LAGOS – IT was another black Sunday for The Guardian Newspapers as a gang of suspected armed robbers shot dead one of its journalists identified as Bayo Ohu.
Police sources said the bandits stormed the journalist’s No 9, Oyeniyi Street, Odukoya estate residence at the about 7.00 a.m. and forced their way into his apartment. They were said to had demanded for cash and other valuables which the journalist readily obliged.
After collecting the cash he had, they picked his lap-top before releasing some bullets into his stomach. He was said to had slumped and died almost immediately.
However, reports said while the robbery was going on, a neighbour had put a call to the police, but the bandits had successfully made good their escape before the police arrived.
But a team of anti-robbery squad on routine patrol in the area were reported to have given the armed gang a hot chase, forcing them to abandon their get away vehicle and fled.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Frank Mba, confirmed the incident but said it might be a case of assassination. Mba said the police had recovered the vehicle, an unmarked Toyota Camry used for the attack, assuring that a manhunt for the perpetrators had since begun.
In a related development, a team of anti- robbery squad from the Area E Command, Festac town Lagos has arrested two armed robbers in the area.
The suspects identified as Andrew Ilouere and Chinedu Nwokolie were arrested along the Lagos-Badagry expressway moments after they had successfully robbed one Paschal Anyawu.
They were said to have collected an un specified amount of money and other valuables from the victim but ran into the waiting hands of the patrol team.
Reports said when they were searched, a locally madeGuardian Newspapers with some live cartridges were recovered from them.
The police image maker also confirmed the arrest, adding that the suspects would be transferred to the SCID Panti, Yaba, Lagos for further investigation.
Sunday, 20 September 2009
Friday, 4 September 2009
Gambia frees jailed journalists
Six Gambian journalists who were jailed for criticising President Yahya Jammeh have been freed after he pardoned them.
A government statement confirmed the decree by Mr Jammeh but gave no reason for his decision.
The six were found guilty of defamation and sedition in August and sentenced to two years in jail.
They had questioned Mr Jammeh's declaration that the government was not responsible for the 2004 death of prominent journalist Deyda Hydara.
Mr Hydara, a vocal critic of strict media laws, was gunned down but nobody has been charged with his murder.
Since then the privately owned newspaper he edited, The Point, has incorporated into its masthead his photo, with the question: "Who killed Deyda Hydara?"
Another prominent journalist Chief Ebrima Manney went missing three years ago.
One of the journalists - Sarata Jabbi-Dibba, vice-president of the Gambia Press Union - confirmed to the AFP news agency that she had been released.
The agency reports that her five male colleagues left another prison on Thursday evening chanting "the truth will always prevail".
President Jammeh came to power through a coup in 1994 and has won three multi-party elections since then.
But amid claims of plots to oust him, dozens of people have been arrested and unlawfully detained, human rights groups say.
Courtesy; www.bbc.com/africa
A government statement confirmed the decree by Mr Jammeh but gave no reason for his decision.
The six were found guilty of defamation and sedition in August and sentenced to two years in jail.
They had questioned Mr Jammeh's declaration that the government was not responsible for the 2004 death of prominent journalist Deyda Hydara.
Mr Hydara, a vocal critic of strict media laws, was gunned down but nobody has been charged with his murder.
Since then the privately owned newspaper he edited, The Point, has incorporated into its masthead his photo, with the question: "Who killed Deyda Hydara?"
Another prominent journalist Chief Ebrima Manney went missing three years ago.
One of the journalists - Sarata Jabbi-Dibba, vice-president of the Gambia Press Union - confirmed to the AFP news agency that she had been released.
The agency reports that her five male colleagues left another prison on Thursday evening chanting "the truth will always prevail".
President Jammeh came to power through a coup in 1994 and has won three multi-party elections since then.
But amid claims of plots to oust him, dozens of people have been arrested and unlawfully detained, human rights groups say.
Courtesy; www.bbc.com/africa
Thursday, 3 September 2009
Police Raid News Of The People Office
Two policemen in mufti early this morning stormed the office of the News of The People, a softsell magazine, based in Ojodu, Lagos, to arrest either the publisher or the editor.
Informed sources revealed that the policemen said they were from Police Headquarters, Abuja, and working on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police to arrest either the publisher, the editor or both, over a story on the Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NACO), the magazine published recently.
The source added that the policemen claimed the IG said the story is capable of causing security threat in the country.
Meanwhile, Babatunde Oshinaya, the Admin Manager of the magazine, and a reporter, Lukmon Akintola have been arrested and taken to an unknown destination.
Informed sources revealed that the policemen said they were from Police Headquarters, Abuja, and working on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police to arrest either the publisher, the editor or both, over a story on the Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NACO), the magazine published recently.
The source added that the policemen claimed the IG said the story is capable of causing security threat in the country.
Meanwhile, Babatunde Oshinaya, the Admin Manager of the magazine, and a reporter, Lukmon Akintola have been arrested and taken to an unknown destination.
Tuesday, 1 September 2009
'No-music day' on Nigeria radio
Radio stations in Lagos have largely observed a call by Nigerian artists for a "No-Music Day" to protest at piracy and the non-payment of royalties.
The BBC's Fidelis Mbah in the city says some stations have instead played foreign music.
A musicians' spokesman said that many stations and nightclubs see obtaining music licences as an "alien idea".
Last week, a group of Lagos musicians organised an ongoing hunger strike to protest at rampant piracy.
Our correspondent says pirated CDs of popular albums are readily available on the city's streets, at a fraction of the official price.
Despite the occasional raid on the pirates' production outfits, security agents have failed to tame their activities, he says.
It is the first time Nigerian musicians have united to highlight their plight.
'Pain'
Nigerian Music Industry Coalition spokesman Efe Omorogbe said the failure to pay royalties was equivalent to making and distributing pirated CDs.
There are probably more radio stations in Lagos than in two other African countries put together. Lagos stations do not pay royalties," he told the BBC's Network Africa programme.
He said Nigeria had two royalty collection associations.
Radio stations often say they do not know which one collects for which catalogue.
"The system has failed to structure itself in such a way that people are compelled to pay," he said.
The musicians' indefinite hunger strike will be followed by a protest to the National Assembly, our correspondent says.
Lagos musician Funsho Olatunbosun, who goes by the stage name Xtreme, says piracy has really affected his income.
"All the artists are feeling the pain... we're not relying on the album [sales], we're only relying on shows," he said.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Are you taking part in Nigeria's "No-Music Day"? Do you buy pirated CDs? Let us know what you think about it, by using the postform below to send us your comments.
I felt for Nigerian artists, 95% of albums sold in d streets are pirated, govt are not helping issues they always claim to fight corruption but reverse was d case they like corruption d way fish likes water, everything in Nigeria is pirated even d air we breath, nigeria is one of d richest in oil they've kept on importing oil, what a shame of a country.
Arinze Umeweni, Abuja, Nigeria
Oh please! No power supply, the pipes are dry, schools are on strike, people are getting kidnapped. We've got bigger issues to worry about.
Kunle Oduwobi, Ogun State, Nigeria
It's definitely a perfect idea. Bravo Lagos artists. In Uganda, many artists have gone into oblivion because of that. I am one of them.
Jane Apio, Lira, Uganda
I think the idea here is correct but the implementation remain the issue, no amount of law our national assemble will ever produce without enforcement from the heart of our law enforcement agencies that will ever produce positive change, this change will come from you and me who will join hand together to fight the good fight, all Nigerian artist should come together as a team, identify that one enemy, join hand the pull the trigger and have the enemy kingdom pulled down, this goal is achievable.
Ras Jeluna, PH, Nigeria
It is not only music that is pirated in Nigeria. Books are also pirated, even household goods, toiletries, soaps, etc are pirated - virtually everything in Nigeria is pirated. Do we all go on hunger strike? Though I sympathise with the musicians, but some of them are just happy to hear their music played on radio, thus giving them free publicity. They should learn to live with what Nigeria has turned out to be - THE JUNGLE - where the rule is survival of the fittest. The government is on indefinite leave.
Segiru Sule, Ibadan
A labourer deserves his wages. Why are people reaping where they did not sow? So stand firm and fight for your right.
Victor-Davis Eche, Awka
For decades, imported music has been bootlegged in the country with no protest from the industry .Now the chicken has finally come home to roost. Suck it up guys with your sorry music.
Charlie Igbonoba, Dallas, Tx USA
Corruption in Nigeria from presidency to common Nigerian so piracy continues...
Declan Egbusuo, Nkume Njaba Biafra
Hey, leave the musician they too are pirating foreign albums and is vice-versa, let them shout, piracy continues...James Badboy, Lagos, Nigeria
Yes, the musicians are really suffering as a result of our unregulated check economy. The govt. need to come in to salvage the music industry in one hand and the artist on the other hand.
Mr Esabu Monday, Agadaga Ewohimi, Edo State, Nigeria
its really disastrous because i was in Abuja early this year when the Nigerian major musicians attends comedy events, just to earn a living, while their Cds is everywhere in the market.
Jonas E. ThankGod, Madrid
What is this nonsense about no music day? Why can't the country not get serious in eradicating poverty. Despite the oil from the delta region, the cocoa from the west and midwestern region, the palm oil from the eastern region the groundnuts and the cattle from the northern region, the rubber from the midwestern and southeastern regions of the country plus precious solid minerals in all parts of the country there are no basic amenities for all the population. Even in the commercial city of Lagos 95% of the city do not have pipe borne water flowing through the taps to drink and even flush the toilets. What a shame. A big shame indeed. I learnt that the governor of Lagos state is beautifying the city, when there is no electricity in constant supply and pipe borne water. Get serious Nigeria. The country is being laughed at from serious nations around the world after so many years of self rule. Stop this no music day and get the country off poverty. Mind you observers don't go to the GRA, Victoria Island or Ikoyi. They go to areas that have been neglected.
Dr. Eng. William. Gillbeak, London Unitied Kingdom
I support you with all my life. we have been robbed for too long.
Oyet, Ukatejit, Calabar, Nigeria
This's just a nonsense. How's the music industry beneficial to the Nigerian Federation? After all the parliament and the executives have already failed to provide the dividend of the so-called democracy to their people, so what next do they expect from them?
Tijjani Bukar, Damaturu, Nigeria
It sad that our musicians are not getting compensated for their talents due to nefarious activities of some unscrupulous individuals. Piracy is an up hill battle for the music and movie industries in Nigeria. Due to the current economic downturn in the country, a lot of people find the pirated CDs cheaper than the original ones. For as long as people are buying pirated CDs, the industry will remain vibrant and lucrative. It is had time the national assembly join our artistes in the fight against pirated CDs and payment of royalties to the musicians. There is no doubt that the livelihood of our artistes is in jeopardy. My fellow Nigerians should boycott pirated CDs and help are artistes to grow.
Omorodion Osula, Boston, USA
I support Nigeria musicians. This idea it will help them 2 develop the activities of music in Nigeria.
Yakubu Peter, Kano, Nigeria
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8231227.stm
The BBC's Fidelis Mbah in the city says some stations have instead played foreign music.
A musicians' spokesman said that many stations and nightclubs see obtaining music licences as an "alien idea".
Last week, a group of Lagos musicians organised an ongoing hunger strike to protest at rampant piracy.
Our correspondent says pirated CDs of popular albums are readily available on the city's streets, at a fraction of the official price.
Despite the occasional raid on the pirates' production outfits, security agents have failed to tame their activities, he says.
It is the first time Nigerian musicians have united to highlight their plight.
'Pain'
Nigerian Music Industry Coalition spokesman Efe Omorogbe said the failure to pay royalties was equivalent to making and distributing pirated CDs.
There are probably more radio stations in Lagos than in two other African countries put together. Lagos stations do not pay royalties," he told the BBC's Network Africa programme.
He said Nigeria had two royalty collection associations.
Radio stations often say they do not know which one collects for which catalogue.
"The system has failed to structure itself in such a way that people are compelled to pay," he said.
The musicians' indefinite hunger strike will be followed by a protest to the National Assembly, our correspondent says.
Lagos musician Funsho Olatunbosun, who goes by the stage name Xtreme, says piracy has really affected his income.
"All the artists are feeling the pain... we're not relying on the album [sales], we're only relying on shows," he said.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Are you taking part in Nigeria's "No-Music Day"? Do you buy pirated CDs? Let us know what you think about it, by using the postform below to send us your comments.
I felt for Nigerian artists, 95% of albums sold in d streets are pirated, govt are not helping issues they always claim to fight corruption but reverse was d case they like corruption d way fish likes water, everything in Nigeria is pirated even d air we breath, nigeria is one of d richest in oil they've kept on importing oil, what a shame of a country.
Arinze Umeweni, Abuja, Nigeria
Oh please! No power supply, the pipes are dry, schools are on strike, people are getting kidnapped. We've got bigger issues to worry about.
Kunle Oduwobi, Ogun State, Nigeria
It's definitely a perfect idea. Bravo Lagos artists. In Uganda, many artists have gone into oblivion because of that. I am one of them.
Jane Apio, Lira, Uganda
I think the idea here is correct but the implementation remain the issue, no amount of law our national assemble will ever produce without enforcement from the heart of our law enforcement agencies that will ever produce positive change, this change will come from you and me who will join hand together to fight the good fight, all Nigerian artist should come together as a team, identify that one enemy, join hand the pull the trigger and have the enemy kingdom pulled down, this goal is achievable.
Ras Jeluna, PH, Nigeria
It is not only music that is pirated in Nigeria. Books are also pirated, even household goods, toiletries, soaps, etc are pirated - virtually everything in Nigeria is pirated. Do we all go on hunger strike? Though I sympathise with the musicians, but some of them are just happy to hear their music played on radio, thus giving them free publicity. They should learn to live with what Nigeria has turned out to be - THE JUNGLE - where the rule is survival of the fittest. The government is on indefinite leave.
Segiru Sule, Ibadan
A labourer deserves his wages. Why are people reaping where they did not sow? So stand firm and fight for your right.
Victor-Davis Eche, Awka
For decades, imported music has been bootlegged in the country with no protest from the industry .Now the chicken has finally come home to roost. Suck it up guys with your sorry music.
Charlie Igbonoba, Dallas, Tx USA
Corruption in Nigeria from presidency to common Nigerian so piracy continues...
Declan Egbusuo, Nkume Njaba Biafra
Hey, leave the musician they too are pirating foreign albums and is vice-versa, let them shout, piracy continues...James Badboy, Lagos, Nigeria
Yes, the musicians are really suffering as a result of our unregulated check economy. The govt. need to come in to salvage the music industry in one hand and the artist on the other hand.
Mr Esabu Monday, Agadaga Ewohimi, Edo State, Nigeria
its really disastrous because i was in Abuja early this year when the Nigerian major musicians attends comedy events, just to earn a living, while their Cds is everywhere in the market.
Jonas E. ThankGod, Madrid
What is this nonsense about no music day? Why can't the country not get serious in eradicating poverty. Despite the oil from the delta region, the cocoa from the west and midwestern region, the palm oil from the eastern region the groundnuts and the cattle from the northern region, the rubber from the midwestern and southeastern regions of the country plus precious solid minerals in all parts of the country there are no basic amenities for all the population. Even in the commercial city of Lagos 95% of the city do not have pipe borne water flowing through the taps to drink and even flush the toilets. What a shame. A big shame indeed. I learnt that the governor of Lagos state is beautifying the city, when there is no electricity in constant supply and pipe borne water. Get serious Nigeria. The country is being laughed at from serious nations around the world after so many years of self rule. Stop this no music day and get the country off poverty. Mind you observers don't go to the GRA, Victoria Island or Ikoyi. They go to areas that have been neglected.
Dr. Eng. William. Gillbeak, London Unitied Kingdom
I support you with all my life. we have been robbed for too long.
Oyet, Ukatejit, Calabar, Nigeria
This's just a nonsense. How's the music industry beneficial to the Nigerian Federation? After all the parliament and the executives have already failed to provide the dividend of the so-called democracy to their people, so what next do they expect from them?
Tijjani Bukar, Damaturu, Nigeria
It sad that our musicians are not getting compensated for their talents due to nefarious activities of some unscrupulous individuals. Piracy is an up hill battle for the music and movie industries in Nigeria. Due to the current economic downturn in the country, a lot of people find the pirated CDs cheaper than the original ones. For as long as people are buying pirated CDs, the industry will remain vibrant and lucrative. It is had time the national assembly join our artistes in the fight against pirated CDs and payment of royalties to the musicians. There is no doubt that the livelihood of our artistes is in jeopardy. My fellow Nigerians should boycott pirated CDs and help are artistes to grow.
Omorodion Osula, Boston, USA
I support Nigeria musicians. This idea it will help them 2 develop the activities of music in Nigeria.
Yakubu Peter, Kano, Nigeria
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8231227.stm
Monday, 31 August 2009
Sokoto Govt under pressure to recall suspended journalists
Concerned stakeholders in the media industry in Sokoto State are mounting pressures on Governor Aliyu Wamakko and the state Ministry of Information to recall two journalists of the state radio who were recently suspended by the ministry.
The two journalists, Abdulnasir Abubakar, a news editor and Abubakar Isa, a reporter, of Sokoto State owned Rima Radio were suspended for reporting that the state’s Ramadan feeding programme breached meal specifications given by the state government.
The state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in a reaction described as hasty, the decision to suspend the journalists. The state chairman of the NUJ Alhaji Sajo Sayyinna in press statement advised the ministry and management of Rima Radio to, in the interest of fair play and professionalism, reverse the decision. The state council of the NUJ also urged the ministry and management to investigate the various feeding centres in line with what is being provided by government. The NUJ disclosed that the case had already been referred to its ethics and disciplinary committee for necessary action.
Commenting on the suspension order, the chairman, correspondents chapel, Mallam Abdullahi Elkurebe, said in the interest of justice and fair play, the ministry and Rima Radio management should not have just suspended the two journalists but should have looked properly into their report with a view to determine its veracity.
It was further learnt that the two reporters, having visited various centres established for the Ramadan feeding programme, found out that people were not being fed in accordance with the government’s specification in view of the release of N100 million for the exercise designed purposely to assist the less privileged.
The two journalists, Abdulnasir Abubakar, a news editor and Abubakar Isa, a reporter, of Sokoto State owned Rima Radio were suspended for reporting that the state’s Ramadan feeding programme breached meal specifications given by the state government.
The state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in a reaction described as hasty, the decision to suspend the journalists. The state chairman of the NUJ Alhaji Sajo Sayyinna in press statement advised the ministry and management of Rima Radio to, in the interest of fair play and professionalism, reverse the decision. The state council of the NUJ also urged the ministry and management to investigate the various feeding centres in line with what is being provided by government. The NUJ disclosed that the case had already been referred to its ethics and disciplinary committee for necessary action.
Commenting on the suspension order, the chairman, correspondents chapel, Mallam Abdullahi Elkurebe, said in the interest of justice and fair play, the ministry and Rima Radio management should not have just suspended the two journalists but should have looked properly into their report with a view to determine its veracity.
It was further learnt that the two reporters, having visited various centres established for the Ramadan feeding programme, found out that people were not being fed in accordance with the government’s specification in view of the release of N100 million for the exercise designed purposely to assist the less privileged.
Friday, 28 August 2009
My Arrest and Release
I had another brush with Nigerian security agents on wednesday 26th August, 2009 and below are some of the reports about my arrest and release.
My record is gradually increasing...6 arrests by the Police and 3 arrests by the State Security Service...still counting
PM NEWS REPORT
BBC Reporter Arrested, Freed
August 27, 2009 15:37, 511 views
By Paul Dada
A British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reporter, Fidelis Mbah, has explained how he was arrested and later freed by officers of the State Security Service, SSS.
The Nigerian-born Mbah was arrested at the VIP Lounge Press Centre of the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Ikeja, while doing a live telephone interview with the BBC’s London office.
According to him, “SSS detained me today at the airport for about an hour. They claimed I was not authorised to gain access to the VIP lounge press centre at the airport. I was doing a live phone interview with my London studio when they ordered me to stop and locked me inside their office. They seize my phone and ID card and threatened to take me to Shangisha.”
Mbah said it was after the intervention of some journalists, who pleaded with the SSS men, that he was released.
http://thepmnews.com/2009/08/27/bbc-reporter-arrested-freed
----------
IT WAS ALSO PUBLISHED BY www.pointblanknews.com
Date Published: 08/26/09
BBC Reporter detained in Lagos
Fidelis Mba, a reporter with the British Broadcasting Service was today arrested and detained for several hours by the State Security Operatives, SSS, in Lagos.
Mba who was conducting an interview at the VIP wing of the Lagos Airport was almost wisked away to Shangisha, the dreaded detention camp used to torture journalists and pro democracy activists by the late General Sanni Abacha.
He was later released after scores of journalist pleaded on his behalf. His identification card and other valuables were seized.
http://pointblanknews.com/os2078.html
My record is gradually increasing...6 arrests by the Police and 3 arrests by the State Security Service...still counting
PM NEWS REPORT
BBC Reporter Arrested, Freed
August 27, 2009 15:37, 511 views
By Paul Dada
A British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reporter, Fidelis Mbah, has explained how he was arrested and later freed by officers of the State Security Service, SSS.
The Nigerian-born Mbah was arrested at the VIP Lounge Press Centre of the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Ikeja, while doing a live telephone interview with the BBC’s London office.
According to him, “SSS detained me today at the airport for about an hour. They claimed I was not authorised to gain access to the VIP lounge press centre at the airport. I was doing a live phone interview with my London studio when they ordered me to stop and locked me inside their office. They seize my phone and ID card and threatened to take me to Shangisha.”
Mbah said it was after the intervention of some journalists, who pleaded with the SSS men, that he was released.
http://thepmnews.com/2009/08/27/bbc-reporter-arrested-freed
----------
IT WAS ALSO PUBLISHED BY www.pointblanknews.com
Date Published: 08/26/09
BBC Reporter detained in Lagos
Fidelis Mba, a reporter with the British Broadcasting Service was today arrested and detained for several hours by the State Security Operatives, SSS, in Lagos.
Mba who was conducting an interview at the VIP wing of the Lagos Airport was almost wisked away to Shangisha, the dreaded detention camp used to torture journalists and pro democracy activists by the late General Sanni Abacha.
He was later released after scores of journalist pleaded on his behalf. His identification card and other valuables were seized.
http://pointblanknews.com/os2078.html
Saturday, 15 August 2009
Journalist Alleges Threat to Life
The South-South Bureau Chief of Champion Newspapers, Mr. Tony Ita Etim, has written a protest letter to the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Mr. Bala Hassan, alleging threat to his life by some suspected Islamic extremists.
In the letter dated August 12, 2009 to the police chief, the journalist said, ''i write to intimate you that I have been receiving several telephone calls from a section of the society who claimed to be Moslems threatening to beat me or kill me''.
According to him, ''these calls came in Friday July 31, 2009. The callers are claiming that they are reacting to an article titled DRUMS OF WAR which was published in my column called AKPANIKO. Though most of the callers have hidden their numbers, some callers’ numbers were opened and these numbers are 08039266105, 08036388469 and 07030803077' '.
''On Tuesday, August 11, 2009''; he went on, ''a new dimension was added when a caller with number 084764210 threatened to send assassins after me. He alleged that in 2003 at the New Covenant Anglican Church, Amadi Flat during the child dedication of a staff of AGIP, one Engineer Nwabueze I took his pictures and publish same without his permission; which is a lie''.
''I know Nwabueze and was invited for the said ceremony. I did not attend his child dedication because I was out of Port Harcourt. The first time I went to that Church was when then Rivers State Information Commissioner now Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Mr. Magnus Abe, dedicated his son, Peter. I did not take any picture. My second visit to the church was in 2008 when the Chairman of the Federated Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr. Lawson Heyford held a thanksgiving service for his wife, Bright, who survived a cancer operation. Also I did not take pictures because I didn’t own a camera as at that time'', he said in the letter.
Continuing, he added, ''i would appeal to you to use your good office to investigate these callers, their motives as well as arrest and prosecute them. I am a law abiding citizen of this country and if in the course of my duty as a reporter anybody is aggrieved with my opinion, such persons have the right to go to court and seek legal redress than resort to threat of violence and assassinations.
''Sir, I would also ask for police protection as I have been observing strange faces trailing me and coming to my office under the guise of doing one business or the other and at the end they end up not doing anything rather than waiting and asking for names of my colleagues in a bid to identify who among them is Tony Ita Etim.
''Sir, I count on your assistance as my life is in danger.''
In the mean time, Journalists for Niger Delta (JODEL), a media group concerned with the affairs of Nigeria's oil and gas region has warned that any harm to the journalist could trigger a religious conflict that will further worsen the situation in the Niger Delta.
An official of the media group, Mr. Daniel Abia, told our correspondent on telephone on Saturday that they are confident that Mr. Hassan, the police boss, will not allow the threat to the life of the journalist, to degerate.
''While we are watching the situation, JODEL will like to say at this point that we have confidence in the competence of the commissioner of police to handle the matter'', Mr. Abia said.
In the letter dated August 12, 2009 to the police chief, the journalist said, ''i write to intimate you that I have been receiving several telephone calls from a section of the society who claimed to be Moslems threatening to beat me or kill me''.
According to him, ''these calls came in Friday July 31, 2009. The callers are claiming that they are reacting to an article titled DRUMS OF WAR which was published in my column called AKPANIKO. Though most of the callers have hidden their numbers, some callers’ numbers were opened and these numbers are 08039266105, 08036388469 and 07030803077' '.
''On Tuesday, August 11, 2009''; he went on, ''a new dimension was added when a caller with number 084764210 threatened to send assassins after me. He alleged that in 2003 at the New Covenant Anglican Church, Amadi Flat during the child dedication of a staff of AGIP, one Engineer Nwabueze I took his pictures and publish same without his permission; which is a lie''.
''I know Nwabueze and was invited for the said ceremony. I did not attend his child dedication because I was out of Port Harcourt. The first time I went to that Church was when then Rivers State Information Commissioner now Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Mr. Magnus Abe, dedicated his son, Peter. I did not take any picture. My second visit to the church was in 2008 when the Chairman of the Federated Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr. Lawson Heyford held a thanksgiving service for his wife, Bright, who survived a cancer operation. Also I did not take pictures because I didn’t own a camera as at that time'', he said in the letter.
Continuing, he added, ''i would appeal to you to use your good office to investigate these callers, their motives as well as arrest and prosecute them. I am a law abiding citizen of this country and if in the course of my duty as a reporter anybody is aggrieved with my opinion, such persons have the right to go to court and seek legal redress than resort to threat of violence and assassinations.
''Sir, I would also ask for police protection as I have been observing strange faces trailing me and coming to my office under the guise of doing one business or the other and at the end they end up not doing anything rather than waiting and asking for names of my colleagues in a bid to identify who among them is Tony Ita Etim.
''Sir, I count on your assistance as my life is in danger.''
In the mean time, Journalists for Niger Delta (JODEL), a media group concerned with the affairs of Nigeria's oil and gas region has warned that any harm to the journalist could trigger a religious conflict that will further worsen the situation in the Niger Delta.
An official of the media group, Mr. Daniel Abia, told our correspondent on telephone on Saturday that they are confident that Mr. Hassan, the police boss, will not allow the threat to the life of the journalist, to degerate.
''While we are watching the situation, JODEL will like to say at this point that we have confidence in the competence of the commissioner of police to handle the matter'', Mr. Abia said.
Saturday, 20 June 2009
Ekiti Radio Shut
Police have taken over the premises of the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES) after a protest by its workers, which led to the sudden closure of the organisation.
The workers of the broadcasting house have beenengaged in an industrial disharmony with the management headed by Dr. Segun Aderiye.
The radio station went off air at about 4 p.m. on Friday followingthe redeployment of three leaders of the aggrieved workers. They have been having a running battle with the management for months, demanding Aderiye's removal as the director general, adding that it is the way peace can be guaranteed in the organisation.
Aderiye, while confirming the incident, said the station was shut down following the emergency congress called by the affected union leaders. He explained that letters of redeployment were served in the Ministry of Establishment and Trainingto the union leaders, but the letter did not state any reason.
Aderiye, who said he was not at the office when the incident occurred, added that efforts were already being made the management to get the station back on air.
Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, Oladipupo Awe, who also confirmedthe incident, said his men have already taken over the premises to forestall any breakdown of law and order, adding that the situation has been put under control. Efforts to get comment from the affected union leaders proved were to no avail.
Courtesy-Independent Newspaper
The workers of the broadcasting house have beenengaged in an industrial disharmony with the management headed by Dr. Segun Aderiye.
The radio station went off air at about 4 p.m. on Friday followingthe redeployment of three leaders of the aggrieved workers. They have been having a running battle with the management for months, demanding Aderiye's removal as the director general, adding that it is the way peace can be guaranteed in the organisation.
Aderiye, while confirming the incident, said the station was shut down following the emergency congress called by the affected union leaders. He explained that letters of redeployment were served in the Ministry of Establishment and Trainingto the union leaders, but the letter did not state any reason.
Aderiye, who said he was not at the office when the incident occurred, added that efforts were already being made the management to get the station back on air.
Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, Oladipupo Awe, who also confirmedthe incident, said his men have already taken over the premises to forestall any breakdown of law and order, adding that the situation has been put under control. Efforts to get comment from the affected union leaders proved were to no avail.
Courtesy-Independent Newspaper
Friday, 22 May 2009
SOLUDO'S THERAPY
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo yesterday in Awka, Anambra State, ordered journalists out of a conference where he was scheduled to deliver a paper.
Soludo was invited to deliver a lecture entitled “Financial sustainability in the Catholic Church’’ at the conference, organised by the Awka Diocese of the Catholic Church.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Soludo had hardly begun to speak when he noticed the presence of a horde of photographers and other journalists in the venue of the forum.
“Who are these?” he asked and when told that they were newsmen invited by organisers to cover the event, he threatened to discontinue the lecture until the “intruding” reporters were sent out of the hall. “I have the right to talk to my church, and my visit here is private,” Soludo said.
The request was immediately carried out by the organisers who asked the newsmen not only to leave the hall, but the entire premises of the Pastoral Retreat Centre, venue of the conference.
Soludo was invited to deliver a lecture entitled “Financial sustainability in the Catholic Church’’ at the conference, organised by the Awka Diocese of the Catholic Church.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Soludo had hardly begun to speak when he noticed the presence of a horde of photographers and other journalists in the venue of the forum.
“Who are these?” he asked and when told that they were newsmen invited by organisers to cover the event, he threatened to discontinue the lecture until the “intruding” reporters were sent out of the hall. “I have the right to talk to my church, and my visit here is private,” Soludo said.
The request was immediately carried out by the organisers who asked the newsmen not only to leave the hall, but the entire premises of the Pastoral Retreat Centre, venue of the conference.
Thursday, 7 May 2009
Partisan Journalism
I am getting quite disturbed with the conduct of some professional colleagues. I am disturbed cos am a member of the family and as such cannot run away from making observations to restore dignity to my cherished profession.
I find it hard to explain why some colleagues have lately thrown caution to the winds and embraced partisanship in the discharge of their duties. Am worried that professionalism has been thrown to the dust bin and what some colleagues are now wearing is 'coat of interest'.
I have been in Ekiti State , southwest Nigeria where a disputed election re-run has pitched the ruling PDP and the opposition AC. My experiences in the hands of my professional colleagues is not what i want to share with my wife during dinner so she does not lose her appetite.
Before i embarked on the trip to Ekiti State, I read and heard stories about how some journalists were harassed, beaten and assaulted by natives. I had this concern at the back of my mind and planned to thread with caution in terms of visibility.
But my findings on getting to Ekiti State were shocking. My colleagues were actually beaten up cos they were confirmed to have pitched their tents with the political parties. Almost all journalists belonged to a political camp even though they were not card carrying members.
Some were given special accomodation at 3-star hotels and they never hid it that they were on the payroll of the parties.
Some colleagues were willing tools of propaganda and concerned themselves more with spreading rumuors than carrying out their duties. I don't want to mention names but to say i was disappointed with the conduct of some colleagues i had respect for prior to the Ekiti disgrace is an understatement.
So why wont we get beaten up by our readers/listeners/ viewers?
There has to be a change in attitude and am appealing to individuals cos the Nigeria Union of Journalists now seems to be a toothless bulldog.
Change in attitude is definitely inevitable.
I find it hard to explain why some colleagues have lately thrown caution to the winds and embraced partisanship in the discharge of their duties. Am worried that professionalism has been thrown to the dust bin and what some colleagues are now wearing is 'coat of interest'.
I have been in Ekiti State , southwest Nigeria where a disputed election re-run has pitched the ruling PDP and the opposition AC. My experiences in the hands of my professional colleagues is not what i want to share with my wife during dinner so she does not lose her appetite.
Before i embarked on the trip to Ekiti State, I read and heard stories about how some journalists were harassed, beaten and assaulted by natives. I had this concern at the back of my mind and planned to thread with caution in terms of visibility.
But my findings on getting to Ekiti State were shocking. My colleagues were actually beaten up cos they were confirmed to have pitched their tents with the political parties. Almost all journalists belonged to a political camp even though they were not card carrying members.
Some were given special accomodation at 3-star hotels and they never hid it that they were on the payroll of the parties.
Some colleagues were willing tools of propaganda and concerned themselves more with spreading rumuors than carrying out their duties. I don't want to mention names but to say i was disappointed with the conduct of some colleagues i had respect for prior to the Ekiti disgrace is an understatement.
So why wont we get beaten up by our readers/listeners/ viewers?
There has to be a change in attitude and am appealing to individuals cos the Nigeria Union of Journalists now seems to be a toothless bulldog.
Change in attitude is definitely inevitable.
Saturday, 2 May 2009
Regulator Slaps Private Radio Fine over Sharp Practices
Nigeria's broadcast regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), fined private radio station Adaba FM 500,000 Naira (approx. US$3,350) for allegedly transmitting on 25 April "materials that were capable of inciting members of the public to violence and consequently leading to breakdown of law and order", while covering the re-run of the governorship elections in Ekiti State in the southwest.
Mr. Awwalu Salihu, NBC's head of public affairs, said in a statement that Adaba FM's broadcast of 9:30 a.m. (local time) of 25 April violated sections 3.1.2 and 1.4.4 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, adding that the commission gave the station until 8 May to pay up or "face higher sanction".
The letter of sanction was reportedly handed over to the acting general manager of the station, Mr. Joseph Alake, in the afternoon of 27 April.
The commission stressed its "determination to ensure that broadcasting stations play their indispensable role according to the rules of the game to ensure fairness and peace in the nation's political process."
The NBC was not specific on what aspects of the station's programme breached the Broadcasting Code. As was the case on previous occasions when it sanctioned privately owned broadcasting stations, the NBC again did not follow the procedure specified in the Broadcasting Code which requires the commission to give a station an opportunity to defend itself before applying sanctions.
The NBC is viewed by many as lacking in independence as it is directly under the control of the minister of information and communications as well as the president.
It has been repeatedly accused of being quick to muzzle privately owned broadcast stations with little or no justification while turning a blind eye when government-owned stations violate the provisions of the Broadcasting Code, particularly during election periods.
Adaba FM is a private station running on the frequency modulated wave band and is based in Akure, the Ondo State capital, in south-west Nigeria.
Mr. Awwalu Salihu, NBC's head of public affairs, said in a statement that Adaba FM's broadcast of 9:30 a.m. (local time) of 25 April violated sections 3.1.2 and 1.4.4 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, adding that the commission gave the station until 8 May to pay up or "face higher sanction".
The letter of sanction was reportedly handed over to the acting general manager of the station, Mr. Joseph Alake, in the afternoon of 27 April.
The commission stressed its "determination to ensure that broadcasting stations play their indispensable role according to the rules of the game to ensure fairness and peace in the nation's political process."
The NBC was not specific on what aspects of the station's programme breached the Broadcasting Code. As was the case on previous occasions when it sanctioned privately owned broadcasting stations, the NBC again did not follow the procedure specified in the Broadcasting Code which requires the commission to give a station an opportunity to defend itself before applying sanctions.
The NBC is viewed by many as lacking in independence as it is directly under the control of the minister of information and communications as well as the president.
It has been repeatedly accused of being quick to muzzle privately owned broadcast stations with little or no justification while turning a blind eye when government-owned stations violate the provisions of the Broadcasting Code, particularly during election periods.
Adaba FM is a private station running on the frequency modulated wave band and is based in Akure, the Ondo State capital, in south-west Nigeria.
Friday, 17 April 2009
Youths New Drugs Discovery
GOMBE YOUTHS DRINK LIZARD EXCRETA AS INTOXICANT
LIZARD dropping has become the major intoxicant in Gombe as a sizeable number of youths in the state now depend on it for stimulation, investigation has shown.
Investigations revealed that the droppings have since taken over from Indian hemp and other drugs as the major stimulant in the state.
Youths, according to the investigation, take the droppings because of its potency as a strong intoxicant.
Newsmen also observed that the development had raised the value of the droppings, as it was no longer easy to find.
A user who spoke to on condition of anonymity, revealed that they usually assigned younger children to scout for the droppings after enticing them with token amounts.
‘’We just give them N5 or N10 to buy sweet or biscuit and they comb the nooks and crannies of the streets for the excreta,’’ he told newsmen after a monetary bargain.
Some youths arrested by the police for engaging in violence three weeks ago confirmed the shift from Indian hemp to lizard droppings.
Mr Hosea Karma, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Gombe, told newsmen that the youths had confessed to using the droppings to intoxicate them before engaging in their nefarious activities.
‘’When asked what they normally take before engaging in violence, some of them revealed that Indian hemp was no longer potent, and that lizard dropping was stronger,’’ he said.
‘’There is the need for parents to really wake up to their responsibilities of proper up-bringing of their children, to make it easy for the authorities to complement their efforts,’’ Karma advised.
On his part, Mr. Ishaku Iliya, Commander of NDLEA in Gombe, told newsmen that his men were yet to come across such practice in the state.
Asked to confirm the potency of the lizard excreta as an intoxicant, the commander said the white portion of the droppings was a killer drug.
‘’The white portion is rich in ammonia which intoxicates and it is the one they go for. They soak and drink it or sometimes mix it with Indian hemp for enhanced effect,’’ he revealed.
LIZARD dropping has become the major intoxicant in Gombe as a sizeable number of youths in the state now depend on it for stimulation, investigation has shown.
Investigations revealed that the droppings have since taken over from Indian hemp and other drugs as the major stimulant in the state.
Youths, according to the investigation, take the droppings because of its potency as a strong intoxicant.
Newsmen also observed that the development had raised the value of the droppings, as it was no longer easy to find.
A user who spoke to on condition of anonymity, revealed that they usually assigned younger children to scout for the droppings after enticing them with token amounts.
‘’We just give them N5 or N10 to buy sweet or biscuit and they comb the nooks and crannies of the streets for the excreta,’’ he told newsmen after a monetary bargain.
Some youths arrested by the police for engaging in violence three weeks ago confirmed the shift from Indian hemp to lizard droppings.
Mr Hosea Karma, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Gombe, told newsmen that the youths had confessed to using the droppings to intoxicate them before engaging in their nefarious activities.
‘’When asked what they normally take before engaging in violence, some of them revealed that Indian hemp was no longer potent, and that lizard dropping was stronger,’’ he said.
‘’There is the need for parents to really wake up to their responsibilities of proper up-bringing of their children, to make it easy for the authorities to complement their efforts,’’ Karma advised.
On his part, Mr. Ishaku Iliya, Commander of NDLEA in Gombe, told newsmen that his men were yet to come across such practice in the state.
Asked to confirm the potency of the lizard excreta as an intoxicant, the commander said the white portion of the droppings was a killer drug.
‘’The white portion is rich in ammonia which intoxicates and it is the one they go for. They soak and drink it or sometimes mix it with Indian hemp for enhanced effect,’’ he revealed.
Private TV Alleges Threat to Operations
Galaxy Television alleges harassment
The management of Galaxy Television has raised alarm over threat to the life of its staff by agents of Ogun State Government, saying it would ensure that such threats coming from "a source with a historical reputation for violence" are investigated.
A statement by its President, Mr. Steve Ojo, said since the station commenced a five-part report on the state of insecurity in Ogun State, abuse of power and collapse of legislation on April 6, 2008 the station`s personnel had been subjected to undue harassment.
While the residence of its correspondent in Ogun State was burgled, a member of the State House of Assembly, one Hon. Amusan on April 11,threatened the lives of guests and a presenter on its weekly programme, Editors` Forum.
"Galaxy Television insists that threats to the life of its staff or guests will not be taken lightly," he said.
Galaxy Television is privately-owned and operates from Ibadan Oyo State and Lagos in South-West, Nigeria.
The management of Galaxy Television has raised alarm over threat to the life of its staff by agents of Ogun State Government, saying it would ensure that such threats coming from "a source with a historical reputation for violence" are investigated.
A statement by its President, Mr. Steve Ojo, said since the station commenced a five-part report on the state of insecurity in Ogun State, abuse of power and collapse of legislation on April 6, 2008 the station`s personnel had been subjected to undue harassment.
While the residence of its correspondent in Ogun State was burgled, a member of the State House of Assembly, one Hon. Amusan on April 11,threatened the lives of guests and a presenter on its weekly programme, Editors` Forum.
"Galaxy Television insists that threats to the life of its staff or guests will not be taken lightly," he said.
Galaxy Television is privately-owned and operates from Ibadan Oyo State and Lagos in South-West, Nigeria.
Thursday, 26 March 2009
The Punch condemns reporter’s detention
The management of The Punch newspapers has condemned the detention by the Police of its Chief Correspondent in Abuja, Mr. Olusola Fabiyi.
The correspondent was said to have gone to the Police headquarters, Abuja, to confirm a story when he was seized by personnel over his refusal to disclose the source of a story ran by the paper last Monday.
The paper had in the story quoted a statement by the Action Congress (AC), alleging that a prominent governor in the North-Central zone was co-ordinating the plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to kill former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Fabiyi, who was said to have insisted that the source was the party’s press release, The Punch management said, has been moved to Area 10 by the police, who also seized his telephone.
The company said it seriously "condemned the detention of an innocent journalist on a baseless excuse".
Source; the Nation Newspaper
NEWS HEADLINES;
1. PTDF: Court decides Obasanjo’s fate tomorrow
An Abuja High Court is set to resolve questions raised in a suit filed by two lawyers seeking the trial of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Barely a week after he expressed his readiness to face trial for any abuse of office, Obasanjo will tomorrow know his fate over the alleged mismanagement of over N1.2billion belonging to the Petroleum Technology Development Fund(PTDF).
A judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja, Justice Anwuli Chikere, yesterday fixed judgment for tomorrow in a suit seeking the trial of the ex-president over the PTDF fund.
Although Obasanjo is said to be out of the country, his lawyer had been notified of the judgment by the court.
2. Governors petition Yar’Adua, IG over plot to kill Tinubu
The six governors in the North-Central zone of the country have petitioned President Umaru Yar‘Adua and the Inspector- General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro, over the allegation by the Action Congress that one of them was behind the alleged plot to assassinate a former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
The governors, in the two-page petition signed on Wednesday by five of them, are demanding an investigation into the allegation.
The governors, who wrote the petition are the Chairman of North-Central Governors‘ Forum, Mr. Jonah Jang (Plateau); Mr. Gabriel Suswam (Benue); Alhaji Ibrahim Idris (Kogi); Dr. Bukola Saraki (Kwara); Alhaji Aliyu Doma (Nassarawa); and Dr. Babangida Aliyu (Niger).
According to the governors, Okiro’s investigation in the matter was imperative as the ”allegation is not only serious but weighty and should not be handled with levity.”
3. 19 Political Parties Agree on Mega Party
The expected formation of a mega political party is gradually taking shape with a coalition of 19 political parties' agreeing to come
together.
The parties include, faction of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), led by General Muhammadu Buhari, Action Congress (AC), Progressive Action Congress (PAC) and Tunji Braithwaite led Nigeria Action Party (NAP), Olu Falae led Democratic Peoples Alliance (DPA).
Others are, Peoples Mandate Party (PMP), Alliance for Democracy (AD), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Labour Party, Progressive Action Congress (PAC) and Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) among others.
The final decision will be taking in Lagos on April 7, where the name, logo and manifesto would be unfolded.
4. Gunmen Kill 8 Policemen in Delta CP’s Convoy
Eight policemen attached to the convoy of the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr Jacob Oshiomogor, were killed yesterday during an exchange of gunfire with armed robbers.
Mr Oshiomogho, however, escaped death by the whiskers. The attack took place at Ekpon, Igueben Local Government Council of Edo State, near Agbor, in Delta State.
Initially, the whereabouts of the Police chief could not be ascertained, but the Force Public Relations Officer, an ACP (ACP), Emmanuel Ojukwu, who confirmed the incident in Abuja, said Oshiomogho was alive and safe.
He, however, could not confirm the number of casualties.
The correspondent was said to have gone to the Police headquarters, Abuja, to confirm a story when he was seized by personnel over his refusal to disclose the source of a story ran by the paper last Monday.
The paper had in the story quoted a statement by the Action Congress (AC), alleging that a prominent governor in the North-Central zone was co-ordinating the plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to kill former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Fabiyi, who was said to have insisted that the source was the party’s press release, The Punch management said, has been moved to Area 10 by the police, who also seized his telephone.
The company said it seriously "condemned the detention of an innocent journalist on a baseless excuse".
Source; the Nation Newspaper
NEWS HEADLINES;
1. PTDF: Court decides Obasanjo’s fate tomorrow
An Abuja High Court is set to resolve questions raised in a suit filed by two lawyers seeking the trial of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Barely a week after he expressed his readiness to face trial for any abuse of office, Obasanjo will tomorrow know his fate over the alleged mismanagement of over N1.2billion belonging to the Petroleum Technology Development Fund(PTDF).
A judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja, Justice Anwuli Chikere, yesterday fixed judgment for tomorrow in a suit seeking the trial of the ex-president over the PTDF fund.
Although Obasanjo is said to be out of the country, his lawyer had been notified of the judgment by the court.
2. Governors petition Yar’Adua, IG over plot to kill Tinubu
The six governors in the North-Central zone of the country have petitioned President Umaru Yar‘Adua and the Inspector- General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro, over the allegation by the Action Congress that one of them was behind the alleged plot to assassinate a former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
The governors, in the two-page petition signed on Wednesday by five of them, are demanding an investigation into the allegation.
The governors, who wrote the petition are the Chairman of North-Central Governors‘ Forum, Mr. Jonah Jang (Plateau); Mr. Gabriel Suswam (Benue); Alhaji Ibrahim Idris (Kogi); Dr. Bukola Saraki (Kwara); Alhaji Aliyu Doma (Nassarawa); and Dr. Babangida Aliyu (Niger).
According to the governors, Okiro’s investigation in the matter was imperative as the ”allegation is not only serious but weighty and should not be handled with levity.”
3. 19 Political Parties Agree on Mega Party
The expected formation of a mega political party is gradually taking shape with a coalition of 19 political parties' agreeing to come
together.
The parties include, faction of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), led by General Muhammadu Buhari, Action Congress (AC), Progressive Action Congress (PAC) and Tunji Braithwaite led Nigeria Action Party (NAP), Olu Falae led Democratic Peoples Alliance (DPA).
Others are, Peoples Mandate Party (PMP), Alliance for Democracy (AD), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Labour Party, Progressive Action Congress (PAC) and Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) among others.
The final decision will be taking in Lagos on April 7, where the name, logo and manifesto would be unfolded.
4. Gunmen Kill 8 Policemen in Delta CP’s Convoy
Eight policemen attached to the convoy of the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr Jacob Oshiomogor, were killed yesterday during an exchange of gunfire with armed robbers.
Mr Oshiomogho, however, escaped death by the whiskers. The attack took place at Ekpon, Igueben Local Government Council of Edo State, near Agbor, in Delta State.
Initially, the whereabouts of the Police chief could not be ascertained, but the Force Public Relations Officer, an ACP (ACP), Emmanuel Ojukwu, who confirmed the incident in Abuja, said Oshiomogho was alive and safe.
He, however, could not confirm the number of casualties.
Thursday, 19 March 2009
‘Abducted’ National Life Abuja Bureau Chief surfaces in Bayelsa
The Abuja Bureau Chief of National Life newspaper, Mr. Akin Orimolade, who was snatched in Abuja on Tuesday by security operatives from Bayelsa State, yesterday surfaced in a Magistrate’s Court on the outskirts of Yenagoa.
He was brought to the court in Biogbolo, a few kilometres to Yenagoa, the state capital, by plain-clothes security men in a blue Mercedes Benz 190 car.
Orimolade, clad in a white long sleeves shirt and blue striped trousers, was received on arrival at about 11.25 a.m by his colleagues in the state.
He protested to Governor Timipre Sylva’s Special Adviser on Legal Matters Dennis Otiotio, who was in the court premises, that he "was abducted from Abuja".
But Otiotio said the security agents acted in accordance with a court order.
"It should have been done in a more decent way," Orimolade insisted, adding that he was lured to come and pick up an advertisement material for his paper by someone who claimed to be working for Silver Bird Cinema.
Surrounded by his colleagues, Orimolade said he was invited to City Plaza, Abuja where the transaction was to take place and was arrested there by some armed security personnel.
"I was arrested at City Plaza, Abuja. They brought tear gas, and bundled me into a car. Even in the bus, they held me as if I was about to abscond," he said.
Contrary to government’s claim that the security operatives acted on the orders of a Magistrate’s Court, Orimolade said: "We didn’t appear in any Magistrate’s Court".
He threatened to report Otiotio to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Orimolade said the security operatives locked him up with armed robbers in a police cell.
"They locked me up with armed robbers," he said.
Otiotio, who was with other members of the governor’s legal team, had a heated argument with the reporters.
He defended government’s action, claiming that Orimolade reported what was not true about the governor.
Orimolade’s trial could not, however, take place. He was taken away to an unknown destination by the security operatives.
Shedding light on why Orimolade’s arraignment could not hold, Otiotio said it was due to the absence of his lawyer, Femi Falana, and two other suspects still at large.
He said the government is ready to forgo the case if certain steps are taken.
Otiotio, who refused to name the magistrate that ordered Orimolade’s arrest, said neither the government nor the police could order the reporter’s release.
He said only the magistrate has the powers to order the release of Orimolade.
He said the offence against him is bailable, but bail can only be granted after he appeared in court.
"The magistrate ordered his arrest. The offence is bailable. The arraignment could not take place because his lawyer called to say he had transport problems, we should wait till the lawyer comes before he should be charged. We felt we should give respect as a senior colleague," Otiotio said, adding: "The arraignment will go on tomorrow (today) and the charges will be read in the court".
He went on: "He was charged with two others. Since they were not present, it could not go on. We don’t want to suffer him and that is why we want to severe the charges and charge him separately. When the other accused persons are arrested, they will be charged.
"The offence was jointly committed by them but to avoid being kept in court for long, his charges will be severed and he will be charged separately."
Otiotio expressed government’s preparedness to forgive the accused on some conditions.
According to him, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has intervened.
Otiotio said Orimolade was still in the custody of security operatives.
Police spokesman Iniobong Ibokette could not confirm the reporter’s whereabouts.
The Abuja Council of the NUJ has condemned the state government for Orimolade’s plight.
In a statement it issued yesterday by its Chairman, Mr. Timothy Elerewe, reads in part: "We strongly condemn the resort to brigandage in settling purely legal disputes. We also are not fooled by the belated step to frame charges against Mr. Akin Orimolade in a Yenagoa Magistrate’s Court which is outside the province of the ‘locus inquo’ of distant geographical jurisdiction.
"Governor Godwin Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State last year did it with impunity when he caused the police to kidnap Mr. Sam Asowata of the Fresh Facts newspaper from Abuja over alleged unpalatable story. Now, it is Governor Sylva. This is condemnable and we urge all democratic institution and civil society groups to condemn it.
Orimolade was arrested by policemen from Bayelsa in connection with a story in the January 31 edition of National Life where Sylva was said to have been involved in a brawl with a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at an Abuja hotel.
courtesy- the Nation Newspaper
He was brought to the court in Biogbolo, a few kilometres to Yenagoa, the state capital, by plain-clothes security men in a blue Mercedes Benz 190 car.
Orimolade, clad in a white long sleeves shirt and blue striped trousers, was received on arrival at about 11.25 a.m by his colleagues in the state.
He protested to Governor Timipre Sylva’s Special Adviser on Legal Matters Dennis Otiotio, who was in the court premises, that he "was abducted from Abuja".
But Otiotio said the security agents acted in accordance with a court order.
"It should have been done in a more decent way," Orimolade insisted, adding that he was lured to come and pick up an advertisement material for his paper by someone who claimed to be working for Silver Bird Cinema.
Surrounded by his colleagues, Orimolade said he was invited to City Plaza, Abuja where the transaction was to take place and was arrested there by some armed security personnel.
"I was arrested at City Plaza, Abuja. They brought tear gas, and bundled me into a car. Even in the bus, they held me as if I was about to abscond," he said.
Contrary to government’s claim that the security operatives acted on the orders of a Magistrate’s Court, Orimolade said: "We didn’t appear in any Magistrate’s Court".
He threatened to report Otiotio to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Orimolade said the security operatives locked him up with armed robbers in a police cell.
"They locked me up with armed robbers," he said.
Otiotio, who was with other members of the governor’s legal team, had a heated argument with the reporters.
He defended government’s action, claiming that Orimolade reported what was not true about the governor.
Orimolade’s trial could not, however, take place. He was taken away to an unknown destination by the security operatives.
Shedding light on why Orimolade’s arraignment could not hold, Otiotio said it was due to the absence of his lawyer, Femi Falana, and two other suspects still at large.
He said the government is ready to forgo the case if certain steps are taken.
Otiotio, who refused to name the magistrate that ordered Orimolade’s arrest, said neither the government nor the police could order the reporter’s release.
He said only the magistrate has the powers to order the release of Orimolade.
He said the offence against him is bailable, but bail can only be granted after he appeared in court.
"The magistrate ordered his arrest. The offence is bailable. The arraignment could not take place because his lawyer called to say he had transport problems, we should wait till the lawyer comes before he should be charged. We felt we should give respect as a senior colleague," Otiotio said, adding: "The arraignment will go on tomorrow (today) and the charges will be read in the court".
He went on: "He was charged with two others. Since they were not present, it could not go on. We don’t want to suffer him and that is why we want to severe the charges and charge him separately. When the other accused persons are arrested, they will be charged.
"The offence was jointly committed by them but to avoid being kept in court for long, his charges will be severed and he will be charged separately."
Otiotio expressed government’s preparedness to forgive the accused on some conditions.
According to him, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has intervened.
Otiotio said Orimolade was still in the custody of security operatives.
Police spokesman Iniobong Ibokette could not confirm the reporter’s whereabouts.
The Abuja Council of the NUJ has condemned the state government for Orimolade’s plight.
In a statement it issued yesterday by its Chairman, Mr. Timothy Elerewe, reads in part: "We strongly condemn the resort to brigandage in settling purely legal disputes. We also are not fooled by the belated step to frame charges against Mr. Akin Orimolade in a Yenagoa Magistrate’s Court which is outside the province of the ‘locus inquo’ of distant geographical jurisdiction.
"Governor Godwin Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State last year did it with impunity when he caused the police to kidnap Mr. Sam Asowata of the Fresh Facts newspaper from Abuja over alleged unpalatable story. Now, it is Governor Sylva. This is condemnable and we urge all democratic institution and civil society groups to condemn it.
Orimolade was arrested by policemen from Bayelsa in connection with a story in the January 31 edition of National Life where Sylva was said to have been involved in a brawl with a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at an Abuja hotel.
courtesy- the Nation Newspaper
Monday, 29 December 2008
Deliberate Blackout
I have tried as much as possible to update my blog since October that i last posted an item...but the harder i try the more i see reason to hold back.
I have been so annoyed with developments in the country that i felt if i should write anything i may commit treasonable felony and am not prepared to go to jail yet.
I have issues with the powers that be trying to muscle the media through arrests and closure of operations.
One other issue am not too happy with is hearing the rhetorics about 'respect for the rule of law' which i have my personal feelings about. What is respect for the rule of law when daily people's rights are being trampled upon?
I may have to continue in the new year when my mind calms down properly before i receive some unexpected visitors.
Compliments!
I have been so annoyed with developments in the country that i felt if i should write anything i may commit treasonable felony and am not prepared to go to jail yet.
I have issues with the powers that be trying to muscle the media through arrests and closure of operations.
One other issue am not too happy with is hearing the rhetorics about 'respect for the rule of law' which i have my personal feelings about. What is respect for the rule of law when daily people's rights are being trampled upon?
I may have to continue in the new year when my mind calms down properly before i receive some unexpected visitors.
Compliments!
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
Journalist's Albatros
A radio journalist in Niger Republic, Moussa Kaka, who was arrested over alleged contacts with Tuareg rebels in the north of the country has been released on bail.
Moussa Kaka, who is a reporter for Radio France International, had been held for more than a year.
Mr Kaka's lawyer said the appeals court had ordered him provisionally freed ahead of a trial by another court in the capital, Niamey.
Mr Kaka was arrested for speaking with rebels by telephone.
He was accused of undermining state security but last month the charge was downgraded to "actions liable to harm national defence".
Tuareg rebels have been fighting government troops in northern Niger, saying they want more autonomy and a fairer share of wealth.
Journalists have been banned from travelling to the north.
This is really a source of concern for journalists like me who have to keep close tabs on rebel leaders through telephones for breaking news.
Hope this law is not applied in Nigeria...i hope the passage of the FOI bill here will take care of this challenge.
Moussa Kaka, who is a reporter for Radio France International, had been held for more than a year.
Mr Kaka's lawyer said the appeals court had ordered him provisionally freed ahead of a trial by another court in the capital, Niamey.
Mr Kaka was arrested for speaking with rebels by telephone.
He was accused of undermining state security but last month the charge was downgraded to "actions liable to harm national defence".
Tuareg rebels have been fighting government troops in northern Niger, saying they want more autonomy and a fairer share of wealth.
Journalists have been banned from travelling to the north.
This is really a source of concern for journalists like me who have to keep close tabs on rebel leaders through telephones for breaking news.
Hope this law is not applied in Nigeria...i hope the passage of the FOI bill here will take care of this challenge.
Monday, 6 October 2008
Religious Fatwa on Rivers Television Journalist
I was disturbed over the reported religious fatwa declared on a journalist with Rivers State television for airing a documentary which allegedly potrayed a pentecostal church in bad light.
I wish this can be resolved and the Nigeria Union of Journalist moves in swiftly to protect the journalist from her present emotional trauma.
I have re-produced her petition to the Nigeria police and death threats.
Rivers State Television,
Elelenwo Complex,
Port Harcourt,
2nd October, 2008.
The Director
State Security Service.
Rivers State
Sir,
A Case of death Threat by Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries and his Congregation
I am compelled to bring to your knowledge the recent death threat made on my person by Pastor David Ibiyeomie of the Salvation Ministries Port Harcourt and his congregation. My name is Mrs Ibiene Rowland Ogundu and I work with the Rivers State Television as a reporter, Producer and presenter of programmes in the Current Affairs Division.
On the 27th of September 2008, at 10pm the Station aired a special report, a documentary of one hour duration which I jointly produced with my crew. The title of the episode was “PROSPERITY: Right Here, Right Now which was broadcast on the RSTV channel at 10pm.Shortly after the programme, I began receiving messages and calls in response to the programme, which was not unexpected.
However, at about 7.30 the following day being Sunday 28th of September I began receiving death threats from those who say they are loyalists and members of salvation ministries. Some of these members informed me through phone calls how their Pastor David Ibiyeomie had stood on the pulpit that morning and issued death threat and also mandated them to join forces with him to put an end to my life in what he describes as the misrepresentation of the church to the public.
To aid his members achieve his death plan for me, members told me he had given them my number and name by scrolling it across the giant screen on the altar for all to see, and copy in other to carry out their threats even when some of the members admit to being in the dark on the issues since they did not watch the said programme. The members also categorically said that Pastor David Ibiyeomie has also assured them that he will ensure that I do not live to see the end of October.
As at the time of writing this letter, the calls have not ceased as I have received over 2000 calls and death threats and countless text messages. The number and manner of these threats have become increasingly sickening. The threats are centred on my life and that of my family.
Sir, I am writing to appeal that you use your good office to protect my life and that of my family as well as look into this assassination threat by Pastor David Ibiyeomie, his allies and members of salvation ministries. I have had countless blackmail, insisting I go and apologize to Pastor David Ibiyeomie or ‘die’. Some others have passed their threats through families and friends claiming that David Ibiyeomie have vowed to kill me on or before October 31st 2008.
I also which to bring to your knowledge that the said programme which has given rise to this undue reactions has been a running programme on RSTV station, giving a deep and investigative insight into societal issues. As a professional of the Journalism profession and to the best of my ability wish to state here in that the said episode was a balanced report.
Nevertheless, while am about this I wish to say that under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria no one has the right to threaten my life or that of my family. I have only done my job as a journalist and therefore do not deserve to be blackmailed or threatened by those who claim to have absolute power to go against the constitution of the Country.
While I wait for your swift response and action on this death threat to me and my family, I sincerely thank you for your anticipated positive reaction to this petition.
Attached here -in are some of the transcribed text messages and phone numbers used in threatening my life by some members of the Salvation ministries carrying out the dictates of their General Overseer Pastor David Ibiyeomie.
Yours faithfully,
Ibiene Rowland Ogundu (Mrs.)
Text messages
08057880478
It is so sweet 2 see u depart from dis world bcos ur obituary has just been announced. Gud bye. Salvatn Ministry member.
07087669112
Ma Papa Pst David laid causes on u 4 wat u did wit our churchs name so u are a caused person by a man of God if u no wat is gd 4 u go ask God 4giveness bye.
08054865478
U hv tuc d lion tail cuz by David Ibiyeomie.
08053010880
YOU ARE CURSED.
08033454624
What a great expository insight on d state of d church in Port Harcourt. D people are gullible and lazy, data why all dis occultic pple I wnt call dem pastor, takes advantage of them. I think d cure 2 all dis mess is dat we need more teaching churches were d word is taught. Keep d good wrk on Pastor biodun. 07028539526
For insulting Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Salvation Ministry you and ur family are cursed 4 dis day evil will be ur portion. 08067944194
B4 u die go 2 Salvation Ministries n ask 4giveness, u have broken d law.
08056904123
Ibiene why did u allowed c be used by d devil? Do u tnk u can fight God? If God decided 2 fight u will u be able 2 stand? 0803313440
You want to fight God you are finished. 08039109328
Ebiyere: Ur mouth very dirt to talk about Salvation Ministry. Yet the curse of the Lord be upon ur life, ur husband, ur children and those that join on television programme yesterday are curse and u, Ebiyerei u are curse. Pastor David Ibiyeomie has curse u, and those that join u, ur husband children are curse. 08064742102
You who dare attack d church of God and His Servant, death sentence has been passed on u except God is not God, u will never live 2 see d end of 2008. 08032631560
Curse be upon ur marriage, upon ur life, upon ur finance, upon ur generation an upon ur relations 4 speaking evil against Gods Own Church an His servant u shall not have peace of mind in Jesus name amen 4 d Bible touch not my anointed an my prophet no harm. I am a member.
Cursed are u & everything about is 4 daring my Salvation Ministries and my Pastor’s image. Ur death is now. U big fool of RSTV. Great & complete fool. 0803890047.
If u know wat is gud 4 u u better go ask 4 4giveness if not u will not see nxt year dat means u go die oo u are curse my Salvation Ministry. 08038674337.
Ibiere Roland Ogwundy I’m glad 2 tell you that you’ve just signed your death warrant. 08074862520.
Ibene Roland Ogolo u are a dead person. 0806546397
08037447438
If you like answer we the church have put a curse upon you and your family and R.ST.V and the people working with you the food you eat is curse, the water you drink is curse, the bed you sleep with your husband is curse, every thing that has to do with you is curse so no way of escape disaster is on your way now. May you rest in the pit digged for the wicked ones like you, don’t want to know your name anymore bcos you are consumed n to know your name anymore bcos you are consumed in Jesus name. Amen. 08033843230
U hv brot d judgement of God upon ur life. U did dt d day u did dt d day u decided 2 insult d apple of God’s eyws. U hv signed ur death sentences mark my word, I’ll deny myself sleep 2 see dt u ro am around Rivers State naked, u r cursed in Jesus name. Amen. 08066603427
Ibiyere Roland, if u like Pi cur cals or not but just knw tdat live less than 7days on earth, u will knw how powerful d God of David Ibiyeomie. Start countin ur life. 08036831861
Some text missing to be used by the devil 2 challenge the church of Jesus Christ. If u love ur life, go there and confess.
IB what put u into dis disgrace b/c of money. Sorry u are heading to destruction b/c of ur ignorance and at the same time loosing ur life. Nawaa for u bye. 08036663886
U and ur household will never find peace b/c u are curse in name of Jesus. Amen. 08033409620
Mrs Ibiene or whatever ur name is, g’ve u chosen 2 torch God’s Anoited? Who gave u d impetus 2 say dos nasty false things u said about Salvation Ministries Glories Chapel Home of Success? U knows what 4 what u’ve done D wrath of God in upon u & ur family including everyone who assisted u in carrying out dis evil activity of urs. I am so sorry 4 u bcos u will know no peace from today tilled day u will come cowling & begging 4forgiveness. 08073459946
You are very foolish
080377852316.
U are been cursed 2 day I pity u cos grave has been duged am sure u do not know those he know those he has cursed b4. foolish stupid good girl go n beg.
08055363234
When d edge is broken d serpent bite for ever insulting Salvation Ministry every curse placed on u 2 day shall come 2 pass ur such a gisgushing frick IB. 07033532166
Speak no evil against a choosen. D cause datn upon u can only be broken if u wl go 2 d church kneel on d altar and as 4giveness. Be warned! 08070602641.
Are we complaining? I did u do that 2 our church? 08051276478.
Ibiene Rowland Ogundu read this Psalm 94:1 Judgment for going against. Psalm 105:15 as regards Pst Ibiyeomie. From member Salvation Ministries. 08080893632.
Are u Roynald, I have a word to tell u if u thoroughly love urself and u want to live in peace a better go now that is not let and apologize to Salvation Ministries because there are rely agree with u and let me give some small advise.
About the way you go about boldly say some stupid things about anointed man of God u better be careful what u say against man of God earlier u realize ur mistake the better for u. thank u. 08057296968
Together with your gang. 08032361119
You and your generation are cursed in Jesus name. Amen. 08032361119
This is just 2 inform u and ur gang dat ur falling has just started. 08035525382
Why do u allow urself 2 be used by devil 2 fight de church. 08063852209
Good morning Mrs. Ibiere. Pls I beg u 2 4get about everything u are doing dis morning and come down 2 d Salvation Ministry and plead Pastor David Ibieyomie for 4 forgiveness bcos the (cursed) u, ur family & any pastor who will pray 4 u under serious annoyance pls don’t ignore dis text. I am Mbakwe or Linus. 08077771784.
You who dare attack d church of God and His servant, a death sentence has been passed on u. Except God is not God u will never live 2 see d end of 2008. 08064742102.
You never know when your life in going down you have been cursed by Jehovah. 08056009667.
Re u aware that u nd ur family nd those who paid u 2 say negative things against the church of God. S.M u are under a curse try God. 08029178729
U want 2 no who us (David Ibieyeomie) n I nad al d world. Heaven and early have cus u and ur family. Thank God 4 cus.
07032210059
Pls for God sake repent of what u presented on d air yesterday about Salvation Ministry before d wrath of God will visit. See d man of God 4 4giveness be4 the end of to day. God will lead u. 08052072806
May God proper u, may u succeed. now u’ve said Amen, then you are doomed cos u hate it. Since u ve open ur mouth 2 condem ur only broad who God is using mightily are condemned already. 08056449408.
Mary I hear is ur name u are a fool 2 step on a man of (God) cus u have been cursed 2dey u and ur family and all ur supporters. If God curses who can judge. 07032210059
Bible said torch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm. All members of Glorious Chapel says bye to hell. 08077774464
It is so sweet 2 see u depart from dis world bcos ur obituary has just been announced. Gud bye. Salvation Ministry member. 08057880478.
4 attacking d church of Jesus Christ, u ve procured 4 urself n generation madness n untimely death bye bye to hell. 08037455089
I wish this can be resolved and the Nigeria Union of Journalist moves in swiftly to protect the journalist from her present emotional trauma.
I have re-produced her petition to the Nigeria police and death threats.
Rivers State Television,
Elelenwo Complex,
Port Harcourt,
2nd October, 2008.
The Director
State Security Service.
Rivers State
Sir,
A Case of death Threat by Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries and his Congregation
I am compelled to bring to your knowledge the recent death threat made on my person by Pastor David Ibiyeomie of the Salvation Ministries Port Harcourt and his congregation. My name is Mrs Ibiene Rowland Ogundu and I work with the Rivers State Television as a reporter, Producer and presenter of programmes in the Current Affairs Division.
On the 27th of September 2008, at 10pm the Station aired a special report, a documentary of one hour duration which I jointly produced with my crew. The title of the episode was “PROSPERITY: Right Here, Right Now which was broadcast on the RSTV channel at 10pm.Shortly after the programme, I began receiving messages and calls in response to the programme, which was not unexpected.
However, at about 7.30 the following day being Sunday 28th of September I began receiving death threats from those who say they are loyalists and members of salvation ministries. Some of these members informed me through phone calls how their Pastor David Ibiyeomie had stood on the pulpit that morning and issued death threat and also mandated them to join forces with him to put an end to my life in what he describes as the misrepresentation of the church to the public.
To aid his members achieve his death plan for me, members told me he had given them my number and name by scrolling it across the giant screen on the altar for all to see, and copy in other to carry out their threats even when some of the members admit to being in the dark on the issues since they did not watch the said programme. The members also categorically said that Pastor David Ibiyeomie has also assured them that he will ensure that I do not live to see the end of October.
As at the time of writing this letter, the calls have not ceased as I have received over 2000 calls and death threats and countless text messages. The number and manner of these threats have become increasingly sickening. The threats are centred on my life and that of my family.
Sir, I am writing to appeal that you use your good office to protect my life and that of my family as well as look into this assassination threat by Pastor David Ibiyeomie, his allies and members of salvation ministries. I have had countless blackmail, insisting I go and apologize to Pastor David Ibiyeomie or ‘die’. Some others have passed their threats through families and friends claiming that David Ibiyeomie have vowed to kill me on or before October 31st 2008.
I also which to bring to your knowledge that the said programme which has given rise to this undue reactions has been a running programme on RSTV station, giving a deep and investigative insight into societal issues. As a professional of the Journalism profession and to the best of my ability wish to state here in that the said episode was a balanced report.
Nevertheless, while am about this I wish to say that under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria no one has the right to threaten my life or that of my family. I have only done my job as a journalist and therefore do not deserve to be blackmailed or threatened by those who claim to have absolute power to go against the constitution of the Country.
While I wait for your swift response and action on this death threat to me and my family, I sincerely thank you for your anticipated positive reaction to this petition.
Attached here -in are some of the transcribed text messages and phone numbers used in threatening my life by some members of the Salvation ministries carrying out the dictates of their General Overseer Pastor David Ibiyeomie.
Yours faithfully,
Ibiene Rowland Ogundu (Mrs.)
Text messages
08057880478
It is so sweet 2 see u depart from dis world bcos ur obituary has just been announced. Gud bye. Salvatn Ministry member.
07087669112
Ma Papa Pst David laid causes on u 4 wat u did wit our churchs name so u are a caused person by a man of God if u no wat is gd 4 u go ask God 4giveness bye.
08054865478
U hv tuc d lion tail cuz by David Ibiyeomie.
08053010880
YOU ARE CURSED.
08033454624
What a great expository insight on d state of d church in Port Harcourt. D people are gullible and lazy, data why all dis occultic pple I wnt call dem pastor, takes advantage of them. I think d cure 2 all dis mess is dat we need more teaching churches were d word is taught. Keep d good wrk on Pastor biodun. 07028539526
For insulting Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Salvation Ministry you and ur family are cursed 4 dis day evil will be ur portion. 08067944194
B4 u die go 2 Salvation Ministries n ask 4giveness, u have broken d law.
08056904123
Ibiene why did u allowed c be used by d devil? Do u tnk u can fight God? If God decided 2 fight u will u be able 2 stand? 0803313440
You want to fight God you are finished. 08039109328
Ebiyere: Ur mouth very dirt to talk about Salvation Ministry. Yet the curse of the Lord be upon ur life, ur husband, ur children and those that join on television programme yesterday are curse and u, Ebiyerei u are curse. Pastor David Ibiyeomie has curse u, and those that join u, ur husband children are curse. 08064742102
You who dare attack d church of God and His Servant, death sentence has been passed on u except God is not God, u will never live 2 see d end of 2008. 08032631560
Curse be upon ur marriage, upon ur life, upon ur finance, upon ur generation an upon ur relations 4 speaking evil against Gods Own Church an His servant u shall not have peace of mind in Jesus name amen 4 d Bible touch not my anointed an my prophet no harm. I am a member.
Cursed are u & everything about is 4 daring my Salvation Ministries and my Pastor’s image. Ur death is now. U big fool of RSTV. Great & complete fool. 0803890047.
If u know wat is gud 4 u u better go ask 4 4giveness if not u will not see nxt year dat means u go die oo u are curse my Salvation Ministry. 08038674337.
Ibiere Roland Ogwundy I’m glad 2 tell you that you’ve just signed your death warrant. 08074862520.
Ibene Roland Ogolo u are a dead person. 0806546397
08037447438
If you like answer we the church have put a curse upon you and your family and R.ST.V and the people working with you the food you eat is curse, the water you drink is curse, the bed you sleep with your husband is curse, every thing that has to do with you is curse so no way of escape disaster is on your way now. May you rest in the pit digged for the wicked ones like you, don’t want to know your name anymore bcos you are consumed n to know your name anymore bcos you are consumed in Jesus name. Amen. 08033843230
U hv brot d judgement of God upon ur life. U did dt d day u did dt d day u decided 2 insult d apple of God’s eyws. U hv signed ur death sentences mark my word, I’ll deny myself sleep 2 see dt u ro am around Rivers State naked, u r cursed in Jesus name. Amen. 08066603427
Ibiyere Roland, if u like Pi cur cals or not but just knw tdat live less than 7days on earth, u will knw how powerful d God of David Ibiyeomie. Start countin ur life. 08036831861
Some text missing to be used by the devil 2 challenge the church of Jesus Christ. If u love ur life, go there and confess.
IB what put u into dis disgrace b/c of money. Sorry u are heading to destruction b/c of ur ignorance and at the same time loosing ur life. Nawaa for u bye. 08036663886
U and ur household will never find peace b/c u are curse in name of Jesus. Amen. 08033409620
Mrs Ibiene or whatever ur name is, g’ve u chosen 2 torch God’s Anoited? Who gave u d impetus 2 say dos nasty false things u said about Salvation Ministries Glories Chapel Home of Success? U knows what 4 what u’ve done D wrath of God in upon u & ur family including everyone who assisted u in carrying out dis evil activity of urs. I am so sorry 4 u bcos u will know no peace from today tilled day u will come cowling & begging 4forgiveness. 08073459946
You are very foolish
080377852316.
U are been cursed 2 day I pity u cos grave has been duged am sure u do not know those he know those he has cursed b4. foolish stupid good girl go n beg.
08055363234
When d edge is broken d serpent bite for ever insulting Salvation Ministry every curse placed on u 2 day shall come 2 pass ur such a gisgushing frick IB. 07033532166
Speak no evil against a choosen. D cause datn upon u can only be broken if u wl go 2 d church kneel on d altar and as 4giveness. Be warned! 08070602641.
Are we complaining? I did u do that 2 our church? 08051276478.
Ibiene Rowland Ogundu read this Psalm 94:1 Judgment for going against. Psalm 105:15 as regards Pst Ibiyeomie. From member Salvation Ministries. 08080893632.
Are u Roynald, I have a word to tell u if u thoroughly love urself and u want to live in peace a better go now that is not let and apologize to Salvation Ministries because there are rely agree with u and let me give some small advise.
About the way you go about boldly say some stupid things about anointed man of God u better be careful what u say against man of God earlier u realize ur mistake the better for u. thank u. 08057296968
Together with your gang. 08032361119
You and your generation are cursed in Jesus name. Amen. 08032361119
This is just 2 inform u and ur gang dat ur falling has just started. 08035525382
Why do u allow urself 2 be used by devil 2 fight de church. 08063852209
Good morning Mrs. Ibiere. Pls I beg u 2 4get about everything u are doing dis morning and come down 2 d Salvation Ministry and plead Pastor David Ibieyomie for 4 forgiveness bcos the (cursed) u, ur family & any pastor who will pray 4 u under serious annoyance pls don’t ignore dis text. I am Mbakwe or Linus. 08077771784.
You who dare attack d church of God and His servant, a death sentence has been passed on u. Except God is not God u will never live 2 see d end of 2008. 08064742102.
You never know when your life in going down you have been cursed by Jehovah. 08056009667.
Re u aware that u nd ur family nd those who paid u 2 say negative things against the church of God. S.M u are under a curse try God. 08029178729
U want 2 no who us (David Ibieyeomie) n I nad al d world. Heaven and early have cus u and ur family. Thank God 4 cus.
07032210059
Pls for God sake repent of what u presented on d air yesterday about Salvation Ministry before d wrath of God will visit. See d man of God 4 4giveness be4 the end of to day. God will lead u. 08052072806
May God proper u, may u succeed. now u’ve said Amen, then you are doomed cos u hate it. Since u ve open ur mouth 2 condem ur only broad who God is using mightily are condemned already. 08056449408.
Mary I hear is ur name u are a fool 2 step on a man of (God) cus u have been cursed 2dey u and ur family and all ur supporters. If God curses who can judge. 07032210059
Bible said torch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm. All members of Glorious Chapel says bye to hell. 08077774464
It is so sweet 2 see u depart from dis world bcos ur obituary has just been announced. Gud bye. Salvation Ministry member. 08057880478.
4 attacking d church of Jesus Christ, u ve procured 4 urself n generation madness n untimely death bye bye to hell. 08037455089
Thursday, 2 October 2008
More Dependence or Happy Independence?
It's been long since i posted stuff here...forgive me.
I took time off to get married, reposition myself at work and tidy up some loose ends.
I feel good to be back doing what i know how to do best.
My imagination has continued to run wild given recent developments in our polity and i dont know where to start from.
Am most disturbed at the rate which Nigerians are 'crazily' looking for money.
Imagine this report i read in our Vanguard newspaper today...
"A Nigerian man suffered a heart attack after cocaine capsules burst in his stomach, forcing a plane flying from Senegal to Spain to make an emergency landing in Morocco, airport officials and police said yesterday.
The man had taken ill during the flight on Sunday with a “heart condition caused by a drug overdose,” airport authorities said, with police confirming that a subsequent X-ray had revealed 62 cocaine capsules inside his stomach — two of which were found to be empty".
Am as shocked as you too.
Hope to continue from here moro while hoping things improve after 48 years of running around.
Happy Independence or is it 'wish you more dependence?
I took time off to get married, reposition myself at work and tidy up some loose ends.
I feel good to be back doing what i know how to do best.
My imagination has continued to run wild given recent developments in our polity and i dont know where to start from.
Am most disturbed at the rate which Nigerians are 'crazily' looking for money.
Imagine this report i read in our Vanguard newspaper today...
"A Nigerian man suffered a heart attack after cocaine capsules burst in his stomach, forcing a plane flying from Senegal to Spain to make an emergency landing in Morocco, airport officials and police said yesterday.
The man had taken ill during the flight on Sunday with a “heart condition caused by a drug overdose,” airport authorities said, with police confirming that a subsequent X-ray had revealed 62 cocaine capsules inside his stomach — two of which were found to be empty".
Am as shocked as you too.
Hope to continue from here moro while hoping things improve after 48 years of running around.
Happy Independence or is it 'wish you more dependence?
Monday, 23 June 2008
Adieu Oliver De-Coque
The Nigerian entertainment and showbiz industry have been thrown into a mourning mood as the cold hand of death Friday snatched Chief Sunday Oliver Akanita, popularly known as Oliver de-Coque.
His death is coming barely two weeks after the entertainment world suffered a devastating loss with the death of Evangelist Sunny Okosuns and Elder Steve Rhodes, both of whom were music colossus.
Oliver de-Coque, also described as a musician with a golden voice died 5 p.m. at Jola Hospital, Gbagada, Lagos.
He was hale and hearty until afternoon before his death. The ace highlife exponent who became popular in the mid-70s under his band, The Expo 76 Ogene Super Sounds, was the lead guitarist of his group. The highlife sensationalist hailed from Ezinifite town in Anambra State and was Ikemba of his town.
During his music career, his hit albums which also shot him into limelight included such heat albums as Identity, People’s Club, Nmbiri kambiri, and many others. His last public appearance was at the Tony Okoroji-led Nigerian Music Awards where he was conferred with Life Time Achievement Award.
His death is coming barely two weeks after the entertainment world suffered a devastating loss with the death of Evangelist Sunny Okosuns and Elder Steve Rhodes, both of whom were music colossus.
Oliver de-Coque, also described as a musician with a golden voice died 5 p.m. at Jola Hospital, Gbagada, Lagos.
He was hale and hearty until afternoon before his death. The ace highlife exponent who became popular in the mid-70s under his band, The Expo 76 Ogene Super Sounds, was the lead guitarist of his group. The highlife sensationalist hailed from Ezinifite town in Anambra State and was Ikemba of his town.
During his music career, his hit albums which also shot him into limelight included such heat albums as Identity, People’s Club, Nmbiri kambiri, and many others. His last public appearance was at the Tony Okoroji-led Nigerian Music Awards where he was conferred with Life Time Achievement Award.
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