Yes,the post ume forms will soon be out, and the cut off is 200. The question now is are you prepared? well thats left for you to answer. My name is Emmanuel Enyeribe, a student of the department of chemistry 400L unaab. I know the stress it took me in my post ume days to travel down to abeokuta,stay on the very long queue at the bank and also queue again at the school to get the form in the school and so on and so forth. But i have decided to help you out on that trouble and stress of travelling to and fro abeokuta so you will have more free time to study for the E-exams. You want to know how?
I will help you buy the form(card) from the school and send you the card details to your phone via sms and you can just fill it in any cyber cafe of your choice in your locality for convinience in case u cant get it anywhere around you. i know that by now you are asking yourself how real is this and if it is real how much will he collect for all this help. well not to worry,you will only appreciate this kindness with a token of just #500. Yes #500,a little token to save you all the ''wahala'' of coming to buy it yourself.
All you have to do now is to send me a text message NOW to 08069385460 with your number stating that ''i am interested'' my bank details are account name: Emmanuel Enyeribe Account no: 9064431261590 Bank : GTB you can send it before the bank closes. if you cannot find anywhere to buy it once you make the payment. send me an sms stating your full names and teller no.so i can be able to buy it for you.The price of the form will soon be stated soon.
NOTE: Prepare your money now, because the form will only be available for a short time (1 week),and thats all, and NO extension, and the earlier you buy it the better it would be,to avoid the conjestion of the school servers during filling of the form..
On the day of the post ume, i will send you a text to notify you where i would be for you to come and collect your card and also the teller for the form if you still need it.
Well i wish you the best of luck in securing your admission, remember that luck only come to those who are 100% prepared when the opportunity arises. Good luck and God bless you.
sepp blatter eyes another term
PARIS FIFA President Sepp Blatter says his next term will be his last if he is re-elected in June.
The 75-year-old Blatter is seeking a fourth term, running against Qatar's Mohamed bin Hammam. Blatter has led soccer's governing body since 1998 and faces his first challenge since 2002 by Issa Hayatou.
"Those will be the last four years I aspire to," Blatter said Tuesday at the UEFA Congress
Bin Hammam, the Asian Football Confederation president, is also attending and lobbying European federation presidents for their vote June 1 in Zurich.
Bin Hammam has promised greater transparency if he ends his rival's 13-year reign. Blatter told delegates from European soccer's ruling group that the sport's main challenges are to preserve the identity of clubs and to fight illegal betting and doping.
"Football is corrupted by all little devils which exist in the world," he said. "Don't forget that football is a game and that when one is playing, he always tries to cheat a little bit. Together we have the task of bringing together the adventure we have started. We want to ensure a better future for our youth."
Blatter said FIFA will have a "zero-tolerance" policy in the fight against corruption. Several FIFA officials were suspended for seeking bribes during the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bids.
UEFA members make up more than one quarter of the maximum 208 FIFA voters that Blatter and bin Hammam will attempt to woo. The winner needs a two-thirds majority of votes cast in the first ballot or a majority in the second. FIFA has set an April 1 deadline for nominations.
Bin Hammam said Monday he offered a deal to UEFA President Michel Platini for European support to help him oust Blatter. Platini, the former France captain, won another term as UEFA president Tuesday. He said in January he would not run for the FIFA presidency, promising UEFA members he would serve four more years.
"It's a good thing that we have two candidates bidding. It should help democracy progress," Platini said. "Both candidates will probably come up with new ideas."
Asked which candidate he will support, Platini said that as UEFA president he is not allowed to say.
"I have to listen to all opinions before we have an official stance," he said.
Platini also dodged a question about his interest in the FIFA presidency in four years.
"Let's meet again in three years and I will tell you," he said.
tiger woods in love again
Less than a year after finalizing their divorce, Tiger Woods and ex-wife Elin Nordegren appear to be moving on with their lives.
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VIDEO: Tiger Woods wishes ex-wife Elin Nordegren the best in everything.
Watch: Tiger Woods Opens Up About Divorce
Woods, 35, has been spotted recently with a new lady friend, who bears some resemblance to Nordegren. The blond beauty is Alyse Lahti Johnston, a 22-year-old aspiring golf pro originally from Cleveland, Ohio.
Sports and entertainment blog TerezOwens.com first broke the news last Friday that the pair have been dating for a few months. "They went out on his yacht with another couple the other night and Tiger seems to be smitten over her," the blog post said.
Calls to Woods' rep were not immediately returned.
According to Britain's Daily Mail, Johnston moved to the Windermere, Fla., estate where her mother and stepfather live after graduating from Ohio State last year. Windermere, interestingly, was where Woods and Nordegren lived when their marriage imploded amid his cheating scandal. What's more, Johnston's stepfather, Alastair Johnston, is on the board of IMG, the sports agency that reps Woods.
When Johnston decided she wanted to train for the LPGA Tour a few months ago, her stepfather hired a private coach, who, according to Radar Online, introduced Johnston to Woods.
Popeater gossip columnist Rob Shuter told ABC News that the two met at a golf game and have since become "friendly." But Shuter doesn't expect them to get serious.
"I'm not convinced this is his girlfriend yet or somebody that he's just having some fun with," he said. "Remember Tiger is trying to rebuild his image. ... The last thing he wants the public to see at the moment is him with a young pretty blond girl."
It appears Johnston has no intention of getting serious either with Woods, who is 13 years her senior. "She is a really nice girl, smart and super friendly. And she's also a bit of a wild child. She definitely likes to have fun," a former classmate told Radar.
Indeed, Johnston was arrested on suspicion of DUI last year.
In the mug shot taken after her October 9th arrest, Johnston hardly looks like the same woman photographed recently on Woods' yacht.
Robotic treatments
Technology is revolutionising the medical field with the creation of robotic devices and complex imaging. Robotic surgery, computer-assisted surgery, and robot-assisted surgery are terms for various technological developments that are developed to support a range of surgical procedures.
Robot-assisted surgery was developed to overcome limitations of minimally invasive surgery. Instead of directly moving the instruments, the surgeon uses a computer console to manipulate the instruments attached to multiple robot arms. The computer translates the surgeon’s movements, which are then carried out on the patient by the robot. In simple words robotic surgery is microsurgery in which the surgeon performs surgery by manipulating the hands of a robot
"Robotic surgery in India is a new and exciting emerging technology that is taking the surgical profession by storm. Up to this point, however, the race to acquire and incorporate this emerging technology has primarily been driven by the market. In addition, surgical robots have become the entry fee for centers wanting to be known for excellence in minimally invasive surgery."
A robot performing surgery sounds like a scene out of a Hollywood sci-fi flick. But fiction is fast turning into reality in Indian operation theatres where high-precision robotic surgeries – a less cumbersome procedure than conventional operations – are gaining acceptance. Leaving behind the days of low technology methods, doctors are now ushering in a new era of medical treatment successfully. Robotic surgery is the next major revolution in the field of surgery since the discovery of anaesthesia. So far more than 60 chest surgeries have been performed through robots in India. Earlier, the use of robotic surgery was confined to the field of cardiology. However, the doctors soon discovered that it was much more useful for other surgeries.
During the procedure, a surgeon is seated at a console that contains several advanced controls, not unlike video game controllers (though much more advanced). This console also contains a monitor on which she can view the patient through one or more video cameras. At the patient’s side, the robotic apparatus is guided by the surgeon—from first incision, through all of the surgical maneuvers, and then finishing with the closing sutures. The "robot" is equipped with various robotic arms, specialised gripping devices and laparoscopic cameras to provide the surgeon working at the console full control of the surgery. Since the surgeon is always present during the procedure, one obvious question that arises (even from other surgeons) is: why perform robotic surgery at all? Apparently the robotic arms allow for unprecedented control of the surgical area. The movements of the surgeon’s hands are captured, filtered, and transmitted to the robot to provide fluid movements while minimising tremor and unwanted motion. Initial use of robotic surgery has been highly successful and the rate of complications has been quite low. Patients, while somewhat apprehensive at first, appreciate the success and quick recovery from robotic surgery.
Currently there are three types of robotic surgery systems available in India: Supervisory-Controlled systems, Telesurgical systems and Shared-Control systems.
• Supervisory-Controlled systems (a.k.a. Computer Assisted Surgery) are the most automated of the three. The surgeon undertakes considerable prep work, inputs data into the robotic system, plans the course of action, takes x-rays, tests the robot’s motions, places the robot in the appropriate start position and oversees the robotic action to ensure everything goes as planned.
• The Telesurgical robotic system is the second type of device used in modern robotic surgery. The most common variety, the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, enhances the surgery by providing 3-D visualisation deep within hard-to-reach places like the heart, as well as enhancing wrist dexterity and control of tiny instruments. This technology allows surgeons to make quicker, more controlled and more accurate movements by using the robot arm with its wider range of motions.
• The Shared-Control System is the final category of robotic surgery devices. In this system, the human does the bulk of the work, but the robot assists when needed. In many cases, the robotic system monitors the surgeon, providing stability and support during the procedure. Before getting started, the surgeons program the robots to recognise safe, close, boundary and forbidden territories within the human body. Safe regions are the main focus of the surgery.
Robotic surgery in India is used for a number of different procedures, including
:
• Coronary artery bypass
• Cutting away cancer tissue from sensitive parts of the body such as blood vessels, nerves, or important body organs like prostate
• Gallbladder removal
• Hip replacement
• Hysterectomy
• Kidney removal
• Kidney transplant
• Mitral valve repair
• Pyeloplasty (surgery to correct ureteropelvic junction obstruction)
• Pyloroplasty
• Radical prostatectomy
• Tubal ligation
• Gastric Bypass
Robotic surgery cannot be used for some complex procedures. For example, it is not appropriate for certain types of heart surgery that require greater ability to manipulate instruments in the patient’s chest.
Robot-assisted surgery was developed to overcome limitations of minimally invasive surgery. Instead of directly moving the instruments, the surgeon uses a computer console to manipulate the instruments attached to multiple robot arms. The computer translates the surgeon’s movements, which are then carried out on the patient by the robot. In simple words robotic surgery is microsurgery in which the surgeon performs surgery by manipulating the hands of a robot
"Robotic surgery in India is a new and exciting emerging technology that is taking the surgical profession by storm. Up to this point, however, the race to acquire and incorporate this emerging technology has primarily been driven by the market. In addition, surgical robots have become the entry fee for centers wanting to be known for excellence in minimally invasive surgery."
A robot performing surgery sounds like a scene out of a Hollywood sci-fi flick. But fiction is fast turning into reality in Indian operation theatres where high-precision robotic surgeries – a less cumbersome procedure than conventional operations – are gaining acceptance. Leaving behind the days of low technology methods, doctors are now ushering in a new era of medical treatment successfully. Robotic surgery is the next major revolution in the field of surgery since the discovery of anaesthesia. So far more than 60 chest surgeries have been performed through robots in India. Earlier, the use of robotic surgery was confined to the field of cardiology. However, the doctors soon discovered that it was much more useful for other surgeries.
During the procedure, a surgeon is seated at a console that contains several advanced controls, not unlike video game controllers (though much more advanced). This console also contains a monitor on which she can view the patient through one or more video cameras. At the patient’s side, the robotic apparatus is guided by the surgeon—from first incision, through all of the surgical maneuvers, and then finishing with the closing sutures. The "robot" is equipped with various robotic arms, specialised gripping devices and laparoscopic cameras to provide the surgeon working at the console full control of the surgery. Since the surgeon is always present during the procedure, one obvious question that arises (even from other surgeons) is: why perform robotic surgery at all? Apparently the robotic arms allow for unprecedented control of the surgical area. The movements of the surgeon’s hands are captured, filtered, and transmitted to the robot to provide fluid movements while minimising tremor and unwanted motion. Initial use of robotic surgery has been highly successful and the rate of complications has been quite low. Patients, while somewhat apprehensive at first, appreciate the success and quick recovery from robotic surgery.
Currently there are three types of robotic surgery systems available in India: Supervisory-Controlled systems, Telesurgical systems and Shared-Control systems.
• Supervisory-Controlled systems (a.k.a. Computer Assisted Surgery) are the most automated of the three. The surgeon undertakes considerable prep work, inputs data into the robotic system, plans the course of action, takes x-rays, tests the robot’s motions, places the robot in the appropriate start position and oversees the robotic action to ensure everything goes as planned.
• The Telesurgical robotic system is the second type of device used in modern robotic surgery. The most common variety, the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, enhances the surgery by providing 3-D visualisation deep within hard-to-reach places like the heart, as well as enhancing wrist dexterity and control of tiny instruments. This technology allows surgeons to make quicker, more controlled and more accurate movements by using the robot arm with its wider range of motions.
• The Shared-Control System is the final category of robotic surgery devices. In this system, the human does the bulk of the work, but the robot assists when needed. In many cases, the robotic system monitors the surgeon, providing stability and support during the procedure. Before getting started, the surgeons program the robots to recognise safe, close, boundary and forbidden territories within the human body. Safe regions are the main focus of the surgery.
Robotic surgery in India is used for a number of different procedures, including
:
• Coronary artery bypass
• Cutting away cancer tissue from sensitive parts of the body such as blood vessels, nerves, or important body organs like prostate
• Gallbladder removal
• Hip replacement
• Hysterectomy
• Kidney removal
• Kidney transplant
• Mitral valve repair
• Pyeloplasty (surgery to correct ureteropelvic junction obstruction)
• Pyloroplasty
• Radical prostatectomy
• Tubal ligation
• Gastric Bypass
Robotic surgery cannot be used for some complex procedures. For example, it is not appropriate for certain types of heart surgery that require greater ability to manipulate instruments in the patient’s chest.
chucrh burnt, 7 killed in jos
Speaker of Plateau state House of Assembly, Hon. Istifanus Mwansat was among hundreds of Christian worshippers who escaped death by whiskers yesterday at the Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN), following a bomb explosion near the church during worship service. Daily Champion gathered that at least, seven persons died in the incident, including the two suspected bombers who were on a motorcycle to convey the bombs to COCIN and ECWA church in the vicinity, when the explosives failed them. However, the state police command said only four persons died in the incident.
Also, another bomb was found near the Mountain of Fire and Miracle (MFM) church in the city of Jos, when the members of the Special Task Force (STF) suspected a bag being carried by a suspected bomber on a motorcycle who allegedly threw it on the ground.
He was allegedly coming from Gangare ward when the church security men confronted him on the contents of the bag he was carrying when he threw the bag that contains the bomb and escaped.
State police commissioner, Alhaji Abdulrahman Akano confirmed four deaths, with some suspects arrested.
At the COCIN, a combined thanks giving service was held in honour of the immediate past Reverend of the Church, Rev. H. Miri who was transferred to an academy of the church recently.
Worshippers were held hostage, as rampaging Muslim youths kept throwing stones inside the church premises, smashing windscreens and vehicle parts in the process, until the Commander of the STF, Brig. General Hassan Umaru arrived the scene and gave order for the use of minimum force on the attackers.
Trouble started around 9:45 am, when the Pastor in COCIN church, simply identified as Alex was delivering the Sunday sermon and a loud explosion sound was heard. The entire congregation then scampered to safety, forcing the clergy man to suspend the sermon.
Shortly, women and children started crying as the loud sound was accompanied by tear gas. Unknown to the congregation that a bomb had exploded and the attempt to get out of the church premises was thwarted by the stone throwing youths out the gate.
A petrol bomb thrown on the roof of the Reverend in charge of the church almost ignited the house until a combined effort of Christian youths in the premises, fought hard to put off the fire that was raging then.
Daily Champion gathered that the death toll could be more than 10, as especially some stubborn Muslim youths who refused to heed to the Special Task Force, STF, warnings to stay away from the church premises.
However, the state government has confirmed the incident and has called for calm and advising the people to report any suspicious movement around them to the security agents immediately for action.
State Commissioner of Information, Gregory Yenlong said in a statement that the two bombers died in the process of conveying the deadly objects to their target areas, and warned that government would not fold its arm and watch people take the laws in to their hands.
It will be recalled that more than 200 people have been killed in sectarian violence since late last year in and around Jos between the mostly-Muslim north and predominantly Christian south.
Bomb Explodes Near Church in Nigeria
* NEWS — Nigeria: Jos - Two Killed Trying to Detonate Bombs
* NEWS — Nigeria: Jos - Two Killed Planting Bombs in Churches
Christian youths angered by what they took to be an attempted attack by members of the Muslim Hausa-Fulani ethnic group set fire to the corpses of the two men in the Nasarawa Gwom area of Jos, Akano said.
There have been frequent clashes between Christian and Muslim mobs in villages around Jos since a series of bombs were detonated during Christmas Eve celebrations in December, killing scores of people.
Tensions are rooted in decades of resentment between indigenous groups, mostly Christian or animist, who are vying for control of fertile farmlands and for economic and political power with migrants and settlers from the Muslim north.
The violence is largely contained within one region and does not on its own threaten to derail presidential and parliamentary elections in April, though the area is a potential flashpoint during local polls.
Also, another bomb was found near the Mountain of Fire and Miracle (MFM) church in the city of Jos, when the members of the Special Task Force (STF) suspected a bag being carried by a suspected bomber on a motorcycle who allegedly threw it on the ground.
He was allegedly coming from Gangare ward when the church security men confronted him on the contents of the bag he was carrying when he threw the bag that contains the bomb and escaped.
State police commissioner, Alhaji Abdulrahman Akano confirmed four deaths, with some suspects arrested.
At the COCIN, a combined thanks giving service was held in honour of the immediate past Reverend of the Church, Rev. H. Miri who was transferred to an academy of the church recently.
Worshippers were held hostage, as rampaging Muslim youths kept throwing stones inside the church premises, smashing windscreens and vehicle parts in the process, until the Commander of the STF, Brig. General Hassan Umaru arrived the scene and gave order for the use of minimum force on the attackers.
Trouble started around 9:45 am, when the Pastor in COCIN church, simply identified as Alex was delivering the Sunday sermon and a loud explosion sound was heard. The entire congregation then scampered to safety, forcing the clergy man to suspend the sermon.
Shortly, women and children started crying as the loud sound was accompanied by tear gas. Unknown to the congregation that a bomb had exploded and the attempt to get out of the church premises was thwarted by the stone throwing youths out the gate.
A petrol bomb thrown on the roof of the Reverend in charge of the church almost ignited the house until a combined effort of Christian youths in the premises, fought hard to put off the fire that was raging then.
Daily Champion gathered that the death toll could be more than 10, as especially some stubborn Muslim youths who refused to heed to the Special Task Force, STF, warnings to stay away from the church premises.
However, the state government has confirmed the incident and has called for calm and advising the people to report any suspicious movement around them to the security agents immediately for action.
State Commissioner of Information, Gregory Yenlong said in a statement that the two bombers died in the process of conveying the deadly objects to their target areas, and warned that government would not fold its arm and watch people take the laws in to their hands.
It will be recalled that more than 200 people have been killed in sectarian violence since late last year in and around Jos between the mostly-Muslim north and predominantly Christian south.
Bomb Explodes Near Church in Nigeria
* NEWS — Nigeria: Jos - Two Killed Trying to Detonate Bombs
* NEWS — Nigeria: Jos - Two Killed Planting Bombs in Churches
Christian youths angered by what they took to be an attempted attack by members of the Muslim Hausa-Fulani ethnic group set fire to the corpses of the two men in the Nasarawa Gwom area of Jos, Akano said.
There have been frequent clashes between Christian and Muslim mobs in villages around Jos since a series of bombs were detonated during Christmas Eve celebrations in December, killing scores of people.
Tensions are rooted in decades of resentment between indigenous groups, mostly Christian or animist, who are vying for control of fertile farmlands and for economic and political power with migrants and settlers from the Muslim north.
The violence is largely contained within one region and does not on its own threaten to derail presidential and parliamentary elections in April, though the area is a potential flashpoint during local polls.
3 killed in jos again
At least three people were yesterday killed around Duala Hotel junction in Nasarawa Gwom area of Jos North local government area of Plateau State.
LEADERSHIP investigations revealed that, at about 9.45am, two men believed to be carrying explosive devices on them rode on a motorcycle along Nasarawa Gwom and, on getting to Duala Hotel junction, three of the explosive devices went off on them.
Our correspondent gathered that the three explosions took place between Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) and Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN) in the area. It was further gathered that three people, including the carriers of the explosive devices, died in the incident.
LEADERSHIP also gathered that the explosive devices were suspected to have been targeted at the two churches before luck ran out on them. The bombs detonated before they could get to their targets, killing a bystander.
This development has sent panic to residents of Jos and its environs. People were rushing out of worship centres in fear.
The explosion disrupted the Hausa service of the two churches targeted; the English service was about to be rounded off when the explosion occurred in the area.
Bomb Explodes Near Church in Nigeria
The youth in the area became angry and set ablaze the two corpses of the carriers of the explosive devices.
Confirming the incident to LEADERSHIP in Jos, the police public relations officer in Plateau State police command, ASP Apev Jacob, said two people died in the incident while security operatives had been deployed to the incident scene.
The police urged members of the public to go about their lawful business as security personnel were on top of the situation to prevent further breakdown of law and order in the state and it environs.
At the time of filing this report normalcy had returned to the affected area.
LEADERSHIP investigations revealed that, at about 9.45am, two men believed to be carrying explosive devices on them rode on a motorcycle along Nasarawa Gwom and, on getting to Duala Hotel junction, three of the explosive devices went off on them.
Our correspondent gathered that the three explosions took place between Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) and Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN) in the area. It was further gathered that three people, including the carriers of the explosive devices, died in the incident.
LEADERSHIP also gathered that the explosive devices were suspected to have been targeted at the two churches before luck ran out on them. The bombs detonated before they could get to their targets, killing a bystander.
This development has sent panic to residents of Jos and its environs. People were rushing out of worship centres in fear.
The explosion disrupted the Hausa service of the two churches targeted; the English service was about to be rounded off when the explosion occurred in the area.
Bomb Explodes Near Church in Nigeria
The youth in the area became angry and set ablaze the two corpses of the carriers of the explosive devices.
Confirming the incident to LEADERSHIP in Jos, the police public relations officer in Plateau State police command, ASP Apev Jacob, said two people died in the incident while security operatives had been deployed to the incident scene.
The police urged members of the public to go about their lawful business as security personnel were on top of the situation to prevent further breakdown of law and order in the state and it environs.
At the time of filing this report normalcy had returned to the affected area.
Kidnappers abduct Jimoh Ibrahim's MOTHER
THE 65 year-old mother of business mogul, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, Madam Mafe Jimoh, was kidnapped by four gun wielding men, Sunday, even as the senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta Central Senatorial District, Chief Ighoyota Amori, whose 97-year-old mother, Mrs. Obireyibo Amori was kidnapped by gunmen, few days ago, refused to “play ball” to the chagrin of the kidnappers.
Kidnappers of Barrister Ibrahim’s mother were yet to request for any ransom because a family source said the mother of the politician left her phone in the house when she was whisked away by the kidnappers.
Vanguard learnt that Madam Mafe was kidnapped by four armed men who invaded the billionaire’s Igbotako country home, in Okitipupa Council Area of Ondo State.
The state Police Command’s image maker, Mr. Adeniran Aremu, confirmed the kidnap of the mother of the politician yesterday, noting that the family of the politician reported the incident at the Igbotako Police Station around 11.30 p.m., weekend.
He said the Command has commenced full investigation into the matter to ensure that the woman was released unhurt.
Vanguard gathered that the four gunmen arrived the one-storey building around 8.00pm, and pretended that they wanted to buy some locally made mats which she sells.
One of the guards employed by the politician, Donatus Ekuma, told newsmen at Igbotako: “Mama was upstairs when the kidnappers arrived. Four of them came in a vehicle. Two came down from the car and demanded to see Mama. They claimed to be her customers and that they wanted to buy some mats. I told them that Mama was resting upstairs but they insisted on seeing her personally before making their purchase and I obliged them.”
Ekuma said the story changed when the old woman came out to meet her ‘customers’ as she was held with force and dragged into their waiting vehicle.
He said: “I immediately raised the alarm but the gunmen pointed their guns at me and other domestic staff on duty, ordering us to lie face-down.”
Vanguard learnt that the driver attached to Madam Mafe was said to have gone out when the kidnappers invaded the house but left the vehicle in front of the building.
Efforts to speak with the elder brother of the politician, Mr. Sola Jimoh, proved abortive as he failed to answer his calls.
Meanwhile, the senatorial candidate of the PDP in Delta Central, Chief Ighoyota Amori, has refused to pay N50 million ransom as requested by the kidnappers of his 97-year-old mother, Mrs. Obireyibo Amori.
Amori refuses to pay N50m ransom
Vanguard learnt that in line with the warning of the Anti-Kidnapping Task Force set up by the Delta Waterways Security Committee, DWSC, Chief Amori has refused pay ransom to the kidnappers, who initially asked for N100 million.
The kidnappers who shifted their base from Warri metropolis as a result of the manhunt for them by the DWSC Anti-Kidnapping Task Force, stormed the Obokpa, Mosogar residence of Mrs. Amori and seized the old woman.
They reportedly found their way to Mosogar en-route Jesse and fled to the creek via Ajagbodudu with their victim.
A source told Vanguard: “They thought Amori would genuflect and start negotiating ransom with them, but so far, they have failed. They first asked for N100 million and reduced it to N50 million when they found out the PDP senatorial candidate was not responding. Before then, they threatened that he should pay the ransom or drop his senatorial ambition.”
It was gathered that the kidnappers who have not received favourable response from Chief Amori have been calling him frequently on his GSM line to act.
The source said: “They know that the DWSC Anti-Kidnapping Task Force is already on them and that if they keep the woman for too long, they would be tracked down, so they want Chief Amori to pay money quickly to them.”
The PDP senatorial candidate for Delta Central, Chief Amori, who confirmed the kidnap of his mother pleaded with the kidnappers to release the aged woman, who is old enough to be a grandmother or great grandmother to her captors.
Armed men attack Senator Uzamere, kill orderly
In a related development, political tension heightened in Edo State, Sunday, when armed men, suspected to be hired assassins, attacked the convoy of the senator representing Edo South and Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, senatorial candidate in the forthcoming elections, Senator Ehigie Uzamere. They killed his police orderly, Sergeant Onyeishi and shot his driver on the hip.
The incident which occurred around Zabayo Street, off Stadium road at about 8.00 p.m. Sunday, caused panic in the area as one of the mobile Policemen in the senator’s convoy responded by killing one of the assailants on the spot.
The senator, however, escaped unhurt, but his driver is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Two of the suspects were arrested by men of the Joint Military Task Force in the state.
Uzamere who was visibly shocked while addressing newsmen in Benin City, yesterday, said: “I was with two vehicles, my aides were in the other car so I stopped around Obasimi and Zabayo streets to talk to my aides.
And as I came down to meet them, there were gunshots every where and immediately, Sgt Onyeisi was gunned down. My driver, Muhammed, was shot in the hip.
Shooting of orderly
“We called the State Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, immediately and they reacted swiftly. It was then that we discovered that my orderly has been shot dead but one of the Mobile policemen killed one of the assailants while two others escaped.
This afternoon I was called by the state Police Command and they told me that the boys were arrested. I went there and asked the boy if he knew me, he said yes that I had helped him before. So I left them with the police to continue their investigation. But it was purely an assassination attempt.”
Asked if he was suspecting anybody, Uzamere said: “We were three that contested the ACN senatorial primary and I won. I have offered to serve and one or two bullets will not deter me. I am ready to lay down my life for the emancipation of the Binis. I don’t know why any true Benin son would want to kill me because I have done a lot for the Binis and I will continue because Bini is my blood.”
Kidnappers of Barrister Ibrahim’s mother were yet to request for any ransom because a family source said the mother of the politician left her phone in the house when she was whisked away by the kidnappers.
Vanguard learnt that Madam Mafe was kidnapped by four armed men who invaded the billionaire’s Igbotako country home, in Okitipupa Council Area of Ondo State.
The state Police Command’s image maker, Mr. Adeniran Aremu, confirmed the kidnap of the mother of the politician yesterday, noting that the family of the politician reported the incident at the Igbotako Police Station around 11.30 p.m., weekend.
He said the Command has commenced full investigation into the matter to ensure that the woman was released unhurt.
Vanguard gathered that the four gunmen arrived the one-storey building around 8.00pm, and pretended that they wanted to buy some locally made mats which she sells.
One of the guards employed by the politician, Donatus Ekuma, told newsmen at Igbotako: “Mama was upstairs when the kidnappers arrived. Four of them came in a vehicle. Two came down from the car and demanded to see Mama. They claimed to be her customers and that they wanted to buy some mats. I told them that Mama was resting upstairs but they insisted on seeing her personally before making their purchase and I obliged them.”
Ekuma said the story changed when the old woman came out to meet her ‘customers’ as she was held with force and dragged into their waiting vehicle.
He said: “I immediately raised the alarm but the gunmen pointed their guns at me and other domestic staff on duty, ordering us to lie face-down.”
Vanguard learnt that the driver attached to Madam Mafe was said to have gone out when the kidnappers invaded the house but left the vehicle in front of the building.
Efforts to speak with the elder brother of the politician, Mr. Sola Jimoh, proved abortive as he failed to answer his calls.
Meanwhile, the senatorial candidate of the PDP in Delta Central, Chief Ighoyota Amori, has refused to pay N50 million ransom as requested by the kidnappers of his 97-year-old mother, Mrs. Obireyibo Amori.
Amori refuses to pay N50m ransom
Vanguard learnt that in line with the warning of the Anti-Kidnapping Task Force set up by the Delta Waterways Security Committee, DWSC, Chief Amori has refused pay ransom to the kidnappers, who initially asked for N100 million.
The kidnappers who shifted their base from Warri metropolis as a result of the manhunt for them by the DWSC Anti-Kidnapping Task Force, stormed the Obokpa, Mosogar residence of Mrs. Amori and seized the old woman.
They reportedly found their way to Mosogar en-route Jesse and fled to the creek via Ajagbodudu with their victim.
A source told Vanguard: “They thought Amori would genuflect and start negotiating ransom with them, but so far, they have failed. They first asked for N100 million and reduced it to N50 million when they found out the PDP senatorial candidate was not responding. Before then, they threatened that he should pay the ransom or drop his senatorial ambition.”
It was gathered that the kidnappers who have not received favourable response from Chief Amori have been calling him frequently on his GSM line to act.
The source said: “They know that the DWSC Anti-Kidnapping Task Force is already on them and that if they keep the woman for too long, they would be tracked down, so they want Chief Amori to pay money quickly to them.”
The PDP senatorial candidate for Delta Central, Chief Amori, who confirmed the kidnap of his mother pleaded with the kidnappers to release the aged woman, who is old enough to be a grandmother or great grandmother to her captors.
Armed men attack Senator Uzamere, kill orderly
In a related development, political tension heightened in Edo State, Sunday, when armed men, suspected to be hired assassins, attacked the convoy of the senator representing Edo South and Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, senatorial candidate in the forthcoming elections, Senator Ehigie Uzamere. They killed his police orderly, Sergeant Onyeishi and shot his driver on the hip.
The incident which occurred around Zabayo Street, off Stadium road at about 8.00 p.m. Sunday, caused panic in the area as one of the mobile Policemen in the senator’s convoy responded by killing one of the assailants on the spot.
The senator, however, escaped unhurt, but his driver is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Two of the suspects were arrested by men of the Joint Military Task Force in the state.
Uzamere who was visibly shocked while addressing newsmen in Benin City, yesterday, said: “I was with two vehicles, my aides were in the other car so I stopped around Obasimi and Zabayo streets to talk to my aides.
And as I came down to meet them, there were gunshots every where and immediately, Sgt Onyeisi was gunned down. My driver, Muhammed, was shot in the hip.
Shooting of orderly
“We called the State Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, immediately and they reacted swiftly. It was then that we discovered that my orderly has been shot dead but one of the Mobile policemen killed one of the assailants while two others escaped.
This afternoon I was called by the state Police Command and they told me that the boys were arrested. I went there and asked the boy if he knew me, he said yes that I had helped him before. So I left them with the police to continue their investigation. But it was purely an assassination attempt.”
Asked if he was suspecting anybody, Uzamere said: “We were three that contested the ACN senatorial primary and I won. I have offered to serve and one or two bullets will not deter me. I am ready to lay down my life for the emancipation of the Binis. I don’t know why any true Benin son would want to kill me because I have done a lot for the Binis and I will continue because Bini is my blood.”
Annie okonkwo escapes assasination
There were confusion and pandemonium yesterday, as Senator Annie Okonkwo escaped assassination during a rally of the Accord Party (AP) in Anambra state even as his attacker was allegedly shot dead.
Daily Champion gathered that trouble started when thugs suspected to belong to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) invaded the place and started shouting that they would vote APGA and no other party.
An eyewitness, Mr Obi Ochije told Daily Champion that the incident was avoidable:. He said: "Awka youths don't want this kind of disruption of political campaigns by hooligans. We want peaceful campaigns by candidates and tolerance must be the watch word of the candidates".
"I don't know why anybody should hire thugs to disrupt another candidate's campaign not to talk of attacking a candidate. You won't believe that Senator Okonkwo narrowly escaped being killed. His shirt was cut at the hand when the attacker wanted to kill him".
Ochije further expressed dismay that the incident would be happening at a time a candidate Hon Emma Uchieze, incumbent member of the House of Representatives in company of Senator Annie Okonkwo, both candidates of Accord Party in the April elections were at the market.
He thanked Hon Uchieze for donating a borehole to the market to be drilled within one week and Senator Okonkwo for bringing a transformer and N1 million for installation of electricity which the area did not have.
He warned that Awka youths and community would not tolerate such again, since political campaigns should be issue based.
Director of the Senator Annie Okonkwo campaign organization, Chief Joe-Martins Uzodike, said Okonkwo was at the market on invitation invited to address the traders after he donated a new transformer to the market last week.
The ancient atlantis has been found
The researchers spent two years using a variety of technological tools--deep-ground radar and digital mapping, for example--to locate their nirvana.
Freund told Reuters that, though he can't know for sure (yet) whether this is the lost city, there is some hope. "We found something that no one else has ever seen before, which gives it a layer of credibility, especially for archeology, that makes a lot more sense," he said.
Freund believes that the residents of Atlantis managed to escape the tsunami's worst and created more Atlantis-type settlements in the central regions of Spain. He bases this on his discovery of several more so-called memorial cities 150 miles inland from what he now believes might be the original Atlantis.
Of course, much of this research team's claim to fame will depend on whether it can match its discovery of these geological formations with descriptions that Plato left behind some 2,600 years ago.
Plato, you'll recall, described Atlantis as having been wiped out overnight. He also called it a naval power and "an island situated in front of the straits which are by you called the Pillars of Hercules." These pillars are believed to have referred to the Straits of Gibraltar, a place where, these days, if you land by plane, it then has to cross a car-lined street before taking you to the gate.
Personally, I'm not sure how much we can trust Plato. We tend to glorify writers of the distant past. But these people were entertainers just as much as writers today. Who knows what traditions he was leaning on when writing his own literature?
Still, everyone wants legends to become realities, so that those realities can become even bigger legends.
And there's no reason that the channel which brings you beast hunters and shark stalkers shouldn't bring you the finders of the Lost City of Atlantis, is there?
City people crowns dare king of R&B
It was a fabulous outing at the SS lounge on Sunday, February 6, 2011 where R’n’B sensation Darey Art Alade was hosted to a grand reception by City People.
Friends, colleagues, journalists, radio DJs and industry top shots turned out for the event as Darey was decorated with an award as ‘The King Of R’n’B in Nigeria’.
The event was hosted by a team of compères, including Tosyn Bucknor, Tee A, Ali Baba and Gbenga Adeyinka, who kept the guests highly entertained with series of jokes and comical acts.
‘The essence of the event is to encourage and appreciate the king of R’n’B for making Nigeria proud and for being a good ambassador of the country’, says Publisher of City People Seye Kehinde.
Then Ace broadcaster Bisi Olatilo presented a glass crystal plaque to honour Darey on behalf of City people. Darey in turn thanked everybody for honouring him.
Guests at the event include Bisi Olatilo, Ayo Animashaun, Moyeen, Audu Makori, Djinee, Emeka Ike, TY Mix, Femi Adeyinka, Waje, Jedi, Ali Baba and Julius Agwu. Others include, Lamide Akintobi, Tee A, Kingsley James, Yaw, Joice Ize-Iyamu, Emma Ugolee, Joke Jaiyesimi, Kelvin Orifa, Abisoye Fagade, Kunle Afolayan, Banky W and Gbemi Olateru Olagbegi.
As a teenager, he shuttled between Cool FM and the University of Lagos where he obtained a degree in Music. His big break finally came in 2004, during the first ever African edition of the internationally renowned TV series Project Fame, in which he emerged third.
In 2006, he released the debut ‘From Me 2 U’ on Storm Records which got the album rave reviews and spurned many hit singles.
In early 2009, he dropped his second album; ‘unDAREYted’ on his newly founded Record Label, Soul Muzik which spurred the ballad ‘Not the girl‘.
Darey has gone on to receive multiple awards and notable honours all across the continent.
With his upcoming twin album, Darey sets his sights on the UK and global markets. ‘DOUBLE DARE‘ is one of the most anticipated albums to drop this year
13 things every Guy ought to have
No matter the condition, there are some things every man should have in his wardrobe. The following fashion items are a must have for every man so make sure you read this article intently and take note of which fashion items are missing from your wardrobe.
Native Attire: The first important thing in any African man’s wardrobe is his native attire. This is simply because we’re Africans! Therefore every guy must have at least a trendy piece of a native wear for occasions that call for it. So why not visit any of our talented Nigerian designers for that fabulous piece?
Handkerchief: No one wants your germs neither do they want to see your nose running. Use one and don’t display it. Keep it stealthy.
Quality pen: You need to sign a document, write a phone number down or make a quick note to yourself. It is a simple item that can make a pretty bold statement about you and your taste.
Quality watch: Not every situation allows you to pull out your phone to check the time. It is a great fashion statement and it’s useful. Your standing on the corner and a beautiful woman asks you for the time….don’t fumble in your pockets for your phone. Effortlessly pull your sleeve back and give a quick response. Plus, you never know who you might impress with your choice of watch. These things can make a difference.
A sleek wallet: This always helps to keep some cash on hand. A leather wallet is a must-have fashion accessory that every man should own. It is practical, enduring and will look great at both formal and casual occasions. A black or brown leather wallet is also a sure bet because it blends perfectly with most of your attire, and is a classic that will never go out of style.
The Suit: Every man needs at least one well-tailored suit for whatever special events he will be attending. Even if it is a “once a year” occasion, it’s embarrassing to feel out of place without a suit. If you need only one suit, buy a classic black, gray navy or pinstripe single-breasted suit. Buy a classic cut that will not go out of style. That way you will only need to change your shirt and tie to keep your look fresh and up-to-date.
The Tie: A tie is an essential item because it complements the suit. Although you should have a variety of ties, a solid tie is easy and versatile, if you do not like solids then try a classic diagonal stripe. You should always purchase at least one new, sensational tie every year because tie trends change frequently. This will force you to change your look on a regular basis (assuming you do not wear suits that often). But if you wear suits every day, you should buy a trendy tie every season. That way you will be in style and look sharp every time you wear a suit, as it will allow you to accumulate a nice collection of diverse ties in the process.
Shoes and Belts: One of the biggest fashion no-no’s is to mismatch the colour of your belt with that of your shoes, that means your shoe should match the colour of your belt. Wearing black shoes and a black belt is a fashion fundamental and will complete your suave look for any occasion, whether it is casual or formal. If your budget for fashion goods is rather low, buy at least one pair of black leather shoes and a black leather belt. Classic leather black shoes will last you at least a year or two while a black belt will most likely last you a lifetime. Finally, make sure you wear your black shoes and black belt together and remember to finish this off with black socks.
Jeans: Blue jeans are an item each and every man should have in his wardrobe. Jeans look good when they are brand new and even when they are somewhat worn out. Blue jeans are versatile and comfortable, and can easily be combined with smart shoes, sneakers, sandals, or loafers to make for a great sporty look.
Casual shirt and Quality Shirts: A casual shirt such as a polo or button down is a must have to wear with jeans or other casual pants. Everyman needs a shirt, so go get one.
Briefcase: A briefcase does not necessarily mean a hard case. It can be soft, or messenger bag style. This is an essential for a man to carry files, documents or even a laptop. Like anything else, I strongly suggest that you buy the best quality product you can afford, to avoid having to worry about it for a while. Take note of the fashion essentials you are missing and shop for them. These items can then be co-coordinated to make a number of different looks and outfits.
Fragrance: A bottle of perfume, roll on and body spray that smells cool and last longer will help alleviate body odours peculiar to men.
A word of advice: start simple and then expand according to lifestyle. Have a great week and remember to keep on stylingTop of Form 2
Native Attire: The first important thing in any African man’s wardrobe is his native attire. This is simply because we’re Africans! Therefore every guy must have at least a trendy piece of a native wear for occasions that call for it. So why not visit any of our talented Nigerian designers for that fabulous piece?
Handkerchief: No one wants your germs neither do they want to see your nose running. Use one and don’t display it. Keep it stealthy.
Quality pen: You need to sign a document, write a phone number down or make a quick note to yourself. It is a simple item that can make a pretty bold statement about you and your taste.
Quality watch: Not every situation allows you to pull out your phone to check the time. It is a great fashion statement and it’s useful. Your standing on the corner and a beautiful woman asks you for the time….don’t fumble in your pockets for your phone. Effortlessly pull your sleeve back and give a quick response. Plus, you never know who you might impress with your choice of watch. These things can make a difference.
A sleek wallet: This always helps to keep some cash on hand. A leather wallet is a must-have fashion accessory that every man should own. It is practical, enduring and will look great at both formal and casual occasions. A black or brown leather wallet is also a sure bet because it blends perfectly with most of your attire, and is a classic that will never go out of style.
The Suit: Every man needs at least one well-tailored suit for whatever special events he will be attending. Even if it is a “once a year” occasion, it’s embarrassing to feel out of place without a suit. If you need only one suit, buy a classic black, gray navy or pinstripe single-breasted suit. Buy a classic cut that will not go out of style. That way you will only need to change your shirt and tie to keep your look fresh and up-to-date.
The Tie: A tie is an essential item because it complements the suit. Although you should have a variety of ties, a solid tie is easy and versatile, if you do not like solids then try a classic diagonal stripe. You should always purchase at least one new, sensational tie every year because tie trends change frequently. This will force you to change your look on a regular basis (assuming you do not wear suits that often). But if you wear suits every day, you should buy a trendy tie every season. That way you will be in style and look sharp every time you wear a suit, as it will allow you to accumulate a nice collection of diverse ties in the process.
Shoes and Belts: One of the biggest fashion no-no’s is to mismatch the colour of your belt with that of your shoes, that means your shoe should match the colour of your belt. Wearing black shoes and a black belt is a fashion fundamental and will complete your suave look for any occasion, whether it is casual or formal. If your budget for fashion goods is rather low, buy at least one pair of black leather shoes and a black leather belt. Classic leather black shoes will last you at least a year or two while a black belt will most likely last you a lifetime. Finally, make sure you wear your black shoes and black belt together and remember to finish this off with black socks.
Jeans: Blue jeans are an item each and every man should have in his wardrobe. Jeans look good when they are brand new and even when they are somewhat worn out. Blue jeans are versatile and comfortable, and can easily be combined with smart shoes, sneakers, sandals, or loafers to make for a great sporty look.
Casual shirt and Quality Shirts: A casual shirt such as a polo or button down is a must have to wear with jeans or other casual pants. Everyman needs a shirt, so go get one.
Briefcase: A briefcase does not necessarily mean a hard case. It can be soft, or messenger bag style. This is an essential for a man to carry files, documents or even a laptop. Like anything else, I strongly suggest that you buy the best quality product you can afford, to avoid having to worry about it for a while. Take note of the fashion essentials you are missing and shop for them. These items can then be co-coordinated to make a number of different looks and outfits.
Fragrance: A bottle of perfume, roll on and body spray that smells cool and last longer will help alleviate body odours peculiar to men.
A word of advice: start simple and then expand according to lifestyle. Have a great week and remember to keep on stylingTop of Form 2
Dr frabz comes off Again withChamilionaire, naeto c, and otherrs.
Singer, songwriter and producer, Dr. Frabz comes off as a very talented artiste. Frabz has since his introduction into the music scene, carved a niche for himself with laudable vocals and a long list of production credits.
He rose to early fame with ‘Why me‘, the hit song he produced for D’banj on the ‘Rundown‘ album. Since then, he has gone on to produce hits like Naeto C‘s ‘Ako mi ti poju‘, Banky W‘s ‘Lagos Party‘, Omawumi’s ‘Chocolata‘ to mention but few.
As he prepares to release his debut work ‘The FRABZINATOR’, a couple of singles have been hitting the airwaves.
His latest single ‘Elektricity‘, is another stellar performance from the young producer. It comes with a ’90s feel kind of style, Frabz delivers his best to make a superb beat and sings equally good as well, while Naeto C kicks a verse to wrap it up. Good music is what this should be called.
Where the Imossible becomes possible
As a child, my passion for music was not as vociferous as it now is. I was more interested in watching the cartoons like Flintstones, Jetsons and football matches. However, I am pretty sure of one thing, for those who liked music, it was unheard of to go around shouting about your passion for Nigerian music. It was something you did on the low key or ‘Under G‘ as Sauce Kid would say.
Fast forward to the year, 2004, fresh off the dissolution of the collective Plantashun Boyz, 2Face Idibia released ’African queen‘. With that song, the raised eyebrows local music received within my social circles diminished instantly. Everywhere you went, all you heard was ‘You are my African queen, the girl of my dreams’. On the back of this song, 2Face received critical acclaim across the globe, with the song featuring in the B List Hollywood movie ’Phat Girls‘.
Not long after, D’banj with Don Jazzy as his partner and corroborator returned from the United Kingdom to see what the local scene held for him. Before you could say ‘It’s Don Jazzy again’, he was the MAN. ‘Kokolet, ‘the koko’, ‘tongolo’ entered the dictionary. He built on this with ‘Why me‘, which helped in solidifying the reign of Mo’Hits as the reigning collective.
D’banj might gain criticism for his supposed limited lyrical ability, in his stead Dare Art Alade fresh off his placing as 3rd at the African version of Fame Academy; ‘Project Fame‘ was able to resurrect R&B in our shores whilst also ensuring those who took fault with D’banj had deep lyrics to be pleased.
The Nigerian scene was facing a steady growth, P Square had become household acts, Faze was on a high, and Modenine was budding. The local music had revived itself from ‘outcast’ status to preferred choice. With this, artistes of Nigerian heritage based abroad like Naeto C, Ikechukwu and Banky W returned home. ‘My Name is Ikechukwu‘ was a hit and convinced rapper Ikechukwu that his calling was to cater to his people first. Banky W’s remix of Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella‘, this time replacing it with ‘Ebute Metta‘ made us smile as we engaged on a trip of some sort round the geo political zones. Naeto C’s ‘Sitting on top’ and ‘You know my p’ told us who he was. ‘Kini big deal’ signified his rise to household name. M.I too returned home and made us the ‘Talk about it‘ album.
What next? How does one sustain a project that has shown steady growth? You look at the world around you and cater to it. 2Face once again the trendsetter, looked to R. Kelly for help. This collaboration raised eyebrows amongst the general population who felt it was unoriginal. Although people like Sound Sultan and eLDee da Don had worked with acts like Wyclef Jean and Young Joc respectively, this one gained the most attention. In 2010, we saw Femi Kuti receive a Grammy Award nomination. Femi had been previously nominated in 2003 whilst King Sunny Ade takes the honour of being the first Nigerian to receive such critical acclaim after being nominated for Grammy’s in 1987 and 1988. We are in the third month of 2011, and we have had Tiwa Savage receive a Grammy Award nomination based on her co-writing a song off Fantasia Barrino‘s album. Let’s not forget the Mo’Hits and Snoop Dogg collaboration that has gained so much attention. Then came the tweet from Kanye West. If you haven’t heard about it, this is how it read; ‘@kanyewest: Yo @iamdbanj and @donjazzymohits get back to NY asap there is still work to be done’. Kanye freaking West?! 14 time Grammy Award winner was asking our own D’banj and Don Jazzy to come and complete what we assume is a collaboration. In a short while, the Mo’Hits label has put Nigeria on the globe. They weren’t satisfied with Snoop Dogg, they went for bigger fishes. Not to forget, last week Darey announced collaboration with another Grammy Award winner, Chamillionaire.
My message? Hard work and persistence does not kill. Nothing is impossible. The growth of the Nigerian Music industry in this short while proves this. So when next that little task proves difficult, remember D’Banj and Kanye West are working on something together and let it spur you on. When next your road is rough, think of what the product would look like. Never lose the faith, never lose the plot. Everything will make sense one day. (As cliché as it is, notice how the word ‘Impossible’ looks very much like I’ m possible)
Beckham says he might return to England
David Beckham has hinted he is considering a return to the Premier League when his contract with Los Angeles Galaxy expires at the end of the MLS season.
David Beckham, Ledley King
GettyImagesDavid Beckham trains at Spurs Lodge
Beckham, 35, trained with Tottenham Hotspur throughout January and February, and was set to play for them on loan until red tape held the deal up.
But with his stay in the USA set to come to an end in November, Beckham is not ruling out finishing his career in the Premier League.
"I had a great career in England for 12-13 years - who knows if I will play there again?" the former England captain told The People.
"I'm getting older now and I don't have many years left. This is my last contract year in the USA, but who knows what will happen?''
The former Manchester United midfielder will be 36-years-old when he leaves LA Galaxy, but other ex-United pros such as Bryan Robson, Mark Hughes and Dennis Irwin continued playing in the Premier League until the age of 38, while Teddy Sheringham played into his 40s.
David Beckham, Ledley King
GettyImagesDavid Beckham trains at Spurs Lodge
Beckham, 35, trained with Tottenham Hotspur throughout January and February, and was set to play for them on loan until red tape held the deal up.
But with his stay in the USA set to come to an end in November, Beckham is not ruling out finishing his career in the Premier League.
"I had a great career in England for 12-13 years - who knows if I will play there again?" the former England captain told The People.
"I'm getting older now and I don't have many years left. This is my last contract year in the USA, but who knows what will happen?''
The former Manchester United midfielder will be 36-years-old when he leaves LA Galaxy, but other ex-United pros such as Bryan Robson, Mark Hughes and Dennis Irwin continued playing in the Premier League until the age of 38, while Teddy Sheringham played into his 40s.
Funmi Iyanda named as world Global Leader
The World Economic Forum has honoured Journalist-Broadcaster Funmi Iyanda as Young Global Leader in 2011. The event took place at Cape Town, South Africa from Friday, March 4, 2011 to Sunday, March 6, 2011.
The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.
Each year, the forum acknowledges close to 200 individuals who are under the age of 40 for ‘professional accomplishments, commitment to society and potential to contribute to shaping the future of the world’. This year’s 190 awardees were chosen from over 5000 prospects in 65 countries.
Iyanda was not the only Nigerian to be recognized by the international body, as Group Managing Director of Hygeia Group, Folashade Laoye was also honoured.
By receiving this award, both women now join the ranks of popular personalities such as TV show host Oprah Winfrey and Facebook owner Mark Zukerberg who are beneficiaries of the same award.
culled from thenetng
Liars! How Mercy Johnson, Olu Maintain Deceived Fans With Marriage Tales
Most celebrity figures will likely face the difficult choice of being honest with their fans or altering the truth to suit them. All too often, these figures choose to tell those little white lies, but ultimately regret such decisions when they balloon into big publicity nightmares.
Just when many male fans of the talented-but-scandalized Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson, craved to get a chance to win an intimate encounter with her and take full autonomy of her incredible curves, a certain Edo-born prince named Odanosen Okojie supposedly got the ticket to Miss Johnson’s heart. The Nollywood star had no problem telling friends and fans that she would soon be leaving the bachelorettes’ club.
A traditional pre-wedding introduction was reportedly held at her family home in Ebira land (Okene, Kogi State) on Friday November 27, 2009, while the proper wedding was pencilled for April 2010.
NET reported on Thursday, December 10 2009 that Mercy’s Fiancé was given a list of things required for the engagement and marriage as confirmed by a reliable source.
Days, months rolled by, there was no sign of wedding invitations from neither Mr. Odanosen nor Mercy Johnson’s quarters; but speculations didn’t stop in the media, with different newspapers giving different dates for Mercy’s wedding. Either ways the anticipation was still high.
In July 2010, the Kogi-born actress still confirmed to NET excitedly in an interview that her wedding would hold before that year packed up; ‘I’m getting married but the date is not out’.
‘I don’t know why everybody keeps bringing up different dates. They should not worry. The wedding is coming up pretty soon, we are still organizing it. I am getting married. I’m engaged (with emphasis), they should relax’, she added.
‘He’s a good person. He seems to understand me. He’s a private person and for the fact that he understands me in my ‘silly’ nature, he’s awesome’, Johnson told us about her supposed fiancé during the interview. Interesting.
Where is this awesome gentleman and what’s causing the delays? Did she deceive her fans? Did the relationship collapse prematurely? Are they still together and working to execute the wedding or was it just a PR stunt?
However, Johnson, who is one of our favourite actresses of 2010, is not the only one that has ‘promised and failed’.
Many ‘celebrity lies’ were told in 2010. ‘Yahooze’ star Olumide Adegbulu better known as Olu Maintain also told a big lie about his union with a UK-based chartered accountant named Wendy Ajakaiye, whom he said he would walk down the aisle with, in the last quarter of 2010.
‘It is true; I am getting married very soon. Her name is Wendy and I met her in Los Angeles last year (2009) when I was out there recording. She was on holiday from the UK and coincidentally lodged in the same hotel on the same floor where I was staying. Her room was almost directly opposite mine. Instant telepathy ensued once I set my eyes on her. I knew she is the girl for me. She’s very beautiful, extremely intelligent, very career driven, tolerant, kind and very understanding’, Mr. Olu told City People Magazine in a June 2010 interview.
Those who are discerning about the happenings in the Nigerian showbiz environment would still recall that screaming headline on NET newspapers’ 2010 mid-June edition that read ‘WILL OLU MARRY THIS GIRL?’ It is March 2011; where is Olu Maintain and his supposed bride, Wendy Ajakaiye? Another lie or break up?
If all the former ‘Maintain group’ member needed at the time was publicity as his music career seemed not buying him spaces on the pages of newspapers anymore, then it must have worked well – no newspaper editor is interested in a non-newsworthy individual in his paper.
Meanwhile, most recently, Olu is being linked with another society lady Eunice Efole, but information is scanty as to the true state of her relationship as both of them have denied their romance speculations.
With celebs lying from both sides of the mouth, and their minders doing all possible best to conceal the truth, it’s not surprising that reporters are more desperate to get the scoop; digging deeper than ever before. Moreover, many now take statements from so-called stars with a pinch of salt.
When next Olu or Johnson announce they are hooked and settling down, would their fans take them seriously? Would the media think they are telling the truth? That would be Doubtful!
Telling the truth will always be best for any celebrity’s career on the long run, because when the truth becomes known, it is not a pretty picture.
Until the Nigerian entertainment scene becomes a proper industry like Hollywood, with an ocean of ready-made and emerging stars and billions of fan-base, an industry where taking fans for granted is almost a sin – knowing the negative turn it can take on their careers, the lies and the dump PR stunts will not stop.
How you can tell if a guy rally likes you after a brakeup
You find a guy that you like, you seem to be getting on well, you might have even wondered if there could be something more to this relationship, and then what does he do, he goes and breaks up with you. Now that wouldn't matter so much if you didn't like him as much as you do, and you're fairly sure that he likes you to, but how can you tell if a guy likes you after you have broken up?
There are some questions that you need to ask yourself before you can think about anything else. The first is, why did he dump you, was it something you did, was it something he did, or was over something stupid? Have the issues that lead to you being dumped been dealt with or are they still likely to be a problem? And then do you really want anything more to do with him? What's your attraction to this guy is it purely physical or is there something more to it, if it's just physical do you want to find yourself back in this situation a short way down the line?
Not every relationship works out for the simple reason that not every couple is compatible. This might be the natural end of your relationship. But if you think that there might still be something, then you owe it to yourself to at least try.
If he is showing signs of interest then there is a chance that he has nothing else to do and wants someone to play with until he can find someone else. Has he been seeing someone and it didn't work out, or is he still single and not showing any signs of trying to find anyone else?
If your guy has still kept the lines of communication open with you, then he still likes you. If it's a serious break up then you are highly unlikely to want anything more to do with each other. If he still wants to talk with you then at the very least he still likes you. If he doesn't want to talk to you then your relationship would be over, because without communication you have no relationship.
It doesn't take long to learn someone's schedule so your guy can be fairly certain about where you are going to be most days of the week. If he keeps turning up where you are then that is more than coincidence, that is someone who realizes that they made a big mistake in breaking up with you.
There might have been things about him that really needed improving! Is he trying to make changes to himself and his behaviour? Would he just be doing that for himself, or is he trying to impress you?
I'm guessing that he will probably know some of your friends. A great way of telling that your guy still likes you is if he talks to your friends about you, if he asks if you are dating yet, and most telling of all, how he misses you and how he wishes that you had never broken up. He knows that your friends will tell you about that conversation, and this could be him saying that I want to get back, but I afraid to ask directly in case you knock me back.
Despite all the positive signs after your break up, and despite all the friendly signs that you have been making in reply, you won't really be able to tell that he still likes you until you actually talk with him. He could be shy, or he could be nervous about asking the question, so it's possible that you might have to take the first step.
If everything looks positive, then next time he calls or just happens to be where you are (purely by coincidence of course) then try flirting with him. If he responds positively to that and starts flirting back with you then you know that he more than likes you. You could try to make him jealous by talking about other guys, but that is a high risk strategy, if you are interested in him then you need to know that you are interested in only him, and that your eyes aren't likely to wander if you get back together.
You need to talk about your break up and what went wrong. If he talks about his regret at what happened, if he talks about how things could have been if you had stayed together, then you need to steer the conversation (or you could both be dropping hints for an eternity about how you wish that you were both still together) around to the point where you can ask, is there any chance of you getting back together? If he says yes then you have a chance to build something without the mistakes of your previous relationship, if he says no, then at least you know to get on with your life.
How to tell if a guy still likes you after you have broken up? Without communication there is no relationship, so if he still wants to talk then the chances are that he is interested. He is probably regretting breaking up with you but is uncertain about how to go about it, or is worried about being knocked back. You just need to bring him in slowly and carefully. With each contact that he makes, make your responses that bit more positive. Hopefully he will realize that you are still interested in him and he will ask if you could rebuild the relationship with him. If he's being a bit slow then you might have to take the initiative. If it all works out, then you have the opportunity to build a new relationship that is stronger than the one you had before.
There are some questions that you need to ask yourself before you can think about anything else. The first is, why did he dump you, was it something you did, was it something he did, or was over something stupid? Have the issues that lead to you being dumped been dealt with or are they still likely to be a problem? And then do you really want anything more to do with him? What's your attraction to this guy is it purely physical or is there something more to it, if it's just physical do you want to find yourself back in this situation a short way down the line?
Not every relationship works out for the simple reason that not every couple is compatible. This might be the natural end of your relationship. But if you think that there might still be something, then you owe it to yourself to at least try.
If he is showing signs of interest then there is a chance that he has nothing else to do and wants someone to play with until he can find someone else. Has he been seeing someone and it didn't work out, or is he still single and not showing any signs of trying to find anyone else?
If your guy has still kept the lines of communication open with you, then he still likes you. If it's a serious break up then you are highly unlikely to want anything more to do with each other. If he still wants to talk with you then at the very least he still likes you. If he doesn't want to talk to you then your relationship would be over, because without communication you have no relationship.
It doesn't take long to learn someone's schedule so your guy can be fairly certain about where you are going to be most days of the week. If he keeps turning up where you are then that is more than coincidence, that is someone who realizes that they made a big mistake in breaking up with you.
There might have been things about him that really needed improving! Is he trying to make changes to himself and his behaviour? Would he just be doing that for himself, or is he trying to impress you?
I'm guessing that he will probably know some of your friends. A great way of telling that your guy still likes you is if he talks to your friends about you, if he asks if you are dating yet, and most telling of all, how he misses you and how he wishes that you had never broken up. He knows that your friends will tell you about that conversation, and this could be him saying that I want to get back, but I afraid to ask directly in case you knock me back.
Despite all the positive signs after your break up, and despite all the friendly signs that you have been making in reply, you won't really be able to tell that he still likes you until you actually talk with him. He could be shy, or he could be nervous about asking the question, so it's possible that you might have to take the first step.
If everything looks positive, then next time he calls or just happens to be where you are (purely by coincidence of course) then try flirting with him. If he responds positively to that and starts flirting back with you then you know that he more than likes you. You could try to make him jealous by talking about other guys, but that is a high risk strategy, if you are interested in him then you need to know that you are interested in only him, and that your eyes aren't likely to wander if you get back together.
You need to talk about your break up and what went wrong. If he talks about his regret at what happened, if he talks about how things could have been if you had stayed together, then you need to steer the conversation (or you could both be dropping hints for an eternity about how you wish that you were both still together) around to the point where you can ask, is there any chance of you getting back together? If he says yes then you have a chance to build something without the mistakes of your previous relationship, if he says no, then at least you know to get on with your life.
How to tell if a guy still likes you after you have broken up? Without communication there is no relationship, so if he still wants to talk then the chances are that he is interested. He is probably regretting breaking up with you but is uncertain about how to go about it, or is worried about being knocked back. You just need to bring him in slowly and carefully. With each contact that he makes, make your responses that bit more positive. Hopefully he will realize that you are still interested in him and he will ask if you could rebuild the relationship with him. If he's being a bit slow then you might have to take the initiative. If it all works out, then you have the opportunity to build a new relationship that is stronger than the one you had before.
wizkid attacked by robbers' car stollen as well
The fast rising Nigerian artist, Wizkid, was attacked by armed bandits at about 8PM Saturday March 5, 2011 in which they made away with his car.
Sources says Wizkid was on Ikorodu road, Lagos, on his way how, when the "Men of the underworld" paid him some attention.
In my opinion, those thieves must have been offended when they heard Wizkid sing, "Na me be Badt Guys". Maybe dey wan show am who the real Lagos Badt Guys be.
An eye witness said, ‘There was an accident around there, and the robbers made away with several cars’.
Reports has it that Wizkid was riding in his Black Honda Accord i-VTEC with his Friends - Wande Coal's younger brother and a Lady. The robbers let his friends and drove with him in his car to Third Mainland bridge, where they dropped him off and left him stranded.
Maybe they even made him perform a couple of his songs in the car before they dropped him. But these robbers are heartless, everybody in Naija loves Wizkid, abi dem no just like music at all?
‘They took everything he had on him, including his mobile phones, so he had to trek all the way from third mainland bridge, back to the mainland’ a friend and associate says.
To rap it all up, The car stolen from Wizkid, Honda Accord i-VTEC was said to be a gift from Tonto Dike. Make una cool down. Tonto go buy dat kain motor give Wizkid? This love thing eh hmmmmmmm. what do you have to say, leave your comments
The youngest grandmother at 23
A gypsy wife has become the world's youngest grandmother - aged just 23.
Rifca Stanescu, from the village of Investi, Romania, told how she gave birth to her daughter, Maria, while only 13.
Despite her mother's pleas to stay in school, Maria gave birth to son Ion at the age of 11.
Happy family: Rifca Stanescu, left, now 25, gave birth to daughter maria aged just 12. Maria then bore Ion, now two, right, at the age of 11
Happy family: Rifca Stanescu, left, now 25, gave birth to daughter maria aged just 12. Maria then bore Ion, now two, right, at the age of 11
Rifca, now 25, told the Sun: 'I am happy to be a grandmother but I wished something else for Maria - and something else for me.
'Ion is a good boy - and he is already engaged to a girl aged 8. Boys are always good to have - they don't have to suffer as much girls I think.'
Born in 1985, Rifca defied her family's wishes and ran away with jewellery seller Ionel Stanescu when she was 11 and he was 13.
A year after they were married, Rifca fell pregnant with Maria.
She said: 'I wanted to marry him, so I agreed, and of course after we had spent the night together then there was no way anyone could separate us. I had been promised to another boy's family since I was two years old but I didn't want that.'
In gypsy culture virginity is greatly prized and women are married young so that new husband's can be sure their new wives are virgins who affect a good dowry from the families of prospective husbands. Loss of virginity means a deal is cancelled.
Close knit: Rifca with husband Ionel and grandson Ion
Close knit: Rifca with husband Ionel and grandson Ion
She added: 'Before that there was a lot of fighting - once my father had even attacked my husband with a knife. He wanted him to pay 500,000 lei in compensation. My family even took me home but after three days I ran away again to be with him.'
After Maria's birth, Ionel's family paid Rifca's father a dowry and all was settled.
Maria's birth made Rifca's mother a grandmother aged 40.
Rifca said she begged daughter Maria to stay in school and finish her education.
Maria decided to follow in her footsteps and marry herself. Within six months she too had fallen pregnant with Ion.
She told how in Romanian gypsy community it is common for couples to marry young.
Rifca added: 'I did not try to stop my daughter getting married because this is the tradition, it's what happens.'
The youngest British grandmother was an unnamed 26-year-old from Rotheram, Yorkshire whose 12-year-old daughter gave birth in 1999.
Jim iyke Arrested over tinted glass on his car
Nollywood Star actor , James Ikechukwu Asomugha popularly known as Jim lyke was arrested and ordered out of his car for going against laid down rules. The actor whic was driving an automobile with tinted Glasses was accosted by men of the Nigerian Police and Federal Road Safety Corps. The law enforcement agents said he failed to comply with the Nigerian Government rule that those with tinted Glasses in Cars should remove them by February 28 2011 across the Country.
Obviously embarrassed by the whole development, Jim Iyke has no choice than to let the law enforcement agents have their way unlike in films where he would have had his way.
Jim Iyke is one of Nigeria’s most popular faces in movies. He is known to have played several gangster roles in movies.Jim Iyke’s profile is also on the increase as far as the most fashionable male nollywood star is concerned. Well travelled and connected, Jim Iyke is also a ladies man any day.In the past, the media has linked him to Steph Nora Okere and Rita Dominic and several others.
5 Family membes stabbed to death by millitants
Tel Aviv – Five family members were stabbed to death at home late Friday evening by one or more Palestinians who infiltrated the West Bank Jewish settlement of Itamar, Israeli military officers said.
The killings triggered an Israeli military manhunt Saturday in Palestinian districts near the northern West Bank city of Nablus, as the soldiers set up road blocks and conducted house to house searches, the Associated Press reported.
The attack, the deadliest of its kind in three years, ratcheted up tension between Israel and the Palestinian Authority at a time when peace talks between the sides are moribund. By targeting an area of Jewish settlers known for vigilantism against Palestinians, the killings also threaten to trigger an upsurge in violence.
Two parents, an 11-year old, a three-year old and an infant were killed while they slept, though two other young children were left alive, Israeli media reported. The killings were discovered when the family's eldest child returned home after midnight, realized something was amiss, and called for help to get in the house.
The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement demanding the Palestinian Authority leaders assist in arresting those responsible.
``This is a despicable murder of an entire innocent family, parents, children, and an infant, while they were sleeping in their home on the Sabbath evening,'' the statement said. ``Israel will not stand by idly after such a despicable murder, will vigorously act to safeguard the lives its citizens.''
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack by militant groups.
Speaking to reporters in the West Bank of city of Bethlehem on Saturday, Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad said ``we clearly and firmly condemn all forms of violence, and I condemn what happened last night in Itamar, just as I condemn the crimes against Palestinians.''
The region around Nablus is infamous for ongoing clashes between extremist Jewish settlers and Palestinians.
In recent weeks, tensions between settlers and Palestinians have run high in the Nablus region. A week ago, settlers clashed with Israeli security officers firing rubber bullets while they demolished illegal buildings on an unauthorized hilltop outpost Havat Gilad, prompting the firebombing of a Palestinian house in revenge.
A group of Israelis in the settlements around Nablus have pursued in recent years a campaign of vigilantism known as ``price tag,'' targeting Palestinians in revenge for attacks on settlements by militants or in retribution for government activities aimed at curtailing settlement expansion.
Despite the tension, there is a broader calm in the West Bank. Lawless Palestinian cities during the recent uprising have been brought under control by Palestinian security services. The Palestinian Authority and Israel have also stepped up their cooperation against militants. Israel has removed checkpoints on the roads and at the entrance to Palestinian cities, boosting the Palestinian economy in the West Bank.
The last deadly attack on settlers came on Aug. 31, when four Israelis were killed in a shooting near Hebron, on the eve of an Israeli-Palestinian peace summit in the U.S. Peace talks subsequently collapsed in a dispute over Israel's refusal to stop expanding settlements on land claimed by Palestinians as part of a future state.
Amid increasing diplomatic isolation over the breakdown in talks, Israel is currently preparing to unveil new peace initiative that would grant the Palestinians a state within temporary borders as an interim solution before the conclusion of negotiations on a final peace deal.
The attack Friday night was the deadliest since March 6, 2008, when eight students at a Jerusalem yeshiva seminary were killed in a shooting spree by a Palesitnian militant.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman on Friday instructed Israel's United Nations delegate to submit a complaint to Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and the Security Council. He criticized the Palestinian Authority for not condemning the attack sooner, saying that it ``says more than anything about the true nature of someone who is supposed to be a partner in to negotiations.''
The killings triggered an Israeli military manhunt Saturday in Palestinian districts near the northern West Bank city of Nablus, as the soldiers set up road blocks and conducted house to house searches, the Associated Press reported.
The attack, the deadliest of its kind in three years, ratcheted up tension between Israel and the Palestinian Authority at a time when peace talks between the sides are moribund. By targeting an area of Jewish settlers known for vigilantism against Palestinians, the killings also threaten to trigger an upsurge in violence.
Two parents, an 11-year old, a three-year old and an infant were killed while they slept, though two other young children were left alive, Israeli media reported. The killings were discovered when the family's eldest child returned home after midnight, realized something was amiss, and called for help to get in the house.
The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement demanding the Palestinian Authority leaders assist in arresting those responsible.
``This is a despicable murder of an entire innocent family, parents, children, and an infant, while they were sleeping in their home on the Sabbath evening,'' the statement said. ``Israel will not stand by idly after such a despicable murder, will vigorously act to safeguard the lives its citizens.''
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack by militant groups.
Speaking to reporters in the West Bank of city of Bethlehem on Saturday, Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad said ``we clearly and firmly condemn all forms of violence, and I condemn what happened last night in Itamar, just as I condemn the crimes against Palestinians.''
The region around Nablus is infamous for ongoing clashes between extremist Jewish settlers and Palestinians.
In recent weeks, tensions between settlers and Palestinians have run high in the Nablus region. A week ago, settlers clashed with Israeli security officers firing rubber bullets while they demolished illegal buildings on an unauthorized hilltop outpost Havat Gilad, prompting the firebombing of a Palestinian house in revenge.
A group of Israelis in the settlements around Nablus have pursued in recent years a campaign of vigilantism known as ``price tag,'' targeting Palestinians in revenge for attacks on settlements by militants or in retribution for government activities aimed at curtailing settlement expansion.
Despite the tension, there is a broader calm in the West Bank. Lawless Palestinian cities during the recent uprising have been brought under control by Palestinian security services. The Palestinian Authority and Israel have also stepped up their cooperation against militants. Israel has removed checkpoints on the roads and at the entrance to Palestinian cities, boosting the Palestinian economy in the West Bank.
The last deadly attack on settlers came on Aug. 31, when four Israelis were killed in a shooting near Hebron, on the eve of an Israeli-Palestinian peace summit in the U.S. Peace talks subsequently collapsed in a dispute over Israel's refusal to stop expanding settlements on land claimed by Palestinians as part of a future state.
Amid increasing diplomatic isolation over the breakdown in talks, Israel is currently preparing to unveil new peace initiative that would grant the Palestinians a state within temporary borders as an interim solution before the conclusion of negotiations on a final peace deal.
The attack Friday night was the deadliest since March 6, 2008, when eight students at a Jerusalem yeshiva seminary were killed in a shooting spree by a Palesitnian militant.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman on Friday instructed Israel's United Nations delegate to submit a complaint to Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and the Security Council. He criticized the Palestinian Authority for not condemning the attack sooner, saying that it ``says more than anything about the true nature of someone who is supposed to be a partner in to negotiations.''
72 Days ordeal with disasters that broke the hearts of Japanese people
This is an oredeal narrated by a japanese which to him it seems like life is getting boring.
THIS year nature is trying to tell us we are only here on sufferance.
We have had floods, cyclones, more floods, a massive earthquake and now an even bigger earthquake.
And we are not even halfway through March.
The death tolls from this year of natural disaster will probably never be known - at least 550 people died in mudslides in Rio de Janeiro in January, more than two dozen are dead and missing in Queensland, two more died in our floods in Victoria.
Next there were more than 160 killed in Christchurch. And now Japan, where authorities estimate at least 1000 people died.
If there is a god up there, he doesn't seem very pleased with us this year.
The footage from Toowoomba's inland tsunami might have seemed graphic when we saw it in January but after Friday's display of natural power, it would be hard not to argue that we got off lightly
The same goes for the destruction wreaked on Christchurch last month.
It's as though nature was saying to us, "you think a 6.3-magnitude earthquake is bad? Have a look at what 8.9 on the Richter scale looks like!"
While we stare appalled at the damage nature has done in Japan, it is sobering to reflect that as high as the death toll is likely to be, it would have been much, much higher anywhere else.
Japan is a rich country with a long history of earthquake preparation.
Most of its major population centres were rebuilt after 1945 to withstand earthquakes. It also has the world's most sophisticated tsunami warning system.
To get an idea what might have happened in a poorer country without Japan's strict earthquake building codes, one only has to look at what happened last time a major earthquake struck Tokyo in 1923. The 7.9 quake was almost 10 times less powerful than the one that struck on Friday but it was estimated to have killed between 100,000 and 150,000 people - mostly from the fires that engulfed the densely crowded slums.
Any way you look at it, 2011 has been an extraordinary year for natural disasters and it's only 72 days old.
The records are mind boggling - the worst cyclone to hit Australia in a century, the worst earthquake to hit Japan, and the deadliest natural disaster to hit Brazil in four decades.
When you add the floods in Sri Lanka, which killed 27 and left 900,000 people homeless, the 40 dead and 1.3 million displaced in the Philippines as well as the two dead and 3000 displaced in Thailand, you could be mistaken for thinking we are living in biblical times.
All we need now is a plague of locusts. Come to think of it, we've got that too in Victoria.
Given such a large number of extreme events, it would be natural to ask if they are connected.
In the case of earthquakes, if there is a connection between them, science has yet to discover it. About 100 earthquakes the size of the one that hit Christchurch occur each year around the world.
Most happen in places where they do no damage.
Quakes the size of the one that struck on Friday are much rarer - one happens about once a year.
Incidentally, if you think a major earthquake can't happen here, think again.
While the Newcastle earthquake that killed 13 people in 1988 is the best remembered and deadliest recorded in Australia - at 5.6 on the Richter scale - it was not even close to the biggest.
In 1988, Tennant Creek was hit by three earthquakes in a day - the biggest of which was measured at 6.7.
But the biggest earthquake recorded on land in Australia was the 7.3 whopper that struck Meeberrie in Western Australia in 1941.
While there may be no link between earthquakes, experts say the floods that have plagued the world this year are all connected to the La Nina weather system.
La Nina is the periodic weather event in which strong South American trade winds drive warm waters, moisture and rain across the Pacific towards Australia for at least 12 months. It is associated with above average rainfall here and elsewhere and increased cyclone activity.
Experts say the current La Nina is the second-strongest in the 130 years of meteorological records.
Whether it is the result of man-made global warming is a matter of dispute.
The idea that we are responsible for causing natural disasters is in some ways comforting because we tend to think that if we created something, then we should by rights be able to fix it.
In the past, when people thought about their responsibility for natural disasters, it was in moral terms.
Thus, when a massive earthquake struck Lisbon on All Saints Day in 1755, destroying almost the whole city and most of its churches, it was taken by many as proof the people needed chastening.
Perhaps that is not so different to those who were quick to attribute this year's floods to global warming.
The alternative view of natural disasters - that they are random acts of violence committed by a pitiless natural world - is a much more unsettling idea.
But even if we accept that, from time to time, nature will show its teeth, we still like to believe that we live in a benign physical world.
A string of natural disasters challenges that comforting belief.
What if there is no end to the destruction?
Tsunamis, just like the bushfires here two years ago, show us that we can be blown away like dust from the pages of a book.
And it's still only March.
THIS year nature is trying to tell us we are only here on sufferance.
We have had floods, cyclones, more floods, a massive earthquake and now an even bigger earthquake.
And we are not even halfway through March.
The death tolls from this year of natural disaster will probably never be known - at least 550 people died in mudslides in Rio de Janeiro in January, more than two dozen are dead and missing in Queensland, two more died in our floods in Victoria.
Next there were more than 160 killed in Christchurch. And now Japan, where authorities estimate at least 1000 people died.
If there is a god up there, he doesn't seem very pleased with us this year.
The footage from Toowoomba's inland tsunami might have seemed graphic when we saw it in January but after Friday's display of natural power, it would be hard not to argue that we got off lightly
The same goes for the destruction wreaked on Christchurch last month.
It's as though nature was saying to us, "you think a 6.3-magnitude earthquake is bad? Have a look at what 8.9 on the Richter scale looks like!"
While we stare appalled at the damage nature has done in Japan, it is sobering to reflect that as high as the death toll is likely to be, it would have been much, much higher anywhere else.
Japan is a rich country with a long history of earthquake preparation.
Most of its major population centres were rebuilt after 1945 to withstand earthquakes. It also has the world's most sophisticated tsunami warning system.
To get an idea what might have happened in a poorer country without Japan's strict earthquake building codes, one only has to look at what happened last time a major earthquake struck Tokyo in 1923. The 7.9 quake was almost 10 times less powerful than the one that struck on Friday but it was estimated to have killed between 100,000 and 150,000 people - mostly from the fires that engulfed the densely crowded slums.
Any way you look at it, 2011 has been an extraordinary year for natural disasters and it's only 72 days old.
The records are mind boggling - the worst cyclone to hit Australia in a century, the worst earthquake to hit Japan, and the deadliest natural disaster to hit Brazil in four decades.
When you add the floods in Sri Lanka, which killed 27 and left 900,000 people homeless, the 40 dead and 1.3 million displaced in the Philippines as well as the two dead and 3000 displaced in Thailand, you could be mistaken for thinking we are living in biblical times.
All we need now is a plague of locusts. Come to think of it, we've got that too in Victoria.
Given such a large number of extreme events, it would be natural to ask if they are connected.
In the case of earthquakes, if there is a connection between them, science has yet to discover it. About 100 earthquakes the size of the one that hit Christchurch occur each year around the world.
Most happen in places where they do no damage.
Quakes the size of the one that struck on Friday are much rarer - one happens about once a year.
Incidentally, if you think a major earthquake can't happen here, think again.
While the Newcastle earthquake that killed 13 people in 1988 is the best remembered and deadliest recorded in Australia - at 5.6 on the Richter scale - it was not even close to the biggest.
In 1988, Tennant Creek was hit by three earthquakes in a day - the biggest of which was measured at 6.7.
But the biggest earthquake recorded on land in Australia was the 7.3 whopper that struck Meeberrie in Western Australia in 1941.
While there may be no link between earthquakes, experts say the floods that have plagued the world this year are all connected to the La Nina weather system.
La Nina is the periodic weather event in which strong South American trade winds drive warm waters, moisture and rain across the Pacific towards Australia for at least 12 months. It is associated with above average rainfall here and elsewhere and increased cyclone activity.
Experts say the current La Nina is the second-strongest in the 130 years of meteorological records.
Whether it is the result of man-made global warming is a matter of dispute.
The idea that we are responsible for causing natural disasters is in some ways comforting because we tend to think that if we created something, then we should by rights be able to fix it.
In the past, when people thought about their responsibility for natural disasters, it was in moral terms.
Thus, when a massive earthquake struck Lisbon on All Saints Day in 1755, destroying almost the whole city and most of its churches, it was taken by many as proof the people needed chastening.
Perhaps that is not so different to those who were quick to attribute this year's floods to global warming.
The alternative view of natural disasters - that they are random acts of violence committed by a pitiless natural world - is a much more unsettling idea.
But even if we accept that, from time to time, nature will show its teeth, we still like to believe that we live in a benign physical world.
A string of natural disasters challenges that comforting belief.
What if there is no end to the destruction?
Tsunamis, just like the bushfires here two years ago, show us that we can be blown away like dust from the pages of a book.
And it's still only March.
Goodluck Jonathan attacked by gunmen
Gombe State Police Command has announced the arrest of 15 suspects in connection with the attack on President Goodluck Jonathan’s convoy in Gombe, last Thursday, during the PDP presidential rally.
The Police Public Relations officer of the Gombe State Police Command, ASP Ahmed Doma, disclosed this on Friday in a telephone interview with Saturday Tribune.
Stones were allegedly thrown at the president’s convoy during his presidential campaign to the state, just as Ahmed Doma disclosed that a group of unruly youths also set bonfires in Bolari and Jekadari areas of the state capital during his presidential campaign rally in the state.
The police spokesman also said that 13 of the suspects had been charged to court while two of the suspects, who are minors, were sent to remand homes and advised members of the public to be law-abiding at all time.
Rampaging youths had, a day before, attacked the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Office in the state located along Bauchi road on the day the Congress for Progressive Youths (CPC) presidential candidate visited the state.
Another lorry loaded with BOMBS in Plateau
THE joint Special Task Force (STF) charged with maintaining peace in Plateau says it has impounded a lorry loaded with explosive devices.
STF spokesman Charles Ekeocha, told newsmen in Jos yesterday that the lorry, with registration no. Kano XH379 KMC, was arrested in Mista Ali, a settlement along Jos-Zaria road, on Thursday night.
Among the devices were a 15,000 Kg Ammonium Nitrate (25kg in 600 bags); 50,000 Kg of codex fuse (500x100ctns), and 5,000 pieces of electric detonators (100 pieces x 5 cases).
Also in the lorry were 1,000 pieces of cord relays, 80 pieces of softer electric detonators, 775 kg of super power, five pieces of drilling rods (4 feet) and five pieces of same drilling rod (6 feet).
According to Ekeocha, the driver of the lorry, Abubakar Usman, aged 32, had claimed that the consignment belonged to Duwan Company, a Jos-based firm, with headquarters at plot 1029, Yelwa Complex, Jos.
He said that the lorry was escorted by Kingsley Charles, who identified himself as a police constable stationed in Kaduna.
“The police officer did not have any pass, so we are detaining both of them as well as the lorry, to help investigations,’’ he said.
He said that papers for the devices were issued in Kaduna, but signed by a police commissioner in Lagos, a situation which triggered suspicion, and subsequent arrest by the STF men.
“Normally, when such things are being moved, security operatives are usually informed, but that was not done in this particular case,’’ he said.
Ekeocha rejected claims by the driver that he did not know anything on the contents of the consignment, stressing that the STF would dig deeper into the source of the explosives which he said could destroy “the whole of Plateau if put together’’.
STF spokesman Charles Ekeocha, told newsmen in Jos yesterday that the lorry, with registration no. Kano XH379 KMC, was arrested in Mista Ali, a settlement along Jos-Zaria road, on Thursday night.
Among the devices were a 15,000 Kg Ammonium Nitrate (25kg in 600 bags); 50,000 Kg of codex fuse (500x100ctns), and 5,000 pieces of electric detonators (100 pieces x 5 cases).
Also in the lorry were 1,000 pieces of cord relays, 80 pieces of softer electric detonators, 775 kg of super power, five pieces of drilling rods (4 feet) and five pieces of same drilling rod (6 feet).
According to Ekeocha, the driver of the lorry, Abubakar Usman, aged 32, had claimed that the consignment belonged to Duwan Company, a Jos-based firm, with headquarters at plot 1029, Yelwa Complex, Jos.
He said that the lorry was escorted by Kingsley Charles, who identified himself as a police constable stationed in Kaduna.
“The police officer did not have any pass, so we are detaining both of them as well as the lorry, to help investigations,’’ he said.
He said that papers for the devices were issued in Kaduna, but signed by a police commissioner in Lagos, a situation which triggered suspicion, and subsequent arrest by the STF men.
“Normally, when such things are being moved, security operatives are usually informed, but that was not done in this particular case,’’ he said.
Ekeocha rejected claims by the driver that he did not know anything on the contents of the consignment, stressing that the STF would dig deeper into the source of the explosives which he said could destroy “the whole of Plateau if put together’’.
Arsenal's van persie raking for the referee after RED CARD
Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has labeled referee Massimo Busacca a “joke” and that his decision to send the Dutch striker off “killed the game” against Barcelona in their Champions League clash.
Barcelona eventually won the game 3-1 thanks to two goals from Lionel Messi and one from Xavi, but it was with the score at 1-1 in the 55th minute that the controversial decision came, something which made the Gunners's task even harder.
“I think it had a big influence,” the striker told Sky Sports.
“In my opinion it was a total joke the sending off because how can I hear his whistle with 95,000 people jumping up, how can I hear that?”
Van Persie looked to get onto to a ball over the top of the Barcelona defense but mistimed his run and the linesman flagged for offside, however one second after the referee’s whistle the striker fired a shot towards goal which the referee interpreted as kicking the ball away and led to the second yellow card, and it was the time between the whistle and shot which angered the Dutchman the most.
“It makes it even worse,” he continued.
“I could understand the referee’s decision if there was four, five, six seconds in between and you make a chip or something, but one second from his whistle to my shot is a joke.
“But he’s been bad all evening, he’s been a joke all evening, whistling against us, I don’t know why he’s here tonight, I think he’s a joke.”
Arsenal players, including van Persie, tried to explain to the referee that he had been unable to hear the whistle but it did not matter to Busacca who had already brandished the second yellow card and the subsequent red.
“I did explain there were 95,000 people jumping up so how could I hear his whistle,” he added.
“But he said second yellow, unbelievable these people.
“We feel we feel betrayed a bit because everyone fought really hard, when it was 1-1 it was all to play for and our opinion that ref killed the game.“
50 cent's new movie
Do you remember the flicks of a 160 lb. weighing 50 Cent?
Today (March 9th), the unofficial trailer for the film, Things Fall Apart, which features the thin rapper, hit the net. Last year, 50 Cent lost 54 pounds when he filming Things Fall Apart in which he plays a University of Michigan football player. In the Mario Van Peebles directed film, Barnes, who dreams of getting drafted by the Miami Dolphins, is stricken by cancer during his senior year in college. The drama features Ray Liotta, Lynn Whitfield and more.
In an interview, last year, with Rap-Up Magazine, Curtis Jackson spoke briefly on what the film means to him. “My motivation for the project was my best friend, Charles Pringle. He lived across the street from me; he actually died of cancer.”
Last Saturday (March 5th), the film premiered at the Miami International Film Festival. "50 Cent's physical transformation combined with Mario's vision for the film kept the story fresh, gritty and powerful," Miami International Film Festival Executive Director Jaie Laplante told AllHipHop.com. "Fans in Miami will have a unique opportunity to see the film well before the rest of the world does."
50 Cent will be starring on a few other films in 2011, including, Freelancers, Setup, alongside Bruce Willis and Ryan Phillippe and Vengeance starring Danny Trejo.
Aside from the big screen, 50 Cent continues to work on his forthcoming album, Black Magic, which he has released a few songs from already, and launched his own headphone line, Sleek by 50.
Ghetto dreams; A biopic of Da Grin
Stingomania, the production company behind the biopic on late rapper Da Grin, released the official trailer of the movie on Wednesday 9th March 2011 after director, Daniel Ademinokan concluded shooting the movie around 2AM today. The tragic accident scene was the last scene to be shot; the emotion-laden scene was shot in the Mushin and Oregun areas of Lagos.
Upcoming actor, Trybson Dudukoko will play the role of Da Grin while AMAA and ZAFA award winner, Doris Simeon-Ademinokan will play the role of Da Grin’s girlfriend. Veteren actors Kayode Odumosu and Rachael Oniga play the roles of Da Grin’s father and mother respectively. Other members of the cast include Wole Ojo, Richard Dike, Gabriel Afolayan, Kelechi Udegbe and Oyindamola Odesola.
you must not miss this movie for anything. mark the date now
Post productihttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifon work will commence from next week in a bid to meet the movie’s proposed April 2011 release date.
TIES THAT BINDS starrrin Omotola jalade ekehinde,
The movie “Ties That Bind” tells the tale of three women -
Adobea, Buki and Theresa are three women from different walks of life bound together by a similar pain; the loss of a child. In a destined meeting in a small village in Kroboland, the women journey together to redemption, love, life and forgiveness as they renovate a dilapidated clinic for the villagers.
The cast is already generating buzz – African-American actress Nia Long, Ghanaian actors Ama K Abebrese and John Dumelo will star alongside Nollywood star Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde in the movie. In a statement released by his publicists, John shared that he is excited about his role and describes his character as a “cool and calm” husband who is unfortunately married to a very difficult wife, but stays determined to make his marriage work. The actor also expressed his excitement about his cast mates, “Nia Long has had a very successful career in Hollywood. I admire her work and, I look forward to a great working relationship with her on set. I am also particularly happy working with Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and, Ama K Abebrese who are both recognized as talented actresses here in Africa“
“Ties That Bind” is scheduled for release in 2011.
Phill Collins retires
British singer, drummer and actor Phil Collins, who has enjoyed international chart success both as a solo artist and with the band Genesis, announced on his website that he has retired.
Media reports in recent days have given conflicting accounts of Collins’ intentions, with some saying he has retired and others denying it.
“Why they were printed at all is a mystery, as I haven’t spoken to anybody in the press for a few months,” wrote the 60-year-old from London.
In a bid to set the record straight, he said he was not quitting due to bad reviews, poor treatment by the press, because he did not fit in or because he felt unloved.
“I am stopping so I can be a full-time father to my two young sons on a daily basis,” Collins added.
“Some of the things mentioned above have been said by me in various interviews, but said as asides with a smile on my face and in passing.
“They were not meant to be ‘headlines’, they were small parts of a conversation. This clearly doesn’t come over in print and I should know better.”
He said some of the press coverage had portrayed him as a “tormented weirdo,” but he reassured fans there was “no need for the straitjacket.”
He made no mention of reports that health problems, including nerve damage in his hands, had forced him to retire.
Collins, singer of hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “Against All Odds,” has won multiple Grammy awards, an Academy Award for his soundtrack to the film “Tarzan” and has sold an estimated 100 million albums as a solo artist.
Genesis is estimated to have sold around 150 million albums.
Media reports in recent days have given conflicting accounts of Collins’ intentions, with some saying he has retired and others denying it.
“Why they were printed at all is a mystery, as I haven’t spoken to anybody in the press for a few months,” wrote the 60-year-old from London.
In a bid to set the record straight, he said he was not quitting due to bad reviews, poor treatment by the press, because he did not fit in or because he felt unloved.
“I am stopping so I can be a full-time father to my two young sons on a daily basis,” Collins added.
“Some of the things mentioned above have been said by me in various interviews, but said as asides with a smile on my face and in passing.
“They were not meant to be ‘headlines’, they were small parts of a conversation. This clearly doesn’t come over in print and I should know better.”
He said some of the press coverage had portrayed him as a “tormented weirdo,” but he reassured fans there was “no need for the straitjacket.”
He made no mention of reports that health problems, including nerve damage in his hands, had forced him to retire.
Collins, singer of hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “Against All Odds,” has won multiple Grammy awards, an Academy Award for his soundtrack to the film “Tarzan” and has sold an estimated 100 million albums as a solo artist.
Genesis is estimated to have sold around 150 million albums.
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