SEE What We Are Doing To Christianity Today

Are we Practising Christianity Right In Nigeria? - by Ayodeji Alonge
Before you criticize me. I am not a pagan. I believe God exist and he is Real. I believe in the birth and death of Jesus Christ. I believe Jesus Died for our sins. I also believe in Miracles. But are we portraying him the right way. I keep on thinking are we practising Christianity the write way. We keep on asking God to destroy demons, Keep on telling them to suffer, burn and die. We keep on casting them. But I believe we should ask God to touch their hearts and help them and convert them to do good and do away with their evil deeds.

What if your brother was an evil doer and someone cast them to die. Would you like it? They need help, not to die. Another thing I would like to correct is the mentality that if you go to church you are automatically a
"Saint". Demons are in the church so as angels you know. There are many people that are just there physically but not spiritually present. Most youths come to church to chat with their friends and as so called "Set P" or "Yan". Most youths come to church to use Twitter, Instagram, Ping, WhatsApp. Etc.

Rather than listening to the sermon. The church is also a place of immorality both physically and mentally. Parents are also not left out; some of them simply come to network and get contracts. They also do not want to be known as the church "stabber" but rather "The Holy Sister" or "The Holy Brother”.

I personally do not believe in cursing. Someone steals just a little thing like biro and you curse that their father will die. What did that person’s father do to you? Do they have to pay for the sin of their children? But most curses don't work. If the person actually does wrong . God will punish them with what they deserve rather than us speaking against him or his family. 

Most Pastors do not practice what they preach. They preach giving but they do not Give. The preach showing love but they do not show love. On every street there are at least 3 Churches (No Research Taken) I know of some pastors who do not get their power of miracles from God but from the Devil. The Pockets of the Pastors are getting fatter while the pockets of their members are slimmer. When I was younger I used to have so much respect for pastors, preachers and evangelist. But as I grew older I began to think twice. 

These pastors keep on buying the best of cars and best of Planes. I have no problem with them driving good cars, But not extravagant cars and lifestyles. You see a pastor today buying 70 Million Naira Car. I am like are you going to die with this Car. Does a 70 million Car really add anything to your life. Some of their members don't even have enough to eat. I am not saying there are not pastors called up by God, Yes they are but they are getting extinct. You say you are running a "Christian School" Which is financed by the Church Money but the fees are the highest in Nigeria. The fees in Christian Schools are supposed to be subsidized with the same standard both internationally and nationally. Churches are supposed to set up free schools for the poor. 

Most Sermons nowadays is about prosperity and breakthrough. Rather than holiness, doing the will of God and doing good in General like showing Kindness and Love. Yes by the Grace of God we shall be prosperous  and we shall have Breakthrough. Tithe: That's a particular percentage of your income either disposable income or taxable income. What is the tithe actually used for? Is it used to enrich the life of the Pastor or the Less Privileged? Most Pastors use Convoys. What are you using Convoy for, is any one coming to kidnap you, are you a criminal? If you believe in God, God will protect you.

But if you believe in the power of the Nigeria Police and their Guns and so be it. For the women the Church is not the place for wearing your best "aso oke" "rura and buba" "ankara" "aso-ebi" keep that for the parties and weedings. Yes you can look Good. But do it in moderation and please dress decently. I didn't say dress like "Sister Mary" but dress moderately. 

Church is a place to be humble and not show off. Note the Church walk way is not a runway to model on. The church is not a place to market your products or your services. The Church is being turned to a money making business venture instead of it being a place to improve the spiritual life of the people. 

Some Pastors, Preachers and Envagelist are not called by God but sometimes in disguise of the Devil. There are so many fake pastors around. My advice is please watch the Church you go to and the lifestyles of the preachers and pastors. Also remember to do good always.

So PDP Is Now Using Rice To Confuse Nigerians

As this Rice sharing phenomenon continue to spread, APC may soon join and development will suffer.

Sorry for my dear country - Nigeria!

America Opens Up: We Have Not Located The Kidnapped Girls

If money is missing in Nigeria, America will know. But our girls are missing and they can't find them? nawao!

The United States of America on Friday said it had decreased its surveillance flights in the search for the about 200 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram, but added that the overall effort was unchanged due to more flights by other countries. It stated that it had no idea of the location of the girls.

“We don’t have any better idea today than we did before about where these girls are, but there’s been no letup of the effort itself,” Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby told reporters, according to Reuters.

A US defence official speaking on condition of anonymity said American flights had been reduced only after a body of intelligence had been gathered and that the cuts had been offset by the British and the French support.

Officials declined to say how long heightened U.S. surveillance over Nigeria had lasted.

Asked whether it was just a week or two, the defence official said, “No. We were building this baseline for a good period of time.”

US surveillance flights over Nigeria were now intermittent, the source said. US military personnel are in Abuja in a bid to help coordinate the effort, and some 80 others were sent to Chad in May to support the surveillance operation.

Chad is northeast of Nigeria and borders the area in which Boko Haram is known to operate.

One US official voiced concerns that Boko Haram might have booby-trapped areas where the girls could be held, and there had been reports that they might have been split up into groups that were not being held in one place.

The defence official said surveillance alone would not lead to a resolution. “It will take the Nigerian piece of the equation with their own sources and human intelligence coupled with the other forms to really understand the picture,” he noted.

10 Reasons Why You Should Not Throw Away Banana

10 Reasons Why You Should Not Throw Away Banana Peels
1.) Teeth Whitening
To get naturally whiter teeth, you rub the banana peel on the teeth every day for about a week to be effective.
2.)Removing warts
Banana peels help to remove warts and prevent them from coming back. Well casing or casing cover up the acne affected area and leave overnight to reduce the warts.
3.) Cooking
Instead of throwing banana peels in the trash, you can use it for cooking purposes.
4.) Acne Treatment
Rubbing banana peel with honey is the best approach to treat acne and reduce facial scarring.

photo credits: omaymen.wordpress.com
5.) Prevent Wrinkles
Banana peel is also beneficial for the skin because it contains antioxidants that have anti-aging effects. It keeps skin hydrated, firm the skin and improve elasticity.
6.) Analgesic
Peel bananas work well in soothing sore spots in your body. If you have pain, use banana peels as an essential oil. Massage with a banana peel and put in 15 minutes, your pain will ease immediately.
7.) Cure Psoriasis
This was unexpected benefits from banana peels. Rub the banana peel will help relieve itching and rapid healing psoriasis.
8.) Treatment for insect bites
Insect bite can make you itch and pain. Get bitten by rubbing the skin of a banana skin to relieve itching and pain.
9.) Protection from ultraviolet rays
Peel bananas known to reduce the risk of cataracts. To reduce itching and eye fatigue, you should apply a banana peel on the eyes to be protected.
10.) Cleaning
Banana peel can also be used for the purpose of cleaning supplies in the house. You can use it to clean shoe, leather, or silver jewelry.

Why we conceded defeat in Ekiti-Oyegun

Chief John Oyegun, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the party conceded victory to the PDP in the Ekiti governorship election to prevent the outbreak of violence.
Oyegun, who said this in Benin on Sunday while fielding questions from newsmen, also said that contrary to insinuations the Ekiti governorship poll was characterised with lots of irregularities.
He said that it was in view of these irregularities that the party took the decision to challenge the election result in the court.
It should be noted that we didn’t just concede victory because the election was flawless but we took the decision to avoid violence.
We did not want anything that will make the people react negatively and violently.
The party will challenge the trampling on the fundamental human rights of the people before during and after the election,” he said.
He said that Nigerians should embrace the APC as the new party with a different agenda to fix Nigeria.
We are presenting our party as new, as different, and we have done the studies as people who truly care.
There is no way we can prove it to you because we have never ruled this country but we can tell you to look at APC-controlled states.
We are not pretending to be angels, politics is not a seminary nor is it the papacy but what is important is what are you doing with the lives of the people?

Breast Cancer Warning From Blood Test

Women with a predisposition to breast cancer could be warned of developing symptoms by a simple blood test even if they do not inherit genes associated with disease, scientists said on Friday.
Research has identified a molecular “switch” in blood samples that makes a woman vulnerable to breast cancer.
The marker is linked to the BRCA1 breast cancer gene but was also present in those who did not have the mutation and later developed the disease.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants are responsible for 10 percent of breast cancers and are inherited from parents.
A woman with the BRCA1 gene has an 85 percent risk of developing breast cancer, resulting sometimes in the drastic step of breast removal.
This leaves around 90 percent of breast cancer cases unexplained with no credible way of predicting the likelihood of non-inherited breast cancer.
Scientists claim that the “switch” is part of the process by which certain molecules acting on DNA cause genes to be activated or deactivated.
“We identified an epigenetic signature in women with a mutated BRCA1 gene that was linked to increased cancer risk and lower survival rates,” lead researcher Professor Martin Widschwendter, from University College London, said.
“Surprisingly, we found the same signature in large cohorts of women without the BRCA1 mutation and it was able to predict breast cancer risk several years before diagnosis.
“The data is encouraging since it shows the potential of a blood-based epigenetic test to identify breast cancer risk in women without known predisposing genetic mutations.”
For their research the scientists analysed blood sample DNA from 119 postmenopausal women who later developed the disease over a period of up to 12 years, and 122 who remained cancer-free.

EPL: Arsenal Announce 11 Player Departures

A host of players including Nicklas Bendtner and Ju Young Park are set to leave Arsenal at end of their contracts
News on the Arsenal Football Club website has confirmed that the 11 players would be leaving the club when their contracts officially expire on June 30.
Nicklas Bendtner and Ju Young Park come to the end of their contracts, while Kim Kallstrom and Emiliano Viviano’s loan spells are set to conclude.
As already communicated by the club, Bacary Sagna, Lukasz Fabianski and Zak Ansah have completed permanent moves to Manchester City, Swansea City and Charlton Athletic respectively.
Meanwhile, academy players, Chuks Aneke, Daniel Boateng, Zach Fagan and Leander Siemann, also depart, having reached the end of their current agreements.
Bendtner‘s departure doesn’t come as a surprise after the striker failed to make a lasting impact once again last season. The 26-year-old scored two goals in 11 appearances throughout the 2013-14 campaign.
A statement from the English club thanked all of the players for their contribution to the club, and wished them well for the future.
Arsenal are expected to invest heavily in a new striker, right-back and squad improvements across the board, indicating a softened wage bill would come in handy.

For those who take delight in criticizing our leaders

A few days ago, I was going through a news article on a popular website about President Jonathan performing the groundbreaking ceremony of CAN President Ayo Oritsejafor’s Eagle Heights University in Delta State. What occurred to me while reading the piece was not the prospects of the addition of another stellar private tertiary institution to the country’s second-rate education system, but the cold shoulder it will receive from some hypercritical Nigerians. True to my prediction, the reactions in the comments section of the website did not disappoint.
It was awash with criticisms levelled against both the president and Pastor Oritsejafor. On the part of the president, he was accused of abandoning more pressing national issues to attend a “mere” groundbreaking ceremony (when he could have sent the minister for education or any other representative to do it), while Oritsejafor’s critics accused him of funding the institution with the largesse he got from excessive government patronage and the donations of the poor masses in his congregation who live on less than 350 naira a day. All sorts of unprintable words conveyed their anger as the embittered respondents picked on these two for that singular act – which ought to be seen as an accomplishment and a boost to the nation’s education system and to the host community.
A university, anywhere in the world, is supposed to be an indicator of economic and social advancement, more so in a country like Nigeria that is still grappling with the realities of development, or lack of it. In many climes it is seen as a lifeline for the country’s continued existence and economic competitiveness in the contemporary world. But, in this instance the reverse seems to be the case. The announcement of this ivory tower was met with a gratuitous rebuff at its very inception. The reason is not far-fetched, though.
The anger of the respondents is linked to the perceived questionable source of funding for the project and it’s, undoubtedly, something most people, including me, can relate to in a Nigeria where corruption is endemic and has been institutionalized. The muted consensus among them was that funds for the construction of the institution must have been cut from the proverbial national cake. But this is unsubstantiated and no-one can vouch for it. Such damaging utterances should be rather made with caution, especially when there is no proof to back it up.
Coming to the (non-)issue of President Jonathan abandoning more pressing issues (of insecurity, of course) in the country to grace the occasion; my take on the visit that never was has always been that the president ought to have gone to Chibok, from where the schoolgirls were taken to Sambisa forest. My reasons for this being that firstly, he should have been there to have a personal assessment of the situation of things in the region. Secondly, to empathize physically with the mothers, fathers, friends and relatives of the abducted schoolgirls and provide succour for them.; thirdly and most importantly, the presence of the commander-in-chief would have proved to the nation, his soldiers and the world at large that he is indeed not afraid of visiting the region as being suggested in some quarters. It would have gone a long way to demonstrate that the government and security agencies have not been overwhelmed by the terrorists.
Nevertheless, the insinuation that all the activities of the Federal Government of Nigeria should be ground to a halt until the Chibok girls are rescued is rather uncalled for and misguided. Nigeria cannot cease to function or exist, because of the actions of some bitter elements that are bent on ruining the country due to personal grievances with certain individuals in the country.
YES, THE CHIBOK GIRLS MUST BE BROUGHT BACK ALIVE – ALL OF THEM AND NOT A SINGLE ONE LEFT – but the notion that the government should be shut down and all resources channelled to confronting the high level of insecurity is not something anyone should advocate for at this point in time. There are many government agencies specifically charged with dealing with the country’s mounting insecurity problems and I believe they are doing something to that effect.
Nigerians should not take it upon themselves to level unfounded and unnecessary criticisms at their leaders. Though it may seem convenient to do so, it is good to know that only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches.

7 Foods That Tell Your Body, I’m Full!!

You know you’re supposed to eat more fruits and veggies than packaged foods, and that it’s better to enjoy many smaller meals than gorge once or twice a day, but the most important part of any healthy diet is listening to your body. And if you feed it correctly, it’ll tell you when it’s full. Below, seven foods that’ll fill you up—in a good way.
Lentils
Think of lentils as a teeny tiny miracle food. Each one packs 30% protein, tons of fiber, iron, and vitamin B. Also, they’re cheap and easy to eat with just about everything including fish, salads, in soup, with tomatoes, or on an avocado (see below).
Avocados
First of all, did you know an avocado is technically a berry? The fruit’s monounsaturated fat lowers your cholesterol. Also, it has both soluble and insoluble fiber (few foods boast both), as well as vitamins B,K, and E. It’s the kind of thing you want to eat everyday.
Apples
They’re full of fiber, and you already know why that’s a good thing.
Hot Anything
You already know that hot sauce, chilis, or anything else adding spice to your meal can rev up your metabolism, but it turns out hot foods also make you feel fuller, which is great, since they’re also delicious.
Dark Chocolate
One study found that anyone who ate dark chocolate before their meal consumed 17% less calories. Could there be a better argument for eating dessert first? (Dark chocolate is way more filling than milk, so don’t even think about swapping one out for the other.)
Eggs
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but that doesn’t mean just any breakfast. The more protein you eat, the longer you will feel sated. (Oatmeal is another stellar breakfast option.)
Nuts
The danger with nuts is that it’s hard to stop after just one serving. But if you can conquer that hurdle, they are the perfect snack. Peanut or almond butter works, too—but just one spoonful!

Kaduna Government Partners With India To Revive Moribund Industries

The Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Yero, has invited Indian investors to partner with
the state towards achieving its target of reviving all moribund companies located in the State
In a meeting with the Indian
High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Ajjampur Ghanashyam, at the Government
House on Thursday, Governor Yero said “the State government is ready
to spearhead revival of over 400 public and private owned companies
in the State which stopped production due to shortfall in power supply
and other challenges”.
The governor pointed out that the 212 megawatts power station in the
state, when completed, would definitely be sufficient to revive the
industries.
The Governor added that Kaduna State was interested in entering into
partnership with hospital managers on providing 300 beds in the
specialist hospital which would soon to be completed.
Mr Ghanashyam said he was in Kaduna to seek partnership in the
areas of industrial cooperation as well as supporting the State towards
improving educational and health services to the people.
He promised to encourage Indian businessmen, who would be in
Nigeria soon, to invest in Kaduna State.
The Indian High Commissioner also requested for a comprehensive list
of all moribund companies in the State, which he said would be tabled
before the investors.

Terrorism won’t stop Jonathan –Niger Delta youths

Youths of Ni­ger Delta re­gion have de­clared that no amount of terrorism by the Boko Haram would stop President Good­luck Jonathan’s second term bid.
The youths made the state­ment yesterday, when they paid a courtesy visit on the Special Adviser on Youths to the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Barr. George Turnah. The youths, who described the Islamist sect as a political creation to distract Jonathan’s presi­dency, warned the group against further violence, pointing out that no group had monopoly of violence.
President of Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), Mr. Felix Ogbonna, in his speech, said that a second term for President Jonathan cannot (be) negotiated.
“Time has come for us in this region to tell Nigerians that we are not comfortable with all this distraction mak­ing him (Jonathan) not to concentrate.

Tinsel Star, Gideon Okeke Eyes TV Production

Tinsel Star, Gideon Okeke, is looking at going into television production, insisting that television is the future that he sees.
He told Ebuka on Rubbin’ Minds on Sunday that as much as developments in Nollywood were becoming more exciting, he would not want to go into movie production, but would stick to television production.
But he stressed the need for many people in the industry to be trained in order for competition to come in.
“You will see actors and veterans who do not even know film language in the industry,” he said, describing it as his biggest grouse about the industry.
He said that the industry had been over shrouded in hypocrisy, which should not be.
On his personal life, he said that he had managed to keep his dirt in his bedroom.
Mr Okeke is still single and has not been in a relationship for two years.
The Tinsel star, who is over 30, said he was not under pressure to get married.

President Jonathan condemns Bauchi Bomb attack and mass killings in Southern Kaduna

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan condemns Friday night’s bombing
in the Bayan Gari area of Bauchi State and the recent mass killings in
Southern Kaduna.
The President commiserates with all the families who lost loved ones in
the heinous attacks and extends his heartfelt sympathies to all those
who suffered injuries or lost their properties during the wanton assaults
on Bauchi and Kaduna States.
President Jonathan reassures the people of Bauchi and Kaduna States
that the Federal Government will continue to take all necessary action
to apprehend the perpetrators of the dastardly attacks and restore the
fullest possible security to all parts of the country.
The President directs all relevant federal government agencies to
continue to speedily make emergency medical and relief assistance
available to all those who were either injured or displaced by recent
bombings and attacks.
He urges all Nigerians to give maximum support and cooperation to the
Armed Forces and security agencies who continue to work incessantly
to end the menace of insecurity in the country within the shortest
possible time.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to President (Media & Publicity)

Robben apologises for the diving that Netherlands her winning spot kick

Arjen Robben has apologised for diving during Netherland’s dramatic comeback victory over Mexico in the World Cup round of 16 at Arena Castelao on Sunday.
Robben tormented the Mexican defence on numerous occasions with his pace, skill and direct running, and had several penalty appeals turned down before finally winning a spot-kick in the second minute of injury time when he went down under a challenge from Rafael Marquez.

Substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar converted from 12 yards to send the Oranje into the last eight of the tournament, after Giovani dos Santos’ opener had been cancelled out by a late Wesley Sneijder equaliser.

Mexican coach blames ref for exit

Mexico coach Miguel Herrera blamed referee Pedro Proenca for his side’s last 16 World Cup exit on Sunday after his decision to award a stoppage-time penalty allowed the Netherlands to seal a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory.
With two minutes to play Mexico led 1-0 but Wesley Sneijder equalised with a fierce drive before captain Rafael Marquez was judged to have tripped Arjen Robben and Klaas Jan Huntelaar calmly scored to put the Dutch in the quarterfinals.
“It seems to me the reason (we lost) was the referee, the man with the whistle.
He left us outside the next stage of the World Cup,” Herrera told reporters.
“If the referee starts marking fouls that don’t exist, you leave the World Cup to circumstances out of your hands. We expect the referee committee to take a look at that and that this gentleman goes home, just like us.”
With victory in their grasp on a scorching afternoon at the Castelao
arena, the defeat was a particularly sore one for Mexico who have
reached the last 16 at six consecutive World Cups and have lost every
time.
“It’s a World Cup where everything was against Mexico… Out of the four
matches that we had, three of them were referee disasters…
Unfortunately we didn’t achieve what we wanted,” Herrera said.
The Mexico boss was perhaps understandably prickly about the
officiating going into the game after his side had two goals harshly
disallowed in their opening match against Cameroon, and a strong
penalty appeal turned down against Croatia.
He said the spot kick for the Dutch could also have been avoided had
Robben been booked for diving earlier in the game, suggesting the
winger may not have risked going down so easily under the challenge
of Marquez for the late penalty.
“He dived three times, he should have cautioned him the first time,”
said Herrera, who also questioned why Portugal’s Proenca had been
selected for the game, suggesting a referee from Africa, Asia or South
America would have been fairer.
“I’m happy and calm about the performance of the boys… We’d done
really well. Then the team sits back and we start to give chances

Edo Assembly Crisis: I Am Not Aware Of Any Misconduct We Are Accused Of – Lawmaker

ne of the suspended lawmakers in Edo State House of Assembly, Honourable Friday Ogieriakhi, of the People Democratic Party (PDP), says he is not aware of the alleged misconduct they were accused of that led to their suspension, insisting that they should have been given fair hearing.
Mr Ogieriakhi told Channels Television on Sunday that the suspension was unexpected and described it as a development that had showed the monstrosity of the kind of tyranny that the state lawmakers were dealing with in Edo State under the leadership of the governor, Adams Oshiomhole.
“It is so unfortunate that lawmakers, because of loyalty to party, would lend themselves to this kind of shame. For you to punish a man, the man should be given fair hearing. No form of trial or hearing was given to my colleagues and I who were allegedly suspended.
“For all we know, these honourable members were just acting out the script of their pay master who is in Osadebe Avenue. I am not aware of any misconduct we were accused of,” he said.
He pointed out that the house had returned from recess without formal proceeding before they were suspended.
Mr Ogieriakhi stressed that the ‘Order 38′ that the House had relied on in suspending them provided that the suspended members ought to be present before the House and carrying out the misconduct before the leadership of the house.
“None of us was present on that day that the suspension was carried out,” he stressed.
However, an All Progressive Congress’ member of the House, Honourable Paul Ohonbamu, insisted that the assembly followed due process in the suspension of the members.
“Those involved know that they entered an enterprise of honourable consequence and we cannot fold our arms,” he said.
After the lawmakers were suspended, the suspended lawmakers and five other members of the House held a session and suspended the speaker of the House and some other members of the house; a development that Mr Ohonbamu said was an act of lawlessness.
He insisted that the issue of fair hearing would come up when they face the disciplinary committee.
“They were suspended for misconduct. Virtually all of them were engaged in some activities and we have the right to suspend any lawmaker on ground of misconduct and it behoves on such lawmaker to obey such suspension.
“They refused to obey the suspension and we went to court to get a court order restraining them from the premises of the House of Assembly and they also refused to obey the court order.
“The issue is already in court and for some members to refuse to accept their suspension from the Assembly we know that the effect will be expensive in terms of human life. We have been on the part of justice. We must engage the rule of law, we must protect and preserve democracy,” Honourbale Ohonbamu insisted.
The crisis has caused the state assembly to stop the process of law making, but Mr Ogieriakhi said that the way forward would be for the other house members to purge themselves of the very disrespectful conduct that they embarked upon.
“What they should do is to repent and return the house to the position the House was before they recess,” he said.

Mark urges Eagles to triumph over France

President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has again enjoined the Super Eagles of Nigeria to go all out to win the match against  France   on Monday.
Senator Mark in a goodwill message to the officials and players in Brazil ahead of the encounter said  history and even the odds Favours the Nigerian lads to triumph in the encounter.
He urged the players and officials to cultivate and sustain team spirit ‘because team work is the needed ingredients to excel in the competition. Nothing should be taken for granted ‘.
Senator Mark who led the Federal Government delegation to the opening ceremony in Brazil showered encomiums on the Super Eagles for their  successes and commitment to the course of national duty so far.
He reminded them that they are not just flying the Nigerian flag but that of the African continent, a pride he said should be defended with Honour and dignity in the competition.
Senator Mark was optimistic that the Eagles will fly high if they work together as a team with a common mission and purpose.
He assured that government will do  its part of bargain in terms of logistics and welfare for them at all times’

ISIL declares new ‘Islamic caliphate’

Prev

Fighters in Syria and Iraq have announced the establishment of a “caliphate”, referring to the system of rule that ended nearly 100 years ago with the fall of the Ottoman empire.
In an audio recording distributed online on Sunday, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) declared its chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as “the caliph” and “leader for Muslims everywhere”.
Baghdadi is believed to be the leader of ISIL, which announced that it is now called “The Islamic State”.
According to the statement, the new caliphate stretches from Iraq’s Diyala province to Syria’s Aleppo.
“The Shura (council) of the Islamic State met and discussed this issue (of the caliphate)… The Islamic State decided to establish an Islamic caliphate and to designate a caliph for the state of the Muslims,” said ISIL spokesman Abu Mohammad al-Adnani.
“The words ‘Iraq’ and ‘the Levant’ have been removed from the name of the Islamic State in official papers and documents,” Adnani said, describing the caliphate as “the dream in all the Muslims’ hearts” and “the hope of all jihadists”.
Al Jazeera’s Imran Khan reporting from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, said that a caliphate is effectively an Islamic Republic led by one leader, regardless of national boundaries.
With the announcement, the armed group is declaring that they are now legitimate, declaring the caliphate as the “true muslim state”, he said.

Join Fight Against Insurgency, Okupe Tells Nigerians

The senior special assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on public affairs, Dr Doyin Okupe, has again appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to join the fight against insurgency.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, when he paid a condolence visit to the management of New Telegrapgh newspaper over the death of Suleiman Bisalla, its managing editor, northern operations, Dr Okupe expressed concerns that the insurgents were killing ordinary innocent Nigerians.
He, however, assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would not rest on its oars in confronting the menace of the insurgents.
“The activities of Boko Haram are generally incomprehensible. We do not understand what it stands for fully. We do not understand what they really want or know who they really are. All we see is violence perpetrated against our people. No denomination or class, age, religion or ethnicity. At first, we thought it was Muslims fighting Christians.  Then we thought Christians were retaliating. Boko Haram is fighting the center of Nigeria. How can we account for the pains that are being inflicted on ordinary Nigerians? He questioned.
In his response, the Deputy Managing Editor, northern operations of the New Telegrapgh, Mr Louis Achi, pledged the support of the media in the fight against terrorism.
The late Bisalla, until his death, was the managing editor, northern operations of the New Telegrapgh.
He was among the 24 persons killed at last Wednesday’s bomb blast at Emab Plaza in Abuja.

Khloe Kardashian's Boyfriend French Montana Buys Her A Jeep For 30th Birthday: Pictures

Khloe Kardashian gets surprised by French Montana with a new car at her birthday bash Credit: Xactpix&SharpshooterImgs/Splash

The big 3-0! Khloe Kardashian kicked off her 30th birthday celebrations with dinner and a night of partying with family and friends at Don Coqui restaurant on City Island in The Bronx, NYC on Thursday, June 26, the eve of her big day.
PHOTOS: Khloe's style transformation
Dressed in a black mini dress and wearing a grill, the reality star was also joined by her beau French Montana, who gifted her with quite the surprise—a white four-door Jeep Sahara!

Credit: 247PapsTV / Splash News

"French surprised Khloe with a four-door Jeep Sahara in white," a source tells Us Weekly, "Sisters [Kim, Kourtney, Kendall and Kylie] crowded around the car so hyped and in shock. After dinner, he pulled the car up front and surprised Khloe and the family."
PHOTOS: Khloe's body transformation
The birthday girl was surprised from the get-go, when she first walked in to the restaurant, the source adds: "Khloe was unbelievably surprised."
Diddy, whose vodka Ciroc was among the party sponsors, was also in attendance with his longtime girlfriend Cassie.
PHOTOS: Kardashian family album
"There was a latin DJ who was playing reggaeton and latin dance music," another source tells Us of the bash. "French and Kris [Jenner] were dancing to the music," the first source added.
The DJ didn't forget to give love to Khloe's brother-in-law Kanye West, who was a no-show. The second source adds, "They were playing Kanye West's 'Flashing Lights' as Kim left the restaurant, all smiles in a tight black dress." (Brother Rob Kardashian and Scott Disick were also noticeably absent from the fete.)
PHOTOS: Khloe and Lamar's past romance
"I couldn't help but wish for a couple of forevers," Khloe wrote next to an Instagram photo of her blowing out her candles on a massive cake at the end of the evening. Khloe, who filed for divorce from Lamar Odom in December 2013, also shared a pic of herself and French, looking happier than ever.
Khloe's birthday weekend has only just begun. The 30-year-old and her family are set to continue the celebrations throughout the weekend, including hitting up Tao in Las Vegas on July 4.

Read more: http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/khloe-kardashians-beau-french-montana-buys-her-a-jeep-for-30th-b-day-2014276#ixzz366YouL4K
Follow us: @usweekly on Twitter | usweekly on Facebook

President may be banished in Ijaw land if … – Ex-militants

BENIN CITY-HUNDREDS of Ex- Militants in the Niger Delta, held a procession in the streets of Benin City weekend, calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his intension to run for the 2015 presidential election.
The ex-militants who warned that the President may be banished in Ijaw land if he failed to do so, said they are not happy with some threats and provocative statements coming from the North, asserting that they will not allow any group or individual to intimidate their kinsman.
In a statement signed by the leader of the group, Godstime Ogidigba and Speaker, Peter Edah respectively, they also called on Nigerians to cooperate with the Federal Government in the fight against Boko Haram, asserting that any attempt to stop Jonathan’s presidency will be resisted.
According to the statement, “ the call became necessary at a time like this when some individuals and selfish politicians are over heating the polity ,making provocative comments, saying Mr President promised them that he
will run for just one term as if they are now the constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Therefore we warn any group of person or politicians that will attempt to stop Mr President from exercising his fundamental human right, this will put the unity of Nigeria in a great risk. We, therefore call on you to contest the seat of the President.
“That for any reason that make you not to contest come 2015, you should not come back home but remain in Abuja forever”. While expressing confidence that Nigeria will soon overcome the security challenges and the eventual release of the abducted Chibok girls, the repentant militants urged Nigerians to support the transformation agenda of the federal government.

Photos: The Most Unjustifiable of Brazil's World Cup Stadiums

Matthew Niederhauser is reporting from Brazil with support from the Pulitzer Center.

Brasilia has always loomed heavily in my mind. I consider myself a bit of an urbanist, and the Brazilian capital is one of the most daring feats of city planning ever implemented. It fulfilled the fantasy of Juscelino Kubitschek, President of Brazil from 1956 to 1961, to create "fifty years of prosperity in five." Starting from scratch in the middle of a vast empty plane in 1956, Brasilia stood to encompass the "Order and Progress" national motto emblazoned on every Brazilian flag. The capital certainly imposes order through its carefully laid out streets and compartmentalized municipal, residential, and commercial zones. But it no longer represents progress, especially with regards to the World Cup.

My first point of order the morning of the Brazil verse Cameroon match was to visit the great architectural feats of Oscar Niemeyer, including the National Congress, Cathedral of Brasilia, and Palácio da Alvorada. These buildings are cornerstones of Brazil's national symbology and were recently granted status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the rest of the Brasilia monumental axis. Upon closer inspection, though, this visionary city of the future is getting rough around the edges. Brasilia might look great on paper with its bold architecture, broad avenues, and green spaces, but it doesn't reach the density needed for a thriving metropolitan habitat. Despite the meticulous planing, everything feels disjointed and separate. The compartmentalized neighborhoods trap people. Brasilia lacks a soul within its outdated vision of modernity. Now the $900 million Mane Garrincha Stadium built for the World Cup is the crowning failure in the capital's urban fabric.

Don't get me wrong, the Mane Garrincha Stadium is extremely impressive. It sits by itself on a large swath of land supported by 288 stately pillars holding up a self-cleaning roof. It's even more impressive when there are tens of thousands of Brazilian fans dressed in bright yellow jerseys streaming into its entrances. It might also be the biggest "white elephant" out of all the stadiums built for the World Cup. Brasilia has no major soccer team to occupy the Mane Garrincha Stadium after the tournament. The costs to build the structure also tripled from original estimates. Independent audits now indicate that construction companies overpriced their services upwards by $275 million while at the same time contributing exponentially larger sums of money to the political parties who granted them the contracts in the first place. No one faces corruption charges, so far, and the dust won't settle until long after the World Cup. There's glaring precedent that if Brazil wins, much of this malfeasance will be swept under the rug.

These accusations of corruption inspired millions of people to take to the streets in over a hundred cities across the country last year. On the day of the Brazil versus Cameroon match, though, only about a hundred people showed up to demonstrate against the mishandling of public funds and the broken promises for better social services, education, and urban infrastructure. The rest of the city was caught up in the spectacle of the World Cup. I must admit, it's infectious. After photographing the protests in the central bus station for a bit, I felt compelled to follow the crowds to the Mane Garrincha Stadium. There were samba schools, gymnasts, evangelicals, clowns—a veritable circus of life came out for the Brazilian team. It was hard to focus on anything else.

Once the game started, I wandered through empty streets, stopping wherever I heard the commotion of people cheering on the Brazilian team. All eyes were fixed squarely on the players' performance, and they delivered a show worthy of those expectations. Fans howled with delight and embraced each other as the score mounted in their favor and victory was clinched. Nothing else mattered in the world for those ninety minutes. I don't think all Brazilians are blind to the overshadowing pageantry of the World Cup, but their love for the game is reason enough to temporarily turn their backs to the gross incompetence that brought the tournament to their doorstep. It's impossible to really separate politics from soccer in Brazil, but it seems an effort will be made as long as the Brazilian team survives. What will be unleashed at the end, though, whether in their victory or defeat, is what will truly define this World Cup in Brazil.

Ladipo chides Eagles over bonus row

President-General of the Nigeria Football and other Sports Supporters Club, Dr. Rauf Oladipo, has condemned, in strong terms, the Super Eagles’ rebellion over financial entitlements ahead of tomorrow’s crucial Round of 16 fixture against France.
Speaking at a world press conference in the city of Brasilia, yesterday, Ladipo described the players’ agitation for allowances as ill-timed and most unpatriotic, stressing that the players should be proud to represent their fatherland in a global tournament such as the World Cup.
“I wish to condemn in strong terms the players’ rebellion over allowance because it is very unpatriotic and a national embarrassment. Besides, it is ill-timed considering that we have a crucial match against France on Monday (tomorrow)” the Supporters Club boss noted.
“I’m happy that Mr. President has intervened in the matter and I expect the players to concentrate on their preparation for the game against France. With the assurance coming from President Goodluck Jonathan, I expect the Super Eagles to be inspired and highly motivated to go all out against France and make the Nigerians proud by beating France to move to the quarterfinal of the World Cup” Ladipo said.
IMO, why can’t they pay them? Why do they have to be in this situation? Smh

“D’banj Should Stop Copying Don Jazzy” – PR, Egor Efiok Slams Tonto Dikeh’s New Song

Egor Efiok, Publicist to stars like Oge Okoye, CEO of E4PR and Blogger Linda Ikeji’s ex-friend reacted to Tonto Dikeh’s song ‘Sugar Rush‘ featuring Dbanj..
She claims it is a rip-off of Donjazzy’s Dorobucci..
Here is what she wrote..
I think Tonto is okay on her own, so this isn’t about her.
I have disliked D’banj since he stabbed his true friend, Don Jazzy, in the back. He’s also very arrogant, while Don Jazzy on the other hand, is extremely humble.
D’banj signing on Tonto and adding the corny ‘Lee’ after their names is reminiscent of the talented Mavin group and the ‘Doro’ prefixes to all their names; albeit a poor copycat version.
D’banj should be ashamed of himself. He abandoned Don Jazzy for Kanye and after the latter dumped him, he came back to Nigeria with his tail between his legs. He wasn’t even invited to their wedding. Lol.
D’banj has been doling out crap since he left Don Jazzy and even spoilt Iyanya’s Kukere with his nonsense remix.
D’banj should stick to being a businessman and stop copying Don Jazzy. If he clips his ego and goes back to beg IDJA, I’m sure he’d take him back cos he has a good heart.

Gunmen Attack Hotel In Bauchi Killing 13 & Leaving 34 Wounded

Thirteen people have been killed and 34 injured when gunmen in military uniforms attacked a well known hotel in Bauchi yesterday night. The police PRO of the state confirmed the incident this morning saying it was true and its such a sad incident, but survivors are currently receiving treatments.
According to an eye witness Malam Ahmed Maidoki who was watching highlights of the on-going world cup with his friends at the hotel said a loud explosion was first heard before the men who had positioned themselves at the four corners of the hall started shooting sporadically. Below is how he narrated it…
“We were just sitting down, watching highlights of the ongoing FIFA world cup at the viewing centre located in between the two story building of the hotel when five men dressed in military uniform strolled in.
“We thought they were security personnel, who came to relax as well. I noticed they all positioned themselves at the four corners of the hall.
“The next thing I heard was an explosion, after which the arena was covered with thick smoke. Shivering, my friends and I sprawled on the ground.
“We were trying to get out when the five men started shooting sporadically at any one who tried to stand up, and in the process, killing many of the survivors of the blast’’, he said.

Don Jazzy Likes Tonto Dikeh’s new song Suga Rush

The controversy surrounding Dbanj’s new artist Tonto Dikeh(Pokolee) has attracted the attention of Marvin boss, Don Jazzy. Since the released of Tonto Dikeh’s new single, Suga Rush, so many people have been saying it sounds like Mavin Record’s massive hit, Dorobucci which features all the artists of the record label including award winning Tiwa Savage.
To silence the talk, he posted the above picture which shows his support for the new Tonto Dikeh jam. A lot of people have misinterpreted his post as him mocking Dbanj and Tonto Dikeh new song. If he wanted to mock the song, we all know he will say it out-rightly but that is not the case as he truly likes the song I guess…..

15 Of Ugliest Wedding Dresses On Instagram

Photo: Facebook   We’ve seen a lot of things on Instagram. A lot. But we’ve never seen something as blatantly irresponsible as this. Jackson, TN bride Shona Carter-Brooks got married on May 12, posting a photo of her unique walk down the aisle. The mother attached her one-month-old baby to the train of her heavily ruffled (alleged)Vera Wang dress. Connected by some sort of harness, attendees looked on as she dragged her baby down the aisle of Elam Baptist Church. Insane? We told you. Since the photos made their Facebook debut, they’ve gone viral created a very harsh public opinion of the mother. Shona-Carter felt this and took to the social media site to defend herself:

“People questioning what we do, commenting all negative, and just doing the most. We good though we covered by the Blood which never loose its power. So to the media, radio, news and whomever else wanting to talk about what WE do here you go: Media Media I see how it works regardless the situation or purpose people gone have something negative to say! The answer is we do what we want, when we want, as long as Jesus on our side everything worked out fine and gona continue to be fine.”

And later added:

“FB family & friends we are outstanding! See we not weary in well doing, for in due season this too shall pass! We rejoicing for we’re too driven to be drowned, victorious to be defeated, and content for God is able! We love you all for your support, love and encouraging words.”

Photo: Facebook

Yea… not much meat in this defense. She has not directly explained why she did this, but at this point, people are more concerned with the general safety of her child.
Photo: Instagtam   Aside from the tacky ceremony and questionable reasoning, there was one thing we couldn’t help but notice: her dress was over-the-top! But she’s not the only bride to wear an unsightly wedding dress. It happens everyday. See some of the worst wedding dresses on Instagram (please note: many of these are from TLC’s “My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding”). Source

Sale Of Sex Toys: Nigerians Are Bunch of Hypocrites- Bisi Ibidapo Obe

Nollywood actress Bisi Ibidapo Obe has said Nigerians are way behind in thinking and wonders if it is a crime to sell sex toys. While speaking to Sun Newspaper, Bisi said Nigerians pretend a lot about their sex lives and even though she mostly sells men and female underwear, she wonders if it is a crime to sell sex toys too.  Hear her;

If I sell sex toys so what? Nigerians are a bunch of hypocrites. They make issues out of non-issues. When I travelled to London I saw some newly wedded couples buying sex toys but back here, Nigerians believe that those that buy sex toys are harlots. In fact, there is dignity in the use of sex toys. I am not into the sales of only sex toys but there is a big market for them."

Cameroon Army Kills 10 Suspected Boko Haram Militants

 

 

Cameroon security forces have killed at least 10 suspected Boko Haram militants in three clashes in the north of the country near its border with Nigeria, a senior military official said on Thursday.
Cameroon has deployed over 1,000 troops along the  border after it came under pressure from its neighbor for not doing enough to counter the Islamist insurgents, who are suspected of using Cameroon as a base.
Boko Haram grabbed global attention after kidnapping more than 200 girls from a school in northeast Nigeria in April, since then the group has killed hundreds of civilians. It has also carried out attacks and kidnappings in Cameroon.
Cameroon defense forces killed six members of Boko Haram on Tuesday in the village of Wambache, Colonel Felix Nji Formekong, a regional military commander, told Reuters.
In a separate clash at another village on the same day, two other militants were killed, and another two were killed after a suspected Boko Haram convoy attacked a Cameroon army patrol in another village on Sunday, he added.
Boko Haram has waged a five-year campaign of attacks on civilians and security forces in northern Nigeria. But the mass kidnapping of the girls in April put the group in the global spotlight and drew pledges of a regional coordinated push against it.
A number of Westerners have been kidnapped in Cameroon’s remote north over the last year.

BREAKING NEWS: Ongoing attack in ‘Kautikari’ a village near ‘Chibok ‘

Report has it that an attack is currently ongoing in Kautikari village, seven kilometres away from Chibok town in the southern part of Borno state. Residents are said to have made distress call to journalists and security operatives in Maiduguri calling for urgent help. According to reports from Premium Times, a text message sent by a resident at about 9:30 a.m. reads; “Massive attack on Kautikari now. All security agencies should be notified, and call for divine help now.”
While an official of Department of Security Service (DSS) confirmed the attack to the newspaper. “Yes, we also received the report, I believe action is being taken about now…but no one has been able to ascertain the nature or magnitude of the attack for now”, said the security source.

Banky W’s Wardrobe Malfunction

Anything can happen on stage so artists are prepared to handle any shortcomings or mishap that would rob their fans of enjoying their performance.
Nigeria artist, Banky W experienced wardrobe malfunction as shown above when his pants gave way on stage. The experience artist shows us how he intelligently used his jacket to cover his tore trousers so that the the show must go one. Thank God that he noticed on time..lol

Maheeda Goes Gaga With A Friend After A Bottle of Something

Controversial gospel musician turned rough girl, Maheeda has a new friend who is just like her, if not worst and the ladies have been doing their thing, probably under the influence of the bottles. More photos below:

...Maheeda said she is enjoying her life with her new friend in Paris. No time!