Thanks to the timely intervention of the Joint Task Force (JTF), the dreaded Boko Haram Islamic sect would have unleashed terror of unimaginable proportion on Yorubaland particularly Lagos State had their leader in South-West, Muhammed Sulaiman not been arrest last week.
National Daily competent source disclosed that the Boko Haram South-West leader who was arrested at Farawa Babbam Layi, Maiduguri Road, Kano and now facing interrogation at the headquarters of State Security Service (SSS), Abuja has allegedly confessed that he is the coordinator of a planned attack on strategic places in Lagos and other parts of South-West Nigeria. He allegedly listed a five star hotel, Tafawa Balewa Square, a popular church and market on Lagos Island and a new generation mega-bank as targets of their planned onslaught.
The Ogbomosho, Oyo State born terrorist was quoted as saying that: “We decided to move our attack temporarily from the North to the South starting from Lagos. We realized that Lagos is Nigeria's most important commercial city; events that happen in Lagos have more impact than anywhere in the country. If we hit Lagos, Nigeria will shake; imagine if we had carried out our plan to bomb churches in Lagos,” an informed security source quoted Sulaiman last weekend, adding: “We had identified some important locations where we will hit in other to gain maximum attention. We listed Tafawa Balewa Square, a busy market in the Island, popular churches, hotel and a new generation bank. We wanted to start bombing Lagos.”
National Daily gathered that after the successful attack in South-West locations, the group will now move to the South-East launching their attack in Enugu before targeting other cities in the South-East zone.
Boko Haram redefined
Sulaiman gave further details of the next stage of their terrorism plans. He claimed that “they have infiltrated some places in Lagos where they now have their agents working for Boko Haram. Boko Haram is not strictly a Hausa or Northern Group par se, it is an Islamic consciousness group made up of Muslims from across the country. Some Boko Haram members are Yoruba, Ibo, Ijaw even Efik.
Sulaiman said the sect decided to take the attack to the South in order to prove that Boko Haram is a national movement, not a Hausa militant group par se, our security source said.
It was further disclosed that Sulaiman confessed to have arranged for certain instrument of violence to be moved in a discrete manner from the sect's hideout to some identified strategic locations in the South-West. He claimed his men were all but ready to strike before he was arrested by security agents.
“Sulaiman said Boko Haram planned to give Lagos and other cities in the southern region hell. He claimed that what happened in some parts of the North would have been a child's play compared to what the seat planned to have in Lagos,” our source said.
It would be recalled that a caller to an African Independent Television (AIT) phone-in programme, who claimed he was speaking for the Islamic sect allegedly issued a 72-hour ultimatum after which the sect would attack Abuja and Lagos State. The caller to the phone-in programme, which was broadcast on Friday last week had demanded that President Goodluck Jonathan personally and unconditionally meet with leaders of the sect in Yobe State to discuss terms of a ceasefire failing which Boko Haram would unleash more terror on Abuja and Lagos State.
However, in a seeming reaction to the caller's statement on AIT, a statement allegedly from Boko Haram has disowned the caller as an imposter.
Grand plot
Expressing displeasure at the arrest which he considered unfortunate, Sulaiman said the plot by the militant Islamic sect, Boko Haram, to carry out violent attacks in the southern part of the country has probably been frustrated by security agencies.
The sect, he explained, had chosen some southern cities such as Lagos, Ibadan, Enugu, Onitsha and Warri for attacks.
National Daily gathered that following sustained attacks on the sect's strongholds in Borno and Yobe states by security agencies, Boko Haram members had dispersed to other parts of the country.
Sources said that the sect, which had carried out several devastating bombings and gun attacks in Kano that claim over 185 lives, was looking beyond the North in its future terror campaign.
One of the reasons for spreading its operation to the South, it was learned, was in order not to limit its campaign to an ethnic agenda.
Security source said that there is the likelihood that some sponsors of Boko Haram are Southerners.
