S.J News• [Jan 1, 2012]

S.J News• [Jan 1, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Yak'd @ Home: Yakubu Aiyegbeni more active in Blackburn than Super Eagles, as he fades Red to White @ Old Trafford; Sir Alex Ferguson (Man U Coach) clocked 70 on same day. Xmas Carnage: President Jonathan declares state of emergency in 15 LGAs 4rm Borno, Yobe, Plateau & Niger states; Orders temporary closure of land borders with Niger Republic & Chad. Ebonyi Mayhem: Unidentified gunmen invade Ezillo community, Ishielu LG, Ebonyi state @ dawn; No fewer than 52 persons killed. Ondo: Gov Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) orders release of Banjo Wiliki 4rm prison to mark New year celebration; Sentenced to 7 years imprisonment in November, 2007 for child theft. NDIC: Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation establishes Special Help Desk for Microfinance Banks (MFBs) & Primary Mortgage Institutions (PMIs) in Nigeria. Ikemba Nnewi: Remains of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu to be interred February 3, 2012; Corpse to arrive Nigeria 4rm London on January 30, 2012. Niger: President Jonathan visits Xmas bomb site @ St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Niger state; Weeps @ scene; No fewer than 37 lives lost. •Football• EPL: Arsenal 1-0 QPR; Bolton 1-1 Wolves; Chelsea 1-3 Aston Villa; Man Utd 2-3 Blackburn; Norwich 1-1 Fulham; Stoke 2-2 Wigan; Swansea 1-1 Tottenham. S.J wishes Biodun Ladenika a splendid Bday. Wishing y'all a splendid 2012. God bless y'all.

S.J News• [Dec 31, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 31, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Bombings: President Jonathan holds emergency meeting with security Chiefs @ presidential villa again. NDLEA: 700g ingested cocaine, 4kg cocaine 4rm Brazil & & 5.1kg heroin 4rm Pakistan intercepted last weekend @ Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos; Street value of over N100m; Prime suspects (49, 42, 38yrs) being quizzed. Boko Haram: President Jonathan seeks support of neighbouring countries in fight against menace. Ogun Budget: Gov Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) signs 2012 Appropriation bill passed by Ogun House of Assembly into law. Glo: Globacom donates N22m to 40 Nigerian orphanages in celebration of the yuletide. Niger Gov: Court of Appeal, Abuja upholds victory of Gov Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (Niger) in April 26, 2011 Gov; Dismisses appeal filed by Ibrahim Bako Shettima (CPC candidate). Cross River: Court of Appeal, Calabar (oldest Nigerian law court) razed by fire on Friday; Documents, exhibits, records, past judgements, cash & furniture lost. North Korea: Kim Jong-un formally named Supreme Commander of North Korea's armed forces, following death of his father, Kim Jong-il (died of heart attack on Dec 17, 2011).

S.J News• [Dec 30, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 30, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Security: President Jonathan meets with heads of nation's security agencies to tackle lapses in security. Kebbi Gov: Court of Appeal, Sokoto reinstates Gov Usman Dakingari (Kebbi; PDP); Election previously nullified by Tribunal. ACN to FG: Debunk, with facts & figures, published informed analysis of true prices of locally refined & imported fuel or apologise to Nigerians for deception & cheating over the years. Osun Budget: Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) presents 2012 budget proposal of N146bn (N70bn recurrent, N76bn capital expenditure). Ratings: Standard & Poor's (S&P) upgrades outlook on Nigeria 4rm "stable" to "positive"; Affirmed the “B+/B” long- & short-term issuer credit ratings and the “ngA+/ngA-1” long- & short- term national scale ratings. Gombe: Explosion @ hotel in outskirts of Gombe; No fewer than 15 persons injured. Appropriation Bill: Gov Kashim Shettima (Borno) presents 2012 proposal of N130.6bn (N43.7bn recurrent, N86.9bn capital expenditure) to State House of Assembly. Park Lane: Hon Joseph Ayodeji (Chairman Apapa LG) renames Park Lane in Apapa, Lagos state after deceased daughter of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Otunba Ayodele Olubusola Soyode (aged 67). S.J wishes Tomi Shiift a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 29, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 29, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Presidential Election: Supreme court upholds victory of President Jonathan in April 16, 2011 election; Challenged by CPC; Muhammadu Buhari (CPC candidate) condemns decision. 2012-2014 Budget: Gov Abdul’aziz Yari (Zamfara) presents 3-year cumulative budget of N376.94bn (N120.81bn, N125.58bn, N130.55bn) to State House of Assembly. Edo 2012: Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) declares intention to contest 2012 Gov election under the auspices of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). 45th Remembrance: Gov Babangida Aliyu (Niger; Guest lecturer) to deliver lecture on January 15 @ 2012 Samuel Ladoke Akintola (late Premier of Western Region) Memorial lecture, holding @ Ladoke Akintola Villa, Ogbomoso. Presidential Report: 81 of 122 privatised companies operating @ about 66% performance level -FG; 80% of these 122 firms aren't performing -Senate; N249.5bn realised 4rm sale of firms between 1999 & 2011 -Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). Tinapa: Cross River State House of Assembly sets up 10-man committee to probe Tinapa Business & Leisure Resort, Calabar. Lekki-Epe Toll Gate: Femi Ogunsanya (39yrs), allegedly shot dead by Police during Dec 17 protest against toll collection, refutes report 11 days after; I was beaten & injured by police, not shot -Femi.

