- A National Assembly committee has suggested a 180-days suspension for Senator Ovie Omo-Agege

- The committee in its report indicted the Senator of his alleged involvement in the stealing of mace from the National Assembly

- According to the committee, Senator Omo-Agege should also be prosecuted

A joint ad-hoc committee of the National Assembly has recommended a 180-days suspension for the Senator representing Delta Central senatorial district, Ovie Omo-Agege.

The committee led by Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah and Betty Apiafi also called for the prosecution of Omo-Agege over the incident of an alleged mace theft by the Senator from the Senate on April 18.

The Nation reports that Omo-Agege was indicted of his culpability in the stealing of the Senate's mace by some hoodlums who invaded the National Assembly.

READ ALSO: Oshiomhole came late, we are leaving APC - Shehu Sani warns

A source close to the committee said the panel may be basing its recommendation on relevant potions of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017.

“Contrary to a recent court pronouncement that the National Assembly has no power to suspend its members, the committee was convinced that Omo-Agege had breached sections of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017,” the source said.

"Section 14(2) of the Act states that where a member commits a contempt of the Legislative House, the Legislative House may by resolution reprimand such person or suspend him from service of the Legislative House, without pay, for such a period as may be determined by the House, but not to the end of a legislative session”.

READ ALSO: After meeting President Buhari in Abuja, French President Emmanuel Macron visits Afrika Shrine in Lagos

Section 15 states that a suspended member of the Legislative House under Section 14(2) of this Act, shall not enter or remain within the chamber or its precincts while the suspension remains in force.”

“After an extensive investigation and questioning of different security agencies and staff of the National Assembly, the committee allegedly found a glaring connection between the senator’s appearance on the said date and the disappearance of the Senate mace and therefore may be asking for a 180 days suspension for him," the source noted.

The source also added that it may further ask for the prosecution of the lawmaker for treasonable felony.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that Omo-Agege had warned officers of the Nigeria Police about out his arrest.

Omo-Agege in his warning to the police said he cannot be arrested.

The Senator who was earlier suspended was expected to stay away from the National Assembly; but his appearance at the Assembly, and indeed, the Senate chamber, was against Section 22 of the Senate Standing Order (2015) as amended.

What is the problem with Nigeria? - on NAIJ.com

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Former president Olusegun Obasanjo has assumed office as a facilitator at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), as he inspected his office space at the Abeokuta Study Centre on Tuesday, July 3.

This was disclosed in a statement by the institution’s director, media and publicity, Ibrahim Sheme.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Abdalla Uba Adamu, had earlier appointed the former president as a facilitator after he bagged a PhD in Christian Theology in January from the institution.

READ ALSO: Senate is not what it used to be - Senator Ndume raises allegation against Saraki, makes revelation

A facilitator is a part-time academic coordinator for students in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system which open universities operate.

The director of the Abeokuta study centre, Prof. Ibrahim Salawu, said the office allocation became necessary, following his appointment as a facilitator in January.

Salawu, who led Obasanjo and other members of staff on a familiarisation tour of the centre, said: “I am very pleased to have a former President of Nigeria as a colleague in the academia."

Obasanjo expressed satisfaction at the office space allotted to him and promised to work for the progress of the university

Meanwhile, Nigeria's former president Olusegun Obasanjo, on Saturday, June 29, expressed worry that if not adequately dealt with corruption will eat up more than 30% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product, eventually.

NAIJ.com gathered that the former president added that Africans should look inward and anchor on value reorientation, respectfulness, obedience and hard work if the continent must rise above its challenges.

The former president advised that Nigeria must reinvigorate efforts to tackle institutional inefficiency, infrastructural decay and economic transformation through emphasis on integrity.

What is working well and what needs improvement in Nigeria? On NAIJ.com TV

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- Shehu Sani has reveaaled why he would be leaving the APC

- Sani said the new national chairman of the party Adams Oshiomhole came too late

- According to Sani, APC leaders including Muhammadu Buhari have been unable to handle the crisis that has ravaged the party

The senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, on Tuesday, July 3, said it was already too late for some of the members of the party set to leave.

Sani while speaking to journalists in Abuja said that the new national secretary of the party assumed office at a time aggrieved members of the APC were set to leave.

The Punch reports that Sani decried the inability of APC leaders including Muhammadu Buhari in handling the crisis that has ravaged the party.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office

“I wish Adams has come earlier because like I said these grenades that were laid by the former chairman will explode in a matter of days.

“It is also very clear to us that even President Muhammadu Buhari is incapable of tackling the menace of the governor of Kaduna state. How can a governor, openly call for violence against senators and not a statement came from the seat of power cautioning such a governor?

"How can a governor move bulldozers and demolish a house of a fellow party member, the one who helped him to be where he is and there is not even a statement from the presidency?" Sani asked.

READ ALSO: After meeting President Buhari in Abuja, French President Emmanuel Macron visits Afrika Shrine in Lagos

According to him, the governor uses the machinery of the state to emasculate political opponents.

