S.J News• [July 1, 2012]

S.J News• [July 1, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 3rd Mainland Bridge: Maintenance work on 11.8km bridge to commence July 1 & end November 6; Alternative routes released by state Govt. APC: Nigerian Army to unveil 1st locally made Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) -Lt Gen Azubuike Ihejirika (Chief of Army Staff). Delta: Wife of Michael Diden (Commissioner, Delta State Oil Producing Development Commission) abducted on friday in Asaba; N50m ransom demanded. NDLEA: Seizure of 55,473.3kg (Ondo), 40,663kg (Edo), 26,823.4kg (Delta), 15,331.3kg (Oyo), 10,406.1kg (Lagos) of illicit drugs made in 2011. Painted Walls: Over 15% of Nigerians lack access to toilet facilities; 55% use pit latrines; 30% have good toilet facilities. US: United States Embassy to build $119m office annex in Abuja, Nigeria -Terence McCulley (US ambassador). Israel: Erstwhile Israeli Prime Minister (1983-1984 & 1986-1992), Yitzhak Shamir, dies @ age of 96 years. Egypt: Mohammed Mursi (Muslim Brotherhood) sworn in as Egypt's 1st civilian, democratically elected president @ Cairo; To restore dissolved parliament.

S.J News• [June 30, 2012]

S.J News• [June 30, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Health: FG to spend N4.1trn ($26.6bn) on health development programmes between 2010 & 2015 -Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu (Minister of Health). Benue: Federal High Court, Makurdi orders INEC to restore Otukpa & Agasha constituencies; Elections to be conducted within 14 & 30 days respectively. Oil Sector: NNPC to be repositioned for better service to support economy; To be transparent -Engr Andrew Yakubu (GMD, NNPC). ACN: Rotimi Akeredolu (erstwhile NBA president) picks nomination form for forthcoming Ondo gubernatorial election. Plateau: State Govt won't endorse creation of state 4rm Plateau -Yiljap Abraham (Commissioner for Information). Operation Pulo Shield: Joint Task Force (JTF) arrests ex-militant leader, Gbereke Seifa (aka General Cairo; 25yrs); Been on wanted list over pipeline vandalism. Keystone Bank: Federal High Court, Lagos declares arrest & detention of Mr Ugo Anyanwu (fmr Chief Financial Officer, Bank PHB) by EFCC illegal. Ex-Bayelsa Gov: US Dept of Justice executes forfeiture order granted by federal district judge in Massachusetts against Diepreye Alamieyeseigha; Loses N60m ($401,931) to US Govt. S.J wishes Olubojo a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [June 29, 2012]

S.J News• [June 29, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Capital Market Probe: Report to be presented to House of Reps next week -Ibrahim El-Sudi (Chairman, ad hoc committee). ICPC v ex-IG: ICPC files fresh 6-count charge of conspiracy & misappropriation of fund against Sunday Ehindero (erstwhile IG of police). Benue: Car loaded with AK 47, ammunitions, knives, charms intercepted by police along Makurdi–Lafia road; 4 persons arrested. Ondo Gov: Choice of Rotimi Akeredolu (ex-NBA president) as ACN candidate won't derail me -Olu Agunloye (ACN aspirant); Gov election to hold October 20, 2012. Plateau: John Baren (PDP chairman, Sharubutu Ward, Bachit District, Riyom LG) killed alongside wife & son @ Gwarin village by unknown gunmen. PDP Gov Candidate: Federal High Court, Abuja strikes out suit filed against nomination of Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom); Supreme Court’s declaration foreclosed hearing of suit -Judge. PDP v ACN: Re-run election to hold in Balogun-Alanamu & Oloje wards (Ilorin North-West state constituency) on Saturday; 180 NYSC corps members to be engaged. UNICEF: Annual loss of N455bn (1.3% of GDP) to poor sanitation; Hundreds of children die yearly in Nigeria -United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Shenzhou-9: Chinese space capsule with 3 astronauts, including Liu Yang (1st Chinese female in space) returns to earth (Mongolia) after 13-day mission. S.J wishes Engr Tope Adelabu a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [June 28, 2012]

S.J News• [June 28, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Maritime: Federal Executive Council (FEC) okays N12.14bn contract for maritime security & procurement of 6 boats -Labaran Maku (Minister of Information). Terror Suspects: Senate canvasses for special courts to try cases of terrorism & strengthen laws relating to insecurity. NIMASA: Fire guts 2nd floor of Nigerian Maritime Administration & Safety Agency HQ, Apapa, Lagos state. Sokoto Gov: Court of Appeal, Sokoto upholds election of Gov Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto); Dismisses appeal filed by Yushau Ahmed (ANPP Gov candidate). Security: Gov Babatude Fashola (Lagos) refutes comments credited to him vis-à-vis summoning of President Jonathan by House of Reps over security in Nigeria. PPPRA: Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency grants fuel import permit for 3rd quarter to NNPC, 38 other oil marketers; 3.125m metric tonnes of petrol (4.20bn litres) to be imported -Reginald Stanley (Executive Secretary). Rivers: Julius Nwaofu (ANPP Chairman, Rivers) shot dead by unknown gunmen @ Airport Road, Ikwerre LG, Port Harcourt. Japan: Nuclear reactor to be activated on July 1 for western Japan electricity; 1st reactor to be switched on since 2011 Fukushima disaster.

S.J News• [June 27, 2012]

S.J News• [June 27, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Deregistration Threat: INEC dragged to Federal High Court, Abuja by 51 political parties; Fail to win seats in 2011 national & state assembly elections. NNPC: Austen Oniwon (GMD, NNPC) & 3 GEDs sacked; Andrew Yakubu (fmr GED, Exploration & Production) appointed as new Group Managing Director. Kano: Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) set off, sporadic gunshots @ police station & prison yard in Dala LG, Kano state. ex-Delta Gov: Udoamaka Okoronkwo-Onuigbo (ibori's mistress) released 4rm UK prison after serving 2 years over money laundering & mortgage fraud; Ibori's 13-year jail term ongoing. Crude Oil: Annual loss of $5bn to crude oil theft in Nigeria; Estimated 150,000 barrels of crude oil ($13.5m worth) stolen daily -Mutiu Sumonu (MD, Shell). World Customs Organisation Summit: President Jonathan to leave Abuja after 2day's Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting for a 1-day official visit to Brussels, Belgium. Prolific Writer Passes: Nora Ephron (novelist, filmmaker, screenwriter; aged 71) dies in Manhattan of complications relating to acute myeloid leukaemia.

S.J News• [June 26, 2012]

S.J News• [June 26, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Judiciary: Federal High Court, Abuja orders National Assembly to release details of legislators' salaries & allowances between 2007 & 2011 to LEDAP. Kaduna: State Govt relaxes 8-day curfew imposed due to bomb explosions; Free movement from 7am to 4pm for Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Igabi & Chikun LG; 6am to 6pm for 19 other LGs. Lagos v ex-NSE DG: Lagos High Court, Igbosere, to rule on Ndi Okereke-Onyuike's (erstwhile DG, Nigerian Stock Exchange) application on July 19 over theft of N3.3bn. Ogun: Solomon Ogunbele (ACN chieftain, Ipokia LG) found dead by Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials; Local Govt election slated for July 21, 2012. NUC: National Universities Commission suspends Part-Time programmes in universities for streamlining; Satellite campuses prohibited; PT should be less than 20% of student population. Nuptial: Rev Chris Okotie (Household of God Church) divorces Stephanie Henshaw (wife #2) due to irreconcilable differences. Lagos Doctors: Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) sets up 11-man committee on implementation of new medical salary structure to forestall crisis. NDLEA: 69 suspected drug traffickers arrested, 35.440kg of Indian hemp seized in the last 12 months -NDLEA, Enugu. Saudi Arabia: Female athletes to compete in Olympics for 1st time -Saudi Arabia embassy, London; Olympics to begin July 27. S.J wishes Engr Tunji Elegbede a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [June 25, 2012]

S.J News• [June 25, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 3rd Mainland Bridge: Repair works on bridge 4rm July 1 to November 6, 2012; Closure to affect in & out of Lagos 4rm Ogudu & Oworonsoki expressway -FRSC, Lagos. MDCN: 120 cases of misconduct & malpractices by medical doctors reported thus far; 96 ready to be probed -Medical & Dental Council of Nigeria. Extra-Budgetary Spending: Misappropriation of over N21.1bn by MDAs uncovered -House of Reps Committee on Public Accounts. Aviation: 10 Airlines receive N87bn 4rm FG's N300bn Aviation Intervention Fund to boost operations & safety -Captain Shehu Iyal (Presidential Senior Special Assistant, Aviation). Prison Break: Unknown gunmen invade Damaturu Central Prison, Gashua road, Yobe state; 40 inmates freed, Guards killed -Patrick Egbuniwe (Commissioner of Police). Operation Pulo Shield: 6 suspected pirates killed in shootout with Joint Task Force (JTF) in Bayelsa. Ambassador: Interment of Amb Segun Olusola (aged 77), who died on June 21, takes place on July 20, 2012. Egypt: 1st democratically elected leader, Mohammed Mursi (Muslim Brotherhood), wins 51.73% of vote in run-off election against Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq.

S.J News• [June 24, 2012]

S.J News• [June 24, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Presidential Media Chat: 2-hour interview session with President Jonathan scheduled for 2day by 7pm -Reuben Abati (Special Adviser on Media). Imo: State Govt earmarks N250bn for infrastructural development in next 3 years. Kebbi: Canoe capsizes afer hitting log of wood in River Rima area, Birnin Kebbi; No fewer than 11 of 17 passengers killed; Rescue mission under way. Restructuring & Rationalisation: FG Committee headed by Mohammed Adoke (AGF) fails to meet June 16 deadline on preparation of White Paper on Steve Oronsanye's Presidential Committee report. Kano: Joint Task Force (JTF), Kano kills 4 suspected militants in hideout @ Janbulo Quarters, Kano state during raid -Lt Ikedichi Iweha (JTF spokesman). Krystal Lounge: Explosive device 4rm car in transit destroyed 6 vehicles @ night club in Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja around 11:30pm on Friday; No casualty recorded -Aderenle Shinaba (FCT Commissioner of Police). Edo: Illegal firearm factory uncovered @ Edo state by police; 1 person arrested, 10 firearms recovered @ factory. Lagos: Residents to experience 7-day rainfall; 570 mm of rainfall recorded in Lagos state between January & June -Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).

S.J News• [June 23, 2012]

S.J News• [June 23, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Kaduna: VP Namadi Sambo refutes pushing for State of Emergency in Kaduna, as speculated by media. Security: President Jonathan sacks Dr Haliru Bello (Defence Minister) & Gen Owoye Azazi (National Security Adviser); Latter replaced by Sambo Dasuki (fmr ADC to IBB). Boko Haram: Suspected mastermind of Xmas day bombing @ St Theresa’s Catholic Church in Madalla, Niger State, Habibu Bama, dies of gunshot injuries in Damaturu, Yobe state. Kaduna Curfew: 24-hour imposed curfew partially relaxed on Friday; Residents stockpile food items, others flee. N6.75m Scam: Federal High Court, Enugu remands 80 year-old man & accomplice in prison custody over acquisition of land. Ondo Gov: Sunshine Liberation Front (group of professionals), Ondo state chapter rejects choice of Rotimi Akeredolu (fmr NBA president) as ACN Gov candidate in Ondo state. NDLEA: 48yrs lady nabbed with 66 wraps (1kg) of narcotics in private part @ Murtala Muhammed Int'l Airport, Lagos; En route Nairobi, Kenya. Penn State: Erstwhile Asst football coach, Jerry Sandusky, found guilty over sexual abuse of boys for a period of over 15 years; Judge revokes bail & orders arrest. Paraguay: Senate impeaches President Fernando Lugo (39 in favour, 4 against, 2 absent); Federico Franco (Vice President) takes oath of office.

S.J News• [June 22, 2012]

S.J News• [June 22, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Probe ($3m Bribe): Fmr ad hoc committe Chairman attends House of Reps' plenary session; I'ld be vindicated -Farouk Lawan. 3rd Mainland Bridge: FG to commence routine repair works on Lagos bridge between July 1 & November 6. Jos: High Court sentences Obinna John (26yrs) to death by hanging over theft of N1,705; Also robbed victim of 2 rolls of sachet peak milk (N400 worth); Judgement liable to appeal. Ambassador: Amb Segun Olusola (77yrs; creator of Village Headmaster) passes after brief illness. Electricity: FG signs MoU with Electrobas (Brazilian firm) on development of Nigerian power projects. Abduction: PDP chieftain, Raphael Aliyu Olorunpomi, found dead along Okehi-Kabba road; Kidnapped in Kogi state. APGA: National Working Committee suspends 6 members over purported suspension of Victor Umeh (National Chairman); Constitutes 7-member Disciplinary Committee. Shootout: Joint Task Force (JTF) arrests alleged mastermind of Boko Haram bombings, Habeeb Bama, in Yobe state. Aviation: Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) suspends Air Nigeria for 2nd time in 1 week over alleged financial distress. Nautical: Ship carrying 200 passengers capsizes in waters between Australia & Indonesia; Rescue mission under way. 2012 NBA Finals: Miami Heat wins NBA championship title; Defeats Oklahoma City Thunder 121-106 in Game 5 of finals.

S.J News• [June 21, 2012]

S.J News• [June 21, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ House v Presido: House of Reps summons President Jonathan over bomb explosions & general insecurity in Nigeria. INEC: 2011 general election's 132,000 computers & Direct Data Capture (DDC) machines, N35bn worth, offered for sale -Solomon Soyebi (National Commissioner). EFCC v Atuche: Defense counsel's absence stalls trial of Francis Atuche (fmr MD, Bank PHB) @ Lagos High Court, Ikeja; To resume July 9. AIB: Probe on Bellview & ADC plane crash yet to be concluded 7 years after crash -Captain Yusuf Lawal (CEO, Accident Investigation Bureau). FEC: Federal Executive Council approves new draft policy on housing; To produce an average of 1million housing units annually -Labaran Maku (Minister of Information). Kaduna & Yobe Brouhaha: President Jonathan in Brazil for UN Earth Summit; President can rule 4rm anywhere in the world -FG. 2011 Elections: Use of transparent collapsible ballot boxes by INEC without patentee's (Bedding Holdings Ltd) consent is illegal -Federal High Court, Abuja. Greece: Antonis Samaras (New Democracy leader) sworn in as new prime minister.

S.J News• [June 20, 2012]

S.J News• [June 20, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy: FG to resume subsidy payment to NNPC & private importers of petroleum products in July. Security: VP Namdi Sambo meets with security chiefs @ Presidential Villa over security in Kaduna & Yobe states. Yobe: State Govt imposes 24-hour curfew on Damaturu, following spate of attacks; 6pm to 6am for Potiskum; 10pm to 6am for other towns. National Commission for Museum and Monument: Tombs of late Gen Murtala Muhammed, Nnamdi Azikwe, Tafawa Balewa & site of Oloibiri well (1st discovery of commercial quantity oil in Jan 15, 1956) to be heritage sites -Mrs Adama Muhammed (HOD, Monuments Heritage & Sites). Treasury Bills: FG plans to raise N841.56bn ($5.20bn) ranging 4rm 3 months to 1 year in 3rd quarter of 2012 -CBN. Kaduna: Relaxed curfew (12-hr) reinstated to 24 hours -Saidu Adamu (Commissioner for Information). Capital Market: Aliko Dangote resumes as Nigerian Stock Exchange council president; Presidency upheld by Court of Appeal. $111,000 Scam: Italian suspect, Mauro Zanin (52yrs), dies in EFCC custody; Due for Federal High Court, Abuja arraignment on 20th June; CPR futile, Suspected suicide -EFCC. WFE: Huseyin Erkan (fmr CEO, Istanbul Stock Exchange) appointed as Secretary-General of World Federation of Exchanges (WFE); To succeed Thomas Krantz. Egypt: Hosni Mubarak (84yrs; fmr president) declared clinically dead @ military hospital, Cairo due to stroke & cardiac arrest; Deteriorating health & in critical condition -Gen Mamdouh Shahin (Supreme Council of Armed Forces).

S.J News• [June 19, 2012]

S.J News• [June 19, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NSE: Aliko Dangote to resume as Nigerian Stock Exchange 2day; Replaces Ballama Manu (Interim President since August 5, 2010). DANA Air Crash: Lagos state commences coroner inquest into June 3 Dana Airline crash in Iju, Lagos state; 153 passengers killed; Presided over by Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe (Coroner of Alimosho, District). Osun: Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) inaugurates 6-man commission of inquiry on procurement of N18.38bn loan by Olagunsoye Oyinlola-led Govt, & contracts (May 2003 to Nov 2010). Bomb Blast: Kaduna state Govt relaxes 24-hr curfew imposed by 12 hours; Now takes effect 4rm 6 pm to 6 am -Saidu Adamu (Commissioner for Information). Delta: 28-year-old son of Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ovuozorie Macaulay, abducted in home town of Owhelogbo, Isoko North, Delta state. Cancer: Over 350,000 cases of cancer diagnosed annually in Nigeria due to chemicals in food intake; Advocates locally-made food -Dr Paul Orhii (DG, NAFDAC). Bodija Market: Bodija market, Ibadan, Oyo state to reopen 2day; Shut down last Friday due to clashes between Hausas & policemen. UN: President Jonathan leaves for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 2day to attend 2012 United Nations’ Earth Summit.

S.J News• [June 18, 2012]

S.J News• [June 18, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Agric: FG to release N1bn to each 36 states & FCT for young farmers without fund -Akinwumi Adesina (Minister of Agriculture). Kaduna: Gov Patrick Yakowa (Kaduna) holds emergency security meeting; Imposes 24-hr curfew following bomb attack @ churches & reprisal attacks. PDP: Hosting of INEC auditors to cost PDP N13,100,000; To audit PDP account for the 2011 financial year. Ekiti: Gov Kayode Fayemi files appeal against Ado Ekiti High court's order to reinstate Chairman & members of Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC). ACN/CPC Merger: All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) denies alliance talks with any party. Kogi: Aliu Raphael Olorunpomi (PDP chieftain, Kabba/Bunu LG, Kogi state) abducted by 5 unknown gunmen on Saturday. Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation: Over N3bn needed for classification & grading of hotels in Nigeria -Olusegun Runsewe (DG, NTDC). Edo: Students of Igbinedion University, Okada clash with ex-militants; 2 students beheaded; 208 ex-militants enrolled @ University under FG's amnesty programme. Greece Poll: Over 99% of votes counted; Pro-bailout New Democracy (29.7% votes; 129 seats), Syriza (26.9%; 71) & socialist Pasok (12.3%; 33) out of 300 seats in parliament.

S.J News• [June 17, 2012]

S.J News• [June 17, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Probe: Farouk Lawan (fmr Chairman, ad hoc committee) released on bail on self-recognition over alleged reception of $620,000 bribe 4rm Femi Otedola (Chairman, Zenon Oil). 2012 Edo Gov Election: PDP to reclaim Edo state -VP Namadi Sambo; Gov Election to hold July 14; Charles Airhiavbere (PDP Gov candidate) on tenterhooks. ACN/CPC Merger: APGA willing to join -Dr Sani Shinkafi (National Secretary, APGA); Invitation open to APGA through right channels -Lai Mohammed (National Publicity Secretary, ACN). Niger: State Govt earmarks N2.4bn for construction of State mosque & Church; To be situated @ 3 Arms Zone -Shehu Haruna (Commissioner for Religious Affairs). Adamawa: State Govt approves procurement of 2,000 tonnes of fertiliser (N2bn worth) for 2012 farming season -Ja’afar Hamman-Gabdo (Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Agriculture). 2012 African Women Championship (AWC) Qualifiers: Nigeria (Super Falcons) defeats Zimbabwe (Mighty Warriors) 4-0 (agg:6-0) in Lagos; Qualifies for South African tournament. Delta: Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan's (Delta) cousin, Pa Samuel Uduaghan (70yrs), released; Abducted 4rm Asaba residence one June 13; N50m ransom demanded. Dana Air Crash: Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo) declares Tuesday prayer day for victims of June 3 plane crash; Urges people to come out en masse. FGF: Erstwhile state governors form Former Governors Forum (FGF). 2013 African Nations Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria (Super Eagles) defeats Rwanda (Amavubi) 2-0 in Calabar; Ikechukwu Uche & Ahmed Musa scores; Gabriel Reuben (Kano Pillars) wins MVP award. Syria: United Nations (UN) suspends observer mission in Syria due to intensifying armed violence for the past 10 days -Gen Robert Mood (Head, UN Supervision Mission in Syria).

S.J News• [June 16, 2012]

S.J News• [June 16, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Probe: House of Reps passes vote of confidence in Aminu Tambuwal (Speaker); Farouk Lawan removed as Chairman of ad hoc & Education Committee; John Enoh (PDP, Obubra, Cross River) now Chairman, ad hoc committee. Dana Air Crash: Remains of Dr Abiodun Olasunkanmi Jonathan (Asst Pastor, RCCG Parish, Abuja) interred @ Gudu Christian Cemetery, Abuja. EFCC v Sylva: EFCC raids Abuja residence of Timipre Sylva's (fmr Bayelsa Gov) brother in-law, Richie Imoh Tommy. Islamic Banking: Federal High Court, Abuja declares Islamic banking illegal & unconstitutional; Jaiz International Bank Plc licensed to run bank in Nigeria. ECOWAS/European Union: Joint border development project @ Nigeria-Benin border to boost security, trade & clearance of travellers -Sahabi Abubakar Sadiq (Area Comptroller, Seme Area Command). Ekiti: Wife (35yrs) kills husband of 5 years while sleeping @ Usi-Ekiti, Ekiti state residence; Reports self to Police. Security: Nigerian Army banned 4rm using social networks (Facebook, Twitter, Youtube) during peacekeeping missions; Over 45,000 deployed -Gen Garba Wahab (GOC 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna). Boko Haram: Federal High Court, Abuja dismisses application filed by Sen Mohammed Ndume seeking to quash 4-count charge of Terrorism preferred against him by FG. The Hague, Netherlands: Fatou Bensouda (Gambian lawyer) sworn in as Chief Prosecutor of International Criminal Court (ICC); To replace Luis Moreno-Ocampo (Argentinian).

S.J News• [June 15, 2012]

S.J News• [June 15, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Probe: Farouk Lawan (Chairman ad hoc committee) interrogated & detained alongside Boniface Emenalo (Committee Clerk) on Thursday over reception of $620,000 bribe. SEC: PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) to audit Project 50; Ibrahim Bolaji Bello (Director of Finance & Administration) now acting DG, Security & Exchange Commission. Delta: Abductors of Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan's (Delta) cousin, Sam Uduaghan (75 yrs), demand N50m ransom; Kidnapped on Wednesday by @ Asaba residence. FG: N404bn released for capital votes implementation; Spent N1.44trn in 1st 5 months of 2012; N1.03trn recurrent -Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance). Telecoms: GSM operators (MTN, Globacom, Etisalat & Airtel) to pay N1.17bn fine to NCC over delivery of poor services -Tony Ojobo (Director of Public Affairs, NCC). Ekiti: High Court, Ado Ekiti orders reinstatement of Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC) Chairman & members; Sacked by Gov Kayode Fayode (Ekiti) on October 22, 2010. 14th Lagos CJ: Justice Ayotunde Adeyoola Phillips sworn in on Thursday as Chief Judge of Lagos state by Gov Babtunde Fashola (Lagos).

S.J News• [June 14, 2012]

S.J News• [June 14, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fuel Subsidy Probe: House of Reps to hold emergency session on Friday @ 10am over alleged reception of $620,000 bribe by Farouk Lawan (Chairman, ad hoc committee). Stunner: Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (CBN Gov) wears chieftancy attire to CBN Hq, Abuja; Installed as Dan Majen of Kano by Ado Bayero (Emir of Kano) on Saturday. JTF: 33 suspected oil thieves arrested in Rivers & Bayelsa states between June 1 & June10 -Joint Military Task Force Operation Pulo Shield. NIS: Nigeria Immigration Service arrests 5 persons involved in theft of PHCN, NITEL & CCTV camera cables near home of Mrs Rose Uzoma (NIS Comptroller-General) in Abuja. Maritime: FG inaugurates 13-member Inter-Agency Maritime Operations Coordination Committee (IMOCC) in Abuja for enhancement of safety in sector. Bauchi: 5,000 ghost workers discovered in 20 LG areas of Bauchi state; To save state Govt N11m. FUTA: Federal University of Technology, Akure shut down due to Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) & Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) of the university strike -Prof Adebiyi Daramola (VC). Imo: Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo) reshuffles cabinet; Drops 6 commissioners; New commissioners-designate awaiting State House of Assembly screening & approval. Abduction: Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan's (Delta) 70 year-old cousin, Pa Sam Uduaghan, kidnapped in Delta state on Wednesday. Visa: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves new visa regime for border security, tourism; Point of entry visas for countries without Nigeria embassy. Football: Roberto di Matteo (Italian) appointed as Chelsea FC permanent manager; Signs 2-year contract.

S.J News• [June 13, 2012]

S.J News• [June 13, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Ambassadors: Ojo Maduekwe (Canada), Bianca Ojukwu (Spain); 91 others receive letters of deployment; Prof Ade Adefuye (US) & Dr Sarki Tafida (UK) retained. MKO: Bola Tinubu (ACN Leader) urges FG to implement Senate’s resolution on renaming National Stadium after MKO Abiola. Agriculture: Kwara state Govt signs MoU with Cornell University New York, US on Kwara State Agriculture Masterplan (KAMP). Edo Gov: VP Namadi Sambo heads 48-man campaign committee for Edo state gubernatorial election on July 14. SEC: Securities & Exchange Commission board okays removal of 8 appointees on Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Council. June 12: Post-humous declaration of MKO Abiola (acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 Presidential election) as ex-President is the best way to immortalize him -Family. Yobe House of Assembly: Adamu Degubi (Nanngeri constituency) shot dead @ Anguwan Tandari residence by unknown gunmen. Merchandise Trade: Trade value of Nigeria hits N6.62trn in 1st quarter of 2012 (N4.97trn exports & N1.65trn imports); N6.33trn in 1st quarter of 2011 -National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). UN: Ban Ki-moon (Secretary-General) names Ms Amina Mohammed (erstwhile Presidential Snr SA on MDG) as Special Adviser on Post-2015 Development Planning. World Health Organization: Exhaust fumes 4rm diesel engines cause lung cancer & likely to cause tumours in bladder -WHO experts.

S.J News• [June 12, 2012]

S.J News• [June 12, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ MKO Abiola: ACN-controlled states (Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti & Oyo) declare 2day as public holiday in commemoration of 19th anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 Presidential election. Niger: State Govt uncovers 7,000 ghost workers on payroll of 25 Local Govt Councils in Niger state. Dana Air: International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO) to audit aircraft flying in airspace -Stella Oduah (Minister of Aviation); Inaugurates 11-member panel to probe June 3 crash. Iheomadinihu: Police rescues 3 children (5, 4 & 2yrs) in Makurdi, Benue state; Abducted 4rm school in Abuja by father’s chauffeur. UNILAG: University of Lagos Senate rejects FG's name change; Institution closed for 2 weeks; Students to resume academic activities next Monday. Zamfara: Armed robbers invade villages (Dangulbi, Dankurmi) in Maru Local Govt, Zamfara state; No fewer than 27 people killed. Capital Market: Ms Arunma Oteh (Director General, SEC) sent on compulsory leave by Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) board, pending investigation. Electricity: PHCN to generate monthly revenue of N22.5bn 4rm new electricity tariff -Prof Bart Nnaji (Minister of Power). Dangote Cement Plant: President Jonathan commissions 5.25 million metric tonnes per annum (mtpa) Line 3 in Obajana Plant, Kogi state.

S.J News• [June 11, 2012]

S.J News• [June 11, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Status Quo: Bayelsa State House of Assembly reverses impeachment of Kumbowei Benson (Speaker); Probably due to President Jonathan's unscheduled visit to state. Jos: Explosive-laden car driven into premises of Christ Chosen Church of God, Rukuba road, Jos; No fewer than 4 persons killed. UNICEF: Pneumonia & diarrhoea named as the 2 primary killers of children under age 5. Abduction: Christian Obodo (Super Eagles midfielder) rescued by police; Kidnapped by 4 unidentified gunmen in Warri, Delta state; No ransom paid. Drug Trafficking: NDLEA nabs serving councillor representing Kwankiyal ward, Darazo LG, Bauchi state with 29kg of Indian Hemp. Fuel Subsidy Probe: Farouk Lawan (Chairman, House of Reps committee) denies receiving $600,000 bribe 4rm oil marketer; Video clip was doctored. Oyo: State Govt sacks 3,000 workers over certificate forgery, falsified age etc. Kenya: George Saitoti (66yrs; Minister for Internal Security), Orwa Ojode (Deputy), 2 pilots & 2 bodyguards killed in helicopter crash in outskirts of Nairobi.

S.J News• [June 10, 2012]

S.J News• [June 10, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ June12: Ekiti & Osun state immortalise MKO Abiola (winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election); Declares June 12 as public holiday. Subsidy Probe: House of Reps' ad-hoc committee, headed by Farouk Lawan, to probe $3m bribery allegation. Abduction: Christian Obodo (Super Eagles midfielder) kidnapped on Saturday by 4 unknown gunmen in Warri, Delta state. Ekiti Test: Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) supports members' decision to boycott state Govt's Teachers Development Needs Assessment (TDNA). JTF/NDLF: Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF) demands N1bn compensation 4rm FG for "extra judicial murder” of Gen John Togo (leader). Edo: Prof Julius Ihonvbere (PDP stalwart; 2-time Edo Gov candidate) defects to ACN; Gov election to hold July 14. 14th Lagos CJ: State House of Assembly confirmed appointment of Justice Ayotunde Phillips (62yrs) as new Chief Judge on Thursday; Replaces Justice Inumidun Akande (attains statutory retirement age of 65). Kogi: Gov Idris Wada (Kogi) appoints interim management committees for 21 Local Govt councils in Kogi state; Accused of usurping State House of Assembly's functions.

S.J News• [June 9, 2012]

S.J News• [June 9, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2012 LG Election: Federal High Court, Lagos restrains Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) 4rm accepting nominations 4rm PDP. Anusiem Household: Chauffeur absconds with boss' kids (5yrs, 4yrs & 2yrs) in new Toyota Avensis (unregistered); Been in employ of family for 3 months. Borno: Suicide bomber attempts to gain entry into State Police Command Hq, Maiduguri with explosive-laden car; Explosion @ gate kills 2 police & 4 civilians. Turbaning: Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (CBN Gov) installed @ Ado Bayero's (Emir of Kano) palace as Dan Majen Kano. Blackout: Flights rescheduled @ Nnamdi Azikiwe Int'l Airport, Abuja on Friday due to runway blackout. Bayelsa: President Jonathan makes private visit to Bayelsa; Crisis presently rocking state resulted in impeachment of Kombowei Benson (Speaker, State House of Assembly). Security Breach: Over 4,000 illegal immigrants deported 4rm Nigeria & over 16,000 persons denied entry visas in last 9months -Abba Moro Minister of Interior). 2011 Gov Election: Supreme Court upholds election of Gov Gabriel Suswam (Benue); Dismisses petition filed by Prof Steve Ugba (ACN candidate) & Daniel Saror (ANPP candidate).

S.J News• [June 8, 2012]

S.J News• [June 8, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ EFCC v Sylva: Federal High Court, Abuja grants Timipre Sylva (fmr Bayelsa Gov) bail in the sum of N100m with a surety in like sum (FCT resident); Adjourned till September 19. Enugu: 37-year-old Abakpa-Enugu bridge collapses due to heavy rainfall; No casualty recorded; Links Abakpa Nike with rest of state. About N4.9bn Worth: President Jonathan commences nationwide distribution of 14 million textbooks & library resource to schools to encourage reading culture & quality learning amongst youth. Ekiti State University: Prof Dipo Kolawole (erstwhile EKSU VC) arraigned before Magistrate’s Court, Ado-Ekiti for allegedly stealing N91m institution money. Rock Bridge Construction Company: Mohammed Dhabre (Lebanese staff) abducted by unknown gunmen on wednesday in Benue state. Aviation: Air Nigeria workers (aircraft engineers & pilots) suspend strike; To re-commence normal flight operations. Oyo NURTW: State Govt lifts ban on National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) activities; Violent clash erupts between members in Ibadan 48hrs after. 2012 Edo Gov: INEC to deploy 20 electoral Commissioners to Edo state for July 14 gubernatorial election -Kassim Gaidam (Edo REC). 55 most-wanted Iraqis: Iraqi High Tribunal sentences Abid Hamid Mahmud al-Tikriti (#4 on list; Saddam Hussein's aide) to death for genocide & crimes against humanity.

S.J News• [June 7, 2012]

S.J News• [June 7, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Senate: FG sends bill seeking endorsement of name change; UNILAG to Moshood Abiola University; Federal University of Agriculture to Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike & FUT Yola to Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. EFCC v Sylva: Federal High Court, Abuja to rule on Timipriye Sylva's (fmr Bayelsa Gov) bail application 2day over mismanagement of N2bn State money. Aviation: FG orders up-to-date audit of all airlines; Inaugurates 9-man Technical & Administrative Review Panel; Headed by Captain John Obakpolor (rtd; Aeronautical engineer). Erstwhile IGP: High Court, Abuja orders ICPC to arraign Sunday Ehindero (fmr IG of Police, 2005-2007) on June 28 for allegedly laundering N557m. Dana Airline Crash: Black boxes (Flight recorder) retrieved 4rm crash site in Lagos to be sent to US 2day for thorough investigation -Mrs Stella Oduah (Minister of Aviation). Katsina: State Govt spent over N700m on Federal university, Dutsinma; Staff recruitment & students' admission concluded -Gov Ibrahim Shema (Katsina). Lake Chad: Water surface of lake dwindles 4rm 25,000 km-sq (1960s) to less than 2,000 km-sq due to climate change, population & water demand -Mrs Sarah Ochekpe (Minister of Water Resources). Mikel Obi Foundation: Mikel Obi (Super Eagles & Chelsea midfielder) to launch his pet project 2moro @ Civic Centre, VI, Lagos; To bring succour to homeless & displaced persons in Nigeria.

S.J News• [June 6, 2012]

S.J News• [June 6, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Lagos Doctors: 788 sacked doctors given recall letters; To resume work 2day -Dr Olumuyiwa Odusote (Chairman, Lagos Medical Guilds). Dana Airline Crash: Airspace not shut down for Presidential jet on Sunday; Patience Jonathan (1st Lady) arrived Lagos on Saturday -Federal Ministry of Aviation. Kaduna: Fire guts official residence of Gov Patrick Yakowa (Kaduna); Consoled by Northern Govs. N2bn State Money: Federal High Court, Abuja remands Timpriye Sylva (erstwhile Bayelsa Gov) in EFCC's custody pending determination of bail application. Ekiti Chief Judge: Gov Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) swears in Justice Ayodeji Daramola (1st substantive CJ in 6 years); Receives Toyota Prado alongside other high court judges. Breach of Contract: Court of Appeal, Lagos dismisses appeal filed by Statoil Nigeria Ltd; To pay John Abebe 1.5% of profit accruable 4rm 3 allocated oil blocks (about $3bn). Oyo: State Govt lifts ban on activities of National Union of Road Transporters Workers (NURTW) -Akin Olajide (Secretary to State Govt). 2011 Edo Gov Election: Federal High Court, Abuja bars INEC 4rm using collapsible transparent ballot boxes for July 14 election without consent of Bedding Holdings Ltd (patentee). Al Qaeda: Abu Yahya Al-Libi (Al Qaeda #2 man) killed by CIA drone strike in Pakistan -Jay Carney (White House spokesman).

S.J News• [June 5, 2012]

S.J News• [June 5, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Ekiti Test: 16,000 primary & secondary school teachers in Ekiti shun state Govt's Teachers’ Development Needs Assessment (TDNA) scheduled for Monday. Bayelsa State House of Assembly: Hon Friday Benson (Speaker) impeached; Hon Fini Angaye (Deputy Speaker; Kolokuma Opokuma Constituency II) elected as new Speaker. DANA Airline: Lagos state Govt to conduct DNA test on some recovered bodies for identification. UNIPORT: Part-time students of University of Port Harcourt protest hike in fee; Returning students (N35,000 to N120,000) & Freshmen (N50,000 to N200,000). Anti-Bomb Squad: 2 Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) discovered in premises of hostel @ University of Jos on Sunday -Emmanuel Ayeni (Commissioner of Police). Aviation: Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) urges FG to review operating licences of airlines in Nigeria; Proposes enactment of policy to monitor aircrafts' age. Construction Site: Section of Central Hospital in Benin City, Edo state collapses; 5 persons injured; Upgrade of hospital (built in 1903) initiated by Adams Oshiomhole administration. Babcock Record: Medical School inaugurated; 25-year-old lady bags PhD in Business Information; 20-year-old man emerges all-time best graduating student with CGPA of 4.92. Diamond Jubilee Concert: Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh; 90yrs) hospitalized in Britain due to bladder infection; Misses part of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee celebration.

S.J News• [June 4, 2012]

S.J News• [June 4, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Lagos Doctors: Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) directs 788 recalled doctors not to resume until reception of recall letters. Flags Flown @ Half-Mast: Dana Airlines flight 0992 with 153 passengers 4rm Abuja crashes into residential area in Iju Ishaga, Agege, Lagos; FG declares 3-day national mourning. N349bn Project: Senate Committee on Niger Delta summons Godsday Orubebe (Minister of the Niger Delta) over slow pace of work on 309km East-West road (links Warri with Port Harcourt). Bauchi: Explosive-laden Honda driven by suicide bomber into premises of Harvest Field Church of Faith & Living Faith Church in Yelwa, Bauchi State; No fewer than 12 persons killed. Ekiti Test: Teachers’ Development Need Assessment (TDNA) to hold 2day despite embarkment of 1-day strike by Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Ekiti -Ekiti Govt. Borini Prono Construction Company: Modesto di Girolamo (Italian engineer; 77yrs) abducted in Ilorin last Monday, Kwara state capital was released on Saturday.

S.J News• [June 3, 2012]

S.J News• [June 3, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ US-Nigeria Binational Commission: Senior officials of Nigeria & US to begin 2-day high-level meeting 2omoro in Washington DC, US; To focus on governance, regional security, energy & agriculture. Air France: Daily flights 4rm Abuja to Paris to begin 4rm June 4 -Mr Jacques Champagne de Labriolle (French Ambassador to Nigeria). Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesha: Oba Samuel Oladele Olashore (Osun monarch; fmr First Bank MD) dies @ 77. Ekiti: Teachers to begin indefinite strike 2moro; Refuse to partake in state Govt's Teachers Development Needs Assessment (TDNA) scheduled for June 4. NDLEA/USDEA: National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) & United States Drug Enforcement Administration (USDEA) sign MOU to combat drug crimes. Kotoka Int'l Airport: Cargo plane attempting to take off 4rm Accra, Ghana crash lands & hits bus loaded with passengers; No fewer than 10 persons killed. Egypt: Hosni Mubarak (84yrs; fmr President) & Habib El Adly (fmr Interior Minister) sentenced to life in prison for death of protesters during uprising; 6 aides acquitted; Suffers heart attack en route prison.

S.J News• [June 2, 2012]

S.J News• [June 2, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NNS ANDONI: President Jonathan commissions 1st locally-built Seaward Defence Boat (SDB) in Lagos; 31-meter warship made by Nigerian Navy. Akwa Ibom Gov Election: Supreme Court upholds election of Gov Godswill Akpabio (PDP); Dismisses appeal filed by Sen James Akpanudoedehe (ACN Gov candidate). UNILAG: Students clash with police in 3rd day of protest over renaming of institution to Moshood Abiola University by FG; Protesters dispersed with canisters teargas. Kidnapping: Enugu Police rescues 6-year-old Kosi Akilo (female) @ Ovwian, Warri, Delta state; Abducted 4rm parents’ home @ River Lane Crescent, GRA, Enugu. Anambra Gov Election: Sen Andy Uba (PDP) endorsed by stakeholders in Anambra South Senatorial District for 2014 gubernatorial election. Nigerian Capital Market: FG to release forbearance package to stockbrokers as measures to stimulate confidence & increase liquidity -Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance). Chinese Student: Jun Lin (33yrs; Concordia University student) identified as victim in Montreal, Canada murder; Manhunt for Luka Rocco Magnotta (29yrs; prime suspect) under way. Baby-Mama Punch: Floyd Mayweather (Boxer) jailed in Clark County, Nevada on Friday; To be Isolated 4rm 3,000 other inmates as he serves 90-day sentence for 2011 conviction on domestic violence charge. S.J wishes DJ Spin'All & Engr Ayo Durojaiye a splendid Bday.

S.J News• [June 1, 2012]

S.J News• [June 1, 2012]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Strike: Lagos state Govt recalls 788 sacked medical doctors; Sacked due to refusal to answer queries on absenteeism 4rm work. Subsidy Probe: $65m out of $200m paid as demurrage was lost between 2007 & 2010 due to Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation's (NNPC) inefficiency -KPMG (Audit Firm). Electricity: New tariff takes off 2day; N100bn electricity subsidy set aside for 2012 & 2013. NYSC: Female National Youth Service Corps members to learn martial arts for self-defence; May cease to partake in INEC elections -Brig-Gen Nnamdi Okore-Afia (DG, NYSC). Borini Prono Construction Company: Italian expatriate abducted in Ilorin, Kwara state -DSP Fabode Olufemi (PRO, Kwara). Akwa Ibom Gov Election: Supreme Court to deliver judgment 2day; Appeal filed by Sen James Akpanudoedehe (ACN Gov candidate) against Gov Godswill Akapabio (PDP). German Engineer: Edgar Fritz Raupach shot dead in botched rescue mission by Joint Task Force on anti-terrorism in Kano; Abducted since January 26 along Zaria Road, Kano. University of Lagos: Remains of Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe (10th UNILAG VC) interred @ Ikoyi cemetery on Thursday; Died of heart attack on May 12, 2012. Aromire: Court of Appeal, Lagos affirms selection & installation of Oba Fatai Aromire (Ojora of Ijoraland). University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): Onyebuchi Okonkwo (300L Physics & Astronomy) commits suicide; Found hung in uncompleted building @ cricket pitch, Franco Hostel. South West: President Jonathan meets Ondo, Ogun, Osun, Oyo & Ekiti state governors over infrastructural development in zone @ Presidential Villa, Abuja.