S.J News• [Dec 28, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 28, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ New Oil Spill: Dr Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi (DG, NIMASA) orders probe to ascertain source of oil spill which has hit coastal areas in western Niger Delta (about 90 miles east of Shell's Bonga field). Presidential Election: Supreme Court to deliver judgment 2day in appeal filed by CPC challenging Tribunal's decision, which upheld the victory of President Jonathan in the April 16 general election. Boko Haram: Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar (Sultan of Sokoto) holds closed door meeting with President Jonathan @ Presidential Villa vis-à-vis spate of bomb attacks in the nation. Malaysian Capital Punishment: All Malaysia-bound flights placed on alert due to increasing number of drug arrests (2 in 2010; 21 in 2011) on the route -Ahmadu Giade (CEO, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency). Bombings: FG won't change security chiefs -Gen Andrew Azazi (National Security Adviser to President). CIBN: Mrs Cecilia Ibru (erstwhile MD/CEO of Oceanic Bank; Honorary Fellow, CIBN) expelled 4rm Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). Argentina: Ms Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner (Argentine President; 58years) diagnosed with cancer in thyroid gland; To undergo operation on 4 January, 2012; To step aside as president for 20 days until 24 January; Amado Boudou (Vice-President) to take over. •Football• EPL: Arsenal 1-1 Wolves; Norwich 0-2 Tottenham; Swansea 1-1 QPR. S.J wishes Pastor Wole, Shade Aliu & Suzie Agu a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 27, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 27, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Kubwa Expressway: Presidency probes fraud in Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over duplicity in award of N147bn contract for rehabilitation & expansion of Kubwa-Abuja Road. Carnage: FG to sponsor education of children who lost parents @ Xmas bomb blasts on premises of St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, Suleja LG, Niger state -Abba Moro (Minister of Interior). Bola Ige: ACN (Osun state) backs decision of Oyo & Osun state Govts to reopen unsolved case of the murder of Bola Ige (fmr Attorney-General & Minister of Justice) @ his Bodija, Ibadan home 10 years ago. ZSUBEB: State Govt detects 608 ghost workers on payroll of State Universal Basic Education Board -Gov Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara). Parish Holds Mass: Members of St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla hold mass for victims of christmas day bomb explosion; No fewer than 25 persons killed. 2011 AGA: Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to hold Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Kaduna on Thursday, December 29 -Barrister Musa Amadu (General Secretary). •Football• EPL: Bolton 0-2 Newcastle; Chelsea 1-1 Fulham; Liverpool 1-1 Blackburn; Man Utd 5-0 Wigan; Stoke 0-0 Aston Villa; Sunderland 1-1 Everton; West Brom 0-0 Man City.

S.J News• [Dec 26, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 26, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ House of Reps: Public hearing on Capital Market to be held in January, 2012. Xmas Carnage: Bomb explodes on premises of St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, Suleja LG, Niger state; No fewer than 25 persons killed. Yobe: Suicide bomber collides explosive-laden car with gate of State Security Service (SSS) office, Damaturu, Yobe state; 3 service personnel killed. Jos: Botched bomb attack on Mountain of Fire & Miracle Church, Murtala Mohammed Road, Jos; Policeman killed in shootout; Improvised Explosive Device (IED) left unexploded as assailants flee. Plateau: 7-day impeachment notice served on Mr Brian Dadi (Chairman, Langtang North Local Govt Council) over alleged excesses & misappropriation of funds. Onitsha-Enugu Expressway: Senate Committee on Works to probe competence of contractors & funding -Sen Ayogu Eze (Chairman); Condemn quality of reconstruction works. Health: Old site of University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital to be upgraded to General Hospital between January & September 2012; About N600m to be spent to equip hospital complex -Gov Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara).

S.J News• [Dec 25, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 25, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Power: FG orders establishment of fire fighting service in all PHCN Power sub stations -Prof Barth Nnaji (Minister of Power). Oil Spill: FG to probe Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company’s oil spill @ its Bonga deepwater field; Environmental clean-up being undertaken to be completed within the next 6 weeks -Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia (Minister of Environment). Charcoal Exporters: 28 Nigerian exporters of charcoal to Europe (Germany, Poland, Spain, Netherlands) duped to the tune of £447,576 between 2009 & 2012-Ms Azuka Ogo (Secretary, Cargo Defence Fund). Traffic: Prof Wole Soyinka (Nobel Laureate), Gov Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Gov Rotimi Amaechi (River) trapped in Lagos-Ibadan expressway gridlock. Kidnap: 3 suspects arrested by State Security Service, Niger command vis-à-vis death of Kingsley Elekwachi (Architecture graduate, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra). NDLEA: South African lady (38yrs) arrested @ Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos for ingesting 55 wraps (700g) of hard drugs for export to Malaysia. Russia: Tens of thousands protest in central Moscow over alleged electoral fraud; December 4 parliamentary elections won by Vladimir Putin's (Prime Minister) party was rigged -Demonstrators. S.J wishes y'all a splendid Christmas.

