How are you planning to fund the project yourself because there are speculations that you don't have any sponsor at the moment?What is actually required to stage such a reality TV show involves $1 million and that is equivalent to over N100 million, and, at the moment I've not got a dime. We've got no sponsors and if I tell you that what we need to actualise this project is several millions of naira, you would wonder what I'm talking about, but this is just what it is. For those who have always known me, whatever I set my mind to, I do and I'm set to ensure that I do this and impact on the lives of those that would be affected and also make the dreams of some people come true. This is because they truly have the talent and over the years, with the talents I have been able to discover, I can tell you that this would reveal more talents who would make blockbusters in Nigeria.How do you distinguish those with the love of the art from those who are just in it for the fun?Training is what separates the men from the boys. I've heard some of them say, 'I am talented, I don't need to go to acting school.' That is all crap. Even in Hollywood people still go for drama lessons. But here, everybody thinks he can act. To see more of these, let's see people who would go to the National Theatre and do a stage play, which has all the intrigues and tricks of who really is a good actor or actress.Why do you think people always write you off and sometimes think you are nuts?People always write me off saying I have nothing to offer again but each time I come out with something they can't stop talking about it. God is the one that dictates what I do. I'm an entertainment entrepreneur right now. I'm involved in a school on movie making, it is known as Novia Academy for Cinematography and Dramatic Acts. The students are some people that would emerge from the reality TV show and together make a good movie with all the 25 budding actors and actresses.Next week the FULL expose on Barbara Okojie aka barbara machel Actress turned " London club girl !"Read more…
The NHS is telling school pupils they have a 'right' to an enjoyable sex life and that it is good for their health.
A Health Service leaflet says experts concentrate too much on the need for safe sex and loving relationships, and not enough on the pleasure it can bring.
But family campaigners last night condemned the guidance, saying it encouraged underage sex and could increase rates of sexually-transmitted diseases.
Under the heading 'an orgasm a day keeps the doctor away', the leaflet says: 'Health promotion experts advocate five portions of fruit and veg a day and 30 minutes physical activity three times a week. What about sex or masturbation twice a week?'
The advice, which also claims regular sex is good for cardiovascular health, has been circulated to parents, teachers and youth workers.
It came to light just a week after it emerged that teenagers who took part in a £6million Government initiative to reduce teenage pregnancies were more than twice as likely to fall pregnant as other girls.
The scheme tried to persuade girls not to get pregnant by handing out condoms and teaching them about sex.
The NHS leaflet has been drawn up by Sheffield primary care trust and is entitled Pleasure.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1199132/NHS-recommends-pupils-orgasm-day-reduce-risk-heart-attack-stroke.html#ixzz0LAP6ylMx&D
Its author, Steve Slack, director of the Centre for HIV and Sexual Health at NHS Sheffield, defended it by saying the advice could encourage young people to delay losing their virginity until they are sure they will enjoy the experience.
He added that as long as teenagers are fully informed about sex and making decisions free of peer pressure as part of a caring relationship, they have as much right as an adult to a good sex life.
Anthony Seldon
Anthony Seldon, master of Wellington College, said the NHS's approach was 'deplorable'
But Anthony Seldon, master of Wellington College, Berkshire, who introduced classes in emotional well-being at the public school, described the approach as 'deplorable'.
Dr Trevor Stammers, of the pressure group Family and Youth Concern, said the leaflet would encourage 'risky' behaviour and an increase in sexually transmitted diseases.
'It is unbelievable that this is being sent to schools', he said.
'I'd like to know what scientific evidence there is to back this up. There are an awful lot of overpaid and under-occupied health promotion officers around who are obsessed with sex.'
He added that inciting underage sex was 'nothing less than encouraging child abuse'.
'If the NHS wants to promote a healthy heart, as it says it does in this leaflet, it should put the money into reducing smoking and alcohol,' he said. 'Underage sex is as dangerous as underage drink and usually leads to sexual ill-health.'
About 40,000 teenagers become pregnant every year in the UK - the highest level in western Europe. More than half end in abortion.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1199132/NHS-recommends-pupils-orgasm-day-reduce-risk-heart-attack-stroke.html#ixzz0LAOx9sLD&D
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In Aba, the commercial nerve centre of Abia State, the situation is becoming one day one trouble. In the city, bad tales are everywhere and people are living in fear: The fear of kidnappers and armed robbers. Also, there is the fear of the vigilance group in the city, the Bakassi Boys, which is now the terror in the city.Governor OrjiIndeed, in Aba, the fear of Bakassi Boys is now the beginning of wisdom.People are arrested by supposed operatives of the vigilance group, tortured and even killed. People who are going home in the night are at the risk of being killed. And dead bodies now litter the streets.sources gathered that Bakassi Boys, who claim to be ridding the city of criminals, are on the prowl again. Like in the time past, when Bakassi Boys terrorized Abia, to the extent that the police high command took action against the group, terror has returned. Criminals are being killed by Bakassi Boys as well as innocent people.One commercial driver painted the picture of what is going on in Aba. He said that the bodies of victims of Bakassi Boys assaulted the sensibilities of residents.He said: “Last week, we came to work to see the bodies of two young men whose throats were slashed like goats and their bodies dumped near the road at York Street. We later heard that the boys were caught by Bakassi Boys smoking Indian hemp and killed. They were killed in the most cruel and barbaric way. Their throats were slit as goats and their bodies dumped in the street.”Indeed, some residents say they can no longer differentiate between the real and fake Bakassi Boys as well as other killers. These days, people are abducted in broad day light by men who claim to be Bakassi Boys only to be found the following day stone dead in a street corner. Others are also snatched by criminals.Recently, in the Ogbor Hill area of Aba, a child was abducted from a church, during service, by unknown persons and the little boy’s body was found two days later with all his vital organs gone.Residents told sources that people are now using Bakassi Boys to settle scores. It was gathered that when people have squabbles, they invite operatives of the group. Also, people now use the vigilance group operatives to collect debts, wherein the debtor is arrested, tortured and stands the risk of being killed.However, there is also the fear of kidnappers and sundry criminals in Aba. It is common, in Aba, for kidnappers to abduct their victims in the day and at night and thereafter demand ransom. In the city, kidnapping is big business. The big time kidnappers go after rich and influential people and draw huge ransom. The small or local kidnappers go for children of their neighbours and demand ransom as little as N10,000.The police in Abia State police, with all their efforts, seem to be scratching the back of the problem. Bakassi Boys and criminals do not fear the police. They operate freely without resistance. In the last couple of days, the police suffered several casualties in the hands of unknown killers in Aba.The Abia State Commander of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mrs. Florence Dan Archibong, brought a new angle to the menace. She said that the use of drugs had led to upsurge in violent crimes, such as armed robbery and kidnapping.“Cocaine and heroin have become common drugs of abuse with arrests and seizure recorded everywhere in and outside the metropolis. New drug joints are springing up, where criminal activities are planned, perfected and executed. Some streets in Aba, such as York and Park roads have become a no-go area for decent law abiding residents of Aba, as unscrupulous miscreants have turned them into ghettos and haven for hard drugs,” she said.Mrs. Archibong said that criminals take these drugs in whatever form only to go out and unleash terror on innocent people.Incidentally, this is not what it used to be in Aba. In the time past, Aba and its residents were known for courage. Then residents of Aba would rise up in unison to end anything they consider bad. It was the days of men of valour.Now, times have changed. Fear now rules the commercial city and its residents. Gone are the days when men walk the streets of Aba, with safety in mind. Gone are the days when men leave their homes and tell their families to expect them. Insecurity has taken over the town, to the extent that anyone who goes out and comes back safely offers special prayers to God.In Aba, gun shots boom day and night. It’s either that dare-devils are striking or that security agents and vigilance groups are responding. Whichever one it is, there are always casualties. Dead bodies litter the streets and nobody explains what happens.This life of fear was not there in Aba until 2000. Decades ago, Aba was a place of fun. It was a city where people enjoyed themselves. Then Aba residents followed fashion, they wore clothes that were in vogue and attended disco parties. Such hotels as Ambassador and Unicoco, among many others, hosted live bands, which played till dawn and fun seekers paraded the streets in the night without fear. In these hotels, The Apostle, Sweet Breeze, Cloud 7, The Wings, entertained people.
At that time, Aba never tolerated crimes and evil. Criminals got instant justice. And the mob did not forgive.Today, things have changed. Aba is now the centre of crimes. Residents have been cowed by criminals that nobody dares say anything about an obvious wrong. Indeed, the fear that has enveloped Aba residents is like a thick darkness and it makes men and women jittery. It is the type of fear that made shoe makers of Aba to form a vigilance group called Bakassi Boys, to flush out those who were molesting their customers, especially those from neighbouring West African countries. It is the type of fear that made Onitsha people of the 1970s to rise up in an operation tagged boys oye, which enabled them to flush out bad eggs among them.
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A man walks into the front door of a bar. He is obviously drunk. he staggers up to the bar, seats himself on a stool, and with a belch, asks the bartender for a drink.The bartender politely informs the man that it appears that he has already had plenty to drink--he could not be served additional liquor at this bar but could get a cab called for him.The drunk is briefly surprised then softly scoffs, grumbles, climbs down off the bar stool, and staggers out the front door.A few minutes later, the same drunk stumbles in the side door of the bar. He wobbles up to the bar and hollers for a drink. The bartender comes over, and still politely--but more firmly refuses service to the man due to his inebriation. Again, the bartender offers to call a cab for him.The drunk looks at the bartender for a moment angrily, curses, and shows himself out the side door, all the while grumbling and shaking his head.A few minutes later, the same drunk bursts in through the back door of the bar. He plops himself up on a bar stool, gathers his wits, and belligerently orders a drink.The bartender comes over and emphatically reminds the man that he is clearly drunk, will be served no drinks, and either a cab or the police will be called immediately.The surprised drunk looks at the bartender and in hopeless anguish, cries "Man! How many bars do you work at?"
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You are in love with Tommy,Because his last name is Hilfiger,But behind closed doors, Tommy,Is calling you a n*gger,But you could care less,Because you have been taught to dress to impress,If I ask you about your true history,You would have to look on the back of your jeans and Guess,You come up in the club wearing Versace,Clothes made by a homosexual male,So even when you say you are straight,It is very hard to tell,And for footwear, you wear Timberlands,Even under the sun,That same tree that's the symbol for them,Could have been the same one your ancestors were hung from,I cannot forget Nautica,When was the last memory you have of ships,Coming to North America in s hackles, Being beaten over the back with whips,And to my beautiful black queens,Whose creative womb has become barren,I am confused because your face says Nefertiti,But your sweater reads Donna Karen,When was the last time you saw Liz Claiborne,Conversing with black women,But as soon as her name is printed on a purse,To Macy's you quickly go, running,Ralph Lauren doesn't even look at black men,Unless they are driving him around town,But as soon as that slave master appears on the back of a horse,You put whatever you have picked up down,My people reclaim your status in this world and in your life,F.U.B...U. in case you didn't know, stands for ( For Us By Us),Buying black will someday suffice,Do you k now who owns Timberland fashion?Well, Timberland is owned by the president of the KKK,Surprised ? Don't be.Read more books black people,Always hope for the best and prepare for the worst,You may not get what you pay for,But you'll surely pay for what you get.~ Maya Angelou ~
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Good morning. It is an honor for me to be in Accra, and to speak to the representatives of the people of Ghana. I am deeply grateful for the welcome that I've received, as are Michelle, Malia and Sasha Obama. Ghana's history is rich, the ties between our two countries are strong, and I am proud that this is my first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as President of the United States.
I am speaking to you at the end of a long trip. I began in Russia, for a Summit between two great powers. I traveled to Italy, for a meeting of the world's leading economies. And I have come here, to Ghana, for a simple reason: the 21st century will be shaped by what happens not just in Rome or Moscow or Washington, but by what happens in Accra as well.
This is the simple truth of a time when the boundaries between people are overwhelmed by our connections. Your prosperity can expand America's. Your health and security can contribute to the world's. And the strength of your democracy can help advance human rights for people everywhere.
So I do not see the countries and peoples of Africa as a world apart; I see Africa as a fundamental part of our interconnected world — as partners with America on behalf of the future that we want for all our children. That partnership must be grounded in mutual responsibility, and that is what I want to speak with you about today.
We must start from the simple premise that Africa's future is up to Africans.
I say this knowing full well the tragic past that has sometimes haunted this part of the world. I have the blood of Africa within me, and my family's own story encompasses both the tragedies and triumphs of the larger African story.
My grandfather was a cook for the British in Kenya, and though he was a respected elder in his village, his employers called him "boy" for much of his life. He was on the periphery of Kenya's liberation struggles, but he was still imprisoned briefly during repressive times. In his life, colonialism wasn't simply the creation of unnatural borders or unfair terms of trade — it was something experienced personally, day after day, year after year.
My father grew up herding goats in a tiny village, an impossible distance away from the American universities where he would come to get an education. He came of age at an extraordinary moment of promise for Africa. The struggles of his own father's generation were giving birth to new nations, beginning right here in Ghana. Africans were educating and asserting themselves in new ways. History was on the move.
But despite the progress that has been made — and there has been considerable progress in parts of Africa — we also know that much of that promise has yet to be fulfilled. Countries like Kenya, which had a per capita economy larger than South Korea's when I was born, have been badly outpaced. Disease and conflict have ravaged parts of the African continent. In many places, the hope of my father's generation gave way to cynicism, even despair.
It is easy to point fingers, and to pin the blame for these problems on others. Yes, a colonial map that made little sense bred conflict, and the West has often approached Africa as a patron, rather than a partner. But the West is not responsible for the destruction of the Zimbabwean economy over the last decade, or wars in which children are enlisted as combatants. In my father's life, it was partly tribalism and patronage in an independent Kenya that for a long stretch derailed his career, and we know that this kind of corruption is a daily fact of life for far too many.
Of course, we also know that is not the whole story. Here in Ghana, you show us a face of Africa that is too often overlooked by a world that sees only tragedy or the need for charity. The people of Ghana have worked hard to put democracy on a firmer footing, with peaceful transfers of power even in the wake of closely contested elections. And with improved governance and an emerging civil society, Ghana's economy has shown impressive rates of growth.
This progress may lack the drama of the 20th century's liberation struggles, but make no mistake: it will ultimately be more significant. For just as it is important to emerge from the control of another nation, it is even more important to build one's own.
So I believe that this moment is just as promising for Ghana — and for Africa — as the moment when my father came of age and new nations were being born. This is a new moment of promise. Only this time, we have learned that it will not be giants like Nkrumah and Kenyatta who will determine Africa's future. Instead, it will be you — the men and women in Ghana's Parliament, and the people you represent. Above all, it will be the young people — brimming with talent and energy and hope — who can claim the future that so many in my father's generation never found.
To realize that promise, we must first recognize a fundamental truth that you have given life to in Ghana: development depends upon good governance. That is the ingredient which has been missing in far too many places, for far too long. That is the change that can unlock Africa's potential. And that is a responsibility that can only be met by Africans.
As for America and the West, our commitment must be measured by more than just the dollars we spend. I have pledged substantial increases in our foreign assistance, which is in Africa's interest and America's. But the true sign of success is not whether we are a source of aid that helps people scrape by — it is whether we are partners in building the capacity for transformational change.
This mutual responsibility must be the foundation of our partnership. And today, I will focus on four areas that are critical to the future of Africa and the entire developing world: democracy; opportunity; health; and the peaceful resolution of conflict.
First, we must support strong and sustainable democratic governments.
As I said in Cairo, each nation gives life to democracy in its own way, and in line with its own traditions. But history offers a clear verdict: governments that respect the will of their own people are more prosperous, more stable and more successful than governments that do not.
This is about more than holding elections — it's also about what happens between them. Repression takes many forms, and too many nations are plagued by problems that condemn their people to poverty. No country is going to create wealth if its leaders exploit the economy to enrich themselves, or police can be bought off by drug traffickers. No business wants to invest in a place where the government skims 20 percent off the top, or the head of the port authority is corrupt. No person wants to live in a society where the rule of law gives way to the rule of brutality and bribery. That is not democracy, that is tyranny, and now is the time for it to end.
In the 21st century, capable, reliable and transparent institutions are the key to success — strong parliaments and honest police forces; independent judges and journalists; a vibrant private sector and civil society. Those are the things that give life to democracy, because that is what matters in peoples' lives.
Time and again, Ghanaians have chosen Constitutional rule over autocracy, and shown a democratic spirit that allows the energy of your people to break through. We see that in leaders who accept defeat graciously, and victors who resist calls to wield power against the opposition. We see that spirit in courageous journalists like Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who risked his life to report the truth. We see it in police like Patience Quaye, who helped prosecute the first human trafficker in Ghana. We see it in the young people who are speaking up against patronage and participating in the political process.
Across Africa, we have seen countless examples of people taking control of their destiny and making change from the bottom up. We saw it in Kenya, where civil society and business came together to help stop postelection violence. We saw it in South Africa, where over three quarters of the country voted in the recent election — the fourth since the end of apartheid. We saw it in Zimbabwe, where the Election Support Network braved brutal repression to stand up for the principle that a person's vote is their sacred right.
Make no mistake: history is on the side of these brave Africans and not with those who use coups or change Constitutions to stay in power. Africa doesn't need strongmen, it needs strong institutions.
America will not seek to impose any system of government on any other nation — the essential truth of democracy is that each nation determines its own destiny. What we will do is increase assistance for responsible individuals and institutions, with a focus on supporting good governance — on parliaments, which check abuses of power and ensure that opposition voices are heard; on the rule of law, which ensures the equal administration of justice; on civic participation, so that young people get involved; and on concrete solutions to corruption like forensic accounting, automating services, strengthening hot lines and protecting whistle-blowers to advance transparency and accountability.
As we provide this support, I have directed my administration to give greater attention to corruption in our human rights report. People everywhere should have the right to start a business or get an education without paying a bribe. We have a responsibility to support those who act responsibly and to isolate those who don't, and that is exactly what America will do.
This leads directly to our second area of partnership — supporting development that provides opportunity for more people.
With better governance, I have no doubt that Africa holds the promise of a broader base for prosperity. The continent is rich in natural resources. And from cell phone entrepreneurs to small farmers, Africans have shown the capacity and commitment to create their own opportunities. But old habits must also be broken. Dependence on commodities — or on a single export — concentrates wealth in the hands of the few and leaves people too vulnerable to downturns.
In Ghana, for instance, oil brings great opportunities, and you have been responsible in preparing for new revenue. But as so many Ghanaians know, oil cannot simply become the new cocoa. From South Korea to Singapore, history shows that countries thrive when they invest in their people and infrastructure; when they promote multiple export industries, develop a skilled work force and create space for small and medium-sized businesses that create jobs.
As Africans reach for this promise, America will be more responsible in extending our hand. By cutting costs that go to Western consultants and administration, we will put more resources in the hands of those who need it, while training people to do more for themselves. That is why our $3.5 billion food security initiative is focused on new methods and technologies for farmers — not simply sending American producers or goods to Africa. Aid is not an end in itself. The purpose of foreign assistance must be creating the conditions where it is no longer needed.
America can also do more to promote trade and investment. Wealthy nations must open our doors to goods and services from Africa in a meaningful way. And where there is good governance, we can broaden prosperity through public-private partnerships that invest in better roads and electricity; capacity-building that trains people to grow a business; and financial services that reach poor and rural areas. This is also in our own interest — for if people are lifted out of poverty and wealth is created in Africa, new markets will open for our own goods.
One area that holds out both undeniable peril and extraordinary promise is energy. Africa gives off less greenhouse gas than any other part of the world, but it is the most threatened by climate change. A warming planet will spread disease, shrink water resources and deplete crops, creating conditions that produce more famine and conflict. All of us — particularly the developed world — have a responsibility to slow these trends — through mitigation, and by changing the way that we use energy. But we can also work with Africans to turn this crisis into opportunity.
Together, we can partner on behalf of our planet and prosperity and help countries increase access to power while skipping the dirtier phase of development. Across Africa, there is bountiful wind and solar power; geothermal energy and bio-fuels. From the Rift Valley to the North African deserts; from the Western coast to South Africa's crops — Africa's boundless natural gifts can generate its own power, while exporting profitable, clean energy abroad.
These steps are about more than growth numbers on a balance sheet. They're about whether a young person with an education can get a job that supports a family; a farmer can transfer their goods to the market; or an entrepreneur with a good idea can start a business. It's about the dignity of work. Its about the opportunity that must exist for Africans in the 21st century.
Just as governance is vital to opportunity, it is also critical to the third area that I will talk about — strengthening public health.
In recent years, enormous progress has been made in parts of Africa. Far more people are living productively with HIV/AIDS, and getting the drugs they need. But too many still die from diseases that shouldn't kill them. When children are being killed because of a mosquito bite, and mothers are dying in childbirth, then we know that more progress must be made.
Yet because of incentives — often provided by donor nations — many African doctors and nurses understandably go overseas, or work for programs that focus on a single disease. This creates gaps in primary care and basic prevention. Meanwhile, individual Africans also have to make responsible choices that prevent the spread of disease, while promoting public health in their communities and countries.
Across Africa, we see examples of people tackling these problems. In Nigeria, an interfaith effort of Christians and Muslims has set an example of cooperation to confront malaria. Here in Ghana and across Africa, we see innovative ideas for filling gaps in care — for instance, through E-Health initiatives that allow doctors in big cities to support those in small towns.
America will support these efforts through a comprehensive, global health strategy. Because in the 21st century, we are called to act by our conscience and our common interest. When a child dies of a preventable illness in Accra, that diminishes us everywhere. And when disease goes unchecked in any corner of the world, we know that it can spread across oceans and continents.
That is why my administration has committed $63 billion to meet these challenges. Building on the strong efforts of President Bush, we will carry forward the fight against HIV/AIDS. We will pursue the goal of ending deaths from malaria and tuberculosis, and eradicating polio. We will fight neglected tropical disease. And we won't confront illnesses in isolation — we will invest in public health systems that promote wellness and focus on the health of mothers and children.
As we partner on behalf of a healthier future, we must also stop the destruction that comes not from illness, but from human beings — and so the final area that I will address is conflict.
Now let me be clear: Africa is not the crude caricature of a continent at war. But for far too many Africans, conflict is a part of life, as constant as the sun. There are wars over land and wars over resources. And it is still far too easy for those without conscience to manipulate whole communities into fighting among faiths and tribes.
These conflicts are a millstone around Africa's neck. We all have many identities — of tribe and ethnicity; of religion and nationality. But defining oneself in opposition to someone who belongs to a different tribe, or who worships a different prophet, has no place in the 21st century. Africa's diversity should be a source of strength, not a cause for division. We are all God's children. We all share common aspirations — to live in peace and security; to access education and opportunity; to love our families, our communities, and our faith. That is our common humanity.
That is why we must stand up to inhumanity in our midst. It is never justifiable to target innocents in the name of ideology. It is the death sentence of a society to force children to kill in wars. It is the ultimate mark of criminality and cowardice to condemn women to relentless and systematic rape. We must bear witness to the value of every child in Darfur and the dignity of every woman in Congo. No faith or culture should condone the outrages against them. All of us must strive for the peace and security necessary for progress.
Africans are standing up for this future. Here, too, Ghana is helping to point the way forward. Ghanaians should take pride in your contributions to peacekeeping from Congo to Liberia to Lebanon, and in your efforts to resist the scourge of the drug trade. We welcome the steps that are being taken by organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS to better resolve conflicts, keep the peace, and support those in need. And we encourage the vision of a strong, regional security architecture that can bring effective, transnational force to bear when needed.
America has a responsibility to advance this vision, not just with words, but with support that strengthens African capacity. When there is genocide in Darfur or terrorists in Somalia, these are not simply African problems — they are global security challenges, and they demand a global response. That is why we stand ready to partner through diplomacy, technical assistance, and logistical support, and will stand behind efforts to hold war criminals accountable. And let me be clear: our Africa Command is focused not on establishing a foothold in the continent, but on confronting these common challenges to advance the security of America, Africa and the world.
In Moscow, I spoke of the need for an international system where the universal rights of human beings are respected, and violations of those rights are opposed. That must include a commitment to support those who resolve conflicts peacefully, to sanction and stop those who don't, and to help those who have suffered. But ultimately, it will be vibrant democracies like Botswana and Ghana which roll back the causes of conflict, and advance the frontiers of peace and prosperity.
As I said earlier, Africa's future is up to Africans.
The people of Africa are ready to claim that future. In my country, African-Americans — including so many recent immigrants — have thrived in every sector of society. We have done so despite a difficult past, and we have drawn strength from our African heritage. With strong institutions and a strong will, I know that Africans can live their dreams in Nairobi and Lagos; in Kigali and Kinshasa; in Harare and right here in Accra.
Fifty-two years ago, the eyes of the world were on Ghana. And a young preacher named Martin Luther King traveled here, to Accra, to watch the Union Jack come down and the Ghanaian flag go up. This was before the march on Washington or the success of the civil rights movement in my country. Dr. King was asked how he felt while watching the birth of a nation. And he said: "It renews my conviction in the ultimate triumph of justice."
Now, that triumph must be won once more, and it must be won by you. And I am particularly speaking to the young people. In places like Ghana, you make up over half of the population. Here is what you must know: the world will be what you make of it.
You have the power to hold your leaders accountable and to build institutions that serve the people. You can serve in your communities and harness your energy and education to create new wealth and build new connections to the world. You can conquer disease, end conflicts and make change from the bottom up. You can do that. Yes you can. Because in this moment, history is on the move.
But these things can only be done if you take responsibility for your future. It won't be easy. It will take time and effort. There will be suffering and setbacks. But I can promise you this: America will be with you. As a partner. As a friend. Opportunity won't come from any other place, though — it must come from the decisions that you make, the things that you do, and the hope that you hold in your hearts.
Freedom is your inheritance. Now, it is your responsibility to build upon freedom's foundation. And if you do, we will look back years from now to places like Accra and say that this was the time when the promise was realized — this was the moment when prosperity was forged; pain was overcome; and a new era of progress began. This can be the time when we witness the triumph of justice once more. Thank you.
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Emmanuel Majebi, Vanguard Law and Human Rights contributor, recently had a sour taste of Lagos robbers, when he was attacked at the Central Business District, Alausa. He recount his experience in this piece.
A few months back the Lagos State Government launched the onslaught on insecurity that pervaded Lagos with much fanfare. Corporate bodies fell over one another to donate brand new patrol vans and other sundry equipments to the Nigerian Police and we heard that the Lagos government was going to augment the salaries of officers and men posted to Lagos in order to buoy their efficiency.
For crime wary Lagosians, we thought that as far as security was concerned “uhuru” had come. In fact the government was so sure of what it had put on ground as far as security was concerned that they had the confidence to order a dismantling of all street gates in Lagos.
The argument of the government was that the Police in Lagos had been so well equipped and motivated that even if your naeighborhood was attacked by hoodlums the Police are just a phone call away thus there was no need for street gates.
For a Police Force that is not under the command of the Lagos government I thought it was rather ambitious to make such immediate and sweeping changes; which for all intents and purposes amounted to disarming the populace; based on the untested expectations that the force would live to expectations at all times?
Even though I had my doubts about the street gates dismantlement policy; I was so sure that with the numerous vehicle and motorcycle patrols the mayhem unleashed on motorists on the Lagos highways over the years was going to be a thing of the past.
All my confidence in the security network in Lagos fell apart like a pack of cards on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 when I was attacked by some daredevil armed robbers by about 7am in the heart of the Lagos state Administrative and Central Business District-Alausa.
It is a shock that I may never recover from. If anyone had told me that with all the security fanfare that had been going on in Lagos in the past few months robbers could freely operate in Alausa in broad day light I would say such person was probably insane. The greatest tragedy of the whole episode was that I was with my son. I was going to drop him in school in the morning when this incidence occurred.
Ever since I became a self employed professional I had vowed to make up for lost time with my kids. During my ten year sojourn on the corporate world I had virtually lost touch with the kids. I woke up and left for the office before they were up and arrived back home when they were fast asleep. In my son’s 6 year sojourn in primary school I never attended one single parent-teacher association meeting. My wife was always the one to go.
I was thoroughly embarrassed one day when I attended one parent - teacher meeting at my kids school and I got a standing ovation for attending for the first time after over 6 years!! Any way now that I was self employed I vowed that that was all over.
I vowed to drop the kids in school everyday except I had a court session or important morning meeting or I was out of town. I also tried to get home most days before they sleep and discuss the day with them before they slept. On this fateful day I was going to drop my son in school and as we approached the traffic lights on Obafemi
Awolowo Way by Oregun Junction the lights turned red.
There were about 6 cars in front of me (in 2 lanes of 3 cars each). In the twinkle of an eye 3 motorcycles with 6 riders zoomed past our cars and stopped just by the traffic light.
The passengers disembarked whilst the 3 motorcycles speed off. My alarm bells immediately started ringing; the guys looked rough and drugged. My immediate instinct was to put the car in reverse and get out of the there. But I looked into the back mirror and some cars had lined up behind me . They 3 daredevils rush to me and their leader stood right in front of me and drew out an ugly and threatening locally made pistol.
He quickly came to my side and demanded that I wind down the side glass. I obeyed keeping an eye to see if the cars in front of me would move so I could make a getaway! He was getting irritated with my slow moves towards compliance. My head was racing like a stop watch as I began to look around for an escape route. My only problem was my son! Anything I was to do should take him into consideration.
I finally concluded that there was no way out so I brought out my E75 Nokia phone thinking they were one of these phone robbers but the guy simply ignored the phone and shouted “go to the back”.
These guys really meant business they weren’t your run of the mill petty traffic robbers but diehards who wanted more than just mobile phones. For a while I was confused and did not act as fast as he wanted; he aimed a slap for my face which I dodged. I then went into the back seat through the divide between the drivers seat and the front passenger seat and I dragged my son to the back with me as they commanded.
The one with the gun quickly took over the steering, the second one entered the back passenger seat behind the driver whilst the 3rd robber walked towards the back right seat in an attempt to sandwich myself and my son at the back whilst they got away with the car. As he approached I got a brain wave; I suddenly opened the door with all the force I could muster and the door slammed on the one coming in and h
e fell.
My move surprised them and I seized the moment I dashed out and dragged my son with me. Luckily enough my son was rather smart and rose well to the occasion. As soon as we got out I pushed my son in front and shouted “run” I ran after him but as I turned round to see if the robbers were chasing us I stumbled and fell. As I feel to the ground I saw the robbers speed away with my car.
But that was just the beginning of my woes. A Toyota Prado jeep which was behind my car during the robbery, while in a frantic effort to get away from the scene climbed the kerb near where I had fallen and drove partially over my leg.
I felt the pressure of the car tyre on my leg and said to myself “God… my leg is gone… The bystanders began to pound on the jeep and scream “ Stop …..stop….. somebody is under your car”. He stopped but rather that wait for the onlookers to drag me our from under his jeep, he reversed; again partially over my leg and then zoomed off.
Some people are so callous. I heard the bystanders curse him and call him a murderer but I guess he was just pleased to have been able to save his beloved jeep even if in meant crushing a fellow human being to death. Shame on him wherever he is today and I hope he gets to read this piece.
The Police men were later to ask me if I got down the plate number of this murderous jeep; but of course that was an impossibility in the condition I found myself. That I did not suffer even a dislocation from the tires of the jeep running over my leg, not to talk of a fracture is to me the “Miracle of the Year”.
If anyone says that there is no God that person must be stark raving mad! On 24th day of June 2009 I saw first hand; once again; the hand of God in my life. Since this occurrence I now look at life in a different light. Life is so fickle. You are here a moment bubbling with life then the next you could be gone like a vapour.
I always try to put the thought out of my mind any time it comes but often times I cant help but thinking; what if I fell headlong under the jeep? The man would have simply crushed my head and saved his jeep? God is great.
The fact that robbers could operate so openly in the broad day light so close to the seat of government shows that as far as security in Lagos (and the rest of Nigeria I daresay) is concerned it is not yet uhuru. A lot of work still needs to be done for Lagosians to feel safe in this mega city.
There is a resurgence from the Criminals all over Lagos and the government needs to redouble it’s efforts. Even as I write this on my sick bed; a few days after my own experience; a friend who came visiting just witnessed a car jacking at gun point at Opebi in broad day light.
Any keen observer would realize that the hours between 5a.m and 8a.m in the mornings there is virtually a total absence of police men on the streets of Lagos. That is the period that these hoodlums use to harass and maim Lagosians.
A city like Lagos ought to be Policed 24 hours round the clock? Special attention should be given to traffic light locations and areas were there are traffic jams. These have become veritable spots for these hoodlums to operate and terrorise harpless Lagosians. Places like Alausa or Opebi are supposed to be areas where no robber should dare tread. I shiver to think what would be happening in the suburbs, especially now that there are no street gates?
And I never really knew how wide spread these robbery occurrences were until I began to tell my friends about my own experience. It turns out that most of those I talked to had experienced or known of someone who had similar incidences in the very recent past.
I cannot end this piece without putting on record the gallant assistance I received from the DPO and men of the Alausa Police station. They were simply magnificent in spite of the glaring inadequate equipments and daunting conditions under which they operate. They quickly mobilized and in no time my car was recovered from where the robbers abandoned it and they assisted me to get to a hospital quickly.
The incidence only reiterates my belief that our Police could be super efficient if they get the right tools and the proper motivation. I am still trying to give my son adequate therapy: it a gruesome experience for a 12 year old. It is sad to imagine the kind of experiences we are raising our kids with?
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LAGOS — A THIRTY- NINE-year-old school headmaster identified as Umana Inuanam is presently cooling his heels at the Kirirkiri Minimum Prison, Lagos for allegedly raping a nine-year-old primary five pupil of his school.
The pupil who was identified by her father, Mr. Monday Oritsej, as Damilola attended Meoka Nursery and Primary School, Ishefun, Ayobo where she was allegedly defiled by the suspect at about 5.00 p.m in the school library. The action, it was learnt, took place when other pupils had gone home.
Source said the suspect had told the little girl to wait behind that he had some chocolate for her in the library after school hours. The unsuspecting girl, it was gather, waited patiently for her teacher only to be dragged to a large table in the library and raped with a warning never to tell her parents.
However, sources hinted further that after the girl got home, her father discovered that his daughter was walking with some difficulty and demanded an explaination. She later narrated how she was lured into the school library by her headmaster and had canal knoeledge of her.
The angry father reportedly rushed to Ayobo police station where he laid a complaint against the headmaster who was promptly arrested. He was later arraigned and charged with defilement.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Frank Mba, who confirmed the arrest said the suspect confessed to the crime, adding, however, that the suspect claimed he had sex with the girl with her consent and not rape.
Whatever stance one has taken on the credibility of TB Joshua, the famous (or infamous?) pastor of The Synagogue Church of All Nation’s in Lagos, Nigeria – one fact remains indisputable, his is an incredible journey shrouded in mystery and being written in history. Joshua is easily the most vilified pastor in Africa, yet by far the most sought after. He is the hope of multitudes and yet the headache of religious bodies, who have vehemently disowned him but can’t seem to ignore him. It is a living drama being watched world over, as time’s steady course continues its revealing discourse on truth and authenticity. But what is it about TB Joshua that has actually engendered such outright denunciation and renunciation by his fellow labourers in the vineyard?
Upon perusal of the apparent grouses and grudges of the Pentecostal Leaders of Nigeria against the enigma and personality of Prophet TB Joshua, high up on the list is the issue of his mentorship. “Where was he when he was called to ministry? Who are the men of God who can point at him, that we raised him into ministry, laid hands on him and sent him forth into the ministry?” says Paul Adefarasin, the charismatic founder of House of the Rock, Lagos. “We don't know Joshua's Pastor; we don't know where he was raised from. He has no testimony from where he got born again. So, we cannot accept that he is one of us… There is no proof of his salvation,” explains Matthew Ashimolowo, the prosperity preacher and founder of KICC in London. “There are only two questions Ayo Oritsejafor (President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria) asked us to ask Joshua or anybody who comes from him: When were you born again? Which church did he attend and who was his pastor or mentor?” fumes Bishop Abraham Olaleye, a vice chairman of PFN. “Who were his contemporaries when he gave his life to Christ? What led to his confession of Christ? How did it happen? Where was he baptised? Who baptised him? Who are his pastors? Where did he train? Who is the Paul of his Timothy?” asks Bola Akin-John, a Pentecostal church growth expert.
That miracles and commendable charitable works are happening in his church is attested to by almost all, but such leaders can’t seem to fathom how a man so mightily gifted could have attained such a level without human tutorship and training. As such cannot be explained by the logic and lectures of theological training, they readily write him off as demonic and diabolic. Surely, a man of God of such stature and status could not just spring up without the approval and appraisal of some top-notch Christian leaders? Thus, they have proclaimed to all willing to listen that anyone who associates with TB Joshua does so to their own folly, be him a president or pauper, simply because they have adopted a strong position without investigating its foundational validity.
However, the phenomenon of men being used by the Almighty without human tutelage is not isolated to the instance of Pastor TB Joshua. Thorough biblical exploration would reveal many of God’s generals with no record or register of human mentorship. Who was the mentor of Jeremiah, who the Bible says God called right from his mother’s womb? Who was the mentor of John the Baptist, sent from above to prepare the way for the Saviour? Who was the mentor of Apostle Paul, who was blinded on the road to Damascus while intent on the destruction of Christians, subsequently to become a leading figure in New Testament Christianity? What about Moses, Elijah or King David? Human backing and tuition are clearly not a qualification for divine assignments.
What then is the premise for church leaders today to demand proof of mentorship as a seal of apostleship? Can this assertion be attributed to the application of biblical principles, or to personal misgivings and prejudice? Why has the Nigerian Pentecostal church chosen to adopt a stance on a particular person that contradicts and conflicts with scriptural authority and experience? It appears to be a case of addressing private qualms and jealousies under the guise of Christian comradeship and censorship, misguiding and incensing millions of followers against TB Joshua and projecting the image of a warring and divided church in the process.
The current president of PFN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor has consistently remained one of Joshua’s most vocal critics, even expelling any PFN members who attempt to fraternise with him. He makes his stand known clearly on the pulpit and in the pages of newspapers: “T.B. Joshua is not a Christian. If T.B. Joshua can show me his pastor who pastored him before he said he was called into the ministry; if T.B. Joshua can tell me when he got converted and how he got converted, then we would consider him.”
Yet, T.B. Joshua’s own website recounts the extraordinary tale of his calling into the ministry, available for all to read and dissect: “I was in a trance for three consecutive days, then I saw a hand that pointed a Bible to my heart and the Bible entered my heart and my former heart seemed to immerse with the Bible immediately… I heard a voice saying, “I am your God; I am giving you a divine commission to go and carry out the work of the Heavenly Father… I would show you the wonderful ways I would reveal myself through you, in teaching, preaching, miracles, signs and wonders for the salvation of souls”. So, is it a crime for God to call one for His service without consulting certain people or meeting certain manmade criteria? Are we mere mortals in a position to query God’s wisdom and ways?
Chiji Okafor, the celebrated Nigerian columnist and artist, wrote of such a disposition and demeanour: “It is amazing that anybody who lays claim to being a pastor of God should be talking about mentoring in matters of the faith as if talking about some rookie artisan being shepherded into 'freedom' from his master's workshop. Such drivel simply speaks volumes of the man who utters it. It reveals the depth of vulgarity to which our 'modern' men of God have allowed the gospel of Jesus Christ to sink.
“Anybody who boasts in God's vineyard about his mentor and such other inane subjects as earthly endowments has simply not imbibed the lessons of Christ's personal life. Jesus Christ the Son of God could have been born a prince, if He so chose. On the contrary, God made man, decided to come into this world, the son of a wretched carpenter born in, of all places, a manger and side-by-side animals! He had neither an earthly mentor, nor did the Bible tell us that He had doctorate degrees in sacred theology and dogmatic philosophy.
“In His divine wisdom, God chooses whom He crowns king and decides whom He endows with any gift He likes – and we all have our different gifts. Anybody who challenges this wisdom of God Almighty blasphemes against Him, by querying His authority. So, why would God choose a humble, even innocent, or bucolic Temitope Balogun Joshua for the enormous anointing he has received? Why didn't He pick one of those blue-blooded, Oxford-trained peers of the realm?”
Bolu-Olu Esho, a journalist with The Sun Newspaper further wrote on the issue: “Pastor T.B Joshua has a simple background that could tempt one to ask questions about how he achieved the feat he’s known for today. But minds of history would be at ease, as they would consider him as another manifestation of the mystery assigned to God Almighty. The question of academics in the work of God is inconsequential, as God does not consider this as a criterion for choosing people for His work…The stance of these ministers of God against Pastor Joshua makes one question how versed they are in the Word of God. Is it not written in the Bible that God used the foolish things of this world to confound the wise?”
Clearly, the question our revered gentlemen should ask is not, ‘Who is your mentor?’ but ‘By what authority are you acting?’ in conjunction with the biblical standard: ‘By their fruits, you shall know them.’ The attributes and qualities a person possesses speak volumes of their source of strength. The steadfast consistency, prophetic insight, charitable disposition, healing gifting, practical teaching, heavenly wisdom and childlike simplicity of T.B. Joshua cannot possibly be the product of illusion, sorcery or man’s acumen. The testimony of Ghana’s new head, Prof. Atta Mills, alone is enough to confirm the genuineness and greatness of Joshua’s ministry and calling. Has history ever heard of a sitting president visit a church and publically testify that the pastor accurately predicted the outcome and specific details of the election to him? His testimony echoes the tens of thousands who rush to Joshua’s church on a weekly basis to receive a touch from God.
Sadly, the gap between the accusers and the accused is ever widening as many leading pastors in Nigeria are becoming more embroiled in the pursuit of money and material gain than the essence of Christ’s gospel and work. Kingdom business seems more like worldly business, with pastors making headlines for expensive acquisitions, lavish living and political speeches as opposed to solving problems, meeting needs and changing lives. Ilobi Austin, a catholic in faith, wrote, “While God is ordering his (T.B. Joshua’s) counterparts to acquire more automobiles and in some cases, private jets with cost in the billion bracket, the same God is asking him to love humanity like himself and consequently, improve their earthly and heavenly fortunes. He is today, father to the fatherless, mother to the motherless, friend to the friendless and government to the government-less. Little wonder then, that the good Lord magnanimously found him worthy for the arduous task of delivering his people from the vice grip of the devil. Such powers in the hands of such ministers, who have made the criticism of his ministries their pastime, would have seen deliverance going to the highest bidders.”
So what has TB Joshua to say on all this? Here is his own response when asked about his non-admission into PFN in a recent interview with The Sun: “As a point of correction, I never applied to be a member of any association. Okay? Two, the way and manner God executes His plan in our lives differ. Some He brought them from this direction, some from another direction. Some He allowed to go to Theology school, some He allowed them to go to the university and they may not even go to Theology school. Some, they may not even go to school at all. Yet they would become whatever God wants them to become. There is a university of God – and in the University of God, however brilliant you may be, you will not be given double promotion – you must take every course, because each course serves a purpose.”
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According to details received, Michael Jackson’s will states that if Katherine died before him or couldn’t serve as his children’s guardian,Diana Ross would be nominated to care for them.The will leaves everything to the Michael Jackson Family Trust, stating, “I give my entire estate to the Trustee or Trustees...”In other news Ola Ray, remember her? ?She was Michaels "girlfriend" in the Thriller videoNot only did she sue Michael last month for royalties from the thriller video. She made an appearance in front of her home in Sacramento saying how sad she is that she has lost her “HERO”.
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Heavyweight music producer was not born with a silverspoon,He actually grew up in Ajegunle worshipping at Cherubim and Seraphim church.After second school,Don JazzyHe went on to Ambrosse Alli University but had to drop out as a result of financial issues. Don Jazzy had to sell bean cake (akara) for his mom in Ajegunle and had to become a bus conductor to feed his family.The Most sought after producer never left Nigeria for London for pursue an education. An uncle of his asked him to come play instrumentals for a church in London and after spending sometime in London,he never thought of returning to Nigeria until D’banj persuaded him to, a move that can’t be said to be regretted as today the soft spoken producer seats as the President of one of Nigeria’s most promising and fledging record label,Mo Hits Records.PRODUCER DBANJS THE ENTERTAINER ALBUM1. BackgroundThe Entertainer was named referring to D'banj's skills as an entertainer some of the songs for the album however, were already getting radio play before the album was officially released this increased the public demand for the album2. ReceptionThe album met great reception throughout Africa but performed best Ghana and his home country of Nigeria. The tracks like "Mo Gbono Feli Feli", "Igwe" and "Suddenly" had a huge influence throughout African Clubs3. Track listing# Title Producer(s) Time 1 "Mo Gbona Feli Feli]" D'banj and Don Jazzy 4:18 2 "Kimon" D'banj and Don Jazzy 3 "Celebrate Ft. Wande Coal" D'banj and Don Jazzy 3:55 4 "Olorun Maje" D'banj and Don Jazzy 5 "Suddenley" D'banj and Don Jazzy 3:34 6 "Fall In Love" D'banj and Don Jazzy 4:03 7 "Gbelo Gbelo Ft. Special Kid" D'banj and Don Jazzy 8 "Igwe (D'banj)" D'banj and Don Jazzy 3:50 9 "If I Dey Crase Ft. K-Switch" D'banj and Don Jazzy 10 "Entertainer" D'banj and Don Jazzy 2:26Categories: Orphaned articles from February 2009, All orphaned articles, 2008 albums, Rhythm and blues albums
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Nollywood actresses, Rita Dominic and Genevieve Nnaji are said to be at dagger drawn over a London based lover called Christopher Obukwelu. This former broadcaster with the MINAJ TV, we gathered , is the brain behind the enmity between these top stars in Nigeria's make- believe industry called Nollywood.As the story goes, Rita and Chris were said to have dated years back. While the romance lasted, Rita’s colleagues tried to snatch the handsome dude from her but her defence was as strong as mount Gibraltar. As you are reading this, there seem to be this strong affinity between the celebrated Nollywood actress, Genevieve and Chris. This new development is said to be bothering Rita whose relationship with Chris hit the rocks a while ago.Why Rita is embittered about the whole scenario is that Genevieve could stoop that low to date her ex. Meanwhile Information at our disposal reveals that Rita and Genevieve are not on speaking term because of Chris. We shall update you as event unfolds.
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Despite pulling off seemingly impossible ventures in the past – bringing the top musical talents in the world to Nigeria to perform on one stage - the THISDAY Group surpassed itself by convincing R.Kelly to suppress his much-publicized phobia for flying and take his first trip to Africa. R.Kelly rarely tours outside the US and when he did travel to the UK eight years ago to perform at the MOBO Awards, he travelled by sea.However, he performed at the ARISE African Fashion Show in Johannesburg and went to Sun City then Cape Town for the THISDAY Music Festival. Today, he would be at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island to perform for the cream of Lagos Society. The tickets are prohibitive, ranging from 100 to 250k! It better be worth it.Ten in the evening and the venue is abuzz but we can’t go in because the stage isn’t ready. It says 8p.m. on the ticket but this na Naija… we have to chill at the lounge/bar of the Hotel. I’m an observer…got to stay sober. Rising Hip-Hop act, Ajuju walks in with his team. Godwin Tom, MI’s manager says hello. He’s here to lay the groundwork for his artist’s act.I cannot recollect ever seeing this many beautiful women at once… fly chicks, gorgeous ladies; all dressed to murder.Then its 11:15 and we can go in. The gig is outside. The venue is a temporary construction on the lawn. Not sure what to call this…Maybe a large tent would do. You can feel the red carpet embrace your feet through your shoes. Then I was brought out of my reverie by the flashing lights. “Rain,” my brain tells me in milliseconds as I wait for the thunder claps. All I hear are camera clicks. What!? This many flashbulbs? This is blinding! My snug grey suit comforts me. I feel picture perfect.Inside are tables laid in white, seating between six and twelve guests. A hundred tables would be a conservative estimate and they were filling up fast. O boy! …and there is supposed to be a recession. Basket Mouth makes a similar remark. Keke and D1 of Kennis Music are seated on the table ahead; D’banj, Wande Coal, Don Jazzy and the rest of the Mo Hits crew including new recruit, Ikechukwu are to the left.James Ibori is in the building too, although very far ahead. …something to do with some VIPs being more equal than others (apologies George Orwell). Maiden Ibru, Olisa Adibua, Sound Sultan…The smell of food being warmed is really distracting. …and the pop of champagne bottles.The overhead lights keep the confines of the tent well lit; it is almost excessive, like the temperature which borders on freezing. However, there was a reminder that we were still in Nigeria: The quite audible hum of the whatever-size generator outside. Good thing there is a fedora perched on my head. Yizu, the Ethiopian princess, remarks that I look like an Italian assassin. I feel lucky; it’s serving the dual-purpose of shielding my eyes and keeping my head warm.Basket Mouth is doing a good job keeping us entertained while the engineers work on whatever it is they are still working on. It’s past twelve now. The MC mentions it is Segun(?) Agbaje’s (DMD GTB) birthday. Who cares? …Okay, just kidding.Dinner is served. I go through the menu and settle for Roast Potatoes and Mexican Beef Salad. …shouldn’t exceed this glass of champagne. I’m an observer…will need to stay sober. Basket Mouth keeps dissing anyone in sight. “No be by grab for this country o,” he tells a well-built engineer who insists he shouldn’t get on stage, “na as your pocket grab.” And he’s really taking out the Deltans in the house. They don’t feel comfortable seated next to the numerous expatriates at the show, he claims. “Their body dey itch,” he says. “Dem dey find u dem go kidnap.”In the same breath he apologizes to Ibori, a prominent Delta citizen. “Na joke I dey joke o! I get plane to catch tomorrow.” That surely is a dig at the ex-governor who was accused of making a plane disappear in mid-air. R.Kelly wasn’t out of bounds either. “Wetin convince Robot (or Robert?) make him fly? Na recession?”The MC practically challenges Wande Coal to sing without instruments because, well…the engineers. He, along with D’Banj kept the audience enthralled for a while. Then D’Banj gets angry and says they are leaving. Why, he wonders, should we be kept waiting by a foreign act while the local ones are disrespected. “If na my show una for don waka,” he says. As how now? And lose your 250k? No way. He probably got a free ticket as an artist…Okay, okay, he has a point. But apparently it’s not R.Kelly’s fault. He has been around – backstage for awhile – but sound-check was taking so long.Then less than five minutes after the Mo Hits crew walk out, the chairman of the THISDAY Group, Nduka “The Duke” Obiagbena, comes on stage. “For those who didn’t believe this was possible, those that say R.Kelly doesn’t fly, this is your answer,” he says.I’m half-expecting to see R.Kelly fly in… then the lights go out. Some seconds later only the ones on stage come on. R.Kelly appears with his mic; to a large roar…no, screams rather. It’s like magic. He has a full complement of live instruments. The drums, the pianos the guitars…his back-up singers – two women (one white) and a guy… This is what live means!He kicks off with Hell Yeah, I’m Fucking You Tonight, We Clubbing and a couple more. But he isn’t impressed with the response. “Isn’t this Nigeria? I can’t hear you. Where I’m from we party hard after getting alcohol in our systems,” he says.O boy, this na Naija. Na big man full here. Especially when you consider the ticket prices.He tries again; Your Body’s Calling, I Wish, Bump ‘n’ Grind, Twelve Play… “I can come back if you like. Should I go?” he asks. For where? No way.“All the sexy ladies in the house come out front. But if you’re with your man don’t come…I’m warning you!” he says. Suddenly the hall is divided in two. Ladies first…guys behind.He tries once more with Strip for You and The Zoo… then the foundations of the construction start to shake. Probably from the piercing screams. Men, these girls no send again o!R.Kelly promises to perform most of the songs he has recorded. As time goes on, the reality of just how many songs this guy has hits you. Ignition, Snake, Fiesta, Slow Wind, Gigolo… This guy is really the King of R&B. No doubt.He’s free-styling now. About a Nigerian girl following him to America. “If you have your passport ready,” he sings, “You can follow me to America.” Meeeehn! Do women actually go around with passports in their bags? Come and see passports o! Plenty passports in the air!
This place is seriously grooving now. The men have caught the bug fully. I guess Gigolo set it off. It certainly did for me. And R ‘n’ B Thug. The songs keep coming…Down Low, Feeling on Your Booty, You Remind me of Something, If I Could Turn Back the Hands of Time, When a Woman’s Fed Up… God!Just can’t seem to get enough. This guy knows how to work a crowd. The lights above the audience are back on, right about the time he belts out Step In the Name of Love. Everyone is dancing in earnest. R’Kelly checks his watch. I check mine. It’s 3 in the morning. The lights seem to be the cue that the performance is ending. Oh no!But he’s not done yet. He’s singing Happy People. This is a spot-on description of the mood in the house. Then he takes a bow, while the instruments continue. He had performed for close to two hours. He was the only performer on the night. But was it worth the gate fee? You betcha! Everyone is cheerful. The VIPs, the VVIPs, the VVV… you get the drift.I have to concur: There can be no R&B without the R…
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Though, a lot of criticisms has been raised against "THE KING OF POP STAR"
, but he remains greatest forever. Even after his death, everywhere
around the world people are devastated and nobody can believe that this
sudden death happened.Many reports has been published about his death,
many rumor has been carried on air with different analysis.
But the only fact that we believe is that Michael is dead which bring a
big sorrow to us the MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY. And we
say........... "MICHAEL YOU WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER !!"
Michael Jackson was a true humanitarian, an example to us all. He has
devoted much time and money to a wide range of charities. He loves
children
and takes time out when touring secretly visiting sick children.
He also has special rooms at his home Never land for sick and terminally
ill children to stay over. He was listed in the 2000 edition of the
Guinness
Book Of World Records for breaking the world record for the "Most
Charities Supported By a Pop Star".
We therefore use these medium to seek the support and donations from
everyone and all fans of MICHAEL JACKSON to assist the sick, motherless
and the orphans in the Michael Jackson's organization. We do this, because
this is the way Michael would have wanted and to keep his good work
moving.
We will publish this in face book group the amounts collected, and also we
will publish this officially in local newspapers.So no amount is too small
for
Michael who has changed a lot of life's during his life time.You can send
your donations to us via money gram/western union to our information
below;
WEST AFRICA MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY
Receiver Name : Mrs Joan Adun
Adress: 6 zulos close Abuja
Country: west africa
dr.clemm.song@live.com
visite the website http://www.allmichaeljackson.com/heal-the-world.html
Receipt of your donation will be mail to you as soon as we receive your
donation confirmation, you are to reply us with your contact information's
and the reference number of your donation from the money gram/western
union.
YOUR NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
OCCUPATIONS:
Money gram/Western Union MTCN#:
test question :
Reply With All The details To dr.clemm.song@live.com R.I.P Michael, we
love you !!
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