Source said that the mastermind of the Christmas Day bomb attack on St. Theresa's Catholic Church, Madalla, Niger State, Kabiru Sokoto, was sighted in Lagos after the incident.
It was gathered that security agencies were leaving no stone unturned in studying the moves of the arrested terror suspects and drawing probable inferences from them.
“It was not a coincidence that Sokoto, who had been on the wanted list of the police before December 25, was sighted in Lagos.
“His presence in Lagos was not for fun. This is one of the angles security agencies are working on.
“I think the group has noticed that security is not tight in the South and there have not been bombings. They are out to cash in on the laxity,” a source said.
The Senate Committee on Police, which probed the escape of Sokoto from custody, had last February said that the suspect was seen in Lagos on December 13.
The committee chairman, Senator Paulinus Nwagu, had, while presenting the report of the probe said, “Police intelligence revealed that prior to his arrest on January 14, 2011, Kabiru Sokoto had been on the wanted list of security agencies.
“Sokoto was reported to have been noticed within the vicinity of Snake Island, Lagos, and left Lagos sometime on December 13, 2011 and disappeared from surveillance monitoring until January 11, 2012.
“He was later traced to Abaji in the Federal Capital Territory.
“Police detectives traced him from Abaji to Abuja on the same date and further traced him to Asokoro, Abuja, where he was finally apprehended at about 0240 hours (2.40 am) on January 14, 2012, at the Borno State Governor's Lodge at Iro Dan Musa Street, Asokoro, Abuja.”
Enemies within
Intelligence report had revealed that Boko Haram sympathisers had moved to the South, from where they coordinated operations of the sect in the North.
It was learned that the sect decided to shift to the South in order to divert the attention of security agencies, which are on the trail of its members in the North.
“Since the heat has been turned on them, they have been moving to Lagos and other cities, where they mix with unsuspecting northerners residing in those cities.”
He said that the sect's plot to attack the South was aimed at further creating the impression that there was instability in the country. “You will observe that activities of the sect are ebbing due to unrelenting efforts of security agencies. But Boko Haram is also devising another method. This time around, it is looking at ways of attacking the South.”
However, the security source said, he lamented that security agencies would have recorded more successes, if not for pro-Boko Haram elements in the Presidency. He said: “Some people, who are sympathetic to the Boko Haram cause, are frustrating security agencies' plans to “deal a final blow on the sect.”
President Goodluck Jonathan on January 8 had said that the sect had infiltrated his government.
“Some of them are in the executive arm of government; some of them are in the parliamentary/legislative arm of government while some of them are even in the judiciary.
“Some are also in the armed forces, the police and other security agencies. Some continue to dip their hands and eat with you and you won't even know the person who will point a gun at you or plant a bomb behind your house,”the President said.
Red Alert
It would be recalled that the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Raji Fashola, had pulled down three places of worship near the seat of government at Alausa because of incriminating security reports against the sect.
“There is security alert all over the country, not only in the South-West; the so-called plan is something we don't expect them to execute before we take proactive steps.
“Security agents are aware of their advanced plans and are nipping them in the bud.
“The southern Muslims have value for human lives; they know that nobody can fight for God. They are not inconsiderate. The Muslim leadership in the South are putting their members on the alert; imams are already doing that,” a leader of the Muslim community was quoted as saying.
The Federal Government recently offered to dialogue with Boko Haram, the Islamic fundamentalist sect.
“Government is ready to discuss. History has proven that even wars that are fought for decades, at the end, are only concluded by dialogue,” Vice President Namadi Sambo reportedly said.
Sambo spoke in Abuja at the national symposium organised by the Nasirul-Lahi-Faith Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) on “Islam and peaceful co-existence in a contemporary multi religious society”.
To negotiate with the sect, the government may enlist the assistance of traditional rulers, according to Defence Minister Haliru Bello, who spoke while receiving the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria; Roberto Colamine, in his office.
“The concern of the government is peace and what the government is doing is for the benefit of all Nigerians,” the Vice President said.
Sambo lamented the activities of some negative forces whose actions have portrayed Islam in a negative and evil light, saying: “Islam is a religion of peace; it is a way of life. It cannot promote senseless killings and wanton destruction of property. I am not aware of any religion in the world that encourages unprovoked and relentless attack on other people.”
He reiterated the determination of President Goodluck Jonathan's administration to provide adequate security for the lives and property of all Nigerians and visitors.
The Vice President highlighted the strides the administration had recorded in achieving the objectives of the Transformation Agenda which, he said, cut across improved electricity supply; education; agriculture, transportation system; and poverty alleviation.
He hoped that the activities of militant groups would not jeopardise the government's desire to propel Foreign Direct Investment (FDIs).
Describing the security challenges posed by the sect as temporary, the Minister stressed that the challenges were restricted to a few local governments in the North-eastern zone.
The minister assured the envoy of President Goodluck Jonathan's desire to make the difference in governance, in line with the administration's transformation agenda.
He said a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Nigerian and the Italian governments was awaiting the Federal Executive Council's ratification.
According to him, the MOU would enhance Nigeria's peace keeping efforts.
The Ambassador had called for dialogue in the resolution of Nigeria's security challenges. He agreed with the Minister that the ratification of the MOU would strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III, has urged the Muslim Ummah to champion peaceful co-existence and education.
He also called on religious leaders to be mindful of their utterances so as not to overheat the polity, adding that aggrieved groups should embrace dialogue.
The Sultan dispelled rumour that there are plans to islamize Nigeria.
“If there is such plan, I should know because I was once in the military. We should trust ourselves. I wish to assure Christians that we are one big family created by Allah,” he said.
Lamenting that impunity has become the order of the day, the Sultan who co-chairs the Nigeria Inter-religious Council (NIREC) with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President, Ayo Oritsejafor, urged Muslims to promote peace and mutual co-existence in line with the Holy Quran.
“We must promote moderation and toleration in our society. We must equally open effective channels of dialogue with all segments of the society, including those who hold contrary opinions to that of our own.
“Islamic civilization both here and elsewhere is predicated on the promotion of learning not only in the religions sciences but also in Science and Technology. The conflict between faith and science did not originate in the Muslim world. Muslim civilization bequeathed to the world the study of Science and Technology. The time has come for Muslims to strive harder to reclaim this golden legacy.
National Security Adviser (NSA) Gen. Owoye Azazi recently stated that economic woes created a fertile ground for the recruitment, indoctrination, brainwashing and training of terrorists and other insurgents.
Speaking on the theme “Northern Nigeria, the prosperity agenda and national security” at the Northern Impact Summit organised by the Arewa Transformation and Empowerment Initiative Gen. Azazi also said lopsided economic development is capable of causing the collapse of a nation.
He noted that even though bombings and terrorist attacks have been concentrated in the North, they have adversely affected the nation's economy.
Gen. Azazi said the nation cannot afford to leave any of its states or region behind in the march towards a long overdue achievement of prosperity. He said comprehensive regional economic transformation is at the forefront of the nation's policies.
Security sources said that Sulaiman was originally offered the number two position in Boko Haram's hierarchy but was eventually not considered because of circumstances he refused to admit.
The suspect, who was arrested with his wife and five children, allegedly confessed that he was involved in the manufacturing of explosives and allegedly accepted the ownership of an AK rifles, one pistol, 10 improvised explosive devices and 1,000 pieces of live ammunition.
Sulaiman and members of his family were paraded before reporters in Kano before he was taken to Abuja where he was detained. He faced a team of SSS officials for preliminary interrogation. Security sources, said he looked disoriented and appeared to be jittery during interrogation session.
However, he was said to have pleaded with the security agents to release his wife and children who he said were not involved in his activities. He allegedly confessed to having been involved in some notable Boko Haram operation in the North and further stated that he is the coordinator for the planned Boko Haram operation in the South-West.
Source: National Daily
Friday, May 18, 2012
Nigeria's Bigbrother Representatives ,Chris and Ola Exit StarGame
Nigeria's BigBrother stargane representatives Ola and Chris are out of the running for the USD 300 000 prize!
In their Diary Session today, Ola and Chris sat with heavy hearts, prompting Big Brother to ask them what was on their minds.
Ola broke the ice by declaring that after consultation with the House Doctor, he would like to Voluntarily Exit the Big Brother House. He said that he has thought about it and since the medication he is on does not seem to be taking well, would like to seek medical attention outside of the Big Brother House.
A sombre-looking Chris added that he understands completely. "Yes, this is a game. However, we can’t play with our lives." “Health is wealth”, Ola added. The two were instructed by Biggie to leave the Diary Room and speak to their fellow Housemates, to explain the situation.
The two Nigerian Housemates have to leave the House with immediate effect, seeing as their Voluntary Exit has been prompted by a serious medical condition that needs urgent attention.
EXPLOSION ROCKS AJAH - GAS TANKER
the scene between 5:00 and 6:00am |
after the fire fighters put out the fire |
what was left and the fire fighters' hose |
This morning a truck lifting containers carrying unidentified chemicals exploded around Abraham Adesanya close to Sango teddo bus stop Ajah.
we hope dangerous airborne substances' not been released into the air.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Europe-Based pastors Advise Pastor Adeboye To Step Down As RCCG General Overseer
pastor enoch adeboye |
It was alleged that about 20 pastors from the branches of the Church in Europe met with the revered man of God in his International office at Redemption Camp, KM 46, Lagos/Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State, to advise him to resign so that a younger pastor could be appointed to head the church.
The reason given by these ambitious men of God was that since Pastor Adeboye has clocked 70 years, it is normal for him, according to what obtains in the church, to retire.
The pastors cited the case of the four Assistant General Overseers of the church, Pastors M.O. Ojo, Ilori, Aderibigbe and D. Ojo, whose retirements were announced at the conclusion of Minister Conference on Sunday, August 8, 2010.
Investigation by us, however, revealed that Pastor Adeboye could not retire from the position of the General Overseer of the church yet, as the position is not political.
A leading member of the church who spoke with us this morning said it is God who will nominate the successor to the office when the time comes.
Our source, who did not want his name mentioned, said further, “the founder of the church, Pa Josiah Oluwafemi Akindayomi, did not appoint a successor because he was 70, rather, the successor, Pastor Adejare Adeboye was appointed when the time came for him, the founder, to go and meet with the Lord.’
A pastor of the church (name withheld) wondered how some people could be thinking that way, “when all of us are seriously praying to God to grant our father (Pastor Adeboye) long life, good health and strength to continue the good work he’s doing for the Lord.”
He further said the position of the General Overseer of the Church is not for the highest bidder or the most erudite pastor; rather, it is God who will appoint the most qualified pastor when it is time.
Pastor Adeboye had told his faithful in one of the services not too long ago that his successor is still in drinking joint, that is, the fellow is yet to give his life to Christ or he is still a baby Christian.
—pm News
Surprising Food everyone thinks is Healthy, but can actually make you gain Weight
Surprising food everyone thinks is healthy, but can actually make you gain weight
It’s bikini season so many of us are opting out of our occasional indulgence of fried potato chips or chocolate cake, choosing healthier options instead —or so we think! Many foods that dieters eat can actually cause weight gain instead of weight loss. Make sure you’re noshing on the right foods to keep you feeling full, fit and healthy!
1. Granola
Filled with super healthy nuts and oats, granola gets a tasty twist when oil and sugar are added to make it crisp and sweet. It might seem healthy, but this faux diet friendly food is one you should definitely avoid! Many other cereals are way more healthy and weigh in with half the fat and sugar content as granola.
2. Dried fruit
This came as a shocker to me! As a frequent dried mango muncher, I was dismayed to learn that these wrinkly little fruits can have nearly four times as many calories as their fresh counterparts! Plus, many are loaded with sugar. If you’re craving fruit, stick with the fresh version instead….they’re just as sweet and way more healthy!
3. Juice
Many juices are loaded with carbohydrates, some with the equivalent of five slices of bread! Most of these carbs take the form of sugar — about twelve spoonfuls. When looking for fruit juices, make sure they list only fruit (not fruit concentrate) as the ingredients.
4. Bran Muffins
Because they’re made with oats and sometimes fruit, bran muffins look like they could be a healthy alternative to, say, a cupcake. But looks can be deceiving and these fatty culprits are filled with butter and sugar and are really no healthier than a slice of cake. You’re better off having some whole wheat toast with honey.
5. Half and Half
A little splash in your coffee may seem harmless, but be careful! Just a few spoonfuls ranks in at about 200 calories and nearly as much fat as a big pat of butter! Try soymilk for a low-fat way to make your coffee creamy and delicious.
6. Wraps
Many diet aficionados opt for a wrap instead of a sandwich. They’re making a grave decision though- many restaurant wraps spread out at nearly a foot in diameter, so you’re consuming way more carbohydrates than you would with two slices of whole wheat bread. Plus, with the added surface area you’re more likely to increase the amount of cheese, mayo or fattening sauces you add. Opt for bread for an overall healthier alternative to the giant tortilla.
7. Rice Cakes
Ah, the dreaded rice cake. These are a staple in many weight watchers pantries but the crunchy cakes are no where near healthy. Though they might be fat-free and low-cal, rice cakes are simply an empty calorie. With no fiber or protein to keep you feeling full, you’ll end up eating just as much later in the day, regardless of your rice cake snack. Try snacking on some wholegrain crackers with peanut butter for a filling alternative that’s also short on calorie content.
8. Sushi
A sushi night out with the girls seems like the perfect light dinner when you’re on a diet, right? Filled with veggies, protein rich fish, and seaweed, sushi gives the illusion of being a low cal-but-delicious dinner for dieters. But beware! These bite-size Japanese rolls can be loaded with fat and calories! Those yummy spicy sauces you like to douse your California roll in? LOADED with fattening mayo. The salty soy sauce that is a must-have at any sushi bar? SUPER high in sodium, which causes bloating. And watch out for tempura! This fried crunchy coating goes straight to your thighs! Instead, pick fresh sushis which aren’t fried, and use creamy sauces sparingly. Opt for a tuna roll with veggies and use a tiny bit of soy sauce for flavor. You’ll still be satisfied at the end of the meal!
9. Bottled Teas
Many teas are good for you, but the bottled kind if usually full of sugar (often times they have as much sugar as soda)! Limit your intake of bottled tea, or steep your own tea for a fresh drink.
10. Frozen Diet Dinners
Although these meals promise to be low in calories and fat, their health quotient is close to zero. To make up for the lack of fat, they’re packed with sodium which will cause you to bloat. Steam your own veggies and grill your own meat for a meal that’s fresh, healthy, and way more delicious!
11. Salad
Salads seem like the perfect meal for anyone looking to slim down for summer, but be cautious! Many dressings, even some vinaigrettes, are filled with fat. Make a salad with fresh lettuce and veggies, and add some olive oil and red wine vinegar — it’s just as yummy as the caloric pre-made dressings, but has way less fat!
Knowing where the hidden fats are in our foods is the first step toward a healthier, more fit lifestyle!
By Devyn Howard
Photos – Nigerian SuperModel Agbani Darego Graduates From New York University
Nigeria Miss World 2001 and SuperModel Agbani Darego graduated from New York University yesterday with a Major in Psychology. Some of her friends and family came to celebrate with her.
Her supermodel friend Oluchi also graduates from the-same school 2years ago.
congrats to Agbani Darego.
50 Cent hosptialised
50 Cent has reportedly been hosptialised with a stomach virus.
The ‘In Da Club’ rapper tweeted a picture of himself surrounded by cuddly toys – including a giraffe, and elephant and a lion – in his bed, saying he wasn’t looking forward to being operated on.
Alongside the picture, he tweeted: “I don’t want to go into surgery.”
Appealing to his friend, champion boxer Floyd Mayweather, for support, he added: “@FloydMayweather call my phone why your phone off. (sic)”
XXL Magazine reported 50 was suffering a stomach virus, and while Floyd wasn’t specific about his pal’s illness, he asked fans to pray for him.
He told US radio station V103′s Ryan Cameron: “Please keep 50 Cent in your prayers he is in the hospital and he is extremely sick … we will remain positive.”
Although he is claiming to be ill, 50 reassured fans his latest release is ready.
He tweeted: “I’m in the hospital but my gangsta grillz LOST TAPE is done so it will be out on time. (sic)”
Floyd also found time to joke, posting a message under another picture his rap friend posted of him watching an old TV from his bed: “While you’re in the hospital they need to get you a flat screen TV.”
Disco Queen, Donna Summer Dies at 63
American singer/songwriter donna summer is dead.TMZ reports summer died Thursday morning after fighting cancer, and her family confirmed her death shortly afterward.
The disco star was reportedly trying to keep the extent of her illness under wraps while she completed a new album, though sources who saw her several weeks ago said she "didn't seem too bad."
The five-time Grammy winner was known as the "Queen of Disco" and rose to superstardom in the 1970s with her hits "Last Dance," "Hot Stuff," and "Bad Girls."
Monday, May 7, 2012
Breaking: Don Jazzy Launches New Record Label Called Mavin, Signs Tiwa Savage to Label
Don Jazzy, former Mo’Hits Founder, launches new record label. Here is what Don Jazzy had to say about his new label:
“I see Mavin Records being the power house of Music in Africa in the shortest possible time. I know Rome wasn’t built in a day but with a lot of hard work, a good and God fearing team, our friends and fans, TV houses, radio stations, press, bloggers and most of all with God on our side, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
I definitely won’t forget my past because I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. I know there are questions unanswered, mysteries unsolved, wounds to heal but I would really appreciate if we allow time to heal the wounds for us all instead of digging them up again.
I love and respect the press and bloggers a lot and believe they will play a major role in healing our wounds and allow the forward movement. I would love to thank everyone that contributed in making Mohits records as successful as it got. We wouldn’t have done it without you all. The love and support you have given us thus far is definitely not in vain. You all helped create international superstars and none of us will let you down.
It is going to be a very exciting journey from here. I can’t wait to show you guys all we have planned for you all. We have some other Mavins that are not activated yet still under construction that I’m positive you are going to love. Please open up your hearts, lend us your ears, give us your love and support as always and let’s continue to entertain you. Please don’t forget to visit. www.mavinrecords.com and join the fan club “MAVIN LEAGUE” for exclusive news, music and gifts.
“Don’t just be amazing at what you do, be a MAVIN at it” – IDJA”
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Genevieve Nnaji to starr in Chimamanda Adichie’s “half of a yellow sun” movie
Top Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji has been selected to feature in the big screen adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel Half of a yellow sun.
Genevieve will be joined by other stars such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Dominic Cooper, Anika Noni Rose and Thandie Newton in the eagerly anticipated film.
According to her publicist, the actress cum singer will play the role of Ms Adebayo, a professor who develops a flirtatious relationship with her colleague Mr Odenigbo (Ejiofor).
Half of a Yellow Sun will be produced by British Academy of Film and Television Arts, BAFTA, winning producer, Andrea Calderwood and directed by Biyi Bandele.
Chimamanda’s half of a yellow sun novel centers on the Nigerian civil war and was published in 2006.
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