S.J News• [Dec 24, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 24, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Presidential Media Chat: Benefits of fuel subsidy removal by mid 2012; Increase in fuel price not to last long; Massive job creation in construction & agriculture sector -President Jonathan. Borno Gov: Court of Appeal, Abuja orders fresh trial in petition filed by Mohammed Goni (PDP) against election of Gov Kashim Shettima (ANPP). Yuletide: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) grants amnesty to 10 prisoners; 5 death row prisoners commuted to life imprisonment; 5 serving jail terms granted total freedom. NIMASA: Federal High Court, Lagos orders Nigerian Maritime & Administration Safety Agency to pay $25m as damages to Hensmor Nigeria Ltd over indefinite detention of Vessel M.T. Agbonmien (bore 63million metric tonnes of kerosene). Police: Families of 3 Police Officers killed in Kano & others shot on duty receive N2.5m compensation 4rm Hafiz Ringim (IGP) & Kano state Police Command. FIRS v FCT: Sen Bala Mohammed (FCT Minister) denies Federal Inland Revenue Service's (FIRS) allegation of non-remittance of N28.27bn to Govt in last 5 years. US: President Obama signs 2-month extension of payroll tax cut. S.J wishes K.J & Engr Tosin Otukelu a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 23, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 23, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Removal: Govt officials, activists, unionists clash @ Town Hall meeting organised by Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN). Oil Spill: Senate committee on Environment & Ecology, chaired by Sen Bukola Saraki (fmr Kwara Gov), summons Shell vis-à-vis oil spill @ its Bonga deepwater facility. Senate: Court of Appeal, Enugu nullifies election of Andy Uba (PDP; Anambra South); Petition filed by Chuma Nzeribe (APGA); Orders fresh election by INEC in 90days. APGA: National Working Committee sets up 14-man committee for interment of late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu (National Leader); Inaugural meeting to hold January 3, 2012 in Enugu state. NCAA: Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority probes sale of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) by oil marketers as substitute for aviation fuel (JET-A1). Security: Gov Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) inaugurates Security Trust Fund & Joint Military/Police Task Force to curb crime. House of Reps: Court of Appeal nullifies election of Mrs Uche Ekwunife (APGA; Anaocha/Dunukofia/Njikoka Federal Constituency, Anambra ); Orders fresh election. New Zealand Quake: 5.8 magnitude (26km north-east; 4.7km depth) earthquake rocks Christchurch, New Zealand.

S.J News• [Dec 22, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 22, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2011 Nov/Dec GCE: 60% of 404,863 candidates pass Maths & English with credit & above in West African Senior School Certificate Exam. 2012 Budget: Subsidy removed; No take-off date announced yet -FG. Tax: Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) interrogate Adamu Ismaila (Executive Secretary, FCDA) over N28.2bn unremitted tax. Bauchi Budget: Gov Isa Yuguda (Bauchi) presents proposed budget of N132.55bn (N62.02 recurrent; N70.53bn capital expenditure) for 2012 fiscal year. Oil Leak: Shell to shut down Bonga field operation (200,000bpd capacity) due to oil leak. Ebonyi Speaker: Ikechukwu Nwankwo (Speaker, Ebonyi House of Assembly) removed for alleged fraud; Chukwuma Nwazunku (Ebonyi North East) elected as new speaker. Boko Haram: Nigerian Army establishes Special Response Group to complement efforts in tackling menace -Lt Gen Azubuike Ihejirika (Chief of Army Staff). Ogun Gov: Court of Appeal, Ibadan upholds election of Gov Ibikunle Amosun; Dismisses appeal filed by PDP. British General Medical Council: Medical graduates 4rm UNIBEN, UNIJOS, UNN, UNIPORT, LAUTECH, Igbinedion, Ambrose Ali, Nnamdi Azikiwe & Ebonyi State University blacklisted; Barred 4rm practising in UK. •Football• EPL: Aston Villa 1-2 Arsenal; Everton 1-0 Swansea; Fulham 0-5 Man Utd; Man City 3-0 Stoke; Newcastle 2-3 West Brom; QPR 2-3 Sunderland; Wigan 0-0 Liverpool. Italy: Bologna 0-2 Roma; Inter Milan 4-1 Lecce; Napoli 6-1 Genoa; Udinese 0-0 Juventus.

S.J News• [Dec 21, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 21, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ BPE Probe (1999 to Date): Senate approves sack of Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa (DG, Bureau of Public Enterprises) for gross incompetence; Reverses sale of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja Sheraton Hotel & Daily Times of Nigeria. Bank Heist: Armed robbers invade UBA, Intercontinetal & GTBank in Okene, Okene LG, Kogi state; 10 persons killed. Rivers Appropriation Bill: Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) presents proposed 2012 budget of N427bn (N314.27bn capital; N112.73bn recurrent expenditure) to State House of Assembly. Kano Speaker: Hon Abdullahi Yusuf (Speaker, State House of Assembly) impeached for alleged incompetence; Hon Garba Salau (Kiru LG) elected as new Speaker. Public Holiday: FG declares Dec 26, Dec 27 & Jan 2 as public holidays -Patrick Abba Moro (Minister of Interior). Oyo Budget: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) presents 2012 budget proposal of N160.6bn (N72.7 recurrent; N87.9bn capital expenditure). Cement: Importation of cement to end by 1st quarter of 2012 -President Jonathan; Nigeria's oil well reserve to dry up in next 35 years -oil experts' prediction. Plateau Budget: Gov David Jonah Jang (Plateau) presents budget proposal of N112bn (N44.3bn recurrent; N67.7bn capital expenditure). Arik Air: Nigerian air hostess (30yrs) arrested @ Heathrow Airport on Sunday for smuggling 4kg of cocaine into UK. S.J wishes Jumoke Elutade a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 20, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 20, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Satellite: NigComSat-1R successfully launched on Monday in Xichang, China; Replaces deorbited NigComSat-1. Boko Haram: Federal High Court, Abuja grants Sen Ali Ndume (Borno South) bail; N25m & 2 sureties in like sum; Faces 4-count charge bordering on acts of terrorism. N984m Contract Scam: Federal High Court, Abuja dismisses application seeking to quash charges against Dimeji Bankole (fmr Speaker, House of Reps); Faces 16-count charge; Adjourned to 7th February. Kwara Budget: Gov Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) presents budget proposal of N91.7bn to State House of Assembly. Kaduna: No fewer than 7 houses destroyed in explosion on Ibrahim Rintiyi Street, Unguwan Magaji, Mando Village, Kaduna yday; No casualty. PPMC: Pipelines and Products Marketing Company declares accumulated loss of N43.1bn as @ December 2009; Attributed to pipleline vandalism -Austin Oniwon (GMD, NNPC). Delta: 250 ghost workers been on Delta state Govt's payroll since 1991 have been discovered -Victor Ochei (Speaker, State House of Assembly). Anambra North Sen District: Court of Appeal Abuja & Enugu deliver conflicting judgements; Former declares Lady Margery Okadigbo as authentic PDP candidate; Latter dismisses her appeal. Real Estate: Brad Pitt's Malibu home bought by Ellen DeGeneres for $12m.

S.J News• [Dec 19, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 19, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Electricity: Faulty Egbin Power plant now restored to full capacity (1,080MW); Shut down on December 13, 2011 -Mike Uzoigwe (CEO, Egbin Power plant). Fuel Subsidy: National Union of Petroleum & Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) threatens strike; Seeks FG's implementation of committee's recommendations on Depot facilities. MDG: President Jonathan to launch MDG's Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS) 2day; 113 LGAs to receive N22.6bn (N11.3bn FG; 11.3bn State & Local Govt). SIM Registration: House of Reps to probe Nigerian Communications Commission's (NCC) N6.1bn SIM card registration project. NPA: FG approves appointment of Sotonye Etomi (Ag ED, Marine), Habib Abdullahi (ED,Finance) & Sunny Nwobi (Ag ED, Engineering) for Nigerian Ports Authority. NK: North Korean leader, Kim Jong-il (aged 69), died in train on Saturday; Kim Jong-un (3rd son) designated as successor; Funeral to be held 28 December. •Football• EPL: Aston Villa 0-2 Liverpool; Man City 1-0 Arsenal; QPR 0-2 Man Utd; Tottenham 1-0 Sunderland. Spain: Atletico Madrid 0-2 Real Betis; Osasuna 2-1 Villarreal; Valencia 2-0 Malaga. Italy: Cesena 0-1 Inter Milan; Juventus 2-0 Novara; Lazio 2-2 Udinese; Napoli 1-3 Roma.

S.J News• [Dec 18, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 18, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Sokoto 2012: Gov Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto) emerges winner @ PDP Gov primaries; Polls 861 votes; Sen Abubakar Umar Gada & Yusuf Suileman (fmr Minister of Sports) poll 0. Borno: Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) detonated @ bomb factory in Shuwari, Maiduguri, Borno state; 3 persons killed. ICC Election: Chile Eboe-Osuji (Nigerian candidate) clinched 1 of 6 seats on International Criminal Court (ICC) bench; To serve for 9 years as judge. Guardian Boss: Remains of Alex Ibru (Guardian Publisher) interred in Agbarha-Otor home town, Delta state yday. Toll Gate: Protesters brutalized by police; Toll payments to commence on Eti-Osa, Lekki-Epe Expressway 2day; Managed by Lekki Concession Company (LCC). Irreconcilable Differences: Kobe Bryant's (Los Angeles Lakers) wife files for divorce; Married for 10½ years with 2 daughters (8 & 5 years). •Football• EPL: Blackburn 1-2 West Brom; Everton 1-1 Norwich; Fulham 2-0 Bolton; Newcastle 0-0 Swansea; Wigan 1-1 Chelsea; Wolves 1-2 Stoke. Spain: Sevilla 2-6 Real Madrid; Sporting Gijon 1-2 Espanyol. Italy: AC Milan 2-0 Siena; Fiorentina 2-2 Atalanta.

S.J News• [Dec 17, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 17, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ PITA: President Jonathan signs Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) into law. Air Force: Gunmen invade Nigerian Air Force Comprehensive School, Kwa, Kano state; 3 Air Force personnel killed. Boko Haram: Federal High court, Abuja remands Sen Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) in Kuje prison; Faces 4-count charge for alleged links with sect. Anambra North Sen District: Court of Appeal, Abuja declares Mrs Margery Chuba-Okadigbo (Okadigbo's wife) as authentic PDP candidate & winner; Floors Sen Alphonsus Igbeke & John Emeka. Katsina CPC: Supreme Court nullifies election of 2 Senators & 8 House of Reps members; Declared primaries as illegal, null & void. Buhari: Maj-Gen Muhammadu Buhari clocks 69 years 2day; Happy bday, boss. Cameroon: Samuel Eto'o banned for 15 games for part played in players' strike; 10 days given to appeal Cameroon Football Federation's decision.

S.J News• [Dec 16, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 16, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2012 Appropriation Bill: Senators query allocation of N921.91bn for security in proposed budget; N161.42bn (Power) & N400.15bn (Education) allocated. Osun NYSC: NYSC member (Economics graduate, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma), 4 others arrested for allegedly kidnapping Lucy Okonedion (67-year-old woman) @ Ubiaja, Edo State. Kwara: Fire guts Owode market, Offa, Kwara state; No life lost. Bauchi: State High Court orders state Govt to pay 31 members of 6th Bauchi State House of Assembly (2007-2011) N125,596,147.50 as severance pay. Kaduna Budget: Gov Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa (Kaduna) presents budget proposal of N154.33bn for 2012 fiscal year to Kaduna State House of Assembly. Oyo: State Govt to pay workers 13th month salary (last paid 5 years ago) -Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo); Approves payment of 142% increase to Oyo state pensioners. Gombe: State House of Assembly approves nomination of Mr Tha’anda Rubainu as Deputy Gov; To succeed late David Albashi. Iraq: Flag of American forces in Iraq lowered in Baghdad; Formally ends nearly 9 years of US military operations in Iraq.

S.J News• [Dec 15, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 15, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2012 Appropriation Bill: Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) vows to protest 2012 budget proposal presented by President Jonathan; Leadership to meet on Tuesday for plan. Lagos State House of Assembly: Court of Appeal, Lagos dismisses notice of appeal filed against Adeyemi Ikuforiji (Speaker; ACN) by Mrs Olajumoke Sawyer (PDP). OGD: Gbenga Daniel (fmr Ogun Gov) loses father, Rev Abraham Adebola Daniel (aged 95). Nigerian Sports: Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) & National Sports Commission (NSC) to meet House Committee on Sports 2day. Delta Budget: Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta) presents proposed budget of N383.39bn for 2012 fiscal year; N169.82bn recurrent & N213.57bn capital expenditure. Lagos: Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) inaugurates $97m Ikeja City Mall sitluated @ Alausa, Lagos.

S.J News• [Dec 14, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 14, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2012 Appropriation Bill: President Jonathan presents N4.749trn budget proposal to joint session of National Assembly. Borno Blast: Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated @ London Ciki ward, Maiduguri, Borno state; No fewer than 3 persons dead. EFCC v Audu: Lokoja High Court adjourns Abubakar Audu's (fmr Kogi Gov; ACN Gov candidate) case till December 22; Faces 80-count charge of corruption. CPC v PDP: 7-man panel of Supreme court chaired by Justice Dahiru Musdapher (Chief Justice of Nigeria) fixes December 28 to deliver presidential election judgement. Power, Politics & Death Book Launch: late President Umar Yar’Adua (PDP) sponsored my Gov campaign & legal battle to reclaim mandate -Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo Gov; ACN). EFCC v Akala: Adebayo Alao-Akala (fmr Oyo Gov), Ayoola Agboola (fmr Commisioner, LG & Chieftancy) & Femi Babalola (contractor) re-arraigned before Oyo State High Court for 11-count corruption charges. Abia Central Sen District: Court of Appeal, Abuja nullifies election of Mrs Nkechi Nwaogu (Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas); Hails 4rm Osisioma Ngwa LG (not part of Abia Central). Tunisia: Moncef Marzouki (secularist) sworn in as new president; Elected on Monday by Islamist-dominated parliament.

S.J News• [Dec 13, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 13, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NEC Meeting: National Economic Council backs removal of fuel subsidy; Meeting chaired by Namadi Sambo (VP). Oil Subsidy Probe: NNPC fails to account for 65,000/445,000 barrels of daily crude oil allocation worth N9.8bn. Boko Haram: Sen Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) re-arraigned before Federal High Court, Abuja on a 4-count charge; Remanded in SSS custody till December 16. Satellite Launch: NigComSat-1R (replaced satellite) to be launched into orbit 4rm Xichang, China on Monday, Dec 19 by 5pm (Nigerian time). Bayelsa 2012: Court of Appeal, Abuja reserves judgment indefinitely in appeal filed by PDP against Federal High Court order impeding PDP's November 19 Gov primary election. 2012 Appropriation Bill: President Jonathan to present budget to joint session of National Assembly 2day by 12pm. Ekiti: INEC office, Ikole LG, Ekiti state bombed by hoodlums 2 days after House of Reps rerun election for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II. Russia: Billionaire & owner of New Jersey Nets basketball team, Mikhail Prokhorov (45 years; $18bn worth), to run for president of Russia in 2012. •Football• EPL: Chelsea 2-1 Man City. Italy: Roma 1-1 Juventus.

S.J News• [Dec 12, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 12, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ PAP: No 3rd phase of amnesty for ex-Niger Delta militants; Closed since October 4, 2009 -FG; Condemns action of protesters that blocked Lokoja-Abuja highway. NAAT, NASU, SSANU: FG directs VCs to stop retrenchment of non-academic staff @ 60 years pending passage of new bill & presidential assent. Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II: Oyetunde Ojo (ACN; Tinubu’s son-in-law) declared winner in re-run election; Polls 26,338 votes against Kehinde Odebunmi's (PDP)17,344 votes. IBB: Namadi Sambo (VP) visits Ibrahim Babangida (fmr Head of State) @ his residence in Minna, Niger state. Kaduna Gov: Court of Appeal upholds victory of Gov Patrick Yakowa (Kaduna; PDP); Challenged by Haruna Saeed Kajuru (CPC candidate). Guinness World Record: Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (Lagos Dep Gov) gets certificate for Largest Assembly of Children Reading with an Adult (4,222 pupils on Sept 8, 2011). Unilorin 49: 49 reinstated Unilorin lecturers return to Federal High Court, Ilorin for enforcement of Supreme court judgment (payment, promotion benefits) by university. Panama: Manuel Noriega (fmr Panama dictator; 77years) arrives home 22 years after being ousted by USA to serve time for crimes committed during his rule. •Football• EPL: Stoke 2-1 Tottenham; Sunderland 2-1 Blackburn. Spain: Espanyol 4-2 Atletico Madrid; Real Zaragoza 0-1 Mallorca; Villarreal 1-1 Real Sociedad. Italy: Bologna 2-2 AC Milan; Cagliari 0-0 Parma; Novara 1-1 Napoli; Udinese 2-1 Chievo.

S.J News• [Dec 11, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 11, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ A New Thing: 2011 Holy Ghost congress of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) to begin 2moro. FG Wage Bill: N1.5trn gulped in 2011 -Dr Bright Okogu (DG, Budget Office of the Federation). Delta Blast: Bomb explodes in main mosque @ Sapele, Delta state yday morning; No life lost. Plateau Gov: Court of Appeal, Jos dismisses appeal filed by Mrs Pauline Tallen (LP candidate) against election of Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau; PDP). Border Tax: 14-man joint committee set up by Lagos & Ogun state Govt to be inaugurated in Lagos on Monday; Co-chaired by Segun Adesegun (Ogun Dep Gov) & Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (Lagos Dep Gov). 3 Women: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberian president), Leymah Gbowee (Liberian peace campaigner) & Tawakkul Karman (Yemeni activist) jointly receive Nobel Peace Prize. •Football• EPL: Arsenal 1-0 Everton; Bolton 1-2 Aston Villa; Liverpool 1-0 QPR; Man Utd 4-1 Wolves; Norwich 4-2 Newcastle; Swansea 2-0 Fulham; West Brom 1-2 Wigan. Spain: Levante 1-0 Sevilla; Real Betis 2-1 Valencia; Real Madrid 1-3 Barcelona. Italy: Inter Milan 2-0 Fiorentina; Lecce 2-3 Lazio; Palermo 0-1 Cesena; Siena 0-2 Genoa. S.J wishes Sa-id Badmos a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 10, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 10, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ EFCC v Speaker: Federal High Court, Lagos issues bench warrant to Adeyemi Ikuforiji (Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly) & Oyebode Atoyebi (PA). Jigawa North-West Sen District: Court of Appeal, Kaduna dismisses case filed by Ibrahim Turaki (fmr Jigawa Gov; ACN candidate) against election of Sen Danladi Sankara (PDP). Operation Burst: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) inaugurates joint military-police patrol squad to curb armed robbery. Kogi Gov: Bola Tinubu (ACN leader) lambasts Olusegun Obasanjo (erstwhile president) over his alleged statement on the Gov election; "Go to your farm, milk cows & attend to chickens” -Tinubu. Power, Politics & Death: Book written by Olusegun Adeniyi (fmr Spokesman to Umaru Yar'Adua) set to hit stands. Abia Gov: Supreme Court fixes February 16 to hear appeal filed by Ikechi Emenike against candidacy of Gov Theodore Orji (Abia; PDP). Aki & Paw Paw: Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) ties nuptials with Nneoma @ RCCG, Abundant Grace Parish, Ogba, Lagos; Osita Iheme (paw paw) as best man.

S.J News• [Dec 9, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 9, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Appropriation Bill: President Jonathan to present 2012 Budget to joint session of National Assembly on Tuesday, December 13. Amnesty: Over 1000 Niger Delta ex-militants block Abuja-Lokoja Highway; Intercepted enroute to Abuja to protest against non-implementation of amnesty deal. Security: Proliferation of small arms, bane of national security -President Jonathan; Directs Nigeria Customs Service to be vigilant. Suleja Bombing: Alleged Boko Haram member denies witness statement vis-à-vis bombing @ INEC office (8 April, 2011) & & political rally (3 March, 2011) in Suleja, Niger state. ACN, ANPP v PDP: Tribunal dismisses Gov Gabriel Suswam's (Benue) application; Urges tribunal to strike out petitions of Gov candidates for lack of merit; Case adjourned till Dec 19. Boko Haram: Members of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) protests in Lagos against national insecurity. Illegal Deductions: National Union of Petroleum & Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) gives Shell 72-hour ultimatum to refund levies 4rm workers’ salaries. Bayelsa 2012: PDP submits Hon Henry Sierake Dickson's name as Gov candidate to meet December 11 deadline; Election to hold February 11, 2012.

S.J News• [Dec 8, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 8, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2011 Appropriation Bill: House of Reps approves N31.9bn (against N98.4bn) virement for 9 MDAs & extension of budget lifespan to March 31, 2012 (against Dec 31, 2011). Kaduna Blast: Suspected suicide bombers detonate bomb @ Oriapata, near Ogbomoso road by Katsina road, Kaduna state; No fewer than 12 persons killed. Strike: FG/Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) meeting over university strike deadlocked. FEC: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves contracts worth N36.6bn for projects. CCTV: House of Reps queries $470m contract for Installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in Abuja; Awarded to ZTE Corporation, China. ICPC v ex-Gov: ICPC quizzes Ibrahim Shekarau (fmr Kano Gov) over alleged N420m fraud. Rivers East Sen District: Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt upholds nullification of Sen George Sekibo's election; INEC to conduct re-run within 90 days.

S.J News• [Dec 7, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 7, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ ASUU v FG: FG appeals to Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend the 3-day nationwide strike. Boko Haram: Ali Konduga (aka Al-Zawahiri; fmr sect's spokesman) sentenced to 3 years imprisonment by Abuja Chief Magistrate’s Court. PHCN: Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) issues power generation licences to 29 independent power production companies. Recapitalisation: House of Reps directs Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) to stop further approvals to Union Bank of Nigeria on its Rights Issue & recapitalisation until bank's response to issues raised in petition before House. PCA: Federal High Court, Abuja fixes February 9, 2012 for hearing in consolidated preliminary objection to suit filed by Justice Isa Ayo Salami (suspended Court of Appeal president). NIMASA: Federal High Court, Lagos orders Nigerian Maritime Administration & Safety Agency to pay $32 for illegal detention of vessel. Budget: Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) presents proposed budget of N397.1bn (N66.244bn recurrent expenditure; N330.897bn for capital projects) to State House of Assembly.

S.J News• [Dec 6, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 6, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SSS v Ali: Magistrate’s Court, Abuja terminates case; Fresh charges filed against Sen Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) @ Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged links with Boko Haram. Adamawa State House of Assembly: Ibrahim Sadiq (Speaker) impeached; Umaru Fintiri & Kwamoti Laori elected as Speaker & Deputy respectively. Kogi: Saturday's Gov election was free, fair & credible -Prof Attahiru Jega (INEC Chairman); Election scientifically rigged -ACN. NPC: Appointment of Roli George (Bode George's wife) as Lagos representative in National Population Commission is unconstitutional -ACN. INEC: Oath of office administered on 8 new commissioners 4rm Anambra, Taraba, Imo, Cross River, Ondo, Plateau, Bayelsa, Jigawa. Senate: Court of Appeal, Ibadan orders retrial of petition filed by Luqman Ilaka (AP candidate) against election of Ayo Adeseun (ACN). RMAFC: Arab Sling possible in Nigeria if employment & FG's disconnect with people isn't tackled; Canvasses for diversification of economy -Olusegun Obasanjo (fmr President). •Football• EPL: Fulham 1-0 Liverpool. Spain: Sevilla 3-0 Getafe. Italy: Lazio 3-0 Novara.

S.J News• [Dec 5, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 5, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Kogi Gov: Capt Idris Wada (PDP) declared winner of Gov election; Polls 300,372 votes; Abubakar Audu (ACN) polls 159, 913; ACN rejects results. Bauchi: 2 Police Stations & commercial banks in Azare, Bauchi state bombed by assailants; No fewer than 6 persons killed; Over 20 rocket propelled bombs launched 4rm outside Area Command’s HQ -Mr Ikechukwu Aduba (CP). Strike: Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) embarks on indefinite strike due to FG's refusal to implement 2009 FG/ASUU agreement. Ikemba Nnewi: late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu to be interred in Nnewi home, Anambra state February 2, 2012 -Gov Peter Obi (Anambra; South-East Govs Forum Chairman). Dual Citizenship: PDP heads to Court of Appeal; Challenges tribunal's judgement in suit against victory of Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) in Gov election. Brazilian Football Legend: Socrates (aged 57) dies in Sao Paolo hospital following intestinal infection; 60 int'l caps & 22 goals for Brazil. •Football• EPL: Everton 0-1 Stoke; Wolves 2-1 Sunderland. Spain: Atletico Madrid 3-1 Rayo Vallecano; Granada 1-0 Real Zaragoza; Mallorca 1-1 Athletic Bilbao; Osasuna 2-1 Real Betis; Real Sociedad 3-2 Malaga. Italy: Fiorentina 3-0 Roma; Juventus 2-0 Cesena; Parma 0-0 Palermo.  S.J wishes Engr Fizzy Osanaiye a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [Dec 4, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 4, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Entertainment: $200m intervention fund approved by President Jonathan to be accessed 4rm January -Mr Roberts Orya (MD Nigerian Export Import Bank). Boko Haram Spokesman: Convicted son, Ali Sanda Umar Konduga (aka Usman Al-Zawahiri), is mentally ill & not a member -Sanda Konduga (Father; 1979-1983 GNPP leader in House of Reps). Ministerial Appointment: Federal High Court, Abuja dismisses suit against Mrs Diezani Allison-Madueke (Minister of Petroleum) over NYSC certificate scam. Imo: Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo) suspends salaries of traditional rulers in 7 LGA due to increase in criminal activities. CNN/MultiChoice: Acceptance of entries into 17th edition of the African Journalists Awards to close January 26. Breach of Agreement: Osun State Assembly passes resolution to take legal action against FG for FRCN's cancellation of Gov Rauf Aregbesola’s (Osun) paid interview programme. US Election: Herman Cain (Presidential hopeful) suspends campaign for Republican nomination due to allegations. •Football• EPL: Aston Villa 0-1 Man Utd; Blackburn 4-2 Swansea; Man City 5-1 Norwich; Newcastle 0-3 Chelsea; QPR 1-1 West Brom; Tottenham 3-0 Bolton; Wigan 0-4 Arsenal. Spain: Barcelona 5-0 Levant; Sporting Gijon 0-3 Real Madrid; Valencia 2-1 Espanyol. Italy: Inter Milan 0-1 Udinese.

S.J News• [Dec 3, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 3, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy: Senate unveils over 100 names of beneficiaries, including construction companies; N1.426trn gulped 4rm Jan & Aug 2011 & N3.655 trn 4rm 2006 to 2011. Kogi Gov: Gubernatorial election to hold 2day; Vehicular movements restricted 4rm 6am to 4pm. Sokoto 2012: Yusuf Suleiman (Minister of Sport) relieved of appointment; To contest Sokoto Gov seat in March; Primaries slated for December 17. Agric: Olam International to set up $49.2m rice farming & milling facility in Nigeria; Rice planting to start during April-June period; Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 28%. Teachers' Salary: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) axes 2 State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) officials over delay in payment; Salaries to be paid on or before 25th of every month -Gov Ajimobi. Edo Budget: Gov Adams Oshiomhole presents proposed 2012 appropriation bill of N148.87bn; N84.9bn capital & N63.97bn recurrent expenditure. Benue South Sen District: Court of Appeal, Makurdi strikes out appeal filed by Maj-Gen Lawrence Onoja (ACN standard-bearer) against Sen David Mark (Senate President). Okada: FG Refutes NESREA's claims; Motorcylces (Okada) not banned -Hadiza Mailafia (Minister for Environment).

S.J News• [Dec 2, 2011]

S.J News• [Dec 2, 2011]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy: Proposed removal is premature -House of Reps; Adopts joint committees' recommendations on 2012 -2015 Medium Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF). Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition): Passage of bill is irrevocable; Unfair to tie foreign aids to law -Sen David Mark (Senate President). National Merit Award: I rejected Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) because I have Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) -Lt Gen Domkat Bali (retd; fmr Defence Minister). SSS v Ali: Abuja Chief Magistrate court reserves ruling on Sen Ali Ndume's (Borno) bail application till Monday, Dec 5, 2011; Allegedly linked with Boko Haram sect. NNOM: Monetary value of Nigerian National Order of Merit Award increased by 100%; 4rm N5m to N10m & takes effect 4rm 2010. Unrest: Katsina Govt sacks provost & registrar of Yusuf Bala Usman College of Legal & General Studies, Daura, Katsina state; Dissolves Governing Council. Fuel Subsidy Probe: Senate ad-hoc committee issues 7-day ultimatum to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Finance Minister) to tender details of fuel import audit report in the last 11 months. Gov Election: Movement restricted in Kogi state 2moro between 6am & 8pm -Mr John Amanana Abrakasanga (CP). Lagos: Toll on Lekki-Epe Expressway to commence December 18, 2011; Motorcycles(N50); Cars & Tricycles (N120); SUVs, Minibuses & Pick-up trucks (N150); Danfo (N80); Light trucks & 2-axle buses (N250); Heavy trucks & Buses (N350).