13-year-old Girl Dies In Egypt After Circumcision

Thirteen-year-old Soher died Thursday evening while being circumcised at a private clinic in a village of governorate of Daqahliya, north east of Cairo.
Image Credit: victim’s family

The death of a 13-year-old girl at a private clinic while undergoing a circumcision operation has once again highlighted that female private part mutilation continues to endanger lives in Egypt despite laws forbidding the practice.

The family of the girl, identified as Soher, filed an official complaint, accusing the doctor who performed the operation of having caused her death.

The girl died on Thursday evening in a village in the Daqahliya governorate, north-east of Cairo.
Doctors and nurses in Egypt have been banned from performing procedures involving female private part mutilation (FGM) since 2007 following the death of two young girls after being subjected to such surgeries at public hospitals. The procedure was subsequently declared illegal in 2008.

The ban notwithstanding, poorer families continue to put youngsters at grave risk. According to
national statistics, around 80 per cent of girls born to poor families become victims of FGM, as against only 30 per cent of girls from wealthy, educated backgrounds.

“We left our daughter with the doctor and the nurse. Fifteen minutes later, the nurse took my daughter out of the operation room to a nearby room, along with three other girls whom the doctor was circumcising,” Soher’s father, Mohammad Ebrahim, a farmer, told the Al Masry Al Youm newspaper.
“I waited half an hour hoping that my daughter would wake up but, unfortunately, unlike the rest of the girls, she did not,” Ebrahim said.

“The doctor brought her back to the operation room and then we were surprised when an ambulance transferred her out of the clinic. When we asked the doctor what was going on, he told us that she was weak and that the clinic did not have the necessary [medical] equipment to treat her. When we reached Aga Central Hospital, they told us she was dead. If I had known the operation was going to kill her, I would never have [allowed] her to have it. The same doctor conducted a similar operation on her elder sister two years ago, and villagers visit this doctor because he has a remedy for everything at low prices,” the distraught father said.

“The doctor does everything and the nurse helps him. Doctors at the Aga Hospital told me that she died of an anaesthesia overdose,” the girl’s mother, Hasanat Naeem Fawzi, said.

“I want nothing but to hold the doctor accountable and to have justice for my daughter,” Hasanat said.

The girl’s uncle, Mohammad, said that the doctor had offered the family 20,000 Egyptian pounds (Dh10,299) in return for an assurance that they would not file a complaint against him.
Tareq Hamouda, head of the Aga prosecution in Daqahliya, summoned the doctor for an interrogation and ordered that an autopsy be conducted on the girl to find the cause of death.

Abdul Salam, the family’s lawyer, said that although most forensic doctors were on vacation, the prosecutor was able to call on one to conduct the autopsy. The health inspector’s report, he added, confirmed that the cause of death was a sharp drop in blood pressure resulting from shock trauma.
Abdul Wahab Sulaiman, undersecretary of the Ministry of Health in Daqahlia, said that the Health Directorate had not yet been notified of the incident. He stressed that FGM is strictly prohibited and that the doctor had violated the law. [Gulf News]

Kuwaiti Court Sentences Woman To 11 Years Imprisonment For Insulting The Emir

Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad 

Al Sabah

A female teacher was on Monday sentenced to a total of 11 years in jail by a Kuwaiti court, for insulting the emir, inciting regime change and insulting a religious sect via Twitter, two sources close to the case said.

Huda Al Ajmi, 37, is the first woman known to have been convicted for criticising the US-allied state’s ruler, described as “immune and inviolable” in the constitution.

Kuwait has penalised several Twitter users in recent months for slurs against the emir, Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah. The political trials have drawn rebuke abroad and anger at home.

The sources said the court had given Huda two consecutive five-year terms for insulting the emir and one year for insulting an unspecified religious sect. “This is the highest sentence of its kind in these kinds of cases,” one source said.

Huda has not yet been taken into custody and can appeal the sentences, the sources said. It is rare for a woman to serve jail time for political crimes in Kuwait, which allows more freedom of speech than some other Gulf states.

In April a Kuwaiti court gave an opposition politician five years in jail for insulting the emir, but an appeals court overturned the sentence.

In February, US-based Human Rights Watch said prosecutors had charged nearly 25 people with offending the emir, sentencing at least six to jail terms, since October.

The United States has called on Kuwait to respect freedom of expression.

World's most expensive motorhome goes on sale for £2m and comes complete with cocktail bar and roof terrace

The world's most expensive motorhome has gone on sale in Dubai - covered in gold and worth a cool £2 million.The space-age eleMMent Palazzo comes complete with a colossal master bedroom, 40-inch TV, on-board bar, fireplace and even its own rooftop terrace. But the most impressive piece of luxury is the 'Sky Lounge' - at the press of a button the 40ft home transforms into a personal retreat with pop up cocktail bar, underfloor heating and extravagant marble lighting. The success of the vehicle has been a hit among oil-rich Arab Sheikhs - the state-of-the-art homes even wash themselves after a day's driving through the Middle Eastern desert. Although the 40ft vehicle comes in a stunning gold, it is also available in white. A spokesman for Marchi Mobile said: 'People never fail to notice innovation, but rarely does the excitement for it last. 'That is how it began for us. But now - after many years of development - we sparked a fire in luxury mobility. 'The eleMMent series from Marchi Mobile is a new class within the premium segment of vehicles, targeted to enthuse lovers of the extraordinary. 'Our goal has not only been to introduce a new line of luxury vehicles - but usher in a new era. This is done by a perfect masterpiece that sets itself apart at first sight.' The private jet on wheels is designed to cater for businessmen on the road, wealthy families on their travels or global superstars on tour.Despite living space banishing stereotypical pokey caravans, the cost per sq ft comes at a pocket-busting premium - costing double the equivalent amount of some of London's finest homes.

Why It Was Impossible to Finance Bash Ali’s Proposed Fight - Sports Minister Explains

The Sports Minister and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Bolaji Abdullahi, has announced the commission's plans to collaborate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Ministry of Justice in a bid to curb match-fixing in the Nigerian League. He also spoke on the reason his ministry cannot fund a proposed boxing match involving Bash Ali. "We are going to work with the EFCC and the ministry of Justice to punish whoever is guilty of Match fixing in the country, we want to develop the Football league in Nigeria," Mr. Abdullahi said, while outlining the successes and functions of his ministry at the ministerial platform in Abuja. He added that his ministry plans to develop the league so that home-based players will receive not less than N250, 000 monthly. The minister also used the opportunity to address fervid calls by boxer, Bash Ali, on the government to sponsor a world title match in Nigeria that may see Ali becoming the oldest title winning boxer. "The ministry doesn't have a budget to fund such sports. Boxing matches are always funded by private individuals not government," Mr. Abdullahi said. He, however, did not comment on allegations of assault leveled against his aides by Ali. The boxer had allegedly been manhandled by the Minister's aides during an attempt by Ali to personally take his appeal to Mr. Abdullahi. A video showing security details of the minister manhandling the boxer has gone viral on social media. The minister's spokesperson, Julius Ogunro, had earlier told the press that the minister was not and did not give any instruction for the boxer to be manhandled. "Bash Ali came and wanted to enter the meeting. As he wasn't invited, he was denied entry and he wanted to impose himself on the minister by forcing his way in, so the security men escorted him out of the venue," Mr. Ogunro said.

Mourinho tells Chelsea old boys Terry and Lampard they must earn their places

Jose Mourinho has warned Chelsea’s old guard they will not get any preferential treatment during his second term at the club. Mourinho was officially unveiled as the new manager of Chelsea on Monday at a packed press conference at Stamford Bridge. The ‘Special One’ relied heavily on the likes of John Terry (32) and Frank Lampard (34) during his first spell in charge of the club, but both players could not hold down a regular first-team place last season under interim manager Rafael Benitez. The duo are approaching the latter stages of their respective careers and if they are looking for any favours from their old boss, they will not get them. 'There are still a few boys from my (first) time (at Chelsea),' Mourinho said. 'It is always good to go back and see these people who gave absolutely everything to me when I was here. 'But it’s important to tell you - not them, because they know - that there is no privilege for them. They know my nature. They don’t have an advantage in relation to the other people. 'After (I left) Chelsea did very well to get young boys with great potential, great ability and a great future, and I look forward to trying to improve them.' Terry in particular cut a disappointed figure for the majority of last season. Just a few months after lifting the Champions League in Munich, the Chelsea captain was kept out of the team because of a knee injury and he struggled to find form and fitness upon his return. Mourinho refused to criticise Benitez - with whom he has clashed on several previous occasions - for dropping Terry and said he was looking forward to trying to get the best out of the defender again. 'I will talk only about the future. Benitez’s decisions are Benitez’s decisions, I am respectful of that,' the Chelsea manager said. 'I will meet John in July and try to get the best out of him. I know what he can give, let’s try to make him again a very important player, which he couldn’t be last season.' Mourinho joked today that he could end up with a squad of 60 players next season if he landed all the targets he has been linked with since it was confirmed that he would return to Stamford Bridge. The former Real Madrid boss admitted he would bring in a couple of new faces and it appears that he also plans to keep Belgian duo Romelu Lukaku and Kevin de Bruyne, who were loaned to West Brom and Werder Bremen. Mourinho added: 'They are the type of players Chelsea have invested a lot into in the past, and it’s my work to extract the best from those investments. 'Both of them are ready to come and be ready for my squad.'

RVP's message to Moyes: We know the standards here... United must win the title

Robin van Persie has embraced the dawn of a new era at Manchester United - but warned new boss David Moyes that nothing less than retaining their Premier League title will do. Moyes has replaced fellow Scot Sir Alex Ferguson in what was United's first managerial change in more than a quarter of a century. But Van Persie, who won his first league title in his first year at the club last season, is confident it will be business as usual when it comes to winning trophies. 'It will be a new era and I am looking forward to it,' he told MUTV. 'It is part of our job as well. We have to deal with the new situation and how it is. 'First we can enjoy last year a little. We have a summer break which we should all take and enjoy. 'And then, slowly, after a couple of weeks, we will start to think about next season and, of course, we are looking forward to next season.' United will face renewed challenges from Chelsea and bitter rivals Manchester City as all three clubs adjust to life with new managers. But Van Persie is confident the Premier League title will remain in the Old Trafford trophy cabinet. 'It is going to be a new era and a new challenge, with a new manager, maybe some new players coming,' he added. '(Wilfried) Zaha is coming in from Crystal Palace, maybe some more. Maybe some will leave, nobody knows. 'But it is going to be a new challenge and everybody knows what our standards are: we want to win the league again and then hopefully add one or two trophies to that.'

'Thank God for the gift of Mandela', Desmond Tutu urges as Jacob Zuma calls on South African to 'pray for Madiba'

Nelson Mandela remains in a 'serious but stable' condition as he spends a third day in hospital, the South African government said today. President Jacob Zuma called for the country to 'pray for Madiba' as his office announced Mr Mandela's 'condition is unchanged.' The former president, who will be 95 next month, was taken to hospital on Saturday after experiencing breathing difficulties. He has been hospitalised four times in the last six months. The government has previously played down fears over the ailing health of Mr Mandela, also known by his clan name Madiba. He is said to be conscious, able to breathe on his own and communicate. Today, Archbishop Desmond Tutu made the ailing leader the focus of his prayers. 'As the beloved father of our nation ... Nelson Mandela once again endures the ravages of time in hospital our prayers are for his comfort and his dignity,' a statement from Desmond and Leah Tutu's foundation said. 'We offer our thanks to God for the extraordinary gift of Mr Mandela, and wish his family strength,' Tutu said. Mr Mandela’s wife, Graça Machel, accompanied him to hospital in Pretoria and remains at his bedside. 'President Jacob Zuma reiterates his call for South Africa to pray for Madiba and the family during this time,' the presidential statement said. Yesterday, members of the Mandela family were seen visiting the hospital where the anti-apartheid leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate is believed to be staying. His wife, 67, cancelled an appearance at a high-profile hunger summit in London yesterday to be with her husband. Ms Machel was due to address the Nutrition for Growth meeting in the capital along with dozens of African leaders, non-governmental organisations and charities, as well as speakers such as Bill Gates and Justine Greening, Secretary of State for International Development. During a hospital stay in April, doctors diagnosed Mr Mandela with pneumonia and drained fluid from his chest. On April 29, state television broadcast footage of a visit by Zuma and other leaders of the ruling African National Congress to Mandela's home. President Zuma said then that Mandela was in good shape, but the footage - the first public images of Mandela in nearly a year - showed him silent and unresponsive, even when Zuma tried to hold his hand. Mr Mandela has been particularly vulnerable to respiratory problems since contracting tuberculosis during 27 years as the prisoner of the white South African government. The bulk of that period was spent on Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town where Mandela and other prisoners spent part of the time toiling in a stone quarry. Mandela was freed in 1990 and won election to the presidency in the country's first all-race elections in 1994. He was seen by many around the world as a symbol of resolve and reconciliation for his sacrifice in confinement as well as his peacemaking efforts during the tense transition that saw the demise of the apartheid system. The former leader retired from public life years ago and had received medical care at home in Johannesburg until his latest transfer to a hospital.

Mrs De Jesus died after two unsupervised trainee surgeons removed one of her ovaries by mistake.

Heavily pregnant mother, 32, and her baby did after trainee surgeons removed her OVARY instead of her appendix Mrs De Jesus' family said she was 'unlawfully killed A heavily-pregnant mother with appendicitis died after two unsupervised trainee surgeons removed one of her ovaries by mistake. Teaching assistant Maria De Jesus, 32, was admitted for surgery at Queen’s Hospital in Romford, Essex. An inquest heard that because she was heavily pregnant, surgeons had to 'feel' for the organ. This led to her ovary, rather than her appendix, being removed. Mrs De Jesus was discharged eight days after the botched operation, but re-admitted herself six days later with crippling stomach pains. She miscarried two days later - the same day medics finally read a report which had sat unseen for nine days confirming the trainees’ mistake. An inquest heard that a day after the error was spotted, 100ml of septic fluid was drained from the abdomen of the mother-of-three. Her condition failed to improve and she died on the operating table after medics finally removed her appendix - 19 days after the wrong procedure. Mrs De Jesus had developed severe sepsis as a result of the appendicitis and died from multiple organ failure. Barking, Havering and Redbridge Hospital Trust has admitted liability for her death at Queen’s Hospital in Romford, Essex and the chief executive has apologised to her family. But her grieving husband Adelino De Jesus, 53, said he was 'revolted' by his family’s NHS experience and would be taking legal action against the hospital trust. The General Medical Council is currently investigating eight medical staff at the hospital, including a senior surgical consultant Dr Babatunde Coker over the death. Coroner Chinyere Inyama, sitting at Walthamstow, said ‘a lost window of opportunity’ could have saved Mrs. De Jesus, from Dagenham, Essex. He recorded a narrative verdict. Grieving Mr. De Jesus said his wife’s death in November 2011 was an ‘unlawful killing’ caused by a ‘litany of errors’. He said: 'She went to hospital with stomach pains and we were told she needed to have her appendix out. 'The procedure to remove the appendix when Maria was pregnant was not simple. We were told at the inquest that the surgeons had to "feel" for the organ. 'But they removed the wrong one . We feel that this was negligent. My wife’s death could have been prevented, I am sure of it. 'By the time they realised how serious the situation was - and they promised us all the best consultants, it was too late 'She had the operation, and left hospital eight days later, but the pain continued. 'This is neglect, this is an unlawful killing. If my wife had been given treatment by fully qualified staff and people were informed of the mistake earlier she could still be alive.' Mrs De Jesus would have been 34 this month and her daughter Catarina, 10, said: 'We have put the balloons up because it was mum’s birthday and it’s good to celebrate it.' Her son Pedro, 16, said: 'It feels like such a big injustice.' Averil Dongworth, chief executive of the Barking, Havering and Redbridge Hospital Trust, admitted liability and apologised to the family in a letter they received on Saturday She said in a statement: 'The trust fully accepts the inquest verdict. I would once again like to apologise unreservedly to Mrs De Jesus’ family for their loss. 'We have admitted liability in this case. The staff involved in Mrs De Jesus’ care have been deeply affected by her death. 'An extensive trust-wide action plan was drawn up following Mrs De Jesus’ death in 2011 to ensure that such a tragic incident will not happen again. 'We have kept Mrs De Jesus’ family fully informed about the investigation into her death and the subsequent wide-ranging work which has taken place to improve systems and patient safety.'

4 Teenagers Set Islamic Boarding School On Fire

Four teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection
with a fire at an Islamic boarding school.

About 130 children and staff were evacuated from Darul Uloom, a Muslim
madrassa or religious school, in south east London, just before
midnight on Saturday.

Two 17-year-olds and two 18-year-olds were detained late last night
and taken to a south London police station, where they remain in
custody.

School principal Mustafa Musa said today the fire was started in the
teaching area and damaged about 10 per cent of the building.

Two boys received treatment for smoke inhalation, but were not taken
to hospital.

The attack happened only days after an Islamic centre in London's
Muswell Hill was burnt to the ground amid allegations it was a racist
attack.

The building was daubed with the letters 'EDL,' apparently referencing
the English Defence League.

That blaze prompted fears that the fire may have been a reprisal
attack in the wake of the Woolwiich murder of Drummer Lee Rigby.

Have a look at The Lovely Gift Beyonce And Jay-Z Gave Kim Kardashian For Her Baby Shower

Beyonce and Jay-Z couldn't attend Kim Kardashian's baby shower, but
they sent a gift.

"Beyonce and Jay-Z's gift could not be outdone, a £9,000 [about
$13,700] Swarovski crystal-studded high chair, designed by Carla
Monchen," a source told Sunday's Mirror in the U.K. "They had a
similar one for their daughter Blue Ivy."

The Carla Monchen-designed Icansit is a modern baby chair that is
embellished with hundreds of Swarovski crystals on its footrest and
table. It comes in either black or white, but looks like it would be a
pain to clean once splattered with mushy baby food.

The U.K. paper also reports that Beyonce's bestie Gwenyth Paltrow was
also invited to Kardashian's baby shower, but didn't attend. In lieu
of her presence, the Oscar-winning actress sent out a more affordable
gift: a £350 Vitamix blender and a 21-day cleanse to help Kardashian
get back into shape after giving birth. (They share the same personal
trainer.)

It is believed that Beyonce couldn't make it to the baby shower due to
her touring schedule, while Paltrow doesn't really know Kim that well.

Kim Kardashian and her baby daddy Kanye West are expecting a girl this July.

UNILAG Students Protest High Cost Of Living

Students of the University of Lagos are protesting the high cost of
living on campus.

It was gathered that the peaceful protest started yesterday, as the
students bemoaned the high cost of food and other basic items on
campus, saying it is disheartening that students are paying higher for
food and other consumables than their prices outside campus.

The cost of making photocopies is also said to be too expensive for an
academic environment.

According to a citizen reporter who seeks anonymity,"Imagine, we
students are buying sachet water at N10 per sachet, Indomie super pack
sold for N60 in town is N70 here, same as Indomie hungry man size,
which is N100 everywhere except in my school where it goes for N110.

Also soft drinks in plastic bottles such as Viju,Fanta,Pepsi are sold
for N120 per bottle instead of its supposed retail price of N100.

Ramadan is Coming : How Prepared are You?

Prepare for Ramadan The blessed & most beautiful month is near and what better time to prepare for it than right now. Some of us deceive ourselves into thinking that when Ramadan comes we will suddenly change and worship Allah night and day but we are only decieving ourselves in thinking like this. The Sahaaba used to prepare for Ramadan six months in advance. So if we really want to make the best of this Ramadan then we need to prepare for it now! This may be our last Ramadan for life is so uncertain. Then there is NO doubt that we must make the best of it for the Reward of EVERY good act in the month of Ramadan is multiplied many times over: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887) If there was a 75% sale on in the shops surely people would go crazy and even cue all night outside in order to be the first in the store to take advantage of this special offer. So in the same way why should we not take advantage of the immense rewards that are available in Ramadan? The best way we can make the best of this Ramadan and grab the immense rewards that are available is to prepare for it NOW. May Allah enable us to mke dis bst of dis yr Ramadan,and mke it salvation for us in d hereafter.Amen.

Four Teenagers Rape Girl, Threaten to Kill Her at Mile 12

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four boys for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl in the Mile 12 area of the state.

 

Punch Metro learnt that the suspects, Wale Badejo, Jubril Yusuf, Olusanya Remi and Wale Oluwafemi, who are between the ages 18 and 19, allegedly abducted the victim on her way to school and took turns raping her.

 

According to the police, the suspects held the victim for over seven hours and threatened to kill her if she told anybody about what happened to her.

 

A member of the victim’s family, who craved anonymity, said the incident occurred on May 30, 2013.

 

She said, “She (the victim) told us that one of the suspects, who also lived in the area, had been making sexual advances to her for sometime but she always rebuffed him. The boy (Oluwafemi) and her friends then vowed to deal with her, calling her a proud person.

 

“She schools at Maryland and because of the distance of the school from home, she leaves home around 6:30am every day.

 

“On the day of the incident, the boys came on two motorcycles, grabbed her and took her to Oluwafemi’s house at Agiliti.

 

“The boys blindfolded her and stuffed her mouth with cloth. The boys then took pictures of the barbaric act and made a video recording which they said they would upload on Facebook. The boys further threatened to kill her if she told anybody about what had happened.”

 

Punch Metro learnt that when the victim returned home, she did not inform her parents about what had transpired for fear of being killed.

It was learnt that a resident, who had seen the rape pictures on the phone of one of the suspects, reported the incident to the victim’s parents.

 

It was learnt that the victim’s mother immediately reported the matter to the Ketu Police Division and the suspects were arrested on June 6.

 

Our correspondent, who visited the victim’s home on Dada Street, learnt that the suspects had been accused of similar offences in the past.

 

A resident, who craved anonymity said, “The boys have been accused of raping other girls in the area. They always get away with it and we hope they will be prosecuted this time.”

The case, however, took a sudden twist when the victim’s family said they did not want the case to be taken to court.

 

The victim’s mother, Iyabo, said, “The families of the suspects have been begging us since the incident occurred and we have decided to let the case go.

 

“I was pained when I learnt my daughter was raped, but since we are all neighbours and taking into consideration the ages of the boys, we believe it is best to forgive and forget.

 

“One of the suspects is even an orphan and his 75-year-old grandmother has pleaded with us. For the sake of peace, we do not want a case anymore.

 

“My daughter has been taken to hospital for treatment and so far, no illness has been found in her blood. She has also received counselling and she will soon resume school.”

 

A police situation report made available to our correspondent by the police ‘B’ operations department stated that, “On June 6,2013, the mother of the victim reported at Mile 12 Police Post that the suspects conspired and had carnal knowledge of her daughter, who is 14 years old.

 

“The mother said around 6.30am, when her daughter was on her way to school, the suspects grabbed her and forced her into their room at Dada Street and had sex with her one after the other. They also threatened to kill her daughter and throw her into the river if she told her parents.

 

“The victim said they blindfolded her and covered her mouth with cloth. The suspects have confessed and will be charged to court.”

 

When contacted on the telephone, the spokesperson for the state police command, Ngozi Braide, lamented the rise in cases of rape, adding that parents of victims usually frustrated efforts of the police.

 

She said, “We have said it many times in the past that parents of victims are of the habit of perverting the course of justice by refusing to cooperate with the police in prosecuting rape suspects.

“Except members of the public rise up against this, rape will continue.”

Source: Punch

Check out photos from Kanye West’s 36th birthday celebration

Kanye West celebrated his 36th birthday during the weekend with his famous friends over dinner in New York. Though Kim was absent from the festivities, however Jay-Z, Beyonce and Nas were there to represent.

MORE PICS ON THE FLIP

Photos: Rapper Iceprince and The Real Oga @ the Top

Panshak Zamani popularly called Iceprince is being presented with the ‏Rhythm and Play ambassador plaque by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Justin Bieber’s Bodyguard Under Investigation for Battery

Yet another member of Justin Bieber's entourage has landed in hot water again.

One of the pop singer's bodyguards is under investigation for misdemeanor battery against a person who was trying to take a picture of Bieber, 19, at a Hollywood hookah lounge, TMZ reports.

According to the website, when the photographer (not a professional or paparazzo) attempted to snap Bieber's picture, one of the singer's bodyguards stepped in, and a dust-up ensued. Police were called to the scene, but by the time they arrived, Bieber and his group had left.

 Bieber is not a target in this investigation, but it's just the latest in a series of recent incidents involving him or his entourage bristling at unauthorized photographs taken of the singer. In April, the singer and his crew were banned from a Vienna nightclub after managers claim that his bodyguards smashed cameras, destroyed cell phones and groped some of the young female fans present.

Obiora Obiwon returns with 'Testify' as he clocks 36

The question making rounds around Social Media circles lately has been “Where is Obiwon?”. Finally, it gets an answer on the 9^th of June 2013, the 36^th birthday of the r’n’b-singer-turned-urban-gospel-minister, Obiora Obiwon.

In response to enthusiasts and lovers of his music, Obiwon returns as recording artiste with a techno-infused HipHop song entitled “Testify”. On the song he elicits the help of gospel music elite, Mike Abdul of the Midnight Crew, who adds a fuji-flavoured cameo to the already infectious groove. On the production, Obiora continues to synergize with Phat-E – credited with “Obi Mu O” the original version and the remix and the inspirational “F.a.t.h.e.r 2.0” single. The result is an undeniable jam filled with zest and celebration over strongly spirited but yet simple faith-based lyrics.

Obiwon who announced a full-time gospel music ministry five years ago in 2008 has steadily impacted the gospel music and Christian events scene nationwide with his “The Rebirth Band” and continues to play roles in the wedding events scene, roles not often showcased in mainstream media.

 

Expect to hear much more from Obiwon in coming weeks and months as he finalizes a long overdue third album.

Tenant Kills Neighbour Over Electricity Bill In Enugu

The Police in Enugu State have arrested a tenant identified as Uzodinma Eneh for allegedly stabbing his co-tenant, Prince Uzor, to death at their Aguabor residence in Trans Ekulu area of Enugu. It was gathered that Uzor was allegedly stabbed with a knife by the suspect following a hot argument that ensued between them over sharing of electricity bill incurred by the tenants. The victim was said to have been rushed to the Parklane Specialist Hospital, Enugu by sympathizers but he gave up the ghost shortly after arriving the hospital. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, who confirmed the incident, said the suspect was already helping the police in their investigation. The police spokesman also said operatives of the Igboeze North Police Division had nabbed two robbery suspects who allegedly attacked a manager of a petrol station along Igogoro road in Igbo Eze North Local Government Area and carted away N250,000. The suspects identified as Sunday Ayogu of Ufodu, Enugu Ezike and Kenneth Kingsley of Umuodo Aji, Enugu Ezike armed with a gun allegedly broke into the residence of their victim on June 5, 2013 and stole the money. Amaraizu said luck ran against them as the victim raised an alarm which attracted members of the Neighbourhood Watch in the village to the scene. The group quickly intervened and drew the attention of the police who helped to cordon the entire area off and successfully arrested the two. He said five handsets believed to have been stolen, one long machete, N197,000 and a dane gun cut to size were recovered from the suspects.

’ll Have Babies At The Right Time—Stephanie Okereke

In April 2012, the entertainment industry, especially the movie fraternity, was agog. Everything was almost brought to a standstill at that time for the superlative wedding of Stephanie Okereke to Linus Idahosa. But 14 months after the wedding, the couple has not yet produced a child. In late 2012 and early 2013, there were rumours that the actress was pregnant, but her tummy in recent times has not suggested such. In a recent interview, the former MBGN pageant runner-up disclosed that she is happy with the fact that Nigerians, especially her fans wish her well, but she was quick to say she would have babies at the right time. According to her, "the little ones are coming soon, but you know, everything is in God's hands and I'll have a baby when I'm supposed to have a baby. I am definitely not under any kind of pressure. We wish for it to happen and of course it's going to happen."

Majek Fashek Equates Himself With Jesus

Blasphemy you would say, but he didn't see it that way. The rainmaker has just opened his mouth to confess in an interview to equate himself with Jesus Christ. In the short interview, he lampooned Nigeria journalists that they would all go to hell fire due to the 'brown envelope' they are known to collect before doing anything media for people. Enjoy the short interview What message do you have for people; especially those who say you are sick? Me? I don't have any message for anybody, the message I have for the Nigerian press is that they are going to hell. Why? Hell? And do you know you are also including me? Not you, but for those who always write and give false information about me and for blaspheming the prophet. Me and Jesus Christ, we are one, me I no dey follow Jesus Christ like Christian o, I am following Jesus Christ in a different way and in different form.So, the Nigerian press that is running against the truth will go to hell, it's not you I am referring to. Okay, who gave me rain maker? It was the Nigerian press that was good press like you. May God help you in your press profession. It was good people like you then that gave me rain maker in the late 80s and I am sure you must be in secondary school then, abi I lie? They don't take bribe, it is you that will use your sense to give them envelope, they don't demand anything from you, and it is you that will give them, not them demanding for it. But the press we have now will always demand for bribe. So, Nigerian press, no don't let me use Nigerian press, let me say African press, is fed up because of bribery and corruption. But would you agree with me that you are sick? Yes, I was sick, anybody can be sick. What I have is spiritual problem which I am dealing with. Even in the Bible, it was stated that we are not fighting against flesh and blood, but wickedness in high places. I am a freedom fighter, I can never be shot like Lucky Dube, I am invincible, you can't shoot me. I am Anikulapo.

Headmaster Arraigned For Defiling Eight-Year-Old Pupil

The Bayelsa State Police Command has arraigned a 55-year-old headmaster of a private nursery and primary school in Akaba community, Yenagoa Local Government, Bayelsa State, Mr. Akpolagha Agbugiye, for defiling an eight-year-old pupil.

The headmaster, who was dragged before the Chief Magistrate’s Court 1 in Yenagoa, was accused of inserting his finger into the private parts of the pupil.

The prosecuting lawyer, Roselyn Doctor, a police Inspector, told the court that the incident happened on May 3.

She said the headmaster committed the offence at the back of the school building.

She said the school boss asked the pupil to touch the ground with her finger and raise her leg after which he removed her pants and inserted his finger into her private part.

She said, “The posture he placed the girl was supposed to be a form of punishment called ‘pick a pin.’

“The accused asked the classmate of the victim to call her. When the two girls met him at the back of the school building, he asked the other girl to leave.

“The headmaster then asked the pupil to pick pin, an order which the girl obeyed. At this point he pulled the girl’s pant and inserted his fingers into her private part.”

The police prosecutor said the victim limped home and reported the incident to her mother.
She said her mother later took her to the Federal Medical Centre for examination, adding that a doctor confirmed that the girl had been defiled.

The police told the presiding Magistrate, Patricia Edouyemiekumo, that the action was a criminal offence punishable under section 146(2) of the Criminal Code, Law of Bayelsa State, 2006.

The accused person pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was granted bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties residing in the state capital.

The case was adjourned till June 13.

BREAKING NEWS: Fire Razes 150 Spare Parts Shops In Apapa

Tragedy struck on Sunday at the Trinity Spare Parts Market in the Olodi Apapa area of Ajegunle, Lagos, as no fewer than 150 shops, including their materials, were consumed by an inferno.

















The fire was caused by an electrical power surge in one of the shops at a section of the plaza some minutes after 3pm.
 
The infreno started from a shop on the ‘B’ line of the market few minutes after the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, restored power to the shopping complex.
 
The Speed Well Plaza is estimated to accommodate no fewer than 200 shops, mostly spare parts traders.

A resident of the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “This whole incident started when PHCN restored power here around 1.00p.m.

“Not long after that, I saw a thick smoke coming from one of the shops on B line,though I didn’t know the fire was going to be this big and spread to other parts of the plaza.”
Some of the affected traders expressed shock at the mid-Sunday fire.

They lamented the extent of the destruction, adding that for them to get back to business, the governmentr would need to assist them.

A distressed trader, Mr. Izuchukwu Agwu, said, “I am finished. As you are seeing me here, I have lost everything I have to this fire incident.

“Unless something is done, I am heading back to the village and you know what it means – suicide. I sleep in my shop and I have no other business here.”
He added, “I was lucky not to have been in there when the fire started. Who knows, I might have been burnt. Now, what else do I have? I am heading back to the village tonight.”

Policemen from Trinity Police Station with other security personnel provided security at the plaza as fire fighters from the Lagos State Fire Service and those believed to be from Julius Berger Plc battled to put out the ragging inforeno.

The Director of the Lagos State Fire Service, Mr. Rasak Fadipe, explained that the fire was aggravated by the inflammable materials stored in most of the shops in the spare parts market

Prayer for the Nation:2 Million Muslim Faithful Hold Special Prayer For Nigeria

An estimated two million Muslim faithful in Dutse, Jigawa, participated in a special prayer session for peace, unity and prosperity in the country.

Also in Lagos Most Rev. Adebayo Akinde, the Anglican Archbishop of Lagos Province, said that God is willing to intervene in the challenges facing the country, if Nigerians turn to Him in prayers.

The prayer session, held on Saturday, was part of the five-day activity organised for the 27th Maulaud celebration to commemorate the birth of Sheik Ibrahim Nyass, a famous leader of the Tijjaniya Islamic movement.

Muslims faithful from within and outside the country attended the prayer session held at the Dutse Triangle Square.

Malam Ahmad Inyass, who led the congregation, prayed for peaceful co-existence among the people for sustainable social and economic development.

“We pray to Allah to give us peace, enrich our wealth in agriculture and the general economy of the country”.

Inyass admonished Muslims to be upright, honest and dedicate themselves to the worship of Allah in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

He also counselled Muslims to be guided by the teachings of the Quar’an and traditions of Prophet Muhammad and commended the state government for its support to the group.

Participants in the prayer session included the Speaker, House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal; Gov. Sule Lamido of Jigawa and his deputy, Alhaji Ahmed Mahmoud, and Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Nuhu Sunusi.

Others were renowned Islamic scholars, Alhaji Isiyaku Rabiu, Sheik Dahiru Usman Bauchi as well as Muslim faithful from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Niger, Senegal and Republic of Benin.
Also in Lagos Most Rev. Adebayo Akinde, the Anglican Archbishop of Lagos Province, said that God is willing to intervene in the challenges facing the country, if Nigerians turn to Him in prayers.

Akinde on Sunday in Lagos said that the challenges, especially insecurity needed urgent solution such as prayers.

“Prayer is the solution to the national problem as well as for individual inadequacies.

“With faith in God and fervent prayers, everything in the sight of God is possible. There will be no problems, especially those that were as a result of human error.

“As a nation if we are serious about getting solution to our national problems, we need to turn from our wicked ways.”

The cleric attributed the current problem of Nigeria to high level of sins and unrighteousness in the land.

Akinde noted that the bane of the Nigeria society was nothing but lack of prayers and morals.
He said that the blessings of God had departed from Nigeria where a lot of societal vices were the order of the day.

“Nigeria still falls short of what is required for the full manifestation of the glory of God.

“In a land richly blessed with abundant resources, yet there are problems of unemployment, hunger, crisis, pain and frustrations, ” he said.

"Fifteen Years After, I Miss You" - Late Abacha's Daughter

Daughter of the late military dictator, Gen. Sani Abacha, Gumsu, says she is still mourning the death of her father, 15 years after his demise.

 Gumsu, who may have cut short her sleep early Saturday morning, took to Twitter at 3:16 am to pay tribute to her father, saying, “I miss you so much.”

Abacha became the 10th military Head of State of Nigeria on November 17, 1993 but died in office on June 8, 1998.

“May Allah grant my father Aljanna Firdaus. I miss you so much. Fifteen years already. Allah ya jikan ka da rhama  ‘Baba,’” she stated in a tweet.

A few hours Gumsu posted the tweet,  former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, replied her, saying, “Ameen.” However, Fani-Kayode’s move to share in her grief on the 15th anniversary of the
death of Abacha made a handful of his followers on Twitter to raise an eyebrow.

When Fani-Kayode’s gesture was noticed by Gumsu, she replied his tweet,  saying, “Thank you,’’ while Fani-Kayode responded, “My pleasure,  dear.’’

But Fani-Kayode’s  followers on the social service wondered if he was one of the Nigerians who subtly benefited from the Abacha regime.

“Fani-Kayode, sir, were you pro-Abacha?” one of his followers, Dolapo Bello, queried in a tweet. But realising what damage that could do to his reputation online, Fani-Kayode responded swiftly by dissociating himself from the Abacha regime.

He stated, “Of course not. I was not pro-Abacha government. I was one of those who fought his government.”

But as the day broke on Saturday, the Nigerian Twitter space was soon turned into a podium for debate with some arguing that Abacha was a hero, while others vehemently disagreed on the social network.

A Nigerian with the name, Ikhide, who tweets via @ikhide argued, “Nigeria’s democracy has seen more extrajudicial murders, state-sponsored looting, incompetence and insecurity than two reigns of Gen. Abacha. If I had to choose among Goodluck Jonathan, Olusegun Obasanjo and Abacha, I would choose Oga Jonathan, followed by Abacha, before OBJ. My father Papalolo was happier, safer and more prosperous under Abacha.’’

Segun Bamidele said, “With due respect ‘Mr. & Mrs. Death’ you have been unfair to Nigeria. You took Abacha and Abiola 15 years ago and left us with more wicked charlatans.’’

Meanwhile, some Nigerians used the picture of the late President as their Display Picture on their BlackBerry Messenger. One of such persons, who is a contact on our correspondent’s BBM,  with the name Engr L.G. Adinoyi,  wrote on his BBM,  “Nigeria needs another Gen. Abacha.’’

Reacting to the way Gumsu mourned the death of her father on Twitter, a prolific user of the social service, Tolu Ogunlesi, said, “That’s the lesson: That even the cruellest of dictators have families.
And are often loving and caring daddies.’’

Though Ogunlesi was silent on the “Abacha hero debate” he painstakingly equated the Abacha regime with that of the Goodluck Jonathan administration.  He explained that some of the achievements the Jonathan administration was laying claim to were also there during the Abacha regime.

He said, “Truth is, many ‘achievements’ Jonathan Government is claiming, Abacha too claimed. African Cup of Nations win; Petroleum Trust Fund (for Abacha) – Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (for Jonathan); Failed Banks Tribunal (for Abacha) and Fuel Subsidy trial (Jonathan).

“Give Abacha’s list of achievements to Doyin Okupe (presidential assistant on public affairs) and Labaran Maku (minister of information), you won’t recognise the dictator again o. Bottomline is that there are no heroes anywhere, are there? Only varying degrees of non-heroism. Nigerians celebrated Abacha’s death. There were parties in Britain celebrating Margaret Thatcher’s Death. Therefore, the summary of the matter is this: All leaders are evil but some are (much) less evil than others.”

For Adelola Edema, many Nigerians praising Abacha as a hero on social media are youths who need to take some history lessons. “It’s really sad to see young Nigerians praise Abacha. It makes me fear for this country. Should the youths not be our hope for a better tomorrow,” Edema noted.

One Kunle,  tweeting via @kunledee, laments, “June 4, you celebrated Kudirat Abiola as a fighter for democracy. June 8, you now wake up to hail Abacha? Seriously? See the disconnect?”

Nedu,  tweeting via @nedunaija,  lamented, “If you tell me Nigeria was better under Abacha than it is now, that’ll be because you don’t know about the time value of corruption.

“Our inability to think is our real problem. How Abacha became a hero overnight beats me! I remember vividly, by this time 15 years ago, our street in Ijeshatedo (Lagos) erupted in jubilation, with people shouting Abacha ti ku o (Abacha has died o!”

When one Abiodun, tweeting via @biodunonline, confronted Gumsu, saying, “You and your family, return stolen wealth of the nation,” she replied, “That’s your opinion. Allah kareem.”

It Was Wrong To Proscribe Boko Haram, Ansaru – ACN

Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, has said that the Federal Government violated the rights of Islamist sects Boko Haram and Ansaru by the recent proscription order against them, noting that it violates the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, yesterday, in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, the party noted that the order makes it easy for an increasingly intolerant government to clamp down on the opposition, which it sees more as an irritant.

ACN therefore called on the Federal Government to clarify the knotty and vague areas of the open-ended order, that may end up punishing journalists and infringing on the civil liberties of the citizens more than it will curtail activities of the sects.

“Against the background of insinuations in government circles, let us be clear that we do not condone the activities of these sects that have killed and maimed innocent Nigerians and turned a section of the country into a battle field.

“Terrorism in all its ramifications is condemnable, and no responsible government will allow any group, no matter its name, grievances or ideology, to carry out terrorist acts unchecked.

“But we believe that whatever action government takes— even in an emergency— must pass the constitutional test, especially since the relevant sections of the Constitution have not been suspended.”

It said the offensive section of the order was Section 5 (1), which prescribes a term of imprisonment of not less than 20 years “for any person who knowingly, in any manner, directly or indirectly, solicits or renders support for the commission of an act of terrorism or to a terrorist group.”
ACN said, “support,” as defined by the order, includes “incitement to commit a terrorist act through the Internet, or any electronic means or through the use of printed materials or through the dissemination of terrorist information.

“Is this subsection not in conflict with Chapter II Section 22 of the Nigeria Constitution which says ‘The press, radio, television and other agencies of the mass media, shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the government to the people?’

“By stifling the press, is the order not abridging a part of the fundamental human rights guaranteed every citizen under Chapter Four of the Nigerian Constitution in Section 39 (1), which states thus: ‘Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference?’”

The party advised the Nigerian government to take a cue from what obtains in other countries, especially in the USA, which are also battling terrorism, adding that the media in those countries have continued to report freely on activities of the global terrorist organisation, Al-Qaeda, despite the horrendous attacks it has carried out in the US and Europe, among others.

Photo: Psquare, M.I, KCee, Others Shut Down Festac In First Leg Of Star Music Trek 2013

The high anticipation preceding the 1st leg of the Star Music Trek regional concerts was not in vain as music lovers from the nooks and crannies of Lagos and beyond thronged  Jite Open Field in FESTAC, to watch their favourite superstars Psquare, M.I, Ice Prince, Sound Sultan, KCee, Kas and other exciting artistes perform live.

Thousands of guests bravely defied the Lagos rains to attend the concert and witness high-octane performances from the star artistes.

Compere of the event, Gbenga Adeyinka, set the crowd reeling as he dished out from his rich repertoire of jokes and anecdotes while boldly challenging local talent who eagerly lined up at the venue as early as 3pm to join him on the stage and prove their mettle.


However, it was the scintillating performances- a rich medley of thumping dance steps and pulsating rhythms- from fan favourites PSquare, M.I, Ice Prince, Sound Sultan, Kcee, Kas, and Crystals that sent the crowd into frenzy with many demanding encores from the headliners.

One after the other, the music acts dished out popular songs from their collection of hits, reaching out to the crowd who swelled the ranks in appreciation of the stage craft and mastery of the entertainers.

M.I, in between songs, paid tribute to the fans whom he said had greatly inspired him to his level of fame while repeatedly urging them to ‘never give up on their dreams’.

In between performing his hit songs, the prolific entertainer humorously described his hustle up the ranks- mentioning his journey to Lagos from Jos by road via ABC Bus- to become a notable music star to court today.

“No matter what happens, you need to believe in yourself, don't ever let anyone take your dreams from you.” the MTV-award-winning rapper-entrepreneur reiterated.

On the other hand, award winning artiste, Ice Prince, who has enjoyed a very successful musical year so far affirmed his appreciation of being part of this year’s tour  “I’m really happy to be part of Star Music Trek 2013, can’t wait to connect with my fans all over the country and make beautiful music.”

Kcee, whose hit Limpopo has been on every major playlist across the country over the past few months surprised one lucky fan as he flung his wrist watch into the crowd “ I love my wrist watch…but FESTAC, I love you guys more!”

Special surprise performances from, African China took fans down memory lane with his hit, Crises, and Harrisong also added to the intense excitement of the night.

Other artistes expected to perform at the nation wide event include 2face, D’banj, Psquare, Timaya, Wande Coal, Obesere, Mr Raw, Dr. Sid, JMartins, Naeto C, Tiwa Savage, Sheyi Shey, and many others.

Fans in Aba, Abeokuta, Agege, Asaba, Enugu, Nnewi, Owerri, Lokoja, and Surulere will also get a taste of the excitement as the concert will also tour these cities over the next two months.

The Star Music Trek Presents The Trek ends with a major finale on August 10th at National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

If God Favours You, The Man Who Wants To Sleep With You But Has Not Succeeded Will Still Continue To Help You- Biodun Okeowo

Biodun Okeowo is a Yoruba actress and a movie producer. She talks about sex in the movie world and why women are more favored than men in a recent interview.

Many men have come to me with money and have said I like you and I want to sleep with you, and I have turned them down. I have evidences, I told the last person, who tried it with me that if he has succeeded with other actresses in the movie industry, he should not try it with me because, even if I am hungry, I know what to do to put food on my table. I won’t resort to prostitution or doing runs. I am not bragging but I have proved it severally.

If you go to any part of the world, you will realise that women are more favored than men. The truth is that a woman can leave her house without money and come back with cash and it doesn’t mean she has rubbished herself. The fact is that if you have the favor of God, things will work out well for you. The man, who wants to sleep with you but has not succeeded, will still continue to do things for you, despite the fact that you have refused to date him. The opportunity I just described is not often available to men.

Zidane hints Madrid are prepared to smash world transfer record to sign £85m Gareth Bale

Zinedine Zidane has admitted Real Madrid will have to break the world transfer record to sign Gareth Bale.

The Tottenham winger has been heavily linked with a move to the Spanish capital with Madrid reportedly lining up a bid of £85million.

That would smash the £80m they paid Manchester United for Cristiano Ronaldo four years ago.

Target: Tottenham winger Gareth Bale is on Real Madrid's radar and could cost £85million

'The talk about Gareth Bale is not a surprise,' Zidane, who is Madrid's sporting director, said. 'It is impossible to have the season he just had and not be linked with the biggest clubs in Europe.

'If any club is going to tempt Spurs, then it will take big money – maybe even record-breaking money.

'There are four or five clubs at the moment who have the finances not to be put off by a record-breaking fee like that.'

Man with the plan: Zinedine Zidane (centre) admits it will take a big bid to sign Bale this summer

The astronomical fee would be almost impossible for Spurs to refuse with Bernabeu chief Florentino Perez pinpointing the Wales superstar as his prime target.
Bale could be taken to Madrid to replace Ronaldo ,who has been linked with a move back to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Juventus officials held talks with Madrid over Gonzalo Higuain on Sunday. The Italians are eager to beat Arsenal to the £20m signing of the Argentine striker but have been told a deal must wait until Carlo Ancelotti is appointed coach.

Source: Reuters

Brazil team beat France for the first time since 1992

Brazil picked up a confidence-boosting victory ahead of the Confederations Cup as they beat France 3-0 at the Gremio Arena in Porto Alegre.
Chelsea midfielder Oscar opened the scoring in the 54th minute with a neat finish past Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris, who was captaining the visitors.

Tidy finish: Oscar scored in the 54th minute to give Brazil the lead

Hernanes then doubled Brazil's lead in the 85th minute after a superb counter-attack in which Neymar provided the assist.
The misery for France was complete when Lucas scored from the penalty spot in stoppage time after Marcelo was brought down by Mathieu Debuchy.

Flying high: France's Adil Rami fights for the ball with Neymar

The third defeat in a row for Didier Deschamps' men also marks the first time Brazil have beaten France since 1992.

Luiz Felipe Scolari's team open their Confederations campaign on Saturday against Japan in Brasilia.

Standing tall: Both teams line up before the match at the Gremio Arena.

Nice one to the Brazillians