"He even framed me for murder and there was no statement that came from the presidency to caution such a governor. Virtually Kaduna state under governor El-Rufai does not create conducive environment for any of us to remain in that party (APC).

"There were three attempts to resolve the Kaduna APC crisis; there was Inuwa Abdulkadir committee which was never respected by the governor, there was the governor Masari- led committee which was also not respected and there as you can see, Tinubu’s attempt to reconcile members of the party was simply naturalized and abandoned. So we are not slaves to continue to be in that party," the senator said.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that Sani had threatened to dump the ruling APC over its alleged inability to address the internal crisis rocking the party in the past three years.

The senator said the various congresses were held a very shaky foundation because there was no reconciliation and peace among aggrieved members.

He also said the party has failed to live up to its expectation by standing on the foundation of injustice to members.

Pastor Adeboye, Imams Should Join Politics to Move Nigeria Forward - Olulade on NAIJ.com TV

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- The Presidency has called on all Nigerians to support ranching system for herdsmen

- Femi Adesina said citizens are better off living with the ranches and colonies than dying through the persisting conflicts

- He said one can only have ancestral attachment when they are alive

The Presidency on Tuesday, July 3, urged all those against ranching and colony programmes for herdsmen across Nigeria to have a rethink.

The special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, said Nigerians are better off living with the ranches and colonies than dying through the persisting conflicts.

Speaking on a morning programme on AIT, Adesina answering questions on citizens attachment to ancestral lands said, it is better to be alive than to keep a land as a dead person.

Vanguard reports that Adesina also decried connotations in many quarters that the ongoing crisis between farmers and herders is religious.

READ ALSO: After meeting President Buhari in Abuja, French President Emmanuel Macron visits Afrika Shrine in Lagos

Adesina said: "Hundreds have been killed in Zamfara, are they Christians? People have been killed in Birnin Gwari, are they Christians?

"What is happening is criminality, pure and simple, and it must be brought to an end. Government has a big role to play in this but the people themselves have a role to play.

“Some people are saying don’t use government money to build ranches. If truly they don’t have lands, that is fine, but remember that Kogi state offered 15,000 hectares of land for cattle colony and in the midst of that offer vicious attacks were unleashed.

"In Plateau state, where we had the recent orgy of killings, the government has offered land for ranches and I tell you that some people are interested in this thing not being resolved. You can only have ancestral attachment when you are alive. If you are talking about ancestral attachment, if you are dead, how does the attachment matter?

READ ALSO: Oshiomhole came late, we are leaving APC - Shehu Sani warns

Adesina said the National Economic Council which recommended ranching did not just legislate it but rather made recommendations.

He said: "So, if your state genuinely does not have land for ranching, it is understandable; not every state will have land for ranches. But where you have land and you can do something, please do for peace. What will the land be used for if those who own it are dead at the end of the day?

"There are different theatres of crises in the country and you may look at each theatre with its peculiarities. In the Middle Belt, it has its own peculiarities and what is the peculiarity of that, Farmers-Herders conflict. What has the government done? It has sent in security agencies starting with the police, later troops, later different operations by the military."

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that the executive secretary of Nasarawa state Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA), Zachary Zamani, had said that ranching is the only option left to ending the crisis between herdsmen and farmers across Nigeria.

Zamani said if the federal government wants a lasting solution to the issue, it should adopt ranching.

He also said that the Land Use Act in Nigeria permits ranching.

Nigerian herdsmen vs Nigerian farmers - on NAIJ.com TV

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- President of France Emmanuel Macron visits Lagos state on Tuesday, July 3 and 4

- During his visit, he was a guest at the New Afrika Shrine, home of legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti

- He was accompanied by Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, July 3, 2018, visited the New Afrika Shrine, home of legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

Macron’s visit comes after he visited President Buhari in Abuja also on July 3, 2018. He was accompanied to the shrine by Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.

On getting to the Shrine, the French president was welcomed by son of Fela and musician in his own right, Femi Kuti as well as his sister Yeni.

French President Emmanuel Macron with Lagos state Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and veteran musician Anjelique Kidjo during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office

He was then treated to a display from top contemporary Nigerian artists Ndidi Emefiele, Abraham Onoriode Oghobase and Victor Ehikhamenor.

Celebrity stylist Jane Michael Ekanem and fashion designers Ituen Basi and Mai Atafo also showcased their latest designs.

French President Emmanuel Macron with Lagos state Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and 11-year-old hyperrealist artist Kareem Waris Olamilekan during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

He was also presented with a drawing of himself by 11-year-old artist Kareem Waris Olamilekan who drew him under two hours. He was then taken on a tour of the shrine by Femi Anikulapo Kuti.

A bevy of Nollywood stars including Ramsey Nouah, Joke Silva, Jide Kosoko, Yomi Fash Lanso, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Rita Dominic, Dakore Akande, Kemi Lala Akindoju, Chief Zebrudayya and director Kunle Afolayan also made a short sketch to the delight of President Macron and others present.

French President Emmanuel Macron with famous journalist Keturah King during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

Yemi Alade, Ara, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Charlotte Dipanda and Femi Kuti also graced the stage. Also in attendance were African music legends Youssou N’dour and Angelique Kidjo.

NAIJ.com was on ground to cover activities and below are other exclusive photos of the event:

French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

French President Emmanuel Macron with host of the night Banky W during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

French President Emmanuel Macron with Lagos state Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and other dignitaries during his visit to the Afrika Shrine on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

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Who is Nigeria's greatest president ever? On NAIJ.com TV.

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- Liverpool are plotting a deal for Colombia defender Yerry Mina

- Mina netted three goals in as many appearances for Colombia at the Mundial

- But the 23-year-old has not been able to command first-team shirt at Barcelona

Premier League side, Liverpool are plotting a deal for Colombia defender Yerry Mina, reports suggest.

According to UK Mirror, citing sources at Fotomac, eggheads of the Anfield outfit are satisfied with Mina's overall performance at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia and are set to struggle it out with Turkish side, Fenerbahce this summer.

READ ALSO: Real Madrid reject claims of making an offer for PSG superstar Neymar

Mina netted three goals in as many appearances for Colombia at the Mundial, including the all-important dying minute equalizer in round of 16 painful defeat to England’s Three Lions.

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Interestingly, the 23-year-old joined La Liga giants’ Barcelona from Palmeiras in 2017 but has not been able to command first-team shirt at the Nou Camp outfit.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously had reported that Egypt international Mohamed Salah has signed a new five year deal with Liverpool.

The 26-year-old penned the new deal with the Reds following his superb debut season at Anfield last term.

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He scored 44 goals in just 52 appearances in all competitions for Jurgen Klopp's side, and won several awards to crown his efforts at the end of the season.

Salah also set a new EPL goal record after scoring 32 goals in an English topflight season, and he won the Golden Boot in the process.

Leo Messi at 31: What Is Really Happening In The Player’s Life Right Now | Naij.com TV

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- Members of House of Representatives have declared the killings in Plateau state as genocide

- The House has also requested for protection for one of its members, Idris Ahmed Wase

- Wase reportedly claim he has evidence of the sponsors of the killings in the state

The House of Representatives has declared the killings of over 200 people in about fives villages of Plateau state as genocide.

The House is also demanding for protection for one of its members, Idris Ahmed Wase (APC, Plateau), who claimed to have documentary evidence of sponsors of the killings in the state.

The lawmakers are demanding for protection for Wase to enable him to serve as a witness for the state and help fish out the perpetrators of the horrid attack, The Independent reports.

READ ALSO: French President Emmanuel Macron visits Lagos state, tours Afrika Shrine

The Barkin Ladi's massacre was declared as genocide after a motion raised by Edward Gyang Pwajok and four others.

In his debate, Pwajok stressed that it was the responsibility of government to protect these citizens, stressing that no one had the right to take the life of another in the manner it was being carried out in the state.

It was after Pwajok's statement that Wase, who contributed to the motion, claimed that he had documentary evidence that could reveal the sponsors of the killings.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com earlier reported that the Nigeria Police Force, Plateau state command, has arrested 21 persons in connection with the killings and unrest in Plateau state.

The suspects were paraded on Monday, July 2, at the OPSH Headquarters in Jos by the media officer of the task force, Major Adam Umar and Police public relations officer Tyopev Terna.

Fourteen of the suspects were arrested at the scene of the violent protest that followed the Barkin Ladi's killings while 11 others were arrested in connection with the killings.

Why President Buhari cannot control killings in Nigeria - Nigerians cry out on NAIJ.com TV

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- High court has served the National Assembly over N13.5m running cost

- Senator Shehu Sani had recently exposed that each senator collects N13.5m as monthly take home pay

- The plaintiffs prayed for a court order compelling members of the NASS to refund all they had collected in the last three years as running costs

The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the service of court processes on the National Assembly in a suit challenging the running costs of N13.5m and N10m which senators and House of Representatives members, respectively, allocated for themselves.

The Punch reports that the scheduled hearing in the suit filed by two legal practitioners, Messrs Monday Ubani and John Nwokwu, was stalled on Tuesday, July 3, due to the failure of the court sheriff to serve the court processes on the defendants.

READ ALSO: APC crisis: Oshiomhole is coming too late, we are leaving- Shehu Sani

NAIJ.com gathered that the defendants in the suit are the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The plaintiffs are praying for a court order compelling members of the National Assembly to refund all they had collected in the last three years as running costs.

They want the money refunded within 14 days of the judgment.

When the case was called on Tuesday, July 3, before Justice Chuka Obiozor, counsel for the plaintiff, J.O. Igwe, expressed surprise that the defendants had not been served with the court processes despite that the plaintiffs had “mobilised” the court sheriff.

“We mobilised him (sheriff) three weeks ago. A week ago, he assured us that the proof of service was in court. But we got to court to discover that the defendants have not been served.

“In the circumstances, we’re left with no choice but to ask for a further hearing date,” Igwe told the judge.

Consequently, Justice Obiozor adjourned hearing in the case till October 29, after the annual long vacation of the court.

Ubani and Nwokwu are, in the suit, contending that the N10m and N13.5m monthly running costs which the lawmakers fixed for themselves were illegal.

They are urging the court to hold that only the RMAFC had the power to determine salaries and allowances of Nation Assembly members and other public office holders.

The two lawyers are asking the court to determine whether by relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the National Assembly members have the power to fix their salaries, wages, remuneration or allowances.

They are also asking the court to determine “whether RMAFC can delegate its power to determine the salaries or remuneration of the National Assembly or political office-holders and/or if such power is subject to usurpation by the National Assembly or any other body(ies).”

They also want the court to determine whether the allocation of constituency projects and funds to the tune of N200m to members of the National Assembly is not ultra vires, illegal and unconstitutional.

They are praying the court for a perpetual injunction “restraining the National Assembly, whether by themselves, officers, agents, privies, servants or through any person or persons howsoever, from further receiving the sum of N13.5m monthly allowances or running cost or whatever sum as a running costs and N200m as annual constituency project.”

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), asked the Federal High Court in Lagos to order the Senate president Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and 107 other senators to refund “illegal and unconstitutional N13.5 million monthly allowance" they received in the last three year.

Should the Nigerian Senate be scrapped? - on NAIJ.com TV

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- Kareem Olamilekan, an 11-year-old Nigerian, drew the French president in just two hours

- President Emmanuel Macron says he is touched by the gesture

- Macron describes the 'New Afrikan Shrine' as home to culture

French president, Emmanuel Macron, expressed some emotions as Kareem Olamilekan, an 11-year-old Nigerian, artistically drew a portrait of him during his visit to the 'New Afrikan Shrine' in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event held to showcase and celebrate African culture and was hosted by artist and performer, Banky W and Kenturah King.

The report said President Macron praised and congratulated the talented boy on his official presidential twitter account.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office

“Very touched, congratulations to this young boy,” he said.

The report added that despite the pressure of drawing the president of France on the spot, Kareem completed it in two hours.

The visiting president emphasised on the importance of the shrine to the African culture.

On his handle: @EmmanuelMacron, the president wrote: “The shrine is an iconic cultural hub. And I say with a lot of humility that I recognize the importance of African culture.”

Present at the event were Nigerian senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, and veteran Nollywood actor and actress Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva.

The New Afrika Shrine is the venue of the annual Felebration music festival which is currently managed by Femi Kuti and Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti.

NAIJ.com earlier reported that the French president, Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday, July 3, 2018 visited the Afrika Shrine, home of legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

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Macron’s visit comes after he visited President Buhari in Abuja also on July 3, 2018. He was accompanied to the shrine by Lagos state Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

On getting to the shrine, the French president was welcomed by son of Fela and musician in his own right, Femi Kuti as well as his sister Yeni.

Woman with 9 Children, 48 Grandchildren, 51 Great Grandchildren Clocks 100 | Naij.com TV

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Davido has left alot of people amused after he shared a video on his Snapchat story, revealing what his girlfriend, Chioma did.

On another episode of keeping up with Davido and Chioma, the lovebirds are addressing the popular relationship rules about phone privacy and it is just too cute.

Davido recently posted a video on Snapchat, advising the Apple company on the type of upgrade that should come with the next model of iPhones. According to him, it should have an electric shocker feature.

In the video he is seen saying: "Please they need to make something like a shocker for whenever your babe carries your phone." Chioma's laughter can also be heard in the background which clearly shows the adorable couple were just having a bit of fun.

READ ALSO: After meeting President Buhari in Abuja, French President Emmanuel Macron visits Afrika Shrine in Lagos

READ ALSO: Heart-melting moment Adekunle Gold's sister bursts into tears after seeing brother's face on billboards in London

Well, despite getting a N45m Porsche car as a birthday presence, it doesn't hurt to check if your boo is still your boo and Chioma certainly knows this.

Hopefully, she got the answer she was looking for.

Davido and his beautiful chef girlfriend, Chioma, have continued to to win the hearts of many Nigerians who see them as the idea 'couple goal' what with Davido's continuous display of affection and showers of accolades on Chioma.

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Davido Gifts Girlfriend, Chioma N45 Million Present | Naij.com TV

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- 35-year-old goalkeeper Lee Grant has joined Manchester United from Stoke City

- The Red Devils announced this latest development on their social media page

- Lee Grant is expected to be a cover up for current United number 1 David De Gea

Premier League giants Manchester United have announced the signing of 35-year-old goalkeeper Lee Grant from Stoke City on a two-year deal.

Last season, the experienced goalkeeper made five appearances for Stoke City, but he was unable to save the club from keeping their Premier League status.

He played against Manchester United in the 2016-2017 season deputizing for the injured Jack Butland including a man of the match performance at Old Trafford in October 2016.

Manchester United signed the Englishman for him to be a cover up for Spain international David De Gea.

“Moving to Manchester United has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. This was an opportunity that I couldn’t let pass and I’m thrilled to become a part of such a historic club.

”I’ve enjoyed every moment of my career so far and I’m now ready to continue learning and improving alongside some of the best players in the game. But at the same time, I intend to use my experience to help the team whenever possible,'' Lee Grant told the club's official website.

Grant began his professional career with Derby County making his Football League debut in September 2002.

He spent five seasons with Derby during which time he went out on loan to Burnley and Oldham Athletic.

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Earlier, NAIJ.com had reported how 35-year-old goalkeeper Lee Grant emerged as a summer transfer target for Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid coach was said to be impressed with Lee Grant's performances last season with Stoke City even though the club eventually lost their Premier League status.

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- As the Ekiti state governorship election fast approaches, Dr Kayode Fayemi has scaled a major hurdle

- The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate has been cleared by the courts

- A suit seeking to bar Dr Fayemi from the election has been dismissed by a high court in Abuja

A High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking to bar APC candidate, Dr Kayode Fayemi from participating in the Ekiti governorship election.

Justice O. A. Musa, in a judgment on Tuesday, July 3, dismissed the suit by the Action People’s Party (APP) on the ground that it was without merit.

The plaintiff had argued among others, that Fayemi’s indictment by a commission of inquiry set up by the state government to probe his administration, and the white paper issued by the state based on the indictment, disqualified Fayemi from holding public office by virtue of Section 182(1)(i) of the Constitution.

Justice Musa quashed Fayemi’s purported indictment by commission of inquiry and the white paper on the grounds that the ‎process leading to the report and white paper was tainted with bias as Fayemi was not accorded fair hearing.

The judge noted that Section 182(1)(i) of the Constitution, on which the suit was based, was no longer in existence having been deleted by the National Assembly through the first alteration of the Constitution in 2011.

Justice Musa who who answered the two questions posed by the plaintiff in the negative, refused all its prayers and declared Fayemi to contest the next election, adding that the APC was at liberty, under the law to field him as its candidate.

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Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission has given assurances that the Ekiti state governorship election slated for Saturday, July 14, cannot be rigged, due to the quality ICT infrastructure in place.

The commission said the notion peddled in some quarters that the election will be rigged runs contrary to the reality on ground.

The REC, Ekiti state, Abdulganiy Raji, gave the assurance in Ido Ekiti on Tuesday, June 12, during a town hall meeting entitled, Vote not Fight.

The meeting was organised to sensitise the youth ahead of the election.

NAIJ.com special report on Anambra governorship election on NAIJ.com TV

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- President Emmanuel Macron of France, who is currently in Nigeria, says he likes the country a lot

- He says Nigeria is an appealing country, adding that he has a lot of memory about the country that haven't left him

- Macron met with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja before proceeding to the Afrika Shrine in Lagos on Tuesday, July 3

After meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, July 3, French President Emmanuel Macron, visited the Afrika Shrine, home of Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

Vanguard reports that Macron's visit to the shrine was part of his latest attempt to forge closer ties with English-speaking Africa.

NAIJ.com notes that while addressing the cheering and whistling crowd in English, President Macron said: “I’m very happy to be here with you tonight."

The French president, who spent six months as an intern at the French embassy in Abuja in 2002, told reporters traveling with him: “I like Nigeria a lot. It’s an appealing country. I’ve got a lot of memories… that haven’t left me.”

READ ALSO: APC crisis: Oshiomhole is coming too late, we are leaving- Shehu Sani

Since he assumed leadership, Macron has been working on boosting ties with French former colonies but also improving trade with anglophone countries.

According to Macron “regional security and the fight against Boko Haram” would be high on the agenda in talks with Buhari, calling him a “key player”.

While at the shrine, Macron praised Nollywood and the country’s music. He desribed the concert hall as “iconic”. He said that “we have to build a new common narrative” in Africa.

Macron said: “You have to recognise the bad and negative pages of this history, but you have to move forward."

When asked about life as an intern in Nigeria, Macron said: “Obviously I will not share all those memories because what happens in the shrine remains in the shrine.”

Macron is set to inaugurate the new Alliance Francaise, a cultural centre, and is scheduled to meet young Nigerian entrepreneurs on Wednesday, July 4.

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NAIJ.com previously reported that French president, Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, July 3, arrived the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

Macron arrived Nigeria's capital city in a Presidential aircraft Airbus 330 at 3:10 pm on Tuesday, July 3.

Who is Nigeria's greatest president ever? - on NAIJ.com TV

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- Imo state government marks EEDC office in Owerri for demolition

- Mark Uchendu, the Imo state commissioner for public utilities allege that the bills from the EEDC are inflated

- Members of the House of Representatives kick against high estimated electricity bills

Power supply to the Imo state government house has been disconnected by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) over an alleged debt of N200 million.

Premium Times reports that electricity to the Imo state secretariat has also been disconnected due to the alleged debt.

The newspaper states that the Imo state government has marked the EEDC office in Owerri, the Imo state capital for demolition in retaliation for the disconnection.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office

The spokesman of the EEDC, Emeka Ezeh, confirmed that the electricity disconnection to the government house and state secretariat, but noted that efforts were still being made to get the state government to pay.

“We suffer all manner of bashing from the public once our services falter. Now, how can we optimally render qualitative service when key stakeholders who use our services refuse to pay? The state also takes care of the bills of the Imo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ISOPADEC) communities in Imo State and for a long time now those communities in Oguta and Ohaji Egbema have also been disconnected because their bills have not been settled," Ezeh said.

“And these bills are heavy and no company can continue to operate under such huge deficit. We are still open to any discussion that can ameliorate the situation for all concerned.”

In his reaction, Mark Uchendu, the commissioner for public utilities alleged that the bills from the EEDC was inflated.

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He said: “The figures are exaggerated. I am sorting out the documents and what we need to do is to sit down with EEDC and reconcile the actual indebtedness of the government.

“I am aware that some time last year, the governor paid EEDC about N200 million for power supply. So, all we need to do now is reconcile and agree on whether we need to balance the EEDC any outstanding or not.”

The commissioner said the blackout in the state secretariat was a major concern to the state. He argued that the over N45m bill brought by EEDC for the secretariat appears to have been inflated as pre-paid meters are used there.

Meanwhile, members of the House of Representatives met on Wednesday, June 27, to deliberate on and condemned the excessive and estimated billing by electricity distribution companies in the country while accusing Discos of fraud.

The Reps also accused the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the regulator of the power sector, of colluding with the Discos or being helpless while Nigerians were being ripped off, The Punch reports.

The session, led by a member of the House representing Osun state, Ajibola Famurewa, was focused on the “need to curb excessive electricity charges being levied on the consumers by Discos.”

Nigerian Electricity Crisis Explained | Naij.com TV

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In a sad turn of events, Nigerian talented singer Dapo Oyebanjo, popularly known as Dbanj, had lost his one-year-old son on Sunday, June 24. The singer who has been silent since the tragedy final breaks his silence.

NAIJ.com had reported that the little boy, Daniel Oyebanjo III, had drowned in a pool at the residence of the Oyebanjos in Ikoyi area of Lagos state.

At the early hours of Wednesday, July 7, the singer shared a message on his Instagram page thanking everyone who supported him and sent in condolence messages during the sad period.

Dbanj expressed that he,his wife Didi and the rest of his family were awed by the demonstration of love and care they received from friends and fans. He prayed that God bless them for their support.

READ ALSO: Nigerian reggae legend Ras Kimono to be buried on August 25

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The singer and his wife Didi had welcomed Daniel Oyebanjo III in May, 2017. The couple got married in a quiet celebration on July 2, 2016.

Daniel Oyebanjo III was the first child and son to be brought into the world by Dbanj and Didi. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen!

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Alleged last moments of DJ Olu and Chime with cartons of money on NAIJ.com TV

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- About 8 suspects have been arrested in connection with the recent killings in Benue state

- The suspects paraded include a serving councilor from Fidi Council Ward in Makurdi

- Items recovered from the suspects include two AK47 rifles and 436 rounds of AK47 ammunition

The Nigeria police force has arrested a serving councillor of Fidi ward in Benue state, Benjamin Tivfa and 7 more suspects in connection with the recent killings in the state, The Cable reports.

Jimoh Moshood, police spokesman, in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 3, while the suspects were paraded at the Force Headquarters in Abuja said the councillor admitted to have supplied arms and ammunition to some bandits for their criminal activities.

NAIJ.com gathered that Moshood listed suspects who were arrested on June 27, as: Victor Ganabe (a native of Naka), Daniel Kyase (Mbaku), Adajo Tomza (Tse Egbe), Msugh Sengv (Naikpe).

READ ALSO: Mace theft: Joint National Assembly committee indicts Omo-Agege

Others are Julius Avaan (Ikpayongu), Terkula Udeh (Gwer West), Sunday Cheche (Guma).

He said the suspects admitted to being members of Benue state livestock guards.

“The bandits confessed that the councillor is a member of their gang and responsible for supply of arms and ammunition including money to finance their operations.”

“The councillor admitted to have bought 15 rounds of AK47 ammunition from the last suspect, Sunday Cheche and also confessed to have provided money to finance the operations of the gang.

“The bandits admitted to have carried out several killings and armed robbery attacks on innocent people in different locations in Benue state,” he said.

The police spokesman said investigation is in progress to arrest other “members of the bandits at large”, and they will be arraigned in court on completion of investigation.

NAIJ.com previously reported that the Nigeria Police Force, Plateau state command, arrested 21 persons in connection with the killings and unrest in Plateau state.

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The suspects were paraded on Monday, July 2, at the OPSH Headquarters in Jos by the media officer of the task force, Major Adam Umar and Police public relations officer Tyopev Terna.

Fourteen of the suspects were arrested at the scene of the violent protest that followed the Barkin Ladi's killings while 11 others were arrested in connection with the killings.

Why President Buhari cannot control killings in Nigeria - Nigerians cry out on NAIJ.com TV

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- A 100-level student of Anambra State University identified as Vincent Uche Mbanefo kicked the bucket on July 3

- The young student who was alone in his room was said to have been struck by thunder after a heavy downpour in Achalla area

- Vincent was a student of agric extension

A 100-level agric extension student of Anambra State University identified as Vincent Uche Mbanefo has died tragically after allegedly being struck by thunder. The young student was said to have been alone in his room in Achalla and kicked the bucket around 5pm on Tuesday, July 3.

The situation surrounding the mysterious death has led many social media users to believe Vincent must have offended some spiritual entities who have avenged using thunder lightening as a weapon.

Sadly, the promising student gave up the ghost almost immediately after the contact. Family and friends are now in mourning of the young boy whose untimely death has broken hearts of his loved ones.

READ ALSO: Adekunle Gold's sister bursts into tears after seeing brother on billboards in London

Vincent Uche Mbanefo was said to be alone in his Achalla Logde around 5pm on Tuesday, July 3, when the incident happened. Source: Facebook, Ayekooto Akindele

Research shows that lightning is incredibly powerful. A bolt can carry between 10 and 100 million volts and it is around 20,000°C (about 35,000°F). This is many times hotter than the surface of the sun. The power of one bolt alone, if it could be harnessed, could fully power hundreds of average homes for a day.

Such lightning bolt is what could have struck Uche to his death. Just like a mighty surge of electricity, it would have taken a miracle for any human to survive such.

May his soul rest in peace.

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Let’s Not Blame God For Our Problems - Deyemi Okanlawon Speaks on Otedola Bridge Fire on NAIJ.com TV:

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- Carl Ikeme makes his first public appearance after his recovery from cancer

- The Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper helped in opening a new hospital

- The 32-year-old was supposed to be Super Eagles number at the Russia 2018 World Cup

Super Eagles goalkeeper Carl Ikeme made his first public appearance after announcing his cancer was in complete remission.

Nathan Judah revealed on his social media handle that the Wolverhampton Wanderers' shot-stopper helped in opening a brand new Haematology & Oncology Day unit at Solihull Hospital

Last summer, the 32-year-old was diagnosed with acute leukemia after returning abnormal blood tests and he has not been able to play football since then.

READ ALSO: Nigerians hail Mikel Obi's courage playing for Super Eagles despite father's abduction

The goalkeeper recently took to Instagram account to announce his remarkable recovery alongside a heartwarming picture with his daughter.

Ikeme featured in the Super Eagles first qualifier against Zambia in Ndola and ever since then, Ikechukwu Ezenwa took over following his illness.

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Ikeme who watched on as his club Wolves were promoted into the Premier League last season, was handed an honorary place in Nigeria's 2018 World Cup squad.

He was supposed to be the Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper in Russia, but he could not make it due to the status of his health.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had reported that Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr and NFF president Amaju Pinnick visited to Carl Ikeme in the hospital after he was diagnosed with acute leukemia.

The Super Eagles and Wolves goalkeeper was diagnosed after it was discovered during a blood test following his return to his club Wolverhampton Wanderers for pre-season training.

Leukemia is a progressive disease in which the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs produce increased numbers that damage the immune system.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Do You Think Super Eagles Have a Chance? | Naij.com TV

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- Governor Fayose accused the security chiefs of working with the APC in the deployment of allegedly compromised operatives to Ekiti to perpetrate rigging and illegal arrests

- The governor also tackled the DSS boss of allegedly acting like a chieftain of the APC by ordering the arrest and detention of PDP members and some teachers.

- He also tendered a video evidence to INEC chiefs at the event to confirm alleged preloading of the smart card reader by a political party in Akure, Ondo state

There was uproar at the Afe Babalola Civic Centre, Ado Ekiti, venue of a town hall meeting of stakeholders on the Ekiti state governorship election when governor Ayodele Fayose confronted security security chiefs over illegal arrest of members of the PDP and harass the electorate.

Governor Fayose accused the commissioner of police in the state, Ahmed Bello and the Director of the Department of State Services Promise Ihenacho of plans to intimidate and arrest members of his party ahead of the election.

Fayose spoke after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the election, Professor Kolapo Olubunmi Olusola, had also raised the issues and called for a reversal of the deployments.

READ ALSO: French President Emmanuel Macron visits Lagos state, tours Afrika Shrine (photos)

Fayose said was an “illegal arrest of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and harass the electorate.”

According to him, “Free and fair election can only come when security did the right thing. On the day of the election, I want all my security details to be withdrawn. But let me say that DSS has started arresting people but this will be resisted.

“You can’t be expecting a free, fair poll when people are being harassed and detained illegally and a police officer and DSS operative attached to a former governor were secretly drafted to head a detachment of force comprising about 63 men.”

The governor accused the DSS boss of allegedly acting like a chieftain of the APC by ordering the arrest and detention of PDP members and some teachers.

He also tendered a video evidence to INEC chiefs at the event to confirm alleged preloading of the smart card reader by a political party in Akure, Ondo State capital.

However, stakeholders like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies still assured that the election would be free, fair and devoid of any form of malpractices.

The INEC commissioner in charge of Ekiti, Oyo and Osun states, Solomon Soyebi, spoke on behalf of the commission while the Police Commissioner and DSS Director were also present at the meeting.

The Chairman of the Election Situation Room, Clement Nwankwo, said the meeting was to extract assurances from INEC and the security agencies that the coming election would be credible.

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Nwankwo said: “What we have got from INEC and security are reassuring that we will get the free and fair poll in Ekiti. We are going to hold INEC accountable for whatever happens and that is why it is good for the security to be helpful and we know they won’t default in this regard.”

But the tempo changed after Fayose spoke, which led to rising tempers, with the party members in the hall threw all manners of jibes at the DSS boss, Iheanacho, as she made efforts to respond to the allegations, and confirmed that Abiola was in the state.

The Ekiti DSS boss’ admittance that Fayemi’s former CSO was in the state but that he was not a leader of a unit as claimed by the governor, infuriated the crowd further.

Her explanation heightened the uproar among the audience, which threw the hall in confusion until Fayose intervened and brought the situation under control.

The Ekiti Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Bello, while speaking assured that any police officer that had the political affinity with any of the interested parties would not be used for the election.

Bello said: “I have built a career going to 35 years in the police and I don’t want anybody to bring me down, not even any politician or even your Excellency, Dr Fayose will ask me to rig election and I will comply.

“We are going to give equal opportunities to all the parties and the issue you have raised will be looked into because there are procedure we must follow, even if they are going to be redeployed.

”The Alliance for Democracy candidate in the poll, Ben Agboola, also faulted the presence of the two men in the state, saying “such actions by security agencies would compromise security arrangements.”

Following the uproar, the Ekiti state council of traditional rulers, through its Chairman, the Oloye of Oye Ekiti, Oba Oluwole Ademolaju as well as the Attah of Ayede, Oba Abdulmumuni Orisagbemi, told the security chiefs to redeploy the two men out of the state in the interest of peace.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had reported that governor, Ayodele Fayose accused the APC and the INEC of colluding to preload card readers meant for the July 14 governorship election in the state, with a view to manipulating the poll in favour of the party's candidate, Kayode Fayemi.

Fayose also said the plot to manipulate the poll to favour Fayemi was being perpetrated in Akure, Ondo state, in collaboration with the state government.

The governor noted that over 550 polling units spread across the state were targeted to be preloaded with between 50 and 200 votes in favour of the APC.

Governor Fayose Warns Nigerian Youths Ahead of 2019, Tells Them What to Do on NAIJ.com TV:

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- AC Milan defender Alessio Romagnoli could be on his way to Manchester United this summer

- But the Red Devils will have to add more money to their bid for them to have the chance to sign the player

- Thier initial bid is said to have been rejected by AC Milan chiefs

Premier League campaigners Manchester United have reportedly made a mouthwatering bid for AC Milan defender Alessio Romagnoli as the Red Devils prepare for next EPL season.

But the bid made by the Old Trafford club has been rejected by AC Milan chiefs according to the latest report coming from Corriere dello Sport.

According to the report, Manchester United submitted the sum of £44 million, but the bid is said to have been rejected by AC Milan chiefs who are under pressure to generate funds after a huge outlay on players last summer.

But it is not yet clear if the Red Devils would want to add more money for them to have the chance to lure the player to England before the start of next season.

Alessio Romagnoli signed a new four-year contract at the San Siro last month, but that has not stopped Jose Mourinho making a tilt at the talented defender.

The 23-year-old player began his career with Roma in 2012 and later spent a season on loan with Sampdoria in 2014 before moving to Milan in 2015.

Romagnoli made his official Milan debut on 18 August 2015, in the 2015–16 Coppa Italia, playing the full 90 minutes and keeping a clean sheet in a 2–0 win over A.C. Perugia Calcio.

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Earlier, NAIJ.com had reported how Premier League giants Manchester United announced the signing of 35-year-old goalkeeper Lee Grant from Stoke City on a two-year deal.

Last season, the experienced goalkeeper made five appearances for Stoke City, but he was unable to save the club from keeping their Premier League status.

He played against Manchester United in the 2016-2017 season deputizing for the injured Jack Butland including a man of the match performance at Old Trafford in October 2016.

Leo Messi at 31: What Is Really Happening In The Payer’s Life Right Now | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng