Dj Ayi Presents - Mixtape titled Oga Dj

New Music: Rock Lordz - Ebere

The Rock lords are collective young talented fellows called  teni, jenny, dazzy and soxi,a young men who are preparing to hit the top with a warm  and simple song titled Ebere.

Please download, listen this song and enjoy yourself

DOWNLOAD - Ebere

DOWNLOAD - Facebook.

Kogi Signs $1.3m Deal With UN- Habitat For Urban Renewal Projects

The Kogi State Government has confirmed that it signed a $1.3 million Agreement of Cooperation with the United Nations-Habitat, focusing on structural plan and urban renewal scheme.

The agreement which was signed at the Government House, Lokoja by Prof. Oyebanji Oyeyinka, on behalf of UN-Habitat and the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yomi Awoniyi, on behalf of the State Government follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in August 2013 between Kogi State and UN-Habitat, in Addis Ababa.

According to the agreement, the funds provided will be used to support and develop City Structure Plans for selected cities in the State and strengthens the state's on-going urban renewal programme.

The State deputy governor, Mr. Yomi Awoniyi, said: 'This is a major event for Kogi State because the state believes that this effort marks a major paradigm shift in the way the cities and towns planned and operate. Proper urban planning is the most sustainable solution to the state flooding challenge.'

Under the agreement, the UN agency will establish the Kogi State Urban Observatory, (a unique monitoring system developed by UN-Habitat) that builds indicator systems through data collection, analysis, monitoring and reporting on sustainable urbanization.

It will also developed an Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan, a holistic, strategic and systematic approach to solid waste management based on the Waste Management Hierarchy Model.

As part of the deal, an early Warning System for Climate-related extreme events such as floods and droughts will also be developed and will also construct a model Public Spaces that focuses on bridging the urban divide and promoting socio-economic inclusiveness.

I Was Married To Don Jazzy,In Music – D’banj Confesses

D’banj and Don Jazzy, no doubt, both dominated the music scene for nine years before the cookies crumbled and they went their separate ways. Today, they have formed individual group, D’banj-DB Records, Don Jazzy-Marvin Record, but something still seems to be connecting the two together.

In an interview recently, D’banj confessed that he really missed Don Jazzy whom he had spent the better part of his career with.

Hear him “If I say I don’t miss Don Jazzy, I am lying. I (laughs). So I miss everything about Mo’Hits: the family, the movement, and the vibe of being in the studio with him. I miss the jokes and the arguments, but I have since keyed into the notion that nothing can stop a moving train. Nevertheless we can always do music together. The track, ‘Top of the World’ was produced by a Grammy Award Winner. The songs ‘Finally’ and ‘Don’t Tell Me Nonsense’ was produced by my producer while ‘Oliver Twist’ was produced by Don Jazzy. So, why won’t I have him on my 10 years anniversary album?”

Edo Police Parade 55 Suspected Kidnappers, Armed Robbers

Edo State Police Command has paraded 55 suspects for various acts of criminality among whom are twelve kidnap suspects.

Other suspects paraded were alleged to be involved in defilement, attempted murder, rape, unlawful possession of fire arms and armed robbery.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Folusho Adebanjo assured residents of the state of their security as the his command is winning the war against criminality in the state.

'We are not relenting. The job of protecting our people is a tough one. But we are doing our best to ensure we work day and night. Even though these criminals are giving us a lot of problems, we will continue to pursue them until we apprehend them.'

Speaking on the preparedness of the police to check kidnapping and other violent crimes this Sallah, Adebanjo said: 'As for Sallah, the police is very ready. We had a meeting with all the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) during the weekend.

'I have directed special security in all the mosques. I will be out there with my men to ensure we have a hitch-free Sallah in Edo. We are battle ready for anything, including the kidnappers.'

The police also displayed14 rifles, five stolen vehicles and 396 cartridges recovered from the suspects.

Among those paraded for kidnapping was Mr Oyigbe who has been on police wanted list. He confessed that his house at Sabongida Ora in Owan West Local Government Area has been used twice for keeping kidnapped victims.

Emmanuel Otono, a kidnap convict, who was also arrested for kidnapping denied any involvement in the crime.

Adebanjo said all those involved in kidnapping will eventually be caught.

He said: 'we have arrested some of the kidnap kingpins. Some are still being interrogated. They are the ones involved in the kidnapping of some persons in Benin. I can tell you that the war against kidnappers in ongoing.'

'We are doing everything to make sure that the state is safe. We have a lot of them that have been arrested. Some are being investigated,' he said.

Nigeria To Play Italy After Ethiopia 2nd Leg Clash

Nigeria to play Italy soon
WRITTEN BY The Rainbow

Eyes set on Brasil 2014 World Cup tournament already, Nigeria will play Italy in a friendly at Fulham's Craven Cottage stadium in London on 18 November.

The match against four-time World Champions Italy will take place only two days after Nigeria's World Cup play-off second leg against Ethiopia.

Nigeria won the first leg 2-1 on Sunday and are now fancied to complete the job at home in Calabar on 16 November.

The Super Eagles hope the match against Italy will be preparation for next year's tournament in Brazil.

The match will be Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi's first friendly game against European opposition since he took charge of the side in November 2011.

Jairo Pachon of Eurodata, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)'s official match agent, told BBC Sport: 'The aim is to play one of the top five or 10 teams in the world before the end of the year.

'I'm glad we could secure an important friendly and big opponent for Nigeria. Italy are number four in the world and that says a lot.

'It's also an important opportunity for the Nigerian community in the UK to see the African champions in action.'

Meanwhile, the NFF also confirmed another friendly for their locally-based team who have qualified for the 2014 CHAN tournament in South Africa.

'We are also happy to confirm a match for our Super Eagles locally-based team against Jordan in Omman on the 28 October,' NFF spokesman Ademola Olajire told BBC Sport.

'This match that will serve Jordan to prepare for their World Cup play off match against Uruguay will also help Nigeria to prepare for next year's African Nations Championship.'

New Music: Jfly Ft Larry J - Police

Jfly Ft Larry J

Jfly with another brand new hit single for the street titled police after dropping a fascinating song titled talking drum which took him to alot of shows here in port harcourt and out side the country...

His inspiration is as a result of how the police are our friends and how we are arrested sometimes without committing any crime...

Please enjoy and download here.....

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New Music: 3CM - Okabia Anthem

Rowl of 3CM
The story and the next level of the 3cm as they take over imo state with a new groovy urban music for the grass root.

Em-flow of 3CM

Vino of 3CM

listen to this great cultural jeration song from the true sons of etiti okabians of orlu in Imo state...
they recently thrilled their fans in abuja at a music event at summit villas last weekend and they will be storming etiti okabia this december to unveil the group at a music festival in their community for the first time.... 'Okabia Anthem' is produced by Living Star....
Seat tight and listen, share and download this song.

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Nigeria Group To ICC: Probe Crime Against Humanity

Lagos — A human rights group said Sunday it is asking the International Criminal Court to urgently investigate the killings of schoolchildren and teachers by suspected militants in the northeast as crimes against humanity.

The petition from the Socio-Economic and Rights Accountability Project comes a week after attackers gunned down at least 43 students at an agricultural college. They also torched several classrooms.

"Most children no longer go to school ... due to the fear of teachers and students being killed" in northeast Nigeria, said the petition signed by the organization's executive director Adetokunbo Mumuni.

The Boko Haram terrorist network — its name means "Western education is forbidden" — is accused of killing hundreds of civilians including schoolchildren sitting for examinations in stepped-up attacks that defy a massive military crackdown on their strongholds. The group has claimed many school attacks but has made no statement claiming recent assaults.

President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency May 14 in three states covering one-sixth of the country where he said extremists had taken control of towns and villages. He deployed an emergency task force that includes soldiers, police, military intelligence, immigration and customs officials. The military campaign including punishing air bombardments quickly pushed the militants out of most towns, but into rocky and inaccessible hilly areas.

The military said it destroyed one camp in bombing raids last week and killed scores of suspected militants that it believed were responsible for the attack on the agricultural college. It said 15 suspects arrested after the air attacks are being interrogating and are providing information that could lead security forces to other camps.

Attacks have surged recently and Jonathan said last week he has asked the military to consider new strategies to defeat the Islamic uprising that began in 2009.

On September 19, suspected Islamic militants disguised in military fatigues and in a convoy led by fighters firing from two tanks armed with anti-aircraft guns — apparently stolen from the army — killed at least 143 civilians, two soldiers and three police officers in an attack on a military outpost and nearby village. A September 8 attack killed at least 17 people including members of a youth vigilante group set up to fight the militants. A pastor and his son and a village head were killed on September 26 by attackers who also torched a church and several homes.

Most victims of attacks are Muslims. Boko Haram initially targeted government officials, Christian clergy and moderate Muslim clerics who spoke out against their fanaticism. This year's attacks have targeted schoolchildren, teachers and health workers on vaccination campaigns. But there have also been indiscriminate shootings and bombings that inevitably kill more Muslims in a part of the country that is predominantly Muslim.

Amnesty International on Friday urged Nigeria's government to provide better protection for schools. Officials of Yobe State College of Agriculture at Gubya told The Associated Press that there were no security forces at the school, though state officials had two weeks earlier urged schools to reopen and promised soldiers and police would protect them.

The London-based Amnesty International estimated scores of pupils and 70 teachers have been killed this year — some gunned down in their beds, others burnt alive in locked dormitories — and that 50 schools have been burned down or damaged and more than 60 others forced to close.

It called for Nigerian authorities to arrest and prosecute perpetrators. Hundreds of suspects have been arrested, according to officials, but Amnesty noted that none have been charged. The fate of hundreds of detainees is unknown.

The rights project said it sent its petition to the ICC on Friday saying "SERAP is seriously concerned that these attacks against schoolchildren, apart from constituting violations of the right to life and the right to education, may amount to crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute."

The court in The Hague said in August a preliminary investigation provided "reasonable basis" to believe Boko Haram has likely committed crimes against humanity including murder and persecution. But prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said she would only move to a full-fledged investigation after further study and depending on whether Nigerian authorities are willing and able to prosecute "those who appear to bear the greatest responsibility."

- AP

20 killed as Boko Haram, Troops Clash In Mosque Attack

Maiduguri - Boko Haram claimed five lives in an attack on a mosque in Borno State over the weekend, before being repulsed by soldiers who killed 15 of the insurgents, the military said in a statement Sunday.

The latest attack by the extremist group, which has been waging an insurgency since 2009, struck on Saturday morning at Damboa town in Borno state, the group's stronghold.

"The terrorists... attacked worshippers in a mosque and killed five of them who came to perform their morning prayers," said the military's statement quoting captain Aliyu Ibrahim Danja, army spokesman for the region.

"They also set ablaze the official residence and palace of the District Head along with some shops.

"While they were unleashing their mayhem, troops under 7 Division engaged the terrorists, killing 15 in the process while others fled in disarray."

Borno was placed under a state of emergency in mid-May, when the military shut down the mobile phone network to block militants from coordinating attacks in an operation aimed at crushing the insurgency.

With the communication network switched off, details of attacks have been slow to emerge and difficult to verify.

Boko Haram has said it is fighting to create an Islamic state, but its aims have shifted and the group is believed to consist of different factions.

The group has attacked churches, mosques, schools, newspaper offices, the security forces, politicians and a UN building, among other targets.

The Boko Haram conflict is estimated to have cost more than 3,600 lives since 2009, including killings by the security forces, who have been accused of major abuses.

- AFP

Basketmouth Performs Stand-Up On Plane

Abuja - Basketmouth entertained passengers on board a Virgin Atlantic flight from Lagos to London on October 2 to celebrate Nigeria's 53rd year of independence.

We know comedians can't stop joking but cracking people up 30 000 feet in the air is certainly a unique experience.

That's what Basketmouth did on October 2, 2013 with passengers flying Virgin Atlantic flight from Lagos to London.

The exclusive performance was apparently part of the airline's way of celebrating Nigeria's 53rd year of independence.

The company says it is another innovative way of giving their customers exciting service.

"The Virgin Atlantic spirit is all about shaking things up and doing things a little differently. We like to give our passengers a truly unforgettable flying experience and having Basketmouth on board the flight is another example of us doing things that other airlines wouldn't even think of. It's also a fantastic way to celebrate Nigerian Independence Day," Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic founder and president says.

Egypt: 51 Killed In New Bout Of Street Violence

Cairo - Security forces and Islamist protesters clashed around the country Sunday, leaving 51 killed, as a national holiday celebrating the military turned to mayhem.

Crowds from Egypt's two rival camps - supporters of the ousted Islamist president, Mohammed Morsi, and backers of the military that deposed him - poured into the streets and turned on each other.

Several neighbourhoods of the capital, Cairo, resembled combat zones after street battles that raged for hours. Morsi supporters fired birdshot and threw firebombs at police who responded with gunshots and tear gas. Streets were left strewn with debris, and the air was thick with tear gas and smoke from burning fires, as the crack of gunfire rang out.

An Associated Press photographer saw nine bodies lying on the floor of a clinic in the Cairo district of Dokki, scene of some of the heaviest clashes. Most of the bodies had gunshot wounds to the head or chest.

Sunday's death toll of 51 was the highest on a single day since 14 August when security forces raided two sit-in protest camps by Morsi supporters, killing hundreds.

Even as fighting continued in the streets, the military went ahead with lavish celebrations for the holiday marking the 40th anniversary of the start of the 1973 Mideast war with Israel.

In the evening, a concert was aired live on state TV from a military-run Cairo stadium where pop stars from Egypt, Lebanon and the Gulf sang anthems to the army and dancers twirled on stage before a cheering crowd. Military chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, other top brass and interim President Adly Mansour attended the show.

Real source of power

"There are those who think the military can be broken," el-Sissi said in an address at the concert. "You see the Pyramids? The military is like the pyramids, because the Egyptian people are on its side."

The clashes were the latest chapter in the turmoil roiling the country since the ouster in February 2011 of autocrat Hosni Mubarak. The new violence is certain to set back efforts by the interim, military-backed government to revive the economy, especially the vital tourism sector, and bring order to the streets of Cairo, where crime and lawlessness have been rife.

Morsi was Egypt's first civilian and first freely elected president, succeeding four since the early 1950s who hailed from a military background. But after a year in office, Morsi was faced by massive protests demanding his ouster, accusing his Muslim Brotherhood of taking over power - and on 3 July, el-Sissi removed him.

The military is now back as the real source of power in Egypt, and state and independent media have been depicting it as the country's savior — with growing calls for el-Sissi to run in the presidential election due early next year.

Sunday's holiday was an opportunity for Egypt's leaders to further fan the pro-military fervour sweeping the country since the coup. But the holiday was also a chance for Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood and its Islamist allies to show that they are surviving a fierce crackdown that has jailed more than 2,000 from their ranks since the coup.

Thousands of their backers held marches in various parts of Cairo, while at the same time crowds in support of the military took to the streets. In some cases, the two sides set upon each other, pelting each other with rocks and firebombs.

The Health Ministry reported 51 people killed nationwide, with at least 40 of them in Cairo, and more than 240 injured. The Interior Ministry, which is in charge of the police, said 423 Morsi supporters were detained across the nation.

Nightmare

"It is now crystal clear that the coup is a nightmare for Egypt and its people and is trying so hard to tear the fabric of this nation," a coalition grouping the Brotherhood and its allies said in a statement.

"At the time when festivities are arranged for one section of the population, they call on Egyptians to dance on the dead bodies of their compatriots who oppose the coup," it said, calling for a rally in Tahrir Square on Friday.

The scene of Sunday's fighting in Cairo contrasted sharply with a carnival-like mood in the city's central Tahrir Square, where thousands of supporters of the military waved Egyptian flags, blew whistles and touted posters of el-Sissi. Adding to the festivities, a military band in green jackets and off-white pants played, and men spun in whirling dervish-style dances.

Demonstrators distributed petitions demanding that el-Sissi run for president.

"We cannot find a man who can run the country at this stage except for him [el-Sissi]," said aspiring actress Wafaa el-Sharqawi, who was distributing the el-Sissi petition in Tahrir. "Can we possibly have a civilian president who is weaker than his defence minister?"

Soldiers barricaded entrances to central Tahrir Square with barbed wire and armored personnel vehicles to guard it against possible attempts by Morsi supporters to enter the plaza, Egypt's most prominent political stage since it was the epicenter of the anti-Mubarak uprising nearly three years ago.

Metal detectors were installed at the entrances and demonstrators pouring into the square were searched by troops. Army helicopters flew low over the square, with Egypt's red, white and black flag trailing. Some two dozen F-16 jet-fighters staged a celebratory flight over Cairo in late morning, ushering in the commemoration of the 1973 war.

Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi

At 14:00 - the time the war began in 1973 - church bells tolled and chants of "Allahu akbar," or "God is greatest," blared from mosques in parts of Cairo.

Still, not all in the square were enthused about the military.

Moamen Mahmoud, a 23-year-old student, was in Tahrir on Sunday and mused about the ironies of the shifting sands of Egypt's politics in the past 2 ½ years. He said he took part in the 2011 uprising and in subsequent protests against the military's direct rule of the country for some 17 months after Mubarak's fall.

"I came here today because I cannot miss an occasion like this, but sadly the revolutionaries are no here. I was here once chanting against military rule and now look at this. We forgot the principles of the revolution," he said.

"Those who criticised the Brotherhood supporters for hoisting Morsi posters are now doing the same with el-Sissi's posters," said Mahmoud Badawi, a 27-year-old university graduate who is opposed to the 3 July coup. "Throughout history, military rule is corrupt."

The climax of the day's festivities was the extravaganza at the military-owned stadium in the eastern part of Cairo, attended by el-Sissi and kicked off with a dazzling display of fireworks.

El-Sissi's predecessor, Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, was among those attending the ceremony, making his first public appearance since Morsi removed him and his chief of staff, Sami Anan, in August last year. Tantawi served Hosni Mubarak as defence minister for 20 years and took over the reins of the country when his mentor was ousted in a 2011 uprising.

Anan, who has presidential ambitions, was not present.

Also in attendance was Gihan Sadat, widow of the late Egyptian president Anwar Sadat, revered as the country's 1973 war hero and the architect of his country's peace treaty six years later.

- AP

New Music: Mr Yung Boss And Sneezy - She Dey Do

My name is Okwodu Obiaku Victor Desmond. A native of imo state but grew up basically in port harcourt city at rumoudara. I came from a family of two, me and my big brother Jeff nd also our Mom. I Stated music when i was in secondary school and music has been the only thing that gives me joy when I'm down or sad. Did my first song early this year titled I'm sorry and had it promoted online.

 She de do is a song i came up with while i was it my friend(Sneezy) doing some freestyles. We were like 'let's do some crazy stuff' and we did 'She de do'.

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Nollywood Superstar Jim Iyke “receives Deliverance” at Prophet T.B. Joshua’s Church | Photos

Jim Iyke Delieverance

It seems as though our “Nollywood Bad Boy” Jim Iyke is turning a new leaf! Over the last few days, his tweets have taken a spiritual turn and now BN received photos and details on Jim’s “deliverance” at Prophet T.B. Joshua‘s Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN).
 And then the deliverance…
Making a surprise appearance in The SCOAN, Nollywood superstar Jim Iyke entered quietly and unannounced, joining worshippers from around the world as they listened to the inspiring message from renowned Prophet T.B. Joshua.
As The SCOAN’s Wise Men moved through the congregation in prayer, the lightning of God located Iyke and he was no longer able to control himself. Lunging towards one of the Wise Man as if to attack him, an evil spirit that had been tormenting the life of Jim Iyke manifested! The congregation in the auditorium and the overflow congregations shouted in surprise as they began to witness the deliverance of a man they were all too familiar with.
Jim Iyke, born James Ikechukwu Esomugha, is currently one of the highest paid actors in the Nigerian movie industry and cultivated the name “Nollywood bad boy” for himself. As one of the most successful actors in Nollywood, he has starred in over 150 films to date. He has launched his own film production unit, “Untamed Productions” and his own music label, “Untamed Records” with his very own album, “Who Am I?” He is also founder of “Jim Iyke Foundation”, contributing funds to children of the less privileged and children with physical challenges
.

Among his movie awards are: The Teenage Choice Award, Best Actor In Nigerian Entertainment Award, African Achievement Award, Best Actor of the Year (Mode Men Award 2010), Sexiest Man In Nigeria 2008, Best African Actor (NET Awards).

The evil spirit that had tormented the life of Jim Iyke for so many years began to manifest, confessing that it was the cause of Iyke’s setback and disappointment. It confessed that it was the reason he could never marry, stating that it would not allow him to love anyone. It continued confessing that Iyke was the biggest and that it was only God’s grace that had kept him. As the evil spirit inside him struggled to attack the Wise Man, the supremacy of the Holy Spirit continued to overpower it.

The deliverance continued but the battle was not against flesh and blood; it was against the spiritual entities that had been causing crisis in his life, family, health, career and future.

To the jubilation of the congregation, the name of Jesus Christ prevailed over the evil spirit and Jim Iyke received his freedom. Overwhelmed with what had just happened, Iyke immediately knelt in God’s presence, appreciating His Creator for his miraculous deliverance.

The humility demonstrated by Jim Iyke in submitting himself to the power of God should prompt others in his industry to make the same life-saving choice.

Prophet TB Joshua Sponsors Nigerian Student To Oxford University

Nigerian Pastor T.B. Joshua, well known for his expansive philanthropic endeavours, shocked congregants at his church, The Synagogue, Church Of All Nations (SCOAN) on Sunday 18th November 2012 when it was revealed he has sponsored a Nigerian student to study a PhD in the University of Oxford to the tune of £100,000, approximately N26 million.

Miss Yinka Oduwole, who introduced herself as one of the youth who was brought up in The SCOAN and worked there extensively, testified how she had gained admission to study a PhD in Engineering Science in Oxford University, UK after a successful Master’s Programme in University College London (UCL). Yinka, who was equally sponsored in her Master’s Degree in Broadband Communication in UCL in which she came out with a distinction, said Prophet T.B. Joshua and Emmanuel TV Partners had paid the sum of £100,000 to enable her to study for a PhD in the prestigious Oxford University.

“My advice to youth all over the world is that they should pray as if everything depends on God and work as if everything depends on them,” Yinka, also a First-Class graduate from the University of Lagos, told the congregation and viewers worldwide on Emmanuel TV, equally counselling the youth to find a job in the church and actively engage in godly activities.

TB Joshua also revealed in the service how footballer Ogenyi Onazi, the SS Lazio starlet who was recently promoted to the Super Eagles of Nigeria and scored on his debut against Venezuela, was brought up in the church and worked there as well before attaining his current sporting success. Joshua revealed how he had sponsored Onazi and his colleague Sani Emmanuel to trial in clubs around the world including Premier League giants Chelsea and Tottenham, before arriving in SS Lazio, where he is currently playing for the senior team. Joshua revealed that close to $1m was spent in this process, to ensure the duo went to the right club to reach the heights of their potential.

According to Joshua, the reward for raising up such young people to become leaders of tomorrow in every field of expertise is immeasurable in monetary or material terms. “What you make happens for others, God makes happen for you. You are raised to raise others,” Joshua exhorted the crowd, counselling them to consider the future of their own children and what they were doing with their lives.

Forbes estimated that Joshua has spent up to $20m in charitable activities alone in the last three years. Thousands of less privileged students are currently studying in universities across Nigeria and around the world courtesy of SCOAN’s scholarship program.

PDP Mourns Victims Of Lagos Plane Crash

By Eze Chukwuemeka Eze


The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the leadership of Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje has learnt with shock of the plane crash that took place in Lagos this morning in which several lives were lost. 

As confirmed by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Associated Airlines chartered flight heading for Akure, the Ondo State capital, took off at roughly 9:30 am (0830 GMT) from the domestic terminal at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, but the engine failed on takeoff and it crash-landed and burst into flames. The plane was said to be carrying the body Dr. Olusegun Agagu, a former governor of Ondo State and an erstwhile chieftain of our great party, who died on September 13 and is scheduled to be buried this weekend.

We are shattered by the news of this unspeakable tragedy, especially as the flight also had some prominent personalities on board.

Our hearts go out to the Agagu family, to the families of victims of the crash, as well as to the people and Government of Ondo State, and especially to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and, indeed, all Nigerians. We also sympathise with the management of Associated Airlines on this great tragedy.

We urge Nigerians to remember the victims and their families in their prayers and to intensify prayers for our dear nation in these difficult times.

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze
National Publicity Secretary, PDP

Agagu’s Casket Recovered Intact As Plane Crash In Lagos

The casket, bearing the corpse of the Ondo State former governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, has been recovered by rescue agencies at the site of the Associated Airlines plane, which crashed in Lagos on Thursday morning. The casket was intact as of the time of recovery.

As of the time of filling this report, five of the passengers had been rescued out of the 20 on board.

The passengers, report claimed, could be relations of the late governor.


The only casket on board the plane, which was supposedly that of Agagu, was taken away by security operatives a few minutes after 12 noon.

Almost all parts of the aircraft was burnt except the back where the casket was kept.

The remains of the former University of Ibadan lecturer were due to be interred in Ondo State this weekend after a series of events by the state government. The plane was conveying Agagu’s body to Akure, the Ondo State capital, when it crashed around the MMIA in Lagos.

Breaking News: Read Jonathan’s Independence Day Address

1.           Today marks 53 years of our Independence as a nation. First and foremost, I would like to say congratulations to us all. Through thick and thin, we have built this country together. Through triumphs and trials, we have developed a Nigerian identity in our own way.

2.           In truth, Nigeria is still a work in progress and we are challenged everyday to keep building in spite of the various obstacles that we face. Our strength has been in our diversity. If we look back over the years, we can say confidently that there is every reason to celebrate.

3.           Today’s Independence anniversary is unique because it is the last before we mark our centenary. On January 1, 2014, Nigeria will be 100 years old as a country, following the amalgamation of the Protectorates of Southern and Northern Nigeria in 1914.

4.           Beloved country men and women, traditionally, the Presidential address on this symbolic day has served two purposes.  It has, quite rightly, been used to remind all Nigerians about our heritage.  It has also allowed my predecessors and I to comment on our stewardship to the nation and make political capital out of a state occasion
5.           But this year, I will not. Because, today of all days, we should not be scoring political points. On the contrary, in this last year of the first century of our Union, we should be addressing our future as a Nation and a people!

6.           I admit that these may not be the best of times for our nation. Our people are divided in many ways – ethnically, religiously, politically, and materially. I cannot hide from this reality. I cannot hide from my own responsibilities.

7.           As we prepare to mark the centenary, therefore, today offers us an opportunity to reflect on our long journey to nationhood and the progress we have made so far. Whatever the challenges that we may face, we have every reason to be proud of our national accomplishments; we have every reason to remain proud and optimistic. Our collective national journey has witnessed great watersheds, thanks to our spirit of endurance, perseverance and sacrifice.  Getting the rest of the job done with determination and courage is just a matter of time. We are Nigerians, a nation of talented people, endowed with resources, potentials, and Divine Grace.

8.           In our journey to greatness as a nation, we have built an economy that is robust and erected enduring infrastructure and institutions of democracy. Our social system is now more inclusive, open and compassionate. We are waging a steady battle against poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Our sense of community, solidarity and shared expectation is strong and capable of withstanding the present social, economic and political challenges that still confront us.

9.           In saying this, I am reminded of the comments I made a week ago to a cross-section of Nigerians in New York during the 68th United Nations General Assembly. I declare now as I declared then: we have a duty as Nigerians, whatever may be our differences or prejudices, to always put Nigeria first.

10.       Our politics should be an art of patriotic labour and selfless service to the community, particularly by the political elite who are placed in positions of great trust and responsibility. Politics has its own high moral principles which abhor distracting and divisive rhetoric. As men and women in leadership, we must continually focus on service, duty, responsibility, and the next generation. Those who are elected to govern at all levels must focus on improving the lives of our people, not selfish ambition.

11.      In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!

12.      My clarion call therefore, on this special day, is that we should begin to align our political utterances and conduct solely to the nobler passions that unite our people. Politicians do not make a nation; ordinary folks do.

13.      Our nation is made great by the big and small efforts of regular citizens. These are the teachers and men and women in academics who inculcate the knowledge and wisdom that transform into tomorrow’s wealth; the traders and market women who tend to our everyday needs; the farmers whose labour feeds the nation; the artisans whose work ensures that our homesteads are well maintained; the doctors, pharmacists, nurses, accountants, bankers, engineers, and other professionals who add value to our lives; the sportsmen and women and those in the creative industry who bring honour and fame to our nation;
 
14.      And the men and women of our armed forces and security services who toil day and night so that you and I may live in a safe and secure nation.

15.      It is the individual and collective heroism of these regular folks that has placed our nation on the path of greatness. Politics and politicians sometimes distract the people and create unnecessary tension.
16.      But our independence celebration is about the same people, the people of Nigeria: their industry, sense of mission and purpose, and their patience and perseverance as we navigate historical turns in our march towards prosperity and self-sufficiency. Today, I salute the people of Nigeria.
17.      My Compatriots, history has proven that nations take time to evolve. We should rejoice in our democracy because it enables us to be united by our differences, not destroyed by them. And, there is no more crucial time for us to be united than now.

18.      The threats we face may be real and immediate. But we are not alone in this regard. It is a difficult season for much of the world: industrialized or developing; rich or poor. What matters are the lessons we learn, the wisdom we demonstrate, and the victory we snatch from the jaws of likely defeat.

19.      And I tell you, more than anything else, there are lessons to learn, and every cause to be thankful. If I must cite one example, take Syria. As we all pray and work for a return to normalcy in Syria, it would be helpful for us to reflect on the fact that Syria was once a peaceful, thriving, multi-cultural nation which played host to a mosaic of religions and ethnicities.

20.      But that once idyllic nation has today become a theatre of human misery of unimaginable proportions as a result of the activities of extremist forces.
21.      Fellow Nigerians, the spectre of extremism haunts every democracy in every corner of the globe. While we celebrate our independence and good fortune, our hearts must grieve for those who have lost loved ones in numerous terrorist activities around the world.

22.      Back home, I admit being overtaken by deep feelings of grief, whenever news reached me of the appalling atrocities in some of our States, especially the North Eastern part of our country. Just two days ago, terrorist elements attacked the College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State killing a number of innocent students of the institution and other residents in cold blood, most of them in their sleep.  This act of barbarism is a demonstration of the extent to which evil forces will go to destabilize our nation. But I assure you, they will not succeed.


23.      My heart goes out to the families of all those who have fallen victim of these dastardly acts. Our Administration will not rest until every Nigerian is free from the oppression of terrorism. I reassure you that no cost will be spared, no idea will be ignored, and no resource will be left untapped in the quest to enable our people live without fear.


24.      On this day, I implore every Nigerian – wherever you are, whatever language you speak, whatever your religious persuasion, whichever Political Party you support -: let us join together to fight this evil of extremism.

25.      On behalf of us all, I commend our Armed Forces and security agencies for their dedication and bravery in the face of grave danger, and in the name of our collective liberty.

26.      Fellow Nigerians, this is a time to pull together behind the national cause: the cause of our freedom, and our future. We must rekindle the spirit of Nigeria, to ensure that every democrat and every lover of peace in this great nation continues to live in a free, peaceful, and secure Nigeria.

27.      On my part, I re-dedicate myself completely to the service of this great country. I was elected President to continue the process of building a prosperous nation where hopes, dreams and aspirations would be fulfilled. Nigerians, home and abroad, want a country they can be proud to call their own.  I am pleased to affirm that, no matter the challenges we face, we are on the right path to greatness. Our Transformation Agenda, which is part of the overall vision of making Nigeria a land of greatness, has been delivering positive and encouraging results.

28.      On May 29th this year, I presented to the nation a mid-term report of my Administration’s Transformation Agenda. This was conceived as an integrated policy aimed at reconstructing not only institutional governance for effective and efficient service delivery, but also a re-orientation of national norms and values.  The document captured the essence of our agenda in relation to core objectives and achievements.

29.      I have been consistently mindful of the weight of public expectation to find solutions to the challenges that confront us because the mandate we have is a free and sacred one. In all that I have done, I have been guided by this sacred obligation, to work hard for the good of Nigeria and to make life better for Nigerians. I want to assure everyone that Nigeria, under my leadership, will not fail.

30.      Exactly 53 years ago today, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa urged us to ‘move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage’. I am sure that there have been times when every one of us must have questioned how closely we have followed that injunction.

31.      But again, I can reassure you that Nigeria’s place on the world stage today is strong and safe, and it is certainly a place of dignity and respect. We must continue to build on this by remaining a nation and a people committed to ideals, the noblest humanitarian values, and the rule of law.

32.      Our Constitution is anchored ultimately on the idea of freedom and fundamental rights: freedom of expression; freedom from discrimination; freedom to vote and be voted for, and the right to human dignity. These are the core values of a true democracy. These are the values of which we must never lose sight.
33.      In my address to the UN General Assembly last week, I emphasized the crucial role of democratization in improving the fortunes not just of this country, but of our entire continent. Democratic values encourage diversity. They encourage discourse. They encourage disagreement. This is the joy of democracy.

34.      It enables us to have an opinion. And ultimately, the ballot box gives us all the opportunity to instigate change. When democracy works, it does not destroy a nation. It unites and defines it.

35.      Fellow Nigerians, our Administration has taken cognizance of suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country. I am an advocate of dialogue. When there are issues that stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.

36.      In demonstration of my avowed belief in the positive power of dialogue in charting the way forward, I have decided to set up an Advisory Committee whose mandate is to establish the modalities for a National Dialogue or Conference. The Committee will also design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process.

37.      The Committee will be chaired by Dr. Femi Okurounmu while Dr. Akilu Indabawa will serve as the Secretary. The full membership of the Committee will be announced shortly.

38.      I expect the Report to be ready in one month, following which the nation will be briefed on the nomenclature, structure and modalities of the Dialogue.

39.      Fellow Nigerians, the past 53 years have seen Nigeria evolve on an epic scale.  Our progress since independence has not always been smooth. This is, after all, our Fourth Republic; but despite all its flaws, it has lasted longer than all the previous three put together. That is progress and it proves that, our differences – real and imagined – notwithstanding, we are, in every sense, a united nation.

40.      This is no time for the harmful clutches of parochial sentiments and the politics of bitterness, impunity, arrogance and unhelpful indiscipline. We must stand as one, with absolute commitment and resolve to resist any force that threatens us and the sanctity of our union.

41.      I want to thank all our country men and women who have stood by this Administration in the midst of mounting challenges and enormous expectations.

42.      I recognize that it is not easy to keep believing in the possibilities of our greatness when our faith is constantly challenged. But let me assure you that, if we do not despair, we shall reap the reward of our labour in due season.

43.      It is my prayer that, another 53 years from now, our children and grand-children will look back on our effort and be thankful that we kept the faith.

44.      May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

45.      I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.

46.      I thank you        

Vanguard News

Obama congratulates Jonathan, Nigerians @ 53rd independence

Washington, DC – The U.S. President, Barack Obama, has congratulated  President Goodluck Jonathan and the people of Nigeria as the nation celebrates 53rd anniversary it Independence Day on Oct.1.
“A warm friendship connects the Nigerian and American people, reflecting our shared values of democracy, economic growth, security, and respect for human rights and the rule of law.


“Our partnership is strong because of our people, as the proverb tells us, if you want to go quickly go alone. If you want to go far go together,’’ Obama in a statement,  issued by Secretary of State, John Kerry said on Monday.
He added that in the coming years, the U.S. would be looking forward to going further with Nigeria as the country expands education, jobs and opportunity for its people.

On the 53rd anniversary of your independence, I wish all Nigerians a safe and prosperous future,” Kerry quoted the U.S. president as saying.
Meanwhile, in the historic city, New York, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria from around the world are gearing up to celebrate the anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence.

The celebration is scheduled from Oct.3 to 5 with activities ranging from party for young Nigerians and their friends, to a cultural night where the youth would demonstrate appreciation of their Nigerian heritage.

Also there would be an Independence Day Parade/Carnival and Festival.
People from all walks of life are expected at the celebration to showcase the glory of Nigeria.

Vaanguard News