FG condemn Dokubo and Tompolo over war threats

The Federal Government has frowned at the recent provocative utterances by two ex- Niger Delta militants that there will be war in the country if President Jonathan is not victorious at the forthcoming presidential election. Mujahiden Dokubo-Asari, Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo), and others said after a meeting in the Bayelsa State Government House that, “For every Goliath, God created a David. For every Pharaoh, there is a Moses. We are going to war. Every one of you should go and fortify yourself.”

Enough is Enough!: Ogboru cautions rivals against rigging Delta guber poll

As the 2015 general elections draw nearer, the governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Delta State, Chief Great Ogboru, has warned other political parties and candidates involved in the election to shun rigging noting that the people will not tolerate such injustice this time around.

Nigerian Army confront insurgents in Michika, recover weapons

The Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade, has disclosed that Nigerian troops today carried out an extensive mopping up operation in search of weapons, stranded terrorists and casualties in Michika, Adamawa State.

Agbaje vows to give APC 'a total knock out'

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos State, Mr. Jimi Agbaje has expressed confidence that he will defeat his rival, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Akinwunmi Ambode, in the February 28 governorship election.

Army General, senior officers arrested over Baga attack

The Nigerian military has arrested a Brigadier General, a Lieutenant Colonel and five other officers of the Nigerian Army attached to the Baga headquarters of Multinational Joint Task Force, which was taken over by Boko Haram insurgents recently. Reports indicate that military authorities are angry about the attack and take over of Baga when the Army was fortified with sufficient weapons in anticipation of an onslaught against the terrorists.

SDP state conditions for endorsing any presidential candidate

Ahead of the February 14 presidential election, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has listed out conditions for throwing its weight behind any presidential candidate. Addressing the press today in Abuja, the party's National Chairman, Chief Olu Falae, noted that since the party was unable to field any candidate for the presidential election, it will declare support for a credible candidate that can address the challenges faced by the country.

APC to boycott presidential debate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has disclosed that its presidential and vice presidential candidates will not take part in the debate organised by the Nigeria Elections Debate Group (NEDG). A statement released by the Director of Media and Publicity of the APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, cited loyalty of media organisers of the event to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as reason for not participating in the debate.

Imo 2015: Ihenacho denies stepping down for PDP candidate

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Imo State, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho has denied reports that he has pulled out of the race in order to support the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Emeka Ihedioha. He made this known on Wednesday when his campaign train made a stop at Nkwerre and Nwangele Local Government Areas in the state.

INEC assures NYSC of Corps Members safety during elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission has assured the leadership of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) that adequate measures are being put in place to ensure the safety of Corps Members who will be assisting in the conduct of the polls. Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Attihiru Jega, made this promise when the Director General of NYSC, Brig. Gen. Johnson Olawunmi, paid a visit to the INEC headquarters on Wednesday.

Afenifere endorse Jonathan for second term

Yoruba leaders in the South West under the aegis of the Afenifere socio-political group have thrown their weight behind President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the February 14 presidential election. The leaders who spoke when they received Jonathan in Akure, Ondo State, said the President has performed well enough to earn him their support for a second term in office.

Fashola donates ICT centre to police

The Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) on Monday handed over a well-equipped Information and Communications Technology resource centre to the Lagos State Police Command in Surelere.

PDP receives over 5000 decampees from APC in Rivers State

The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has received into its fold, more than five thousand aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the decampees, the selfish political interests and nonchalant attitude displayed by the leadership of the APC in Rivers State, influenced their decision to move to the opposition. The defectors were received by the PDP governorship candidate in the state, Chief (Barr) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.

INEC disqualifies 7 governorship candidates

Nigeria's electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has disqualified seven candidates of different political parties in different states from contesting the February 28th gubernatorial election. The parties affected include: the Peoples Party of Nigeria, PPN (Delta State), Labour Party (Niger State), New Nigeria Peoples Party (Ogun), Unity Party of Nigeria (Oyo), United Democratic Party (Rivers), Peoples Democratic Movement, PDM (Sokoto and Zamfara),

Lawyer asks court to disqualify Buhari over certificate

According to a reports in the media, a lawyer, Mr. Chukwunweike Okafor, has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja with an application seeking a declaration that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari, lacks the required educational qualification to contest next month's presidential election.

Kerry meets with Jonathan and Buhari in Lagos

United States Secretary of State, John Kerry, on Sunday held separate meetings with the two main presidential candidates including President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and General Mohammadu Buhari of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.

Coalition of Concerned Lawyers fault Buhari's certificate

Addressing journalists today in Abuja, a group of legal practitioners, Coalition of Concerned Lawyers added their voices to challenge the authenticity of the West African School Certificate released by Government College, Katsina on behalf of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group noted that there are some apparent discrepancies in the certificate released by the school that raise doubts over its originality. It also drew attention to the fact that there is an inconsistency in the name written on the document: 'Mohammed Buhari' and not 'Mohammadu Buhari'.

Speaking further, the leader of the group, Amaechi Nwaiwu (SAN), said 'we are firmly of the view that the Nigerian Police has the power to investigate, interrogate, and prosecute any person found to have committed forgery of a document or committed perjury.' He noted that Nigerian have the right to ensure that persons aspiring to lead them are duly qualified to do so.

Obanikoro canvasses support for Jonathan in Lagos

A former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro has called on the people of Lagos State and Nigerians in general to support the re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan noting that the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Mohammadu Buhari, is not the ideal man to lead Nigeria.

Obanikoro who contested the Peoples Democratic Party governorship primaries for Lagos told the people that Buhari had victimised and oppressed several of their respected leaders in the past including Jakande and Chief Bola Ige. He cautioned them against jeopardising Nigeria's democracy and ensure that the former Head of State is not given a shot to rule the country again.

According to him, President Jonathan has encouraged freedom of speech and does not discriminate against any tribe or region of the country in discharging his duties. Obanikoro noted that these virtues demonstrated by the President are lacking in the presidential candidate of the APC.

GEJ commits election to God as he worships at Living Faith Church

President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday worshipped at the Living Faith Church a.k.a. Winners Chapel in Ota where he met with the Presiding Pastor, Bishop David Oyedepo. The President commended the leadership of the church for paying great attention to education which he said was a good development for the country

He asked the congregation to pray for the peaceful conduct of next month's general elections noting that in spite of all the negative comments on the forthcoming polls, it is the will of God that will ultimately prevail.

Military repels Boko Haram attack on Maiduguri

Some members of the Boko Haram sect have been killed, and several others captured after the Nigerian Army repelled an attack on Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State on Sunday. The military recovered sophisticated weapons from the insurgents including a cobra armoured vehicle and machine guns. Three gulf cars loaded with explosives were destroyed as well.

Authorities are now carrying out patrol and surveillance, and 24-hour curfew has now been imposed on the troubled city as the military seeks to check the activities of terrorists.

Gunmen storm APC campaign venue in Rivers State

Some unidentified gunmen today stormed the venue of the All Progressives Congress campaign rally in Okrika, Rivers State. The attackers destroyed the stage and canopies as well as other equipment.

They shot into the air and threw dynamites forcing many of those preparing the campaign venue to flee for their lives.

Reacting to the incident, the state Commission of Police condemned the attack and asked the APC to reschedule the campaign for a later date after making proper arrangements.

He warned political parties to 'adhere strictly to the code of conduct guiding political activities in the state.' The CP said the police is on top of the situation and promised to bring the perpetrators to book.

PDP accuse LASAA of partiality

The Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos has accused the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency of being partial in the destruction of campaign posters and bill boards across the state. According to the state PDP Chairman, LASAA has always favoured the candidates of the All Progressives Congress over other political parties in the discharge of its duties.

Reacting to complaints filed against LASAA by various political parties, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police warned against such actions and stated that he has directed men of the force to arrest anyone who attempts to remove campaign posters or bill boards of any candidate.


LASAA has however dismissed the accusations, insisting that they follow the stated guidelines when ripping of electioneering posters.

Nollywood actors vow to ensure Jonathan's re-election

Nollywood actors and actresses have promised to ensure an overwhelming victory for President Goodluck Jonathan at the February 14 presidential election. They made this promise when the President hosted them at the State House in Marina, Lagos State today.

Some of the actors including Segun Arinze and Bovi assured the President that the industry will mobilize support for his re-election. They lauded him for paying attention to the movie industry and taking Nollywood to a new level.

President Jonathan appreciated the movie stars and promised to do more for the industry if re-elected. He told them that with the fall in price and demand of oil globally, it has become necessary for the government to pay more attention to other sectors of the economy.

We will regain lost territories soon - Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan has assured the people of the North East that the  government is working hard to ensure that territories lost to Boko Haram insurgents are reclaimed in no distant time. He made this promise today when he paid a visit to the Shehu of Borno in Borno State.

The President expressed regret that some Nigerians have become refugees in neighbouring countries like Chad and Niger. He dismissed claims that his administration was sponsoring the attacks by insurgents in the troubled region in order to gain numerical advantage ahead of the elections by reducing the number of opposition votes.

According to the President, plans are in place to return peace to the region and rebuild schools and other infrastructures. The monarch appealed to President Jonathan to end the insurgency ravaging the region and complete developmental projects to assist the people.

FG announce release of N26 billion to boost agriculture

The Federal Government has announced the release of N26 billion to boost crop production during the 2015 dry season farming programme. Speaking during the Agric Festival held at the Eagle Square in Abuja, President Jonathan noted that under his watch, the agricultural sector has been greatly transformed and the country is now producing much more than it was doing in the past.

According to the President, Nigeria's
'national food production has expanded by 21 million metric tonnes in the past three years.' He asked the farmers to support his re-election bid to ensure more progress in the agricultural cultural sector.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, stated that with the support of President Jonathan, the Ministry has been able to put an end to four decades of corruption in the fertilizer sector. He noted that 'with the fall in the price of crude oil, agriculture has become the new oil for Nigeria'

Oshoala signs for Liverpool Ladies

England's Women football league champions, Liverpool Ladies, have confirmed the signing of Rivers Angels' star player, S. Oshaola. The Super Falcons forward who was named Most Valuable Player at the FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Canada in 2014 has been in top form for club and country.

She led Rivers Angels to a memorable league title victory in 2010.

Elections will hold in February, INEC insists

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has insisted that elections will go on as planned, dismissing any idea of postponing the polls. This is coming just days after the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki, asked the commission to consider shifting the polls to allow for adequate distribution of permanent voters cards.

Col. Dasuki had noted that about 30 million voters are yet to receive their PVCs and it would be wrong for INEC to conduct elections two months to the expiration of the tenure of the present administration when the issue has not been fully addressed.

However, the Chairman of the INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, stated today that the commission is taking necessary actions to address the situation. He noted that if it becomes necessary INEC will continue distribution of PVCs till February 13, eve of the presidential election.

Mark condemns attack of Jonathan's convoy

Senate President, David Mark, has described as despicable, the recent attacks by supporters of the All Progressives Congress on the convoy of President Jonathan. Senator Mark who spoke at a rally in Abuja, accused the opposition party for violating the peace pact signed by all presidential candidates and said political leaders must take responsibility for the misbehaviour of their supporters.

He noted that Nigerians must be free to go to any part of the country, whether North or South. The Senate President called on the people to support the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan and vote him for a second term in office.

Saudi Arabia monarch, King Abdullah dies

Saudi Arabia's long serving monarch, King Abdullah, has died after a nine-year reign. The 90-year old was admitted on the 31st of December, 2014 after suffering from pneumonia. A funeral service will be held in his honour on Friday

Meanwhile, Abdullah's half brother, crowned Prince Salman, has been named as the new king. Concerns have already been raised over the health status of Salman, 79, considering that the former Defence Minister has previously suffered a stroke.

Yemen's President and cabinet resign

Days after houthi rebels staged protests and began to occupy public buildings, Yemen's President, Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi, has finally bowed to pressure and tendered his resignation to parliament. Houthi rebels had launched series of protest against his administration for the high rate of inflation and corruption

Hadi came into power after the 2011 uprising in Yemen with the huge task of uniting a divided country. His decision to step down has been greeted with mixed reactions. The houthis have however welcomed the resignation and are now working to form a new Presidential Council

Decima???: Real Madrid top list of richest club for the 10th year running

Spanish giants and European Champions, Real Madrid, have retained their position as the richest club in the world. Manchester United of England moved up two places from fourth position to become the second richest club

PDP and APC supporters clash in Bauchi

Bauchi State witnessed a fracas today when the Peoples Democratic Party's presidential candidate, President Goodluck Jonathan visited to campaign for support ahead of next month's poll. Supporters of the ruling party and the opposition, All Progressives Congress clashed when the President's convoy was leaving the palace of the Emir of Bauchi

Some angry youths also attacked the President's convoy after his campaign rally, wounding about six operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the process

NSA calls for postponement of elections

Nigeria's National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) has advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to postpone the general elections scheduled for next month. Speaking at a forum in London, the NSA said 'the loopholes in the distribution of permanent voters card' has left about 30 million registered voters without their cards thereby denying them the right to vote.

Col. Dasuki asked the commission to consider shifting the polls to a later date noting that it would be wrong to conduct elections two months before the tenure of the present administration expires when a large section of the country are yet to get their PVCs.

This position has however been rejected by the leading opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Reacting to Dasuki's comments, the opposition party's National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed noted that the call by the NSA is ill-timed and clearly an attempt to buy more time for the Peoples Democratic Party to canvass more support for its candidate.

He said the election should not be postponed under any circumstance and asked Nigerians to reject the move. The party also called on the international community to 'urgently extract a commitment from President Goodluck Jonathan that the elections will hold as scheduled next month, and that he will respect the outcome'.

PDP accuse Buhari of presenting fake documents

Following the release of the waec result of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the Peroples's Democratic Party has now accused the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress of presenting false documents as proof of his WAEC qualification

The spokesperson for the PDP campaign, Femi Fani Kayode, who addressed journalists on Thursday, challenged the authenticity of the document presented by Buhari noting that 'it is unfortunate that the more General Buhari tries to extricate himself from the crisis, the more he stumbles into a new phase in the unfolding narrative of his obvious complicity in a matter that bothers on perjury and which has brought his integrity to question.

He stated that the conclusion from all these is that 'the document purportedly released by Government College, Katsina, upon which the APC presidential candidate hopes to bury the doubts about his eligibility for next month's election 'are forged, manipulated and fraudulently procured. They are therefore untenable in fact and in law.' The former Aviation Minister said the document serves as an evidence of fraud and dishonesty on the part of the APC candidate.

NHRC condemn Fayose, Mbaka for hate speech

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned recent statements by the Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose and a Catholic cleric, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka on the forthcoming elections. Governor Fayose had recently sponsored an advertorial on popular newspapers including The Punch, cautioning Northerners not to support the election bid of General Muhammadu Buhari, whom he said was too old to lead the country.

Fayose’s advert also had pictures of previous leaders from the North West, who had died while in office. He noted that the country has had enough of state burials.

Fr. Mbaka on his part asked Nigerians not to vote President Jonathan for a second term in office but instead support General Muhammadu Buhari whom he said will bring the desired change Nigeria needs. He noted that the administration of President Jonathan has failed to tackle the problems ravaging the nation.

Reacting to the controversial advert by Gov. Fayose and the statement credidted to Fr. Mbaka, the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, said such statements are capable of instigating violence during the election period.

He noted that the leaders had violated the law as section 95 of the electoral act is very clear on what constitutes hate speech. According to Odinkalu, such provocative statements can bring undesirable consequences for the country.

Posthumous album of Kefee to be released soon

Six months after the death of popular Nigerian singer, Kefee, her husband, Teddy Don-Momoh, and close friends have announced plans to release a post humous album which will feature some brand new songs like ‘Dem go talk’ and ‘No chance’ by the late Branama Queen.

Artiste like Timaya and Ice Prince will perform some songs by the late singer which will also feature someone performing as Kefee. The 5th of February, Kefee’s birthday has been fixed for the album launch and memorial service.

Kefee died on June 12, 2014 after spending days in a coma at a hospital in the United States

Buhari should be punished for lying under oath – PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party has accused the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhammadu Buhari of lying under oath about his academic credentials. Reacting to the confirmation by the Nigerian Army that it is not in possession of Buhari’s certificate contrary to the claims by APC candidate, the spokesperson of the PDP presidential campaign, Femi Fani Kayode, stated that it is a great offence “under the constitution to lie under oath or to tell a lie in an affidavit”.

He further said the PDP urges Buhari and his party to “do the right thing and tender an unreserved apology to the Nigerian people, throw in the towel and report to the nearest police station for interrogation and prosecution”. He noted that “anything less than that would be an insult to the collective intelligence and integrity of the Nigerian people. And we must remember that the international community is watching us.

The PDP spokesperson went on to call on the Nigerian Army to take punitive measures against Buhari by considering “the possibility of stripping him of his rights and privileges given the facts that he was never qualified to join the Nigerian Army as an officer in the first place because he never had the prerequisite qualification which was a school certificate.”

Buhari speaks on certificate controversy, says he graduated in 1961

As the controversy surrounding the eligibility of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, to contest next month’s presidential election after growing demand for him to tender proof of his academic qualifications, the former Head of State has now broken his silence on the matter stating that he attended the Provincial Secondary School, now Government College, Katsina from where he graduated in 1961.

Speaking on the disclosure by the Nigerian Army that his certificate is not in their custody, Buhari noted that “I assumed all along that all my records were in the custody of the military secretary of the Nigerian Army, a position I have the privilege to utter by myself. But to my surprise, we are now told that although a record of the result is available, there is no copy of the certificate in my personal file”.

The APC candidate also said that he studied alongside former Chief of Staff, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and former President of the Appeal Court, Justice Umar Abdulahi. He disclosed his examination number and said he has already asked the relevant institutions to make public his academic qualifications.

Buhari described the PDP as mischief makers trying to divert the attention of the public from serious issues like corruption and insecurity ravaging the country.

FG confirms outbreak of bird flu in 7 states

The Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, has confirmed that seven states of the country including Kano, Lagos, Ogun, Plateau, Delta, Edo and Rivers have been hit by bird flu. He said about 22,573 birds across the country have died as a result of the virus.

Adesina however noted that the government has put all necessary measures to respond adequately and tackle the disease. He advised the general public to maintain proper hygiene and cook poultry products thoroughly.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government has so far been able to contain the disease in Kano and Lagos with the collaboration of the governments of those states. He expressed confidence that the government will control the virus disease just like it did in the past.

PDP blames APC for attack on GEJ’s convoy

The Peoples Democratic Party has lashed out at the opposition party, the All Progressives Congress for violating the Abuja Accord recently signed by all presidential candidates for the February 2015 election.

Addressing newsmen on Wednesday, the Director of Media for the PDP Presidential Campaign Organization, Femi Fani Kayode, said the opposition party and its presidential candidate failed to control their supporters leading to the irresponsible violation of the pact by “a group of miscreants and vandals whose leader has proved to be incapable of keeping them in check…”

A group of thugs were reported to have attacked the convoy of President Goodluck Jonathan when he visited Katsina State for his presidential campaign, an act Fani Kayode described as a show of shame. The APC has however released a statement condemning the attack, and stating clearly that President Jonathan should be free to campaign anywhere in the country. The statement also said nothing justifies the action taken by the attackers

PDP distance self form Fayose's controversial advert on Buhari

Few days after some Nigerian newspapers displayed advertisements sponsored by the Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, warning Northerners not to support General Buhari at the forthcoming elections because he is too old to lead the Nigeria and the country has had enough of state burials, the Peoples Democratic Party has distanced itself from the message noting that it does nor represent the views of the party or its presidential candidate, President Goodluck Jonathan.

Ronaldo confirms split with girlfriend

Real Madrid star, Cristiano Ronaldo, today confirmed that he has ended his relationship with Russian model Irina Shayk. Rumours of their break up began after Shayk was absent from the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Zurich last week where the Portuguese Captain was handed the World Footballer of the Year award.

Army breaks silence, says "We don’t have original copy of Buhari’s result"

The Nigerian Army denied being in possession of the academic certificates of the All Progressives Congress Presidential candidate, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, following requests by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and a civil rights group for the former Head of State to tender his academic particulars to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

I’m not an enemy of the North — President Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan has described those calling him an enemy of the North, as liars noting that his administration had achieved a lot in the region particularly with the transformation in the educational and agricultural sectors. He said this yesterday during the Peoples Democratic Party campaign rally in Sokoto State at Shehu Kangiwa Square.

Nollywood actor, Muna Obiekwe passes on

Nigeria's movie industry, Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the untimely demise of one of its young talents, Muna Obiekwe. Obiekwe reportedly slumped on Sunday evening at his home in Lagos and was rushed to the hospital before his death was confirmed.

According to sources close to the actor, Muna had been battling with an undisclosed ailment, but hid it from his colleagues in the movie industry for a long time.

Presidential race: IBB endorses Buhari

Few weeks after declaring support for President Goodluck Jonathan, former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, has thrown his weight behind the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhammadu Buhari, saying the former Head of State is the right man to save the country from its present challenges.

Oshiomole's aide did not beat up our Reverend Father - Bishop Dunia

Following rumours in Edo State that a security aide in the convoy of Governor Adams Oshiomhole beat up a Catholic Priest, Rev. Father Peter Udoh at Ujogba in Edo Central senatorial district of the state, the Catholic Diocese of Auchi has now debunked the report and cleared the governor of any wrong-doing. The Local Ordinary of the Diocese, Bishop Gabriel Dunia, said in a telephone interview with journalists that “I am not aware of any priest beaten by the governor’s aide, there is no report like that

Buhari debunks claims of deteriorating health

The All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Maj. Gen. Mohammadu Buhari, has debunked media claims that he is critically ill and in need of medical attention. Buhari who spoke with journalists at the Rivers State Governors’ Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja, on Sunday said the claim is untrue and only the hand work of desperate individuals seeking to undermine his credibility for their own political advantage.

Mrs. Buhari Will Vote for Jonathan - Obasi

Article by Chief (Dr.) Obasi Akpa Obasi

As a father of five daughters, whenever I think of Muhammadu Buhari, what comes to my mind is a regime that was completely insensitive to the feminine gender.

First of all, Muhammadu Buhari had an all male cabinet at the very time when the world had very good examples of the sterling nature of females in power including the Iron Lady herself, Mrs. Margaret Thatcher of The United Kingdom and the phenomenal Indira Gandhi of India.

Petroleum Minister announces reduction in fuel price by N10

The Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, today announced the reduction in the pump price of petrol. She noted that in compliance with the petroleum act, it is her responsibility to "announce that there will be a reduction in the pump price of petroleum, premium motor spirit by N10, i.e. from N97 per litre to N87 per litre".

APC dismiss claims over Buhari's ill health

Following media reports over health concerns for the All Progressives Congress Presidential Candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, the opposition party has dismissed the claims over his poor state of health describing them as mere fabrication of lies by those the political opponents of the former Head of State who are only worried about his rising popularity among the Nigerian electorate.

Jonathan and Sambo have failed to make their academic qualification relevant - Fashola

The Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, has said that President Goodluck Jonathan and his Deputy, Namadi Sambo have failed to make their high academic qualifications reflect in the discharge of their duties. Speaking at the All Progressives Congress campaign rally in Ikorodu on Saturday, Fashola stressed that “we need someone who could address our challenges.”

Health concerns for Buhari

According to media reports, there are growing concerns in some quarters over the health status of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. It has been reported that the former Head of State is scheduled for a medical trip to the United States of America towards the end of January.

Second Niger Bridge will be ready in 14 months — Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan, on Saturday said his administration is working hard to ensure that the construction of second Niger Bridge is completed within 14 months. The president made this promise when he paid a courtesy call on the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe.

Nigerian Military dismiss Amnesty International's claim, says CNN report is blackmail

The Nigerian military has dismissed recent media reports by American-based Cable News Network (CNN) on soldiers expressing frustration in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents describing it as blackmail. Reacting to a video footage aired by the American-based station of interviews with individuals claiming to be Nigerian soldiers, the Director of Defence Information, Major-General Chris Olukolade, said that the Nigerian armed forces are fully committed and focused on defeating the insurgents and restoring peace to affected states.

David Mark cautions politicains, says rigging won't be tolerated

Senate President, David Mark, has cautioned political aspirants to shun any attempt to rig during the forthcoming elections. While addressing politicians of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the North Central geopolitical zone at a meeting in in residence to develop strategies on how to win the elections in their states in the February polls, Senator Mark said he was very confident that the PDP will make headway in the region.

Reno Omokri, Obanikoro react to Fashola's comments about Agbaje's age

A presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has reacted to recent comments by the Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, that the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Lagos, Jimi Agbaje is too old to govern the sate. He apparently accused the APC governor of hypocrisy considering that the party has someone older that Agbaje as its presidential candidate.

The Judiciary and INEC must avoid political bias, Buhari recounts unsuccessful attempts in race for Presidency

The All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari during the recent sensitization workshop on non-violence during elections called on the Nigerian judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be fair when handling electoral matters. Buhari said this as he recalled his experience in the previous presidential elections.

Every eligible Nigerian must vote at the polls, Jonathan charges INEC

At the recent sensitization workshop on non-violence during elections, President Jonathan called on INEC to make sure that all eligible voters are allowed to exercise their civic rights by casting their votes for the candidates of their choice. He noted that anything contrary to this would be a recipe for violence.

Excerpt from the President's remarks below:

Jimi Agbaje is too old to rule Lagos

The Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola, has said that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Lagos, Jimi Agbaje is too old to lead the state. Fashola made this assertion on Wednesday at a rally of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos to canvass support for Akinwunmi Ambode.

INEC releases names of Presidential candidates

This is the list of Presidential candidates and their running mates for the February 14 presidential election. They have all been cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Armed Forces Remembrance Day: GEJ, others lay wreaths in honour of fallen heroes

President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday led other top government officials including Vice President Namadi Sambo, Senate President, David Mark and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Mohammed, to lay the ceremonial wreath as the nation marked the 2015 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

Jonathan pays surprise visit to Maiduguri, lauds troops for anti-terror efforts

President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday paid a surprise visit to Maiduguri in the troubled North Eastern of Borno as Nigeria marked the Armed Forces Remembrance Day. According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati, President Jonathan was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff, Chief Alex Bade, other service chiefs, the National Security Adviser and the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency.

10 causes of electoral violence in Nigeria – Jega

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega has identified ten factors that lead to violence during elections in Nigeria. Speaking at a sensitization workshop against violent conduct during elections, the electoral body's boss said: “In answering the question of what makes our elections so prone to violence, I have identified specific as well as general causes of violent elections which have been identified by scholars. In particular, I have paid attention to the causes which are attributed in countries such as Nigeria to the tendency for contestants, political parties, politicians to see electoral contest as something that you have to engage in and that you must win at all cost.

Abuja Accord: Jonathan, Buhari, 12 others sign peace pact

Fourteen presidential aspirants for the February 14 election including President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Major-General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress, yesterday, signed an undertaking to ensure free, fair and credible polls and run issue-based campaigns.

Africa's future lies in the hands of Nigeria - Kofi Annan

Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr Kofi Annan, has enjoined Nigerian politicians to set aside their selfish interests and as the February elections draw closer noting that if Nigeria does not get it right this time around, it could jeopardise the future of the African continent.

Buhari, APC leaders, visit Obasanjo

Hours after receiving President Goodluck Jonathan at his Hiltop residence in Ogun State, former President Olusegun Obasanjo played host to the presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhammadu Buhari. The former Head of State was accompanied by his running mate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, APC leader, Asiwajus Bola Ahmed Tinubu, party chairman, Chief John Oyegun, Senator Bukola Saraki, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, as well as the wives of presidential and vice presidential candidates among others.

Reps to investigate DSS allegations on planned hacking of INEC's database by APC

The House of Representatives looks set to investigate allegations by the |Department of State Services over an alleged plan by Nigeria's main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) to hack into the database of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

2015: INEC presents Voters Register of 68.8m electorates

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday presented the voter register for the 2015 general elections to political parties in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act. Lists of nominated candidates contesting for the Presidency and National Assembly were also presented by the electoral body.

House of Reps ask INEC to allow use of Temporary Voters’ Cards for next month's poll

Jonathan visits Obasanjo to settle misunderstanding

President Goodluck Jonathan held a meeting with Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday at the latter's Hilltop residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The purpose of the meeting which started around 7pm and ended at about 9.15pm is believed to be connected to Jonathan’s re-election bid and the need to resolve the disagreement between the two. Senior members of the ruling party including governors accompanied the President.

PDP set to approach court over Buhari's academic credentials

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has decided to challenge the eligibility of the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, in court after days of controversy surrounding the academic credentials of the former Head of State.

Francois Hollande, world leaders lead solidarity march against terror

French President, Francois Hollande on Sunday led thousands of people on a solidarity march in honour of the victims who lost their lives in terror attacks on Paris. He was accompanied by several world leaders including Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Mali’s President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, European Council President, Donald Tusk, Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, Italy’s Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi and Switzerland’s President Simonetta Sommaruga.

Balon d'Or 2014: And the Winner is Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid playmaker, Cristiano Ronaldo, has won the prestigious Ballon d'Or award for the second time in a row. The Portuguese Captain saw of competition from Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Bayern Munich's shot stopper, Manuel Neuer.

Arunma Oteh to quit as SEC boss today

The Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Ms Arunma Oteh, will officially quit her position today after five successful years in office. She became the DG of SEC in January 2010 and in June of that same year, she was elected Chairperson, Africa Middle East Regional Committee of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions, a position she retained after re-election in June 2012 and in September 2014.

Who does the cap fit???: Ronaldo, Messi and Neur in contention for Ballon d'Or

Tension looms as the football world await the announcement of the winner of the prestigious Ballon d'Or award. Will it be Portuguese Captain and Real Madrid Playmaker, Cristiano Ronaldo, Argentine Captain and Barcelona player, Lionel Messi or Germany and Bayern Munich shot stopper, Manuel Neuer?

Gunmen invade residence of APC Chairman, opposition party express concern

Unknown gunmen today raided the Abuja residence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John Oyegun, at about 1:30 am when the latter was away attending an unscheduled meeting. This has prompted the opposition party to raise concerns over the safety of its Chairman and other officers.

APC berates DSS, says Presidency plans to postpone next month's election

The All Progressives Congress has again lambasted the Department of State Service over recent allegations that the opposition party was planning to hack the database of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). APC claimed that the body has turned into a machinery of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and consequently a mockery of intelligence-gathering.

Onaiyekan, Kaigama chide Mbaka over GEJ comments; he does not speak for the church - Okogie

The recent comments by a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has continued to receive criticisms from many quarters including leaders of the Catholic Church in Nigeria. Fr. Mbaka who runs the Adoration Ministry, Enugu had asked Nigerians to reject President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and vote for Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd ) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 14 presidential election. But this apparently partisan comments did not go down well with the church's hierarchy.

PDP ask INEC to disqualify Buhari on academic grounds

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqualify the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, from contesting the presidential election for failing to provide proof that he has acquired the minimum academic qualification.

Military repel attack on Damaturu

Defence Spokesperson, Major Gen. Chris Olukolade has confirmed that the Nigerian military repelled an attempt by Boko Haram insurgents to take over Damaturu, Yobe State. The terrorists launched a massive attack on the state capital in the late hours of Friday but were eventually pursued by the military after hours of gun battle.

President Jonathan gives daughter out in marriage

President Goodluck Jonathan today gave his daughter, Inebharapu Paul, out in marriage at the ICC in Abuja. The colourful ceremony had many dignitaries including former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, Senate President, David Mark, as well as Governors and other public office holders in attendance.

Nigeria/US relations intact, US Envoy dismiss "arms embargo" claims

The United States has dismissed rumours that it placed an arms deal embargo on Nigeria noting that on the contrary, it has offered more support than any other country to help Nigeria in the war against terror.
Rumours of a sour relationship between both countries was fueled partly by the the refusal to sell a Cobra Hellicopter to Nigeria and subsequent abrupt termination of a training programme for the Nigeria Military recently.

Niger Republic announce withdrawal of troops from Baga

Plans by the Nigerian Military to reclaim the border town of Baga in Borno State has been dealt a big blow following the decision by Niger Republic to withdraw its support for the mission. Niger's Foreign Ministry confirmed this development in a statement noting that it would not be involved in any attempt to retake the town from Boko Haram insurgents.

Jonathan gets royal blessing from Oba of Lagos, as monarch blasts OBJ

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, appears to have given his royal blessings to the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), President Goodluck Jonathan, as the later paid a courtesy visit to the monarch on Thursday. After praising the president, the Oba Akiolu took a swipe at former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, criticizing him for unlawfully punishing Lagos State while he was in office. He also described Obasanjo as an hypocrite for criticizing the present administration, noting that the former Present engaged in many corrupt practices during his tenure.

Jonathan reiterates commitment to implementation of CONFAB report

President Goodluck Jonathan has again stated his willingness to implement the decisions reached by the delegates at last year's National Conference. Speaking at the flag off of his presidential campaign in Lagos on Thursday, the President noted that the reason why the document has not yet been adopted is because of the crisis facing the present National Assembly. He called on the electorate to ensure that the vote for legislators that will represent them well and see to the implementation of that report.

Henry Okah was hired to assasinate me - President Jonathan

At the flag off of his presidential campaign in Lagos on Thursday, the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer, President Goodluck Jonathan, said the leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) was hired by some desperate Nigerians to assassinate him during the nation's golden jubilee celebrations in 2010, but the plot was foiled thanks to Nigerian and South African intelligence efforts.