Rivers state police command on Wednesday, August 15, paraded 35 suspected armed robbers and kidnappers at the command headquarters in Port Harcourt, the capital of the state.

NAIJ.com regional reporter in Port Harcourt, Tony Ihunwo, who witnessed the parade, said that one of the suspects, Uchenna Chinaka, a driver of a bus carrying 15 passengers who were kidnapped on Wednesday, August 8, along the Elele axis of Ikwerre local government council area of the state but were later rescued by a crack team of anti-kidnapping unit of the police on Friday, August 10, was among those paraded.

READ ALSO: 2019: Women group disowns Obasanjo, vows to work for Buhari’s re-election

In an interview with NAIJ.com during the parade, Chinaka, denied conniving with the abductors, adding that he ran into the gang of kidnappers around 10pm while returning to Port Harcourt from Abuja.

Suspected armed robbers, kidnappers being paraded by the Rivers state commissioner of police, CP Zaki Ahmed. Photo credit: Tony Ihunwo

He said that when they ambushed them they ordered him out of the bus and drove off into the bus.

The driver further explained that three of the passengers who managed to escape from the kidnappers met him at the Elele police station where he was making a report about the incident.

He tried to deny the allegations earlier made by some of his distraught passengers that before they ran into the ambush he made several calls on his cell phone to unknown persons.

Arms and ammunition recovered by the suspected armed robbers, kidnappers in Rivers state

The commissioner of police in Rivers state, CP Zaki Ahmed, who conducted the parade said among those paraded were two people suspected to be behind the killing of a police officer in Etche. Others were alleged to have killed a female student at the Ignatius Ajuru University.

Also, among the suspects was a notorious cultist and leader of the gang that allegedly kidnapped and murdered a retired Army officer in the Ahoada west axis of Rivers.

He also said the some members of a robbery syndicate terrorizing the Etche and Ikwerre axis of the state are now helping the police in its determination to fish out other members.

"About the dangerous weapons recovered include: 25 arms of assorted types and stolen vehicles and other items were paraded", he said.

Suspected armed robbers, kidnappers being paraded by the Rivers state commissioner of police, CP Zaki Ahmed. Photo credit: Tony Ihunwo

CP Zaki Ahmed vowed that the police command under his watch would not rest until the state is rid of criminals.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that the Nigeria Police force, Oyo state command, paraded 15 men arrested for allegedly being a member of a notorious robbery gang terrorising the state before their recent arrest by officials of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

It was gathered that among those paraded is a 28-year old Naval officer, Jimoh Adesoye, a soldier and twin brothers.

The state commissioner of police, Abiodun Odude, during the parade, said the Naval officer was arrested with 12 members of his gang.

Robbers return firearms to Nigerian Police | - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

The advent of social media has made it possible for people to share photos and images of things they see every day. It has also made it hard to verify the information shared online.

A Twitter user identified as @Yommie_Scream shared a photo showing two women who are twins claiming that they are both 120-years-old each.

It is unclear where he met the women but his tweet indicates they were found somewhere in Africa. The ages of the women cannot be verified also.

See his post below:

“The oldest twins alive today! 120years, still beautiful and kicking it in the Motherland. Show some Respect to the Black Queens”

READ ALSO: Vogue magazine names Wizkid Africa’s hottest pop star

This is coming after NAIJ.com shared the story of Pa Celestine Egboluche who recently turned 100 years, making him the oldest prisoner in Nigeria. The centenarian who has been in the Enugu Maximum Prison for over 17 years was condemned to the death over his involvement in what is believed to be a land tussle that led to the death of someone.

However, an NGO, Global Society for Anti-corruption (GSAC), is pushing for the centenarian’s release. Egbunuche is said to have suffered from diabetes over the years. GSAC has appealed to the federal government and Governor of Imo state, Rochas Okorocha to have mercy and release him.

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Customs Seize N1bn Worth of Codeine: Importation of Fairly-Used Bags, Shoes Banned | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Atletico are the new champions of the UEFA Super Cup after beating city rivals Real Madrid 4-2 in the encounter on Wednesday night

- Two goals from Diego Costa and one each from Koke and Saul Niguez ensured Simeone's side emerged victorious

- They have now clinched the title for the third time while Costa set a new record of the fastest goal with his 50 seconds goal

Europa League champions Atletico Madrid clinched their third UEFA Super Cup title after beating their city rivals Real Madrid 4-2 at the end of 120 minutes on Wednesday, August 15.

Diego Costa opened scoring for Los Rojiblancos barely one minute into the game after firing home a powerful shot from the right side of the goal post.

France international Karim Benzema level parity for the Santiago Bernabeu side in the 27th minute with a fine header from a Gareth Bale's cross.

The Galacticos took the lead for the first time in the game following Sergio Ramos' spot kick in the 63rd minute after Diego Godin was flagged for handling the ball in his box.

But a 79th minute equaliser from the Spanish national team striker helped Diego Simeone's men stretch the game into extra time.

Saul Niguez's 99th minute volley gave Atletico the lead for the second time in the game and a simple and fine finish from koke wrapped the victory up for the Europa League champions as they hand Julen Lopetegui his first defeat as the new manager of the Galacticos.

Meanwhile, Diego Costa's early minute goal is the fastest-ever UEFA Super Cup goal after scoring a 50 seconds goal.

NAIJ.com earlier reported that Spanish city rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid arrived Tallinn on Monday, August 13, ahead of their UEFA Super Cup showdown.

According to a UK Daily Mail report Champions League winners Real Madrid and Europa League kings Atletico both included star-studded squad members in their team to the Estonian capital.

The two clubs clash at the 15,000-capacity Lillekula Stadium on Wednesday night.

Please read our live updates below.

Final whistle Real Madrid 2-4 Atletico Madrid as the Europa League winners are crowned the Super Cup champions

120+1' informed defending from Atletico Madrid as their defenders stopped all set pieces from being utilised by their opponents.

120' Carvajal with an individual brilliance on the right flank but his cross couldn't reach any of his teammates

117' Double corner kicks for Real Madrid but there are too many red and white shirt to avert danger in their 18 yard box

114' Jan Oblak denied Luka Modric from registering his name on the scores sheet after the Croatian tried stealing a shot in front of the danger zone

111' Vitolo tried tearing Real's defence apart after dribbling a number of the opponent's defenders but his short was blocked

110' Real Madrid are trying to make use of set piece since Atletico's defenders are not looking like they will let go

109' Danger man Diego Costa making his way out of the pitch for Jose Gimenez in a tactical substitution

107' Real Madrid have not been convincing in this extra minutes as Diego Simeone's men are cruising home with two goals lead

106' 2nd half of the extra time resumes with Atletico taking the kickoff as they play from left to right

105+ 2' Vitolo gets booked for dissent as the referee ends the first half of the extra time

105' Lucas Vasquez fouls Vitolo on the left flank

104' Goooooooaaaaaaaaaalllllllllllllllll Koke perfectly powers Atletico Madrid to a 4-2 lead after receiving a superb pass from Vitolo

101' Real Madrid makes fourth sub as Kroos comes out for Borja Mayoral in the extra minutes of the game

98' Second half substitute Thomas Partey sends a low but superb cross to Saul who perfectly volleyed the ball past Navas

98' Gooooooooaaaaaaallllllll Saul with a superb volley

97' Carvajal wins corner kick for Los Blancos but Atletico's defence have been impressive keeping them off the track

90+5' Real Madrid are trying to something promising in front of Atletico's danger zone but Ramos' final ball went straight into the keeper's hands

91' Real Madrid kicks off the extra time as they play from left to right

Final whistle Real Madrid 2-2 Atletico Madrid as the game heads into extra time

90+3' Marcelo tried an acrobatic kick in what looked like the last kick for the open play but narrowly missed

90+1' Lemar comes out for Thomas as the fourth official signals three additional minutes to the game

90' Good defending from Varane as he frustrated Costa's effort in trying to put his side in front with seconds to the end of the game

88' Assistant referee flags Diego Costa offside after trying to connect with a pass from the right flank

83' Lucas Vazquez comes in for Isco as Real completes substitutions for the game

81' Luka Modric directs the ball behind the defence, but Benzeme could not connect with the ball well in time as Oblak rushed out to avert danger

79' Goooooaaaaaalllllllllll Diego Costa level up for Atletico after benefiting for Angel Correa's square play

77' Atletico are seriously looking for an equaliser as they are all over the pitch

76' Casemiro is being escorted off the pitch as Ceballos comes for the player that seems to have suffered a knock on the pitch

75' Miscommunication between Oblak and Godin but the defender was quick to remedy the situation

74' A flash of brilliance from Atletico's attacker but their effort to find an equaliser went straight into the hands of Navas

71' Raphael Varane tried a low volley from the corner kick but it was headed out of danger by opponent

70' Breakaway move from Bale who ran Atletico's defenders into the left flank and his low cross was blocked out of play

69' Danger for Real Madrid as Casemiro fouls Lemar but the free kick was quickly taken and it failed to hit target

68' Beautiful connection between Marcelo and Modric but again, Atletico's defenders foiled the attack

66' Real Madrid's counter attacking move from an Atlteico's attack was cut short at the edge of Jan Oblak's box

65' Sergio Ramos hit his head while trying to stop Costa from going past him in an attack for Atletico

63' Goooooaaaaallllllll Sergio Ramos puts Real Madrid in the lead through a spot kick after Diego Godin handles the ball in the box

62' Hernandez stopped Gareth Bale from going past him

61' Newly introduced Correr booked for rough tackle

59' Good clearances for Carvajal as Atletico attempted to grab the lead again but the cross meant foe Costa narrowly misses his head

57' Asensio leaves the field for Luka Modric while Griezmann gives way for Correa in a tactical substitutions for both teams

54' fanstastic defending from Carvajal as he stops another attack from Diego Costa from the left flank

53' Beautiful lay from Atletico in the middle of the field as they are trying to find a pocket they can explore but Madrid's defence has been well positioned for potential attacks

49' Lemar wins a free kick for his side after rough challenge from Isco as Diego Simeone's men ramain in control of the ball

48' Fantastic control from Karim Benzema but Atletico star intercepted the ball and pushed it out of touch

47' Godin with a slim chance but he was denied by a strong-willed Toni Kroos

46' Real Madrid with the kickoff and they are now playing from left to right in their all white jersey while Atletico are playing from the other side

Players are back on the pitch as they are preparing for the second half of the meeting

The referee blows half time whistle as the scores remain Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid

45' Additional 1 minute has been added to the first half of the meeting

45' Foul against Real Madrid as Kroos trips Atletico Madrid's Rodrigo on the right flank

42' Nice move from Toni Kroos but he was stopped at the edge of the 18-yard box

40' Gareth Bale tried a long and thunderous shot from the right flank but it was no way near target

39' Corner quickly taken but Keylor Navas was on ground to catch the loose header Diego Godin

38' Corner kick for Atletico Madrid after Casemero stopped Diego Costa's move in his side's danger zone

35' Asensio booked for deliberately tripping Diego Costa who had an advantage over the ball

34' Asensio with a one-on-one chance to put his side in front but wasted the chance as Atletico defenders recovers in time to clear the danger

32' Kroos with a long pass to Isco as Isco tried dribbling Atleti;s defender but his effort was intercepted and cleared

31' Bale wins free kick for his side as Hernandez trips the attacker who was trying to attack his side

30' Asensio with a solo run into Atletico's danger zone but his final ball went just an inch wide from the goal post

27' Goooooooaaaaaaalllll Karim Benzema heads home a long cross from Gareth Bale to restore parity for the Champions League winners

26' Kroos sends a superb pass to Marcelo on the left flank but the Brazilian's long range shot went far above the post

25' Another fantastic interception from Saul who stopped the 1-2 pass from Marcelo and Isco

23' Kroos wins a free kick for Real as they continue to search for an equaliser

20' Gareth currently requires medical attention after being knocked from behind

18' Aerial challenge between Costa and Ramos sees Real captain calling for the referee's attention

15' Referee ignores Kroos' plea for a freekick as the referee ruled in favour red side of Madrid

14' Bale brought down by Saul on the left flank as the Welshman tried dribbling two Atleti players

12' Isco and Marcelo tried 1-2 on the left flank but no white jersey was on ground to head Marcelo's cross

11' Isco is trying to make something happen for Real in the middle but Atletico's have disciplined defensively

8' Foul for Atletico as Sergio Ramos elbows Diego Costa as the Europa League champions continued to mount pressure on their city rivals

7' Gareth Bale;s effort to penetrate into the opponent's danger zone was foiled Lucas Hernandez

5' Atletico Madrid are in control of the game as they are playing in Real's half in the first five minutes of this game

Just as we were still settling down into the game the Spanish national team striker powered an interesting shot past Keylor Navas to put his side in front

1' Goooooaaaaaallllll Diego Costa scores from almost an impossible angle to give Atletico the lead

1' Europa League champions Atletico Madrid kicked off this encounter as they play from left to right in their traditional white and red, while Real are in their all white jersey

Both teams are out on the pitch as the entire stadium gives them a standing ovation

Good evening and welcome to the live updates of this year's UEFA Super Cup between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid'

Here is how both team line up for the encounter. Live updates start very soon, remember to always refresh your browser to get minute-by-minutes updates.

Atletico Madrid starting XI: Oblak, Juanfran, Savic, Godin, Hernandez, Saul, Koke, Rodrigo, Lemar, Costa, Griezmann.

Real Madrid starting XI: Navas, Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Kroos, Benzema, Bale, Marcelo, Casemiro, Asensio, Isco.

- Los Blancos and Atletico Madrid battle for the 2018 UEFA Super Cup title

- The Galacticos qualified to contend for the title after winning last season's Champions League

- While Diego Simeone's side thumped Marseille 3-0 to book a date with their city rivals

Real Madrid will be hoping to win their fifth UEFA Super Cup title this evening when they battle city rivals Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, August 15.

The Galacticos won their 13th Champions League title after beating Liverpool 3-1 in Kiev few months back.

While Diego Simeone's men emerged champions of the Europa League following their emphatic 3-0 win over French League giants Marseille in May.

READ ALSO: Leicester City to hand Manchester United target Harry Maguire a new improved deal

According to UEFA official website, this will be the first time two teams from the same city will be facing off in the battle for the title.

This will be the 163rd time both teams will be meeting - with Los Blancos winning 86 and drawing 37 of their past encounters.

Meanwhile, Real's new boss will be hoping to get his reign off to a winning start after taking over from Zinedine Zidane few days before the start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Atletico are two time winners of the title and they will be gunning for their third at the end of the encounter in Estonia later this evening.

And their manager Diego Simeone will hop to capitalise on the absent of Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Juventus in a mega deal and beat their rivals to add to their UEFA Super Cup tally.

• This will be the fourth time in the last five editions that the UEFA Super Cup will be contested by two Spanish sides, but an all-Madrid final – and indeed a one-city UEFA Super Cup – is a first.
• Atlético have met Real Madrid nine times in UEFA competition with the record W2 D2 L5, though they have yet to beat their city rivals in a final or to eliminate them from a UEFA competition

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• Real Madrid have won four of their six UEFA Super Cup games – including the most recent two.
• Having become the first side to win the UEFA Champions League in three consecutive seasons, they could become the first club to win three UEFA Super Cups in a row.
• Atlético have a 100% record in the UEFA Super Cup, winning the 2010 and 2012 editions as UEFA Europa League holders. They overcame Inter Milan 2-0 in 2010 and Chelsea 4-1 in 2012.

Possible line-ups:

Real Madrid: Navas; Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Casemiro, Kroos, Isco; Bale, Benzema, Asensio.

Out: Vallejo (muscle problem), Odriozola (adductor)

Atlético Madrid: Oblak; Juanfran, Godín, Giménez, Filipe Luís; Koke, Saúl, Rodrigo; Lemar, Griezmann, Costa.

Venue: A Le Coq Arena

Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Time: 8pm

NAIJ.com previously reported that Spanish city rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid arrived Tallinn on Monday, August 13, ahead of their UEFA Super Cup showdown.

According to a UK Daily Mail report Champions League winners Real Madrid and Europa League kings Atletico both included star-studded squad members in their team to the Estonian capital.

The two clubs clash at the 15,000-capacity Lillekula Stadium on Wednesday night.

Football Transfers That Shocked The World - NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Hamza Al-Mustapha said if Nigerians want, he will run for presidency

- The former CSO to late Sani Abacha said the EFCC could not fight corruption

- He insisted he knows nothing about his former boss' loot

Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, says he will join the presidential race if prevailed upon by Nigerians to do so.

Al-Mustapha gave the indication Wednesday in Kaduna in an interview shortly after a meeting with United Christian Leaders Eagle Eye Forum which backed him to join the 2019 presidential race.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Saraki to run against Buhari in 2019 - Bloomberg

“I am not going to announce myself contesting for a presidential seat, but if people say so that, is the wishes of the people.

”I am not a power tasty person, if I am, I would have lost my personality long before now, but when people gather to speak and the decision is by them, then it is a call to serve,” the retired Army Major said.

According to him, his focus is the protection of the right of Nigerians as provided under the law.

Al-Mustapha also spoke on the security situation in the country and called for the reintroduction of toll gates, which he described as an effective buffer of uncovering illegal weapons and movement of criminals.

He also called for the overhaul of the Police Act to strengthen policing at the local level in the country.

Al-Mustapha particularly said local government councils must be allowed to work effectively, so as to tackle local challenges including security.

He described the efforts of the EFCC in fighting corruption “as a small monkey given a thread to arrest an elephant, but abandoned it and is busy destroying the animal kingdom.

“If you have to fight corruption in Nigeria, you have to tackle it from multi faceted angles; the EFCC is not strong enough to fight corruption.

“It requires a bigger body that has the capacity of intelligence that can reach out to the international community to get our stolen funds stashed abroad and equally prosecute rather than relying on the regular Police to do that.”

On the Abacha loot, the former CSO to the late Head of State said, he knew nothing about it.

“The fact that some of Nigerian leaders were corrupt does not mean that everyone that serve in government is a thief. Some of us can stand and challenge any institution or individual any day any time.

“Stealing is not what you require, but its service to the nation that matters. Any money that you steal not to render service to the people makes the owner an illiterate, vision less storekeeper.”

Earlier, Chairman of the United Christian Leaders Eagle Eye Forum Pastor Aminchi Habu, said the forum, after critical analysis and observations has endorsed Al-Mustapha to contest in the upcoming Presidential election in 2019.

He said the Forum will stand with Al-Mustapha once he makes up his mind to run for the presidency because of his integrity.

Meanwhile, former head of state, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has said that the 2019 presidential election is not a do-or-die affair but called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to make sure the election is free and fair.

The Sun reports that Babangida gave this call when one of the party’s presidential aspirants and former governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, visited him in Niger state.

Nigeria Latest News: Here's What Saraki and Tambuwal's Defection Means for the APC | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Governor Samuel Ortom said the EFCC is constantly harassing Benue state

- He described the action of the anti-graft agency as persecution

- Ortom said the EFCC was probing his security spendings

Benue Governor, Samuel Ortom, says the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has subjected state government officials to intense grilling, saying that the persecution was becoming “ridiculous”.

Ortom’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Terver Akase, who raised the alarm on Wednesday in Makurdi, said “no day passes without the commission adding one more angle to their harassment of Benue officials.

READ ALSO: How Nigeria can fight and defeat corruption - Al-Mustapha

“Their latest move is the demand for minutes of the Benue State Security Council meetings.”

Querying the legality of their request, Akase asked “does the statutory mandate of the commission include regulation of states’ security affairs?”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the state legislators were currently answering questions at the EFCC over their involvement in a car purchase deal since the beginning of the incumbent administration.

Ortom had also raised alarm that the anti-graft agency was probing his security spendings and demanded that it should cover all governors and the presidency.

Meanwhile, the special adviser to Governor Samuel Ortom on media and ICT, Tahav Agerzua, has described the claim by the immediate past deputy governor of Benue state, Chief Stephen Lawani, that Governor Ortom was forced out of the APC on account of poor performance as a desperate attempt to seek relevance and please the owner of the party in the state.

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Chief Lawani had in an interview with Vanguard claimed that the All Progressives Congress shut its doors against Governor Ortom because he had performed poorly as governor of Benue state.

In a statement discrediting Chief Lawani’s allegation, the governor’s media adviser maintained that the former deputy governor was on a self-serving mission to impress the owner of the party in the state.

APC chieftains in Benue state say PDP has nothing to offer - On NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

The eldest son of later Samuel Ogbemudia has said the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is being run by some saboteurs withing his cabinet.

Ogbemudia said these saboteurs both at federal and state government levels has made it difficult for Nigerians to feel the impact of the achievement of the present administration, Vanguard reports.

Speaking to journalists in Benin city, Edo state on Wednesday, August 15, Ogbemudia said it will be difficult to enjoy the benefits of democracy with these saboteurs still present in President Buhari's cabinet.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Saraki to run against Buhari in 2019 - Bloomberg

Ogbemudia said: “President Muhammadu Buhari has to beam his searchlight on his cabinet and remove the bad eggs in the government so that the people can begin to feel the impact of the giant strides which he has recorded so far in his administration.”

He also called for a strong representation of the Edo south constituency at the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, had said that he was confident President Buhari would win the 2019 elections.

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Tinubu made the statement in Lagos while addressing party members at a stakeholders meeting of the state chapter.

He said that the president had acquitted himself as a leader so far inspite of the challenges of governance.

Nigeria Latest News: Here's What Saraki and Tambuwal's Defection Means for the APC | on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

The Nigerian army in its intensification of the fight against criminality particularly in the north engaged in a gunfight with bandits in Zamfara.

It was reported that the soldiers had gone after armed robbers before they were ambushed by the bandits.

Some of the weapons recovered from the bandits. Credit: Facebook, SK Usman

READ ALSO: How Nigeria can fight and defeat corruption - Al-Mustapha

In a statement by Colonel Muhammad Dole who is the deputy director of army public relations, one soldier was killed in the ambush while two others were injured.

Five bodies of bandits were recovered in the forest including that of one Sani Danbuzuwa.

Read the statement below:

One soldier lost his life in the ambush. Credit: Facebook, SK Usman

The Troops of 1 Division under Operation WHIRL PUNCH responded to a distress call about an armed robbery along Birnin Gwari - Funtua road. While on pursuit of the armed robbers, they were ambushed by suspected bandits. However, they fought their way and overpowered the bandits, who hastily withdrew into Kwuyambana forest in Zamfara State.

During the pursuit of the bandits in the forest, 5 bandits' dead bodies were found. Among the eliminated bandits was a notorious bandit from Zamfara identified as Sani Danbuzuwa. Regrettably, we lost One soldier and Two were injured. The wounded soldiers were evacuated and they are responding to treatment in military hospital in Kaduna.

After thorough searched of the ambush area, the following items were recovered:

a. 1 x AK47 rifle.

b. 3 x magazines.

c. 87 rounds of 7.62mm (special).

d. 1 x G3 rifle.

e. 4 x magazines.

f. 61 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO).

Likewise, a wanted vicious kidnapper and expert in negotiations for ransom, called Yinusa Suleiman from Sambuwa village was apprehended by troops on 14 August 2018. He is currently assisting the security operatives in further investigations.

The troops remain committed and determined to ensure security and safe passage to all commuters along highways of Kaduna - Abuja and Kaduna - Birnin Gwari roads as well as adjoining towns and villages.

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Meanwhile, the Zamfara state police command has captured 20 suspected bandits and recovered seven AK 47 rifles. The commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Kenneth Ebrimson, made the disclosure at a news conference in Gusau on Wednesday, August 15.

Ebrimson said the suspects were captured by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) special tactical squad in collaboration with the command at various locations in the state.

Lagos Police parades suspects - on NAIJ.com TV:

Source: Naija.ng

- Kemi Adeosun has said that N11 billion has been recovered through the whistleblowers policy in Nigeria

- The minister said the money was recovered from December 2016 till date

- She said N375.8 million has also been paid to 20 whistleblowers who provided information that led to the recovery

Nigeria's minister of finance, Kemi Adeosun, on Wednesday, August 15, announced that the N11.6 billion has been recovered by the federal government from tips received from whistleblowers.

Adeosun said the money was recovered between December 2016 when the Whistleblowers Policy was launched till date.

According to the minister, a total of 5,000 tips have also been received by the federal government from various whistleblowers across the country.

Adeosun however said the federal government only acted on 365 of them leading to the payment of N375.8 million to 20 whistleblowers who provided information that led to the recovery.

READ ALSO: Buhari’s administration run by saboteurs - Ogbemudia Jnr alleges

Speaking further, Adeosun said the policy has been one of government’s most successful new initiatives.

She said over half of the tips came from public servants touching on issues like contract inflation, ghost workers, illegal recruitment, misappropriation of funds, illegal sale of government assets, diversion of revenues and violation of Treasury Single Account (TSA) regulations, among others.

Adeosun said: “Part of our work is to analyse trends and take corrective actions. For example, many of the salary, tax and pension under remittance cases shared a common thread.

Several cases where institutions were found to have insufficient funds to meet there obligations often had illegal recruitments which bloated the wage bill and agencies responded by part-paying or short paying salaries, whilst applying to FG for salary shortfall payments. We are revising our procedures for approval of recruitment, which will improve our budgeting and control," Adeosun said.

READ ALSO: I must be an insane person to contemplate to leave APC - Former governor

“Equally, in many cases where revenue has been diverted to accounts outside TSA, we have reviewed our reconciliation and receipting processes. So the information being provided is useful in driving process improvements.

If as a civil servant you have information about a possible misconduct or violation that has occurred, is ongoing, or is about to occur, we implore you to come forward and report it. You can submit your information anonymously and confidentially through the online portal, by email or by phone and if you choose to disclose your identity, I assure you that it will be fully protected," the minister added.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that the federal government said in the first three months, its new whistleblowing policy has provided 282 tip-offs out of which 154 were actionable.

The Nigerian government started the whistle-blower policy some months back to tackle endemic corruption and it is reaping rewards.

Festus Akanbi, a government official said that some of the actionable tips involved “contract inflation and conversion of government asset to personal use”, “ghost workers” and “payment of unapproved funds.”

The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Eight police officers have been dismissed for very serious criminal offence, the Lagos state commissioner of police has said

- Imohimi Edgal said a total of 108 officers were disciplined for various offences from January to July, 2018 in the Lagos state Command

- According to Edgal,six other police officers were demoted from the various ranks

The commissioner of Police in Lagos state, Imohimi Edgal, on Wednesday, August 15, said eight officers were dismissed over “very serious criminal offences”, while six others were demoted in ranks.

Edgal, also said that 108 officers were disciplined for various offences from January to July, 2018 in the Lagos state Command.

He made the disclosure at a Stakeholders’ Forum on “Police Accountability and Presentation of Advocacy Materials at the command’s headquarters, Ikeja.

The police chief said that 58 other officers recorded major entries, six officers reprimanded, 28 officers got warning motors, four officers had extra fatigue, while five others were discharged for lack of evidences against them.

READ ALSO: How Nigeria can fight and defeat corruption - Al-Mustapha

“The days of police officers receiving slaps on the wrist for offences are gone. When you performed excellently well, you will receive a CP’s Commendation Letter.

“I am not happy punishing any officer, but that does not mean we should overlook unprofessional conducts. When I resumed as CP Lagos, I discovered that the public had lost confidence in the police.

“I set up a Citizen Complaint Hot Centre with 10 mobile phone lines through which people can complain about the wrongs of our men. I have received many complaints.

“However, there is no way I would know all that my men are doing if nobody complained,” he said.

Edgal called on people in Lagos to continue to assist the police with information and other assistance, stressing that the 28,000 officers and men in Lagos were inadequate to police the state.

READ ALSO: I must be an insane person to contemplate to leave APC - Former governor

According to him, community policing in the state is working as it had reduced crimes by 35 per cent.

Commending the forum organised by the civil society groups, he said that it would also assist the police to perform better.

Edgal, while appointing a senior police officer, SP Abubakar Aliyah from the X-Squad, as member of the forum, promised to monitor the activities of the forum,

Also, Okechukwu Nwanguma, the National Coordinator, Network For Police Reform In Nigeria (NOPRIN) and Chairman of the forum, spoke on “Toward Sustained Community Partnership with the Lagos State Police”.

Nwanguma said that the forum was formed with a view to have regular engagement and interaction with the Lagos State Police Command on issues of police accountability.

“The platform is to stand as a liaison between the police and the communities.

“This is with a view to deepening partnership between the police and the communities they serve and to improve public safety and security.

“We want to gain deeper understanding of the workings of the various complaints and disciplinary mechanisms within the Lagos State Police Command and the feedback system.

“We want to have a formalised and structured engagement with them, contribute to strengthening them and promoting police accountability,” he said.

Nwanguma commended Edgal for his human rights record, noting that he was one of the best commissioners in the country with good human rights police command.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: I am considering running against Buhari in 2019 - Saraki

The Head of Monitoring, National Human Rights Commission, southwest, Nneka Anigbo, said that the launch of the forum was a welcome development.

Anigbo said the commission would support the forum to succeed, and commended the CP for a job well done in the state.

The president of Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Odita Sunday, praised the initiative behind the forum, urging Edgal to maintain the high level of crime fighting.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlight of the launch included the presentation of some advocacy materials by Nwanguma and Mrs Bose Iro Ndu of Women’s Rights and Health Project.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that the commissioner of police in Kogi state, Ali Janga, has paraded two serving officers of the force as well as one personnel of the Nigerian Navy for alleged kidnapping and armed robbery.

The suspects were said to be among others paraded by Janga, who gave the names of the police officers as Corporals Isiaka Suleman and Ibrahim James.

The naval personnel was identified as Bature Habila.

Evans the kidnapper lands in Kirikiri prison after first appearance in court - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

Looking for the latest agbada style to add to your wardrobe? Well, look no further, as we have complied a list of trendy agbada styles you should definitely check out. We have agbada styles for everyone, so come and take a look!

Agbada for men

If you have been looking for an agbada design to wear to a fancy occasion, then you are in luck. These days, there are plenty of agbada styles for guys out there, so all you will need to do is pick the one you like the most. However, something tells us that there will be more than one style that fits your criteria. Here is the list of top 10 latest agbada designs for men.

First, we have this baby blue number with light embroidery near the collar. You can never go wrong with the colour like this, as it fits every possible situation. It is also a good choice to pair such an agbada with a differently coloured hat for contrast.

If you want to be the centre of attention wherever you go, then check out this striped agbada. The asymmetrically thick lines of different colours create an interesting pattern, and the lighter areas on certain stripes create the illusion of glowing. And you can wear this agbada with your swanky new shoes, too!

As you might have noticed, our favourite colour is blue, but, coincidentally, there are a lot of great agbadas in this colour! This one stands out in particular thanks to the wonderful embroidery on the front. And this shade of blue looks great against dark skin.

If you are a man of simple taste, then your wardrobe should contain at least one plain black agbada. It is a very simple yet dashing design that will suit anyone. If you do not want your whole outfit to be just black, you can spice it up with some gold accessories and a brightly coloured cat.

To stand out from the crowd, you need to take some fashion risks. For instance, why not try to wear a fuchsia-coloured agbada? Not only is it an unusual colour, but it also features some elements that you do not see often on agbadas, such as, for instance, lining made from a different material. Definitely consider this agbada style next time you go shopping.

Monochrome will never go out of style, so going for a black and white agbada is always a good choice. You will not have to spend hours picking out the right accessories and clothes that go with it, as probably every person has something black and/or white in their closet.

Here is another option for people in love with the black and white, only this time the colours have traded places. Once again, you cannot go wrong with a design like this. It is elegant, dapper and easy to pair with almost anything.

If you want to look like a million bucks, then plain agbadas will not do. You will need to dress yourself in something slick and shiny to impress everyone around you. Do not forget to add some accessories, but do not go too overboard, as you will already look pretty sparkly.

Before this, we had bronze, and now we have silver, or white, depending on how you look at it. Regardless, it will be a great choice for any official even, especially a wedding. Even though it looks good as it is, you can accessorise this agbada with some contrasting jewellery to make it even shinier.

After bronze and silver, it would only make sense to feature a golden agbada. This seems like a great option for a groom, as it will attract the attention of all people in the room. As you can see from the picture, it goes great with coral accessories, which is another reason to wear this to a wedding.

Agbada for ladies

You did not think that we would forget about the ladies, did you? There are quite a lot of agbada styles out there, but we have chosen ten styles we like the most. Without further ado, here are our top picks of agbada styles for women.

READ ALSO: Nigerian traditional maternity dresses - Best designs

To open this category, we have this grey/silver agbada with an unusual embroidery on the chest. Even though it is not the most vibrant style out there, it still looks very elegant and beautiful, making it a perfect option for a serious official event.

A bright contrast to our previous pick, there is this hot pink agbada with something that seems like leopard print on the front. With this outfit, you will be noticed from afar, so you should choose this if you plan to appear on stage or just want all eyes to be on you.

If hot pink is not your favourite colour, then try this carmine agbada with baby pink embroidery instead. With this outfit, you will be able to fit in wherever you want to and still stand out from the crowd. The beauty of this particular style is that it is beautiful enough on its own, so it does not require heavy accessorising.

You thought we were out of pink agbadas? Well, you were wrong, as here is another one for your consideration. This one has a classic shape, but its colour is quite unusual. So you look like a boss while wearing the pinkiest pink you can imagine.

Green is always a great choice for an agbada, as can be seen from this example. What makes it even more exciting is the symmetrical vertical stripes combined with distorted horizontal lines that are somewhat reminiscent of the waves. This style is simple enough to be worn to any occasion without it looking out of place.

Here is the beautiful Juliet Ibrahim rocking her gorgeous grey agbada. Even though there is nothing especially unusual about it, it still looks very stylish. As long as it sits properly on you, this style of agbada should work great for any body shape and height.

Here we have a slightly less usual take on agbadas. Not only is it cut in a different way than the rest of the agbadas on this list, but it also features patterns you do not often see on clothes like this. So if you want to be unique, consider this outfit.

If you are a busy woman who is always on the go, this agbada with conveniently placed pockets should become a part of your wardrobe. Apart from being quite functional and cosy, it looks very stylish, too. It also looks informal enough to be worn for a regular walk around the block.

Looking for a shorter agbada? Then this would be a great choice for you. Its short cut will not constrict any of your movements, so that you can go about your day in your regular manner. The deep blue colour looks great pretty much on anyone, so that is also a big plus.

Last, but not least, here is a lovely black agbada with vibrant yellow embroidered elements. You can wear this anywhere you like and make use of those convenient pockets (especially if you, like us, have no idea what to do with your hands).

That is it for our overview of best male and female agbada styles of this year. Have you found something you like? Would you wear anything from our list? Let us know in those comments! We absolutely love reading them.

READ ALSO: Nigerian native wear designs for men

Source: Naija.ng

- The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) says most parts of Nigeria will witness rains and thunderstorms

- NiMet predicts day and night temperatures in the range of 30 - 32 degree Celsius and 22 - 24 degree Celsius respectively

- Major cities in the north, south-south and southwest will be affected according to the prediction

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted thunderstorms and rains across the country with prospects of cloudy conditions over Nguru, Potiskum, Dutse and Yelwa during the morning hours for Thursday, August 16.

NiMet made this known in its Weather Outlook by its Central Forecast Office in Abuja on Wednesday, August 15.

It envisaged thunderstorms over Kano, Nguru, Dutse, Yelwa, Gusau, Maiduguri and environs later in the day.

READ ALSO: Notorious bandit Danbuzuwa killed by army, weapons recovered (photos)

The agency said that day and night temperature in the northern states would be in the ranges of 29 – 31 degree Celsius and 21 – 23 degree Celsius respectively.

The agency predicted thunderstorms and rains over Bauchi, Minna, Lokoja, Jos, Yola, Jalingo, Lafia and Abuja during the morning hours with scattered thunderstorms across the central region.

READ ALSO: How Nigeria can fight and defeat corruption - Al-Mustapha

NiMet added that day and night temperature in the region would be in the range of 30 – 32 degree Celsius and 22 – 24 degree Celsius respectively except for Jos that will be between 24 and 16 degree Celsius.

According to it, cloudy conditions are expected during the morning hours with chances of moderate rainfall over Calabar, Benin and Ikom axis.

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It predicted rains over the inland cities of Shaki, Ijebu-Ode, Ondo, Umuahia, Abakaliki, Enugu, and the coastal cities of Port-Harcourt, Yenagoa, Uyo, Eket, Calabar and environs in the afternoon and evening hours.

NiMet envisaged that day and night temperature in the southern region would be in the range of 28- 31 degree Celsius and 21 – 23 Celsius respectively.

Market Survey: Meet the real Lagos hustlers at the ever-busy Yaba market - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Governor Rauf Aregesola reportedly ordered the payment of full salary to Osun workers

The workers expressed pleasure at the new development

Pensioners have however not received their payment yet

There was celebration in Osun state over the payment of full salary by Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Jacob Adekomi who is the chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Osun state chapter confirmed the payment according to The Punch.

READ ALSO: How Nigeria can fight and defeat corruption - Al-Mustapha

Adekomi confirmed receiving full salary for the month of July and said local government workers and primary school teachers have also started receiving payment alerts.

He said: “The state government has started paying us full salaries. But we are waiting for the payment of arrears of the balance of modulated salaries. We have already given them a 21-day ultimatum and we hope they will pay the arrears before the expiration of the ultimatum.

“Negotiation will soon commence and we are waiting for them to start paying us the arrears. But I can confirm that they have started paying us full salaries and I received the alert yesterday.”

However, the Secretary of the 2011/2012 Forum of Retirees in the state, Sola Olojode, said they had not received their own payment yet.

He said: “We went to the Head of Service two days ago and he assured us that we would be paid full pension for July. We will make noise again if we are not paid as they promised.

“He also assured us that those retirees whose N100, 000 cheques given to them bounced should present the cheques again. The cheques of N100, 000 out of millions of naira gratuities bounced. Can you imagine that? The cheques were given to teachers that retired through Teachers and Establishment and Pension Office.”

Oyebade Olowogboyega who is the head of service commended Governor Aregbesola “for the double promotions they received without examinations and the employment of thousands of youths into the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme programme.”

He also said the arrears and leave bonuses would be paid and that “the new promotion status of each worker would be reflected and not the former level, while the financial benefits attached to the promotion status would be fulfilled.”

NAIJ.com had reported that ahead of the Eld-el-Kabir celebration, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara has directed the Ministry of Finance to commence the immediate payment of August salary to workers.

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The Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Demola Banu, who disclosed this on Wednesday in Ilorin, said arrangements have been concluded and a facility secured to ensure workers begin to receive salaries from Thursday.

He said the governor’s directive was to ensure that the workers have an enjoyable Sallah celebration.

Eid-el-Kabir: Why the ram killed must not exceed three days in your house - On NAIJ.com TV:

Source: Naija.ng

The main headlines of the mainstream Nigerian newspapers for Tuesday, August 16, are focused on the alleged announcement by Senate President Bukola Saraki to run for the presidential seat in the 2019 general elections.

Vanguard newspaper reports Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state, yesterday, accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of deliberate witch-hunt as the anti-graft agency asked for minutes of the state’s security meetings.

The governor, reacting to EFCC’s demand for minutes of Benue state Security Council meetings between 2015 and 2018, decried the level of harassment and intimidation of officials of his government by the anti-graft agency since he dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the PDP. He stressed that the commission had not relented in persecuting him since his defection.

Vanguard Newspaper

This Day reports that the Presidency wednesday clarified the status of the former Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS), Lawal Daura, who was dismissed last week, saying he was being debriefed contrary to reports that he was under detention.

READ ALSO: Notorious bandit Danbuzuwa killed by army, weapons recovered (photos)

Making this disclosure while appearing on ARISE NEWS television programme, Morning Show, anchored by former presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati, the president’s media adviser, Mr. Femi Adesina, explained that given the sensitive nature of Daura’s schedule, it was necessary for him to interact more with his replacement, Matthew Seiyefa, in order to do proper handover of his former office.

This Day Newspaper

The Punch reports that the President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, has said that he is considering contesting the 2019 presidential election, adding that he believes he can “make the change.”

Saraki, who stated this in an interview with Bloomberg, expressed concerns about the invasion of the National Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services.

The Punch Newspaper

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The Guardian reports that the Senate has expressed concern over alleged discrepancies in the 2019 elections budget figures presented by President Muhammadu Buhari and chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu. The Senate Committee on INEC made the observations during its meeting with the commission at the National Assembly yesterday.

The Guardian Newspaper

The Nation reports that work has begun on the budget of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2019 elections.

INEC Chairman Prof Mahmood Yakubu yesterday defended the commission’s N189.2 billion budget at separate sessions with the Senate’s and House of Representatives’ committees on INEC.

Yakubu, who gave a breakdown of the various components of the budget, told the lawmakers that preparations for the poll ought to have started by August 15 (yesterday).

The Nation Newspaper

Documents submitted to the lawmakers by INEC indicated that election operational cost will cost N134.4bn; technology -N27.5bn; administrative cost -N22.6bn; and miscellaneous -N4.6bn.

Nigeria news: IDPs in Plateau getting ready for the elections | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Nwosu believes Moses' national team retirement will affect his chances at Chelsea

- The Blues' winger called it quits with international duties for Nigeria after six years

- Moses was part of the team that won the Africa Nations Cup title in South Africa in 2013

Former Green Eagles captain and coach Henry Nwosu has said Victor Moses will hurt his chances at Chelsea after retiring from international football.

The 27-year-old it called quits on his international career on Wednesday after spending six years with the Super Eagles winning the Nations Cup trophy in 2013.

"I don't think it's a wise decision because he is still very young. He needs to play for Nigeria to be more recognised at his club because Nigeria is a big name in football," Nwosu told Goal.

"It might make him lose his place in his club, they may look at him as a player who is not playing in the national team so he doesn't deserve regular playing time.

"For your club, that's the most important thing because the more you are playing for your club, the better for the national team.

"Club competitions are different from national competitions but you need both to compete at top level. I'm surprised that he has retired now."

Moses played in the Brazil 2014 World Cup and the Russia 2018 tournaments respectively and scored the leveler against Argentina in their last Group D match from a spot-kick.

READ ALSO: Victor Moses retires from international duties with the Super Eagles

He remains one of Nigeria's most successful players in Europe having won the Premier League, FA Cup and the Europa League with Chelsea.

Moses has also played for top English sides including Crystal Palace, Wigan, Liverpool, Stoke City and West Ham United.

In total, Moses has played 37 matches scoring 12 goal for the national team during his six-year career with his ancestral home.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had earlier reported that Super Eagles winger Victor Moses was delighted with Chelsea's first win of the season after overcoming Huddersfield Town by 3-0.

Goals from N’golo Kante, Jorginho and Pedro Rodriguez ensured Maurizio Sarri’s side kick-started their campaign on a winning note.

Who is the better coach, Mourinho or Conte? - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- A chat between a popular man of God and a married woman has leaked online

- The texts were released by the husband of the woman who has vowed to disgrace the prophet

It has just been reported that some exchange of messages between a top prophet and a married woman which suggests that the two are involved in an amorous relations have been leaked on the internet.

The messages which were exchanged on Facebook revealed that the prophet was sleeping with the wife of one of the church members.

According to the messages, the prophet and the woman met under the guise of attending prayer meetings only to end up sleeping together.

READ ALSO: 28-year-old taxi driver charged to court for refusing to pay N6,000 to ashawo

The report had it that the message was leaked online by the husband of the woman who became suspicious of his wife's 'church activities' and started snooping around for signs of cheating.

Excerpts from the conversation between the prophet and the lady reads: "Is your husband awake I hope you didn’t give him what you gave me last night This message was sweet mutsa sweet like you What time are you coming to church”.

The lady in question appeared to be more inclined to the demands of the prophet and was willing to always go out of her way to please him.

In one of her replies to the man of God, the lady revealed that she appreciated the dress bought for her by the prophet and was in a hurry to go and service her prophet.

According to the report, the messages were leaked by the husband of the woman who had vowed to expose the pastor before the council of church leaders.

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NAIJ.com earlier reported that a Canada-based Ghanaian pastor, Martin Kofi Danso, has many Christians asking questions after it was revealed he put a member of his church in the family way. The self-proclaimed prophet was gifted a private jet by his members as a birthday gift in 2016.

Why do women cheat? (Nigerian Street Interview) - Street Gist | Naij.com TV - on NAIJ.com TV.

Source: Naija.ng

- Goalkeeper David Ospina has completed a loan move to Napoli from Arsenal

- He could also be signed on a permanent basis by the Italian club

- Arsenal started their campaign in the new season with a defeat against Manchester City

Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina has left Premier League side Arsenal for a loan move to Italian club Napoli with the club having an option to buy him on permanent basis.

Following the arrival of Bernd Leno from Bayer Leverkusen, 29-year-old David Ospina has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates stadium.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery even confirmed that new goalkeeper Bernd Leno would have to wait for his chance at the club as Petr Cech remains his number goalie this season.

Napoli have been searching for a goalkeeper since the new signing Alex Meret broke his arm in training last month and had been linked with a move for Liverpool’s Simon Mignolet.

The club have however signed David Ospina from Arsenal according to the report by UK Guardian.

David Ospina joined the Gunners from French club Nice in July 2014 for having impressed for his country at the World Cup in Brazil.

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Earlier, NAIJ.com had reported how Arsenal manager Unai Emery confirmed that Englishman Danny Welbeck will not leave the Emirates stadium this month despite being linked with a move to Everton.

Welbeck has fallen behind Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette in his preferred center-forward position and has also been linked with a switch to Besiktas.

But Unai Emery who replaced Wenger at the Emirates claimed only Jenkinson, David Ospina and Joel Campbell will be allowed to leave in August.

Football Transfers That Shocked The World | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Senator Philip Gyunka says PDP senators have begun sleeping at the National Assembly to prevent any attempt to impeach Dr Bukola Saraki

- Gyunka said he had also completed his own night shift and was returning for another

- He insisted that Saraki, being a product of the PDP, had come to rescue the nation

Senator Philip Gyunka (PDP-Nasarawa North) has disclosed that Peoples Democratic Party senators have begun taking turns sleeping at the National Assembly in order to prevent any nocturnal removal of Senate President Bukola Saraki by their colleagues in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Gyunka made the disclosure when he presented his letter of intent to contest for the Nasarawa gubernatorial election to the leadership of the PDP in the state on Wednesday, August 15, The Nation reports.

READ ALSO: Buhari’s administration run by saboteurs - Ogbemudia Jnr alleges

NAIJ.com gathers that Gyunka said he had also completed his own night shift and was returning for another.

He stated: “I woke up this morning from my night shift and I will still be going back to my night shift. That is to say we are keeping vigil.

“We are rotating the shift among ourselves. As regards what they are saying about impeachment (removal), it is not possible because the international community is aware of their plot.

“Don’t be discouraged. They will intimidate you as they do to us. Like myself, I don’t know how many times they have been calling me. We didn’t know they have come to truncate democracy.

“But the Senate president, being a product of PDP, has come to the rescue of the situation.”

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Recall that NAIJ.com previously reported that Senator Philip Gyunka, said that any plot to illegally impeach the president of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, will be strongly resisted.

Gyunka, who expressed concern over the role played by the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole, in the matter, said the position of the Constitution on who should be president of the Senate was clear.

According to him, unlike majority and minority leadership, which are from majority and minority parties, a lawmaker can be president of the Senate, irrespective of party affiliation.

Here's what Saraki and Tambuwal's defection means for the APC - on NAIJ.com TV:

Source: Naija.ng

- APC southwest vice chairman, Pastor Bankole Oluwajana, said defections under Goodluck Jonathan was because of corruption

- Oluwajana said defections under the Buhari's administration is merely political

- He added that he is sure the President Buhari will win the 2019 presidential election

The recent defections of politicians in All Progressives Congress (APC) is different from similar ones that occurred among politicians in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019, according to a claim by APC southwest chairman, Pastor Bankole Oluwajana.

Oluwajana who spoke to journalists in Lagos, blamed the defections under Jonathan on corruption in his administration.

He said: “I am more than hopeful that Buhari will be re-elected in February 2019. Going through the breadth and length of Nigeria, people that really matter appreciate what Buhari is doing for this country. They are not confused by the gale of defections blowing across the federation, especially from the APC to the PDP. The defection we experienced under the Goodluck Jonathan administration is different from the defection that is going on now.

READ ALSO: PDP senators begin sleeping at NASS to prevent Saraki’s impeachment

“Under Jonathan, people were just fed up with the PDP. It was odious. You could not even say then you were a member of the PDP anywhere.

"The moment you identified yourself with the PDP, people would say you were a thief. In fact, they would laugh at you. That was the story then. There was a congregation of opinion that the PDP government was not good for Nigeria. But this time around, the defections we are experiencing has three categories.”

"First, a lot of these people won the election with Buhari’s credibility, the same way some people used the name of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo to win the election in 1999. In 1999, most elected officials in the South West did not win the election on their own merit. The moment you belong to Awolowo’s political lineage, you would win the election on a silver platter.

"This was similar to what happened in 2015. Because of the situation then, people preferred any person other than the PDP. Even the PDP chieftains that joined the APC then, more than half of them did not make it on their merit. Now, people know better. They know they cannot secure the APC nomination. Many of them have not gone to their constituencies for a long time. The only way they can try their luck is to change party because APC will not produce them again."

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NAIJ.com earlier reported that the minister of information, culture and tourism, Lai Mohammed, has said that the defection of the Senate president, Bukola Saraki, from the ruling All progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not come as a surprise for members of the party.

Mohammed said virtually no member of the ruling party was taken aback by the defection of the number three man in Nigeria to the opposition.

Nigeria Latest News: Here's What Saraki and Tambuwal's Defection Means for the APC | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to a report that he is against the use of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) and card readers for 2019 general election

- The president said allegations that he declined assent to a bill due to his objections to the use of card readers are ‘wild and baseless’

- Garba Shehu said contrary to reports President Buhari has never raised any objections to the use of Card Readers for elections

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, August 15, said he is fully committed to the use of Permanent Voters Card (PVCs) and card readers for the 2019 general elections.

NAIJ.com gathered that president in a statement by senior special assistant on media and publicity, Garba Shehu said the allegations that the president declined assent to the Bill because of objections to the use of card readers are wild and baseless.

Garba said on the contrary he has always been a passionate advocate for the use of PVCs and Card Readers in elections in Nigeria, mindful of the role that Card Readers and PVCs played in the election that brought him into office.

Read the statement below:

"Our attention has been drawn to incorrect and misleading reporting in newspapers regarding the status of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018.

“The Presidency would like to set out the true status of the Bill. The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was sent by the National Assembly to the Presidency at the end of June 2018, for assent.

“Following extensive consideration, the Presidency engaged with the National Assembly to raise concerns regarding errors and inconsistencies found in the submitted version. Following this, the National Assembly, on July 24, 2018, met to review and correct the Bill.

“The Bill was given, on July 24, 2018, a “clause by clause consideration” by the Senate. The Votes and Proceedings from the Senate on July 24, 2018, attest to this.

“The Senate resolved to rescind its decision on a number of clauses included in the version they had earlier sent for consideration by the President, and to reconsider these clauses.

“According to the Senate Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday July 24, 2018: “The Senate: … notes that in the course of final cleaning of the Bill as passed, some provisions were found to negate the essence of the amendment; [and] Resolves to: Rescind its decision on Clauses 3,5,8,11(2), 13(b), 14 (4), 15(3), 18,21,23,24,28,32 and 38 of the Bill as passed, and recommit same to Committee of the whole for reconsideration and passage.

The re-considered Bill was passed by the Senate on July 24, 2018 the same day that plenary was adjourned to September 25, 2018. The revised Version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018, with corrections by the National Assembly, and dated the 2nd of August, 2018, was received by the Presidency on the 3rd of August, 2018. The President has 30 days from the date of receipt, to assent to or decline the Bill. The Bill is therefore still under consideration by the Presidency.

The allegations that the President declined assent to the Bill because of objections to the use of card readers are wild and baseless. President Buhari did not and has never raised any objections to the use of Card Readers for elections in Nigeria.

On the contrary he has always been a passionate advocate for the use of PVCs and Card Readers in elections in Nigeria, mindful of the role that Card Readers and PVCs played in the election that brought him into office. And he has repeatedly made this clear, and praised these technologies.

Speaking at the State House on May 28, 2018, while hosting the Judiciary to the customary breaking of the Ramadan Fast, he said:

“I tried [running for President] three times, and ended up in court three times. The fourth time, I eventually made it, thanks to God and thanks to technology. These Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and Card Readers, they’re fantastic.

Those who went to their polling booths in their constituencies, and put in their votes, their votes counted. Before, votes were disregarded, [results] were just written, and there was nothing you could do before the [Judiciary] to prove your case. But now with technology, it has been made easy.

That is why I keep on appealing to the Governors, to please do voter education. Tell the people that their Voters Card is their national card, so to speak. Let them vote anybody they want across ethnicity and religion. I’m begging the Governors to please continue to do voter education, so that people will take their Permanent Voters Cards seriously, and make sure they don’t lose them.”

None of these clauses reviewed and revised by the National Assembly in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 relates to the issue of electronic voting or to the use of Card Readers. The President also did not raise any objections whatsoever to the use of Card Readers, contrary to the stories being maliciously peddled by sections of the media and on the Internet.

NAIJ.com previously reported that polling booths are henceforth to be position in a way to make it difficult for people to see how voters cast their votes during elections, a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), announced in Awka on Monday, August 13.

Nkwachukwu Orji, the REC in charge of Anambra, who made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said that the measure was to make it impossible for anyone to know who a voter voted for.

The measure comes against the backdrop of massive vote-buying reported in recent elections in the country, including the governorship election in Ekiti, which analysts said, was characterised by vote-buying.

Ekiti State REC Reveals How INEC Will Stop Rigging In Forthcoming Election | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to a report that he is against the use of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) and card readers for 2019 general election

- The president said allegations that he declined assent to a bill due to his objections to the use of card readers are ‘wild and baseless’

- Garba Shehu said contrary to reports President Buhari has never raised any objections to the use of Card Readers for elections

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, August 15, said he is fully committed to the use of Permanent Voters Card (PVCs) and card readers for the 2019 general elections.

NAIJ.com gathered that president in a statement by senior special assistant on media and publicity, Garba Shehu said the allegations that the president declined assent to the Bill because of objections to the use of card readers are wild and baseless.

Garba said on the contrary he has always been a passionate advocate for the use of PVCs and Card Readers in elections in Nigeria, mindful of the role that Card Readers and PVCs played in the election that brought him into office.

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Read the statement below:

"Our attention has been drawn to incorrect and misleading reporting in newspapers regarding the status of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018.

“The Presidency would like to set out the true status of the Bill. The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was sent by the National Assembly to the Presidency at the end of June 2018, for assent.

“Following extensive consideration, the Presidency engaged with the National Assembly to raise concerns regarding errors and inconsistencies found in the submitted version. Following this, the National Assembly, on July 24, 2018, met to review and correct the Bill.

“The Bill was given, on July 24, 2018, a “clause by clause consideration” by the Senate. The Votes and Proceedings from the Senate on July 24, 2018, attest to this.

“The Senate resolved to rescind its decision on a number of clauses included in the version they had earlier sent for consideration by the President, and to reconsider these clauses.

“According to the Senate Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday July 24, 2018: “The Senate: … notes that in the course of final cleaning of the Bill as passed, some provisions were found to negate the essence of the amendment; [and] Resolves to: Rescind its decision on Clauses 3,5,8,11(2), 13(b), 14 (4), 15(3), 18,21,23,24,28,32 and 38 of the Bill as passed, and recommit same to Committee of the whole for reconsideration and passage.

The re-considered Bill was passed by the Senate on July 24, 2018 the same day that plenary was adjourned to September 25, 2018. The revised Version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018, with corrections by the National Assembly, and dated the 2nd of August, 2018, was received by the Presidency on the 3rd of August, 2018. The President has 30 days from the date of receipt, to assent to or decline the Bill. The Bill is therefore still under consideration by the Presidency.

The allegations that the President declined assent to the Bill because of objections to the use of card readers are wild and baseless. President Buhari did not and has never raised any objections to the use of Card Readers for elections in Nigeria.

On the contrary he has always been a passionate advocate for the use of PVCs and Card Readers in elections in Nigeria, mindful of the role that Card Readers and PVCs played in the election that brought him into office. And he has repeatedly made this clear, and praised these technologies.

Speaking at the State House on May 28, 2018, while hosting the Judiciary to the customary breaking of the Ramadan Fast, he said:

“I tried [running for President] three times, and ended up in court three times. The fourth time, I eventually made it, thanks to God and thanks to technology. These Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and Card Readers, they’re fantastic.

Those who went to their polling booths in their constituencies, and put in their votes, their votes counted. Before, votes were disregarded, [results] were just written, and there was nothing you could do before the [Judiciary] to prove your case. But now with technology, it has been made easy.

That is why I keep on appealing to the Governors, to please do voter education. Tell the people that their Voters Card is their national card, so to speak. Let them vote anybody they want across ethnicity and religion. I’m begging the Governors to please continue to do voter education, so that people will take their Permanent Voters Cards seriously, and make sure they don’t lose them.”

None of these clauses reviewed and revised by the National Assembly in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 relates to the issue of electronic voting or to the use of Card Readers. The President also did not raise any objections whatsoever to the use of Card Readers, contrary to the stories being maliciously peddled by sections of the media and on the Internet.

NAIJ.com previously reported that polling booths are henceforth to be position in a way to make it difficult for people to see how voters cast their votes during elections, a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), announced in Awka on Monday, August 13.

Nkwachukwu Orji, the REC in charge of Anambra, who made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said that the measure was to make it impossible for anyone to know who a voter voted for.

The measure comes against the backdrop of massive vote-buying reported in recent elections in the country, including the governorship election in Ekiti, which analysts said, was characterised by vote-buying.

Ekiti State REC Reveals How INEC Will Stop Rigging In Forthcoming Election | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng