Suspected ‘murderer’ arrested in Benin

Benin City, Edo State. PHOTO: getgripng.com

The police in Edo State have confirmed the arrest of a suspected murderer whose motive behind the crime is yet to be ascertained.

But commercial motorcyclists known as Okada riders operating in Egor local government and youths of the community had protested against the presence of a suspected den for rituals at a forest located in a boundary between Ogheghe and Egbaen villages.
 
The okada riders set up barricades on the road after the body of their colleague was found in the bush. They claimed that other okada riders have disappeared in similar circumstances.
 
They were said to have identified a suspect, who hired the dead colleague two days earlier, when the suspect requested the services of another okada rider. The okada riders followed the suspect and cornered him when he attempted to divert the rider into the bush.
  
The Guardian gathered that the okada riders and youths accosted the suspect and beat him up, which made him to allegedly confess to the crime. He was said to have taken the mob to where he dumped the body and named other accomplices including a traditional birth attendant that use to buy the body parts.
   
Some witnesses claimed that the bush was filled with dead bodies and clothing belonging to victims, especially women and children.

One of the witnesses said he had earlier rescued a man tied inside the bush. He said he saw two fresh bodies, decomposing ones and human skeletons when he joined a search party into the bush.
  
A bike rider who pleaded anonymity said they decided to comb the bush following several incidents of missing persons in the area.
 
“Our people are missing everyday. On Saturday, we entered the bush and found the body of a man that was missing four days ago. The man we caught has killed many people inside that bush.
  
But the Commissioner of Police, Babatunde Kokumo, said the suspect was arrested in connection with murder and not ritual killing. Kokumo explained that the suspect would have been lynched if the police had not acted swiftly.  “There is nothing like mass killing in Egor. No bodies have been seen. The police arrested a suspect for murder and we are doing investigation.”

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Coutinho in $192m move to Barcelona

Liverpool's Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho celebrates scoring their fifth goal and completing his hattrick during the UEFA Champions League Group E football match between Liverpool and Spartak Moscow at Anfield in Liverpool, north-west England on December 6, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / Paul ELLIS

Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho was in Barcelona yesterday to tie up a 160-million-euro ($192 million) move from Liverpool, the third-richest deal of all time.

“Bem-vindo! Welcome! Benvingut! ¡Bienvenido!” Barca tweeted to Coutinho along with a waving hand sign and a video showing a shirt bearing his name in a locker.

Spanish league leaders Barca host Levante yesterday at Camp Nou, but Coutinho will not be in the stands.

“He will not be attending the match,” a club source told AFP.

According to Catalan daily Sport, current La Liga leaders Barca want attention turned solely on the Levante match and not their new recruit, who should be officially presented to media today.

The swoop for the 25-year-old attacking midfielder – which contains a 400-million-euro release clause – is the third biggest transfer in football.

It is outranked only by Paris Saint-Germain’s world record 222m-euro signing of Neymar from Barcelona last year, and PSG’s capture of French striker Kylian Mbappe for a deal that will eventually be worth 180 million euros.

Rio-born Coutinho arrived at Liverpool from Inter Milan for a mere £8.5 million in January 2013 and scored 54 goals for the club in all competitions, although he won no silverware during his five-year stay at Anfield.

Barcelona had tried to sign him in the summer and his departure now is a blow to Liverpool as the playmaker has just returned to top form after an injury-hit start to the season, scoring six goals in the last seven games of 2017 to put his side firmly in the Champions League places.

“It is with great reluctance that we -– as a team and club –- prepare to say farewell to a good friend, a wonderful person and a fantastic player in Philippe Coutinho,” said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

“It is no secret that Philippe has wanted this move to happen since July, when Barcelona first made their interest known.

“Philippe was insistent with me, the owners and even his teammates this was a move he was desperate to make happen.”

For Barcelona, Coutinho’s signing will allow the club to move on from the bitter experience of losing his Brazil teammate Neymar to Qatar-backed PSG last summer.

Coutinho’s age is highly attractive to Barca, whose three main stars, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta are all in their thirties. Iniesta, at 33, has shown signs of fatigue this season.

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Russia 2018: We can’t surprise Argentina again – Rohr

Nigeria’s manager, Gernot Rohr has admitted that the June 26 match with Argentina at Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg will be a difficult one.


The Nigeria coach told an Argentine publication, Olé that he anticipates that the encounter will be a classification match. The publication reported that Rohr spoke with Argentine radio station, Radio Rivadavia.

Rohr reportedly remarked that the match will determine who follows who. In essence, he is projecting that both Argentina and Nigeria will emerge from the Group D and the last match will only determine the group leader and the runners-up.

The runners-up face a potentially difficult Round of 16 match with projected Group C leader, France. The French side eliminated Nigeria at that stage four years ago. Rohr has a link with the French, even though he was born a German.

A substantial part of his adult life has been in France; hence he is often described as Franco-German. His dream may be to be the Group leader as Nigeria did in 1994 in a group that also had Argentina. On the South Americans, Rohr reportedly remarked: “You know how we play, so we cannot surprise them like the last time”, referring to the 4-2 defeat Nigeria inflicted on Argentina two months ago.

He acknowledged that this time it will be more difficult to beat the Sampaoli as they did in the friendly at Krasnodar Stadium, Russia. “It will be more difficult this time than in the friendly because they know how we play, so we cannot surprise them like the last time.”

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Man flees kidnappers’ den after two weeks

A 47-year-old man, Philips Emekudu, resident of Okpanam community near Asaba in Delta State, on Thursday evening escaped from his abductors after two weeks in his kidnappers’ den. PHOTO: nairaland

A 47-year-old man, Philips Emekudu, resident of Okpanam community near Asaba in Delta State, on Thursday evening escaped from his abductors after two weeks in his kidnappers’ den.

It was gathered that the victim was on his way to his house on the day he was kidnapped in his Lexus 350 SUV along Okpanam road, when a six-man gang of suspected kidnappers swooped on him close to a popular hotel, and forced him into the car before they zoomed off to an unknown destination.

The victim while narrating his ordeal to journalists yesterday, said: “They took me away to a bush where I was kept for two weeks without good food until I was assisted to escape by one of them who claimed I assisted him some years back.”

It would be recalled that the Delta State Police Command had launched a search for the whereabouts of the victim before the kidnappers established contact with his relations.

Also, in Ibusa, near Asaba, two suspected kidnappers were arrested by the police after they had lured their victim through social media to the town.

The victim, who was invited by the suspects from Owerri in Imo State to Ibusa on Facebook, was kidnapped and dragged into the bush by the suspects, and later demanded a ransom of N200,000 from the victim’s relations before they were arrested.

Mr. Andrew Aniamaka, police spokesman in the state confirmed that the suspects were currently undergoing investigation and they will be charged to court on completion of investigation.

Meanwhile, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) attached to the state command, Asaba, yesterday arrested three suspected car robbery suspects at the residence of a 52-year-old widow (name withheld) around Infant Jesus road, Asaba.

Aniamaka, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects, disclosed that the police acted on intelligence, adding that the suspects upon interrogation, confessed to the crime and took them to Agbor where they recovered 13 vehicles.

The suspects, whose names were given as Kayode Fredrick, Nnamdi Kenneth, and Boniface Iwuobi, are being retained for
further investigation.

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Lagos PDP, APC disagree over Ambode for 2019 polls

Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has promised judicious implementation of the N1.046 trillion 2018 budget for Lagos State.

During the yearly conference of the state chapter of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), he solicited the support of the media in realising the mega city project, pledging that ongoing infrastructural projects would be completed on schedule.

Represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, AbdulHakeem Abdullateef, Ambode said government was committed to the completion of the Agege Bridge in 10 months, the Airport Road project in 15 months and the Oshodi world-class business districts.

He noted that the full implementation of the budget would give Lagos a facelift, adding that new programmes were underway to ensure that the traffic gridlock in the state was effectively addressed.

Chairman of the event, Prof Lai Olurode, bemoaned a situation whereby good news about Islam and Muslims was rare in the media. He therefore enjoined the practitioners to seek knowledge about the faith in order to elevate its virtues and dictates. The scholar urged more Muslims to invest in the media.

However, the Lagos chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqualify Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from participating in the 2019 governorship election in the state.
  
The party hinged its call on the self-confession of a group, ‘Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko Vanguard’, which it said claimed to have organised a three million man march for Ambode’s re-election.
 
In a statement yesterday, the PDP spokesman, Taofik Gani, said the timing of the exercise breached provisions of the Electoral Act, since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was yet to approve campaign.
 
The party also called for the immediate arrest of those behind the march.

But the APC state spokesman, Joe Igbokwe, dismissed the call, saying the governor’s performance alone had endeared his administration to the indigenes and others across the federation.

He submitted the major opposition party has stand no chance of contesting against Ambode in the coming election, saying: “As it were, Ambode’s performance is currently campaigning as people are already commending and urging him to go ahead.”
 
Meanwhile, the governor has given an insight to what made the state enjoyed boom while the economic recession lasted in the country.

According to him, prayers and the activities of religious leaders who ceaselessly interceded for the state were key to the survival.
 
Speaking yesterday at the 2018 yearly thanksgiving service of the government titled ceaseless praise, Ambode stated that the state had not failed to thank God every year besides seeking his blessings which have been evident.

His words: “In our usual tradition, we have gathered here again, on the first Sunday of the year, in thanksgiving and praise to God Almighty. We are gathered in acknowledgement of the supreme power of God in our affairs; as a state and as individuals because we know that it is not by our strength or good deeds but by His grace that we are witnesses to this new year.”

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Dembele in first LaLiga start for Catalans since September

Tottenham Hotspur's Belgian midfielder Mousa Dembele shoots but doesn't score during the English FA Cup third round football match between Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Wimbledon at Wembley Stadium in London, on January 7, 2018. / AFP PHOTO

Ousmane Dembele made his first start since September after being named in the Barcelona team to face Levante in LaLiga yesterday.

Head coach Ernesto Valverde indicated after Dembele made a 20-minute cameo in the Copa del Rey against Celta Vigo on Thursday that the club-record signing was not ready to start.

But having recovered from a torn hamstring sustained against Getafe in his third appearance after his €105million August arrival from Borussia Dortmund, the winger features in a front three alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez against Levante.

Gerard Pique is named among the substitutes, with Javier Mascherano coming into the Barcelona defence to partner Thomas Vermaelen, while Sergio Busquets misses out due to suspension.

Jose Arnaiz is on the bench after scoring against Celta on Thursday, with Paco Alcacer, Samuel Umtiti and Arda Turan not in the squad due to injury, while Rafinha, Gerard Deulofeu and Aleix Vidal have been left out by Valverde.

Barcelona, who announced a deal to sign Philippe Coutinho on Saturday, have a six-point lead from Atletico Madrid at the top of LaLiga and a win over Levante will stretch their advantage to 17 points over champions Real Madrid, who are in action at Celta later.

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Nottngham Forest dumps Arsenal out of FA Cup

Nottingham Forest's US defender Eric Lichaj (2L) heads the first goal past Arsenal's Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina during the English FA Cup third round football match between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal at The City Ground in Nottingham, central England, on January 7, 2018. / AFP PHOTO

Arsene Wenger was condemned to his first FA Cup third-round exit as managerless Championship side Nottingham Forest stunned holders Arsenal at the City Ground.

The hosts took the lead when Eric Lichaj headed in from close range, although the advantage lasted just three minutes as Per Mertesacker followed up after Rob Holding’s header had struck the post.

Lichaj reclaimed the lead for a Forest side led by caretaker boss Gary Brazil, the American defender scoring a spectacular dipping volley from the edge of the area a minute before half-time.

Forest pulled further clear in the second half when Ben Brereton sent David Ospina the wrong way from the penalty spot after Holding upended Matty Cash.

Danny Welbeck reduced the deficit for Wenger’s much-changed side after Forest goalkeeper Jordan Smith failed to hold a through-ball.

But Arsenal’s first FA Cup third-round defeat since January 1996 - in a replay against Sheffield United - was confirmed courtesy of Kieran Dowell’s 85th-minute penalty, before Forest’s Joe Worrall was shown a straight red card in the closing stages for a late tackle.

Wenger has not held back in his criticism of referees in recent weeks, so much so the Frenchman was forced to watch this tie from the stands as he served the first of a three-match touchline ban handed down by the Football Association.

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An end to self-deceit

The truth is that Nigeria’s fraudulent federalism or, at best, unitary federalism, if any system can be so called, imposed by the military since 1966 has not only failed, it has retarded the nation’s progress and kept the people in want.

It has bred poverty in the midst of plenty, sorrow in the house of joy, instability, injustice and disunity. The time to end self-deceit and self-immolation is now. The time to begin the rebirth of a prosperous, peaceful and united Nigeria is now.

Almost all of the 36 federating states are not viable and they go cap in hand to the national capital every month to share revenues that accrue to the federation account from resources in a few of the states, thereby encouraging the indolence of others.

Because of fundamental flaws that have encouraged and nurtured what was once called “dependency syndrome,” Nigeria produces below capacity and snores when it should be awake, harnessing its full potentials with a view to reaping a bountiful harvest. Satisfied with a façade of wealth from oil, a ruling elite misleads the people into believing that it is the only product that unites Nigeria. Hence the claims and counter-claims of its ownership.

Against all the clear signs to the effect that the poor political structure and the absence of genuine federalism in the governance of Nigeria has been a problem, it is unfortunate that President Muhammadu Buhari who rode on the wings of the promise of effecting change in the direction of all aspects of the country has been the most disdainful of the idea of change in words and in conduct.

Luckily, once again, his attitude has not polluted the people’s consciousness on this matter and the calls are getting strident by the day that making Nigeria functional, prosperous and united as a properly run federal state is a powerful idea that cannot be stopped by any force on earth.

There is already the common denominator, poverty and mass illiteracy, all over Nigeria. A new united tribe has been formed from the hundreds that make up Nigeria: the poor, the deprived, the oppressed and the alienated.

And this is the effect of those decades when the military ruled and bastardised the practice of federalism. They are the effects of the dishonesty and lack of vision of the past 17 or so years during which the democratically elected governments have played the ostrich over making Nigeria a federal state.

In other words, as once canvassed on this page, the real trouble with Nigeria is not just poverty nurtured by corruption and illiteracy but lack of understanding of the impact of the abolition of the principles of federalism.

Against the background of diversification, with emphasis on agriculture and mining as central elements, the fact that all things are available in every state but not exploited till now is the shame of a nation.

Again, governments should step forward and remove obstacles to these resources and the value that would accrue to all citizens from them.

Nigerians, especially members of the elite, must show and demonstrate an understanding beyond the dubious position of those who associate true federalism with the balkanization of the country.

Buhari’ s new year message on restructuring fits into the earlier narrative by his apologists that his mandate is to fix Nigeria and not restructure it.

This, once again, is the most dishonest attitude to governance because it is quite impossible to mend a broken economic and political system such as Nigeria’s without restructuring most of its components.

This newspaper has said it repeatedly that besides the political system, there are so many areas that urgently require reforms in the country. The areas include, education that is at the moment not capable of producing the manpower needs of the 21st century, healthcare system that is so bad that even the country’s leaders at all levels cannot patronise it and the economic system that cannot lead to the prosperity of the citizens.

No government can fight corruption, build a buoyant economy and deal with insecurity anywhere without restructuring the factors that produced all that ail the country.

Interestingly, restructuring of the polity is a fundamental part of the All Progressives Congress, the ruling party’s manifesto.

The Buhari administration told Nigerians it was coming to change the way things were done. Therefore, why should change not come to a wobbly, fraudulent federal structure that has served no good but succeeded only in holding the nation down?

Much of the work has been done and there is no need for unnecessary exertions. The current leadership’s attitude must change if it would truthfully and conscientiously serve the purpose of Nigeria. An implementation of recommendations in the report of the 2014 constitutional conference is the best starting point for Nigeria’s journey to a functional, prosperous and united federation.

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UPU microfinance bank, varsity take off this year, says Taiga

Olorogun Moses Taiga

The President-General of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Worldwide, Olorogun (Dr.) Moses Taiga, says the Okugbe Microfinance Bank being put together by the UPU for Ewheya (Urhobo women) would take off this year.

Olorogun Taiga also disclosed that the Mukoro Mowoe University, being facilitated by the UPU, would come on stream as soon as the National Universities Commission (NUC) grants its approval.

In a New Year message to the Urhobo nation, the UPU President General pledged that the Urhobo umbrella body under his leadership remained focused in its mission to deliver on its promises, urging the people to be united in the quest to ensure a greater Urhobo land.

Olorogun Taiga said: “I congratulate Urhobo people worldwide, and indeed Nigerians, for successfully navigating 2017. It is my hope and belief that, as a more united people with love, peace, understanding and cooperation among us, we will certainly achieve better and greater things in 2018 and beyond. May the Year 2018 be a prosperous, productive and happy one for us all.

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FCTA awards N3.9b contracts, upgrades Abuja principals, schools

Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has awarded N3.9 billion contracts for the construction and rehabilitation of projects in 19 schools in Abuja.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, the territory’s Secretary for Education, Senator Isa Maina mentioned the projects to include the construction of an administrative block at GSCT Bwari; expansion of stores at FCT College of Education, Zuba; procurement of a 30-KVA generating set; building of a generator house for the Department of Higher Education in Asokoro as well as the construction of classrooms, library and perimetre fence in secondary schools within the federal capital city, among others.

The document, signed by the Public Relations Officer to the FCT official, Anthony Ogunleye, further disclosed that the FCTA also paid N2.9 billion outstanding debts for the building of classrooms for some of the primary and secondary schools within the territory.

Maina said that the provision of physical infrastructure was consistent with the vision of the secretariat in realisation that such was the backbone of the school system.

On upward review of school feeding, he noted: ‘’Owing to rising inflation and high cost of food items, the FCT Minister had approved the increase from N200 to N300 per student daily. This has greatly improved the quality and quantity of food of students in the boarding schools.”

According to him, the minister had also approved the recertification of 20 schools and upgraded their principals to Grade Level 17 officers.

Maina stressed that the efforts were geared towards effective management of some of the bigger schools in the territory.

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War against Boko Haram in Lake Chad over, says Buratai

Chief of Army staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai PHOTO: NAN

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai has declared that the war against Boko Haram insurgency is over.

According to him, what is left for the troops to do is stabilize areas that have serious security challenges and prepare to crush any such insurrection in the future.

Buratai made the declaration at the weekend while addressing troops of 8 Task Force Division of the Nigerian Army, Monguno. He said the days of Boko Haram insurgents were numbered despite the occasional attacks on soft targets in the Northeast.

“This division has lived up to expectation of containing the Boko Haram challenges in this part of the country. You are not the only ones operating here; we have the Nigerian Air Force which has been giving us aerial support.

“The establishment of this division was strategic. It has helped in addressing the challenges of Boko Haram terrorists in the northern part of Borno State. We must remain here to stabilize it,” he said.

Buratai, who noted that the Lake Chad region has always been volatile, said it was the reason the Lake Chad Basin
Commission (LCBC) created the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to tackle threats to security.

He urged the troops to perform similar duties, even after the final clearance of Boko Haram insurgents. He said the army was working hard to make the operational environment more conducive.

The army boss said with the defeat of Boko Haram in northern Borno, troops of 8 Task Force would be deployed to Sokoto State in the North-west for operations. Some of them will remain in Monguno to maintain security.

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‘N4.6 billion lost to power sector system collapse in three days’

Electricity

The system collapse experienced in the power sector between January 2 and 3, 2018 has cost the Federal Government more than N4.6billion revenue.

Also, a total of 9,162.7 megawatts (MW) of power were not generated as a result of non-supply of gas to power generation companies (Gencos) from January 2 to 4 2018 due to the system collapse.

The Guardian learnt these from analysis of statistics from the Advisory Power Team in the office of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

A fire incident that affected the Escravos-Lagos pipeline system close to Okada, Edo State, resulted to the shutdown of the pipeline supplying gas to Egbin power plant that produces 1,320MW; Olorunsogo NIPP, 676MW; Olorunsogo, 338MW; Omotosho NIPP, 450MW; Omotosho, 338 MW; and Paras, 60MW on January 2, 2018.

The Ministry of Power, Works and Housing had explained that the sudden loss of generation due to interruption in gas supply from these stations caused the national transmission grid to trip off.

A breakdown of the statistics showed that on January 4, 2018, the average power sent out was 3,090MWh/hour, 3133MW was not generated due to unavailability of gas as a result of which the power sector lost an estimated N1,576,000,000.

On January 3, the average power sent out was 2,596MWh/hour, 3354.3MW was not generated and consequently the power sector lost an estimated N1,682,000,000. Also, on January 2, the average power sent out was 3,475MWh/hour. The statistics indicated that gas constraint caused non-production of 2675.4MW, while line constraint caused a shortfall of 58MW and the power sector lost an estimated N1,312,000,000.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Udu Ughamadu, explained that to put out the fire, it required complete shutdown of the  Escravos-Lagos Pipeline (ELP).

The task affected gas supply to customers in Ondo, Ogun and Lagos states.

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Rivers residents rejoice over death of kidnapper Waney

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike

The killing of the most wanted kidnapper and cultist, Don Waney, has thrown residents and security officers in Rivers State into jubilation.

Waney was shot dead on Saturday evening in a joint operation with the Department of State Services (DSS) Rivers State command and the Nigerian Army.

The army yesterday paraded the remains of Igwedibia Ejima Johnson popularly called Don Waney; his second-in-command, Ikechukwu Adiele, and another gang member, Lucky Ode, who were killed by a combined team of the army and Department of State Services (DSS) at an Enugu neighbourhood on Saturday

The Guardian gathered that families in Omoku communities in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local council yesterday celebrated his death. Immediately the news broke yesterday morning, various families went to church for a thanksgiving service.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has explained how the alleged mastermind of the New Year day attack was killed.

A statement signed yesterday by the Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Port Harcourt, Col. Aminu Iliyasu, said the suspect relocated to Enugu State after the New Year murder of 23 people returning from a church in Omoku.

He said the suspect was already planning another attack on Omoku even while in Enugu, adding that he was shot and killed in Enugu while trying to evade arrest.

The statement said: “The authorities of 6 Division Nigerian Army Port Harcourt wish to inform the peace loving people of Omoku in ONELGA in particular, Rivers State and indeed the entire good people of Niger Delta in general that the notorious cult leader, kidnap kingpin and mass murderer Don Waney is dead.

“The remains of Don Waney and his cohorts were brought back to Port Harcourt, Rivers State by the combine team and handed over to the Rivers State Police Command for further action.’’

Also, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, of the Nigerian Army, Enobong Udoh, told reporters that the directive by President Muhammadu Buhari to apprehend the heartless masterminds of Omoku massacre forced the killing of the notorious killer.

Also speaking, the State Commissioner of Police, Zaki Ahmed, noted that the security agencies worked in synergy to achieve the feat.

“The perpetrators have been gunned down after an exchange of gunfire. Security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that people live in peace without molestation.”

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Uncertainty as $3.8 billion Egina FPSO vessel approaches Nigeria

Container vessel on the high sea

There are palpable fears that the position of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to bar the much-expected Egina Floating Production Storage Offloading (FPSO) vessel from the Nigerian waterways may jeopardise the multi billion-dollar oil project.
  
Egina Floating Production and Offloading vessel (FPSO) is a giant oil production ship operated by Total E & P Nigeria Limited for the production of crude from its Egina oil field deep offshore Nigeria.

The vessel, which had left South Korea since October 31 last year, is on its journey to Lagos, Nigeria for further integration of its six topsides at Tarkwa Bay, Lagos. The vessel, expected to sail for three months is inching closer to Nigeria and may arrive any moment from now.
  
NPA has threatened that it would not be allowed into Nigerian waters unless the parties complied with its towage laws.
 
This development is posing danger to the multi-million dollar equipment and services that are already awaiting the arrival of the vessel.  It also poses a setback to the Nigerian content and local capacity development agenda of the Federal Government, while the confidence will be eroded.

Operator of the Egina oil field, Total and its FPSO contractors, Ladol/Samsung have so far kept mute on the development, but it was gathered that they have commenced negotiations and lobbying the government over the matter.
 
Attempt to reach the Managing Director of Ladol, Amy Jadesimi, was futile, as she ignored several calls and text messages seeking enquiries.
  
However, a source in the company who is close to the deal told The Guardian that, “we are already working things out, we cannot allow the project to be jeopardised. All hands are on deck to ensure that the matter is resolved before the FPSO arrives.”
   
The Egina FPSO has a storage capacity of 2.2 million barrels of crude oil and a production of 108,000 barrels per day capacity. It is 35 meters high, 330 meters long, with a flare boom that is 100 meters high just as it has capacity to accommodate 200 people at a time.
   
Egina oil field is expected to add 200,000 barrels per day to Nigeria’s oil output and it is expected to come on stream in 2018. The issues around the towage services may unnecessarily delay the first oil, if necessary actions are not taken.
   
General Manager, Corporate & Strategic Communications of NPA, Abdullahi Goje, yesterday told The Guardian that nothing concrete has been done about the issue, expressing optimism that something should play out before the arrival of the vessel. He noted that NPA would not hesitate to carry out its threat, if the parties fail to comply.

Goje had earlier said: “The refusal of the parties involved in the project to request for towage and pilotage service from the NPA, (being the only organisation empowered to provide same in the country), is contrary to the laws of the country and would be resisted.
  
“Notice has already been given to promoters of the FPSO to the effect that the vessel would not be granted access to Nigeria’s waterways and that the NPA would pursue legal remedies in its determination to ensure that no organisation impedes on the mandate of the NPA as provided in Part II of the Port Act”, he said.

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Matuidi alleges racist abuse in Serie A game

Juventus's midfielder from France Blaise Matuidi celebrates after scoring during the Italian Serie A football match Bologna vs Juventus on December 17, 2017 at Renato Dall'Ara stadium in Bologna. / AFP PHOTO

Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi says he was the victim of racist abuse during his side’s 1-0 victory over Cagliari on Saturday.

The France international revealed in a post on his official Facebook page that he was the subject of racist taunts by unspecified individuals.

“Today I experienced racism during the match,” he wrote. “Weak people try to intimidate with hate. I am not a hater and can only be sorry for those who set bad examples.

“Football is a way to spread equality, passion and inspiration and this is what I am here for. Peace.”

It is reported that the specific incident occurred shortly before half-time, when a furious Matuidi was seen looking towards the stands at the Sardegna Arena.

It is the second time Matuidi has endured such abuse in the last 10 days.

Verona were hit with a €20,000 fine and a partial stadium ban, suspended for a year, for racist chants by their fans towards Matuidi in Juve’s 3-1 win on December 30.

The champions, whose 1-0 win on Saturday came courtesy of Federico Bernardeschi’s second-half goal, are a point behind leaders Napoli in the Serie A standings.

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Stoke City sacks Mark Hughes

during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Newcastle United at Bet365 Stadium on January 1, 2018 in Stoke on Trent, England.

Mark Hughes was sacked as Stoke manager just hours after his struggling side’s shock FA Cup third round defeat at minnows Coventry on Saturday.

Hughes was already on the brink of being dismissed prior to the 2-1 loss at fourth-tier Coventry following a miserable run that left the team languishing in the Premier League relegation zone.

The limp nature of Stoke’s FA Cup exit proved the final straw as Hughes was axed three hours after the final whistle at the Ricoh Arena.

“Stoke City can confirm that the contract of manager Mark Hughes has been terminated with immediate effect,” a statement on the club’s Twitter account read.

“We would like to thank Mark for all he has achieved for the club over the last four and a half years, notably in guiding us to three successive ninth places finishes in the Premier League, and we wish him every success for the future.

“The club will look to appoint a new manager as soon as possible and will be making no further comment at this time.”

Hughes’ 200th game in charge of Stoke proved to be his last after Jack Grimmer’s second half strike gave Coventry the biggest upset of the third round so far.

Charlie Adam had equalised with a 54th-minute penalty after Jordan Willis opened the scoring for Coventry.

Speaking immediately after the match, former Manchester City manager Hughes was hopeful he would be given more time to lift Stoke out of the relegation zone.

“The fact we’ve gone out, even if it’s a little bit raw at the moment, might help us,” he said.

“Has it changed anything (his future) markedly from this afternoon? Is it any different from the situation after the Newcastle game? I don’t think it is. It just highlights we need to do better.

“But in the long term, certainly until the end of the season, it might be a blessing for us.”

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Delta State electoral commission declares results in 22 councils, reschedules others

The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) yesterday declared 22 chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winners in Saturday’s council poll.

The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) yesterday declared 22 chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winners in Saturday’s council poll.

However, elections did not hold in Ughelli North Council where the commission’s office was razed and Ethiope East, which recorded violence.

Chairman of the commission, Mike Ogbodu, who supervised the announcement of the results in Asaba, rescheduled the election in the two councils for tomorrow.

Ogbodu said the result for Ika South could not be declared due to the absence of the returning officer who is said to be indisposed.

On the councillorship seats, Ogbodu said PDP won 424 seats while the APC won in only ward 02 of Aniocha North Local Council.

He said in accordance with section 46(1) of DSIEC Law, 2017, 59 councilors of the PDP were returned unopposed, adding that the postponement in Ughelli North and Ethiope East was backed by section 33 (1&2) of the law.

“The result of the councillorship elections in Otor-Owhe ward 01 of Isoko North Local Council is yet to be declared due to an order of the High Court of Justice, Delta State sitting in Ibusa,” Ogbodu said.

Meanwhile, former Governor of Delta State, Emmanuel Uduaghan and a coalition of Delta civil society groups, which monitored Saturday’s council election in the state, condemned the violence that trailed the exercise.

While condemning the violence during the election on his Facebook page, Uduaghan said the violence was clearly avoidable.

He said: “For us, it was electoral violence at our council elections conducted on Saturday, January 6, 2018. The violence is totally condemnable. It was also preventable. 

“Some actions are provocative but some provocations can be peacefully managed. A life lost can never be recovered.  

“As we get closer to 2019, it is time to reflect and pray. Let us work towards peaceful electoral processes. If you do not win today, it is not the end. There is the tribunal. You can win tomorrow.” 

However, a coalition of civil society groups in Delta state that monitored the election have released the names of two All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains who masterminded the arson and destruction of electoral materials at the DSIEC office in Ughelli North Council.

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Church of Nigeria begins retreat, appoints Ireoba, Onuoha, Rector, Vicar

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has appointed Dr. Princewill Ireoba of the All Saints’ Church, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, as the new Rector of Ibru International Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor, Delta State.

The appointment was made as the Church begins its yearly Bishops’ retreat today at the Ibru Centre in Agbarha-Otor, Delta State under the leadership of the Primate, Reverend Nicholas Okoh.

With his appointment, Ireoba replaces Ernest Onuoha, who moves to the All Saints’ Church, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, as Vicar and Archdeacon. The two appointments, signed by Okoh, take effect from Monday, January 15, 2018.

A statement from the Church, dated December 29, 2017, said, “The affected persons are to report to their new stations not later than Saturday, January 20, 2018.

“Proper handing and taking over must be done and duly submitted to the appropriate quarters before movement.”

An elated Onuoha, who has served the Church for seven years as Rector of the Ibru International Ecumenical Centre, expressed gratitude to God and the Church.

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‘APC’s collaboration with splinter group will not distract PDP’

APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun<br />

National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South East, Austin Umahi, yesterday allayed fears that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was working with a PDP splinter group to destabilise the party ahead of the 2019 general election.

He said in spite of the purported collaboration, the PDP would not be distracted, as it was focused on winning the 2019 general elections at all levels of government.

Speaking with The Guardian in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, Umahi maintained that the PDP has been repositioned to recapture power at the centre, insisting that APC’s romance with the breakaway group would not affect their chances of defeating the ruling party in 2019.

He further stated that APC’s failure to address the economic challenges, hardship and suffering in the country, has prepared the grounds for the PDP to win the 2019 general election.

He noted that the splinter group was craving attention because they were not popular in their various wards.

His words: “I see the splinter group as people who want to be noticed. And I feel so sad because I saw some South East politicians are involved. We are not known for that kind of hooliganism. But it is unfortunate that they are Abuja gorilla politicians.

“The most important thing is that PDP is repositioned; it is repositioned to regain. We see them as distractions. We are not going to be perturbed because worse of it all is that the class of people that are making the noise are not popular in their areas.”

Meanwhile, indications emerged at the weekend that the National Chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun would seek a second term in office when his four years tenure expires in March this year.

Speaking at an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, he hinted that some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party were interested in retaining their positions during the party’s national convention billed to hold before the middle of the year.

Odigie-Oyegun, who is said to be in the good books of President Muhammadu Buhari, oversaw the 2015 electioneering campaigns of the APC, which saw the defeat of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The APC Chairman, who is eligible to contest for a second term of four years based on the provisions of the party’s constitution absolved the party of blame in the board appointments controversy in which deceased persons and non-party members were appointed into boards of federal departments and agencies.

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CAN supports Mbaka, Southwest PDP advises president against re-election bid

President Muhammadu Buhari PHOTO: BAYO OMOBORIOWO

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) supported the Enugu-based Catholic priest, Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka on his prediction that Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe was fit for the presidency.

State Chairman of CAN, Reverend Ibrahim Jodi, who made this known yesterday while speaking with journalists in Gombe, decried the attempt by one Mohammed Jibrin Barde, to criticize Mbaka’s prophecy.

Jodi said the fact that he (Mbaka) gave a message from God about the situation in the country does not warrant a layman to join issues with him.

He stressed that Barde had no spiritual right to denounce Mbaka’s message about the possibility of Dankwambo becoming the country’s President in 2019.

“As believers in the word, we have accepted and rejoiced with Mbaka’s prediction. But we wonder why Barde, who’s neither a cleric nor knows the value of an anointed man of God could denounce the prediction as false.

“God revealed His message for the Federal Government to Reverend Mbaka that President Muhammadu Buhari would not be re-elected in 2019 and that Dankwambo is better suited to take over from him.

“We are surprised that one Mohammed Jibrin Barde has the effrontery to denounce the message of God as conveyed by the pastor.”

Barde had in a widely circulated opinion article in some media houses, denounced Mbaka’s prediction on Dankwambo as a fantasy.

In another development, as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for the reelection of President Buhari in 2019, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Eddy Olafeso, has declared that Nigerians have no reason whatsoever to reelect Buhari. 

Olafeso, who is the South West Chairman of the PDP, said this in Akure, the Ondo State capital at the weekend, describing the APC administration as a rudderless government that would be sacked in 2019. 

He noted that APC lured Nigerians to get to power in 2015 and have been ruling deceptively, reneging on all their electoral promises to the people and making life more unbearable for Nigerians. 

Meanwhile, former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu has argued that the shortest route to an Igbo emerging as president of the country was for the Igbo to support President Buhari for a second term in office in 2019.

Kalu made this known at the weekend at his Igbere country home in Bende Local Council of Abia State before he flagged off the maiden edition of the Igbere Cultural Carnival sponsored by the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation (OUKF).

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