Ihedioha blasts Okorocha for planning to spend N600m to decorate Imo for yuletide

The immediate past Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, has blasted the Imo State government for planning to spend over N600 million for Christmas and New Year decorations in the state.
Ihedioha in a statement by his media aide, Chibuike Onyeukwu, wondered why Imo should spend such outrageous amount on decorations while citizens had not been paid for months.
“There are several unresolved industrial disputes, while the state’s infrastructure base has collapsed. Today, there is palpable lack of vision for the genuine development of the state, but the government chose to embark on such inciting and frivolous window dressing,” Ihedioha fumed.
Ihedioha said that “despite the prevailing widespread disenchantment being expressed by citizens, who recently called for his immediate impeachment over the alarming rate of hunger and insecurity occasioned by the inept handling of issues of governance and unrepentant deceit so far exhibited by the Okorocha led administration, the governor has refused to repent or address such concerns and other critical issues.”
While saying that “preparations for Christmas celebration is a tradition all over the world,” Ihedioha, however, said, it was “ridiculous and indeed smacks of insensitivity for this government to spend over N600 million on decorations when families can no longer afford their meals and basic needs as a result of non-payment of salaries, pensions and other entitlements.”
He expressed displeasure that Governor Okorocha had refused to constitute his cabinet six months after election, pointing out that there was no local government administration and no functional ministry, department or agency in the state.
“The governor has embarked on several trips abroad to woo non-existent investors with a view to actualizing his failed promises of aggressive industrialization and employment of youths,” Ihedioha said.

10 reasons why sugar is your biggest enemy

So you don’t have diabetes nor do you suffer from any lifestyle related disorders like high blood pressure, metabolic disorders, etc. Well, that’s good news but is not a ticket for you to devour sugar in any form. Added sugar is surely harmful to your health, but hidden sugar (the ones that come in your processed foods, pastries, sweet and mithai, etc.) can do damage beyond any repair. So, if you think you need to be concerned about sugar intake only if you are diabetic, then think again. Don’t believe us, here are a few reasons: It sets you up for heart disease: No this isn’t a joke, more than fats, it is sugar that damages your heart and arteries, increasing your chances of cardiovascular diseases and heart attack. Just limiting white sugar in your tea, coffee and fruit juices is not going to help. Remember, even fructose, a type of sugar present in honey and fruits, has the capacity to increase your LDL or bad cholesterol, constrict your arteries, increase blood glucose and insulin levels — all of which can increase abdominal obesity and up your risk for both heart diseases and diabetes [1].heart healthy. It tricks your brain into alcohol and drugs addiction: If you are a non-smoker, non-alcoholic and wish to be the same, stay away from foods that are high in sugar. If you notice closely people who are into drugs, alcohol or any other kind of addiction have a high affinity for junk or other foods that are rich in sugar like pastries, mithai and desserts. Now, here is the link: sugar, releases a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain, which increase the affinity towards it and other addictive substances which also act on the same lines of sugar i.e., release dopamine and help one enhance mood [2]. It increases hunger: Eating a pastry, doughnut or two gulab jamuns to satisfy your mid-morning hunger or mid-evening craving might make you eat more during your meal time, no matter how early or late you decide to have the meal. And if you think that sprinting for 10 minutes or so can help burn the calories, you are still wrong. Sugar in various forms (glucose or fructose) doesn’t help to satiate your hunger. In fact, even high level of fructose (considered to be a natural sugar) in the blood can decrease the circulation of leptin and insulin while increasing the concentration of hunger hormone ghrelin. This could be a contributing factor for weight gain and obesity [3]. It makes your liver sick: Foods that we eat breaks down into sugar, mainly of two kinds – glucose and fructose. While glucose is needed by every cell of the body, fructose doesn’t have much of a physiological importance. But fruits, honey and many sweeteners have fructose and that is how it gets into our blood stream. This fructose is metabolised only by the liver and converted into glycogen to be used in future when the body needs energy. But if there is too much of stored glycogen and high level of fructose in the blood, the liver turns it into fat, restricting it to perform its normal functions. This could also lead to fatty liver syndrome and complications of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases [4]. It could lead to various types of cancer: No, this isn’t a vague assumption, but excess sugar could be a marker for cancer. Remember, insulin plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth. Some studies indicate that elevated insulin levels because of consumption of foods high in sugar could be a reason for prostate, pancreatic and breast cancer [5]. It could make you resistant to insulin: This is one of the sign and symptoms of metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of symptoms like elevated blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, etc. Now eating more sugar could mean that more glucose in the blood and so your pancreas would secrete more insulin for the glucose to enter your cells. However, with elevated insulin in the body the cells become immune to insulin, resulting in insulin resistance. This is when there is high blood glucose in the body, indicating to be a marker for diabetes and other metabolic problems [6].

It is bad for your dental health:

There is no denying that sugar is bad for your teeth and one of the prime reasons for cavities. Now, if you are thinking what makes sugar so envious of your teeth, remember sugar is empty calories, and it robs nutrients out of the food. So the sugar that remains in the mouth, especially if you fail to rinse your mouth thoroughly it gives an ideal environment for the bad bacteria to thrive and grow [7].

It leads to obesity:

Now, this should not be a surprise. Since sugar is capable of suppressing satiety and increasing ghrelin, the hunger hormone it is no surprise that you end up eating more, mostly carbohydrate-rich foods that lead to abdominal obesity (in the absence of physical activity). Abdominal obesity is one of the major contributing factors in metabolic disease, heart diseases and also renal diseases [8].

It makes you age faster:

More sugar in your diet will ruin the collagens in your skin and lead to wrinkles and spots that can rob your age and make you look elder than your age. Probably, this is reason enough to make you limit your intake of sugar from your diet [9].

It leads to diabetes:

We kept the obvious for the last. Over time when there is too much of insulin in the blood, and your cells become insulin resistant, the pancreas loses its ability to generate more insulin to meet the demands of the body. This is when blood glucose levels go skyrocketing, and the obvious diagnosis is type II diabetes.

5 facts all men need to know about their woman’s body

Many men believe that women are complicated and it is not easy reading their mind. While it may take some time to know what your woman really wants, I will tell you what you need to know about her body. Remember these well and you will surely win some brownie points in the bedroom. Stroking a woman’s breasts the right way can be extremely pleasurable not just for you but for her too. Her nipples are the most sensitive areas of the breast. Circle your finger around them or gently lick them and see her go wild with ecstasy. A woman’s clitoris is a sexual organ that can give her intense orgasms. So don’t forget to stimulate it well during intercourse. It is located at the top of her genital cleft surrounded by the vulva. You can easily spot it, it is small, bean-shaped and extremely sensitive. erogenous zones Don’t forget that a woman has erogenous zones on her entire body. Make sure you touch all of them during foreplay. Some of these include her neck, back, feet, inner thighs, lips and butt. She will surely return the favour if you please her well enough. g-spot Hitting her G-spot during sex can enhance her pleasure several folds. It is hidden half way into the vaginal opening and is a bumpy region with several nerve endings, which make it extremely sensitive, and worth finding it. vagina A woman’s vagina is self-lubricating i.e. it can get moist and wet on its own due to special glands present in it. But it usually happens when she is completely aroused. So if her vagina is still dry, continue foreplay as it means she needs some more time to get there. Penetrating soon can make intercourse painful for her.

Twelve Habits Of Exeptionally Successful People

Here are 12 of the most often cited habits of successful people. 1. They Are Organized Not only do they right down their goals and keep a journal, - they write down every planned meeting, they are never late. They get ready for the day or the week beforehand. Jack Dorsey (co-founder of the Twitter) says that Sunday is an important day for organization and a time to “get ready for the rest of the week.” 2. They Rise Early Rising early is a powerful path to success. Millionaires simply do not sleep in – they have too much to accomplish every day. The more time one can devote to being successful, the more likely success will result. 3. They Continue to Learn Successful people are great observers and they read s lot. While they also read for pleasure, most use their reading habit as a means to gain knowledge or insight. What they read is just as important as how much: The rich person’s reading material of choice is nonfiction, usually self-improvement. 4. They Care About Themselves Taking care means eating healthy food, exersicing regularly and, for some, highly disciplined lifestyle. The majority of successful people say that such attitude has a large, positive impact. 5. They Know What They Want Successful people know what their goal is and have a clear vision how to get it. They truly know what they want to be and how they want to change their lives. 6. They Step Outside Their Comfort Zone To be successful, you need to do many things outside of your comfort zone on a regular basis. Jennifer Dunphy, 29-year-old co-founder of Vayu Media says: “To be successful, you need to do many things outside of your comfort zone on a regular basis.” 7. They Stay Frugal Frugal is not the same as stingy. Frugality is a habit of being thrifty, with money and resources. It is also a habit of being economical. Learning to be economical comes through avoiding waste, which automatically results in efficiency. 8. They Network The wealthy understand that in order to be successful, you must surround yourself with successful people. Networking with other rich people, or people with the drive and potential to become rich, is crucial for your own success. 9. They Maintain A Positive Attitude It's often easier to give into cynicism, but those who choose to be positive set themselves up for success and have better reputations. According to many successful people, having a positive attitude is not just a result of being successful – it’s one of the root causes of success. 10. They Don't Make Excuses "Success requires no explanations; failure permits no alibis" - once said Napoleon Hill. Successful people understand that ultimately they alone are in charge of their actions and choices and no other. 11. They Praise The Achievements Of Others Those who achieve a high level of success are comfortable with themselves and do not seek praise from others. They do, however, build strong relationships and inspire their team members by recognizing the good work of others. 12. They Accept Criticism Exceptionally successful people aren't disturbed by critical remarks, but they do pay attention to ones that have merit and take lessons from them.

Why men have morning erections - Pavitra Sampath

Firstly, morning erections are a common occurrence and there is nothing to worry about. Most experts will tell you that an erection first thing in the morning is not be due to any kind of sexual stimulus, but a few erotic thoughts through the night could also be the reason. But why do men have this peculiar problem? Well, we tell you exactly why.
 Reason #1: A man’s REM sleep cycle: In a study published in the Achieves of General Psychiatry [1] researchers found that men characteristically have about five erections every night that is linked to the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) cycle of sleep. It is believed that at this time the brain shuts down a particular pathway to prevent a person from acting out their dreams. Also known as the pathway led by the noradrenergic cells, when these pathways are shut down it leads to the increase in activity of testosterone dependent activities in the body which then leads to an erection.
 Reason #2: Release of Nitric Oxide: Also tied to the REM sleep cycle, it is believed that when a man is in this stage of sleep, it triggers a cascade of events, and one of those is the release of NO or Nitric Oxide. This compound, causes smooth muscles to relax and blood vessels to dilate which in turn increases the amount of blood that flows into a man’s penis — causing an erection.
 Reason #3: Higher testosterone levels in the morning: The amount of testosterone in a man’s body in the morning is far greater than any other time in the day[2]. This surge of testosterone is also one of the leading reasons for a morning erection.
 Reason #4: The repair and restore activity of the body: Scientists also believe that night time or morning erections are the body’s way of maintaining, repairing and restoring the health of the penis. When a man has an erection it causes the erectile tissue of his penis (also known as the corpora cavernosa) to swell, which helps in oxygenating the tissue. It also helps prevent conditions like cavernous fibrosis (formation of thick fibres within the tissue) that can eventually lead to erectile dysfunction.

 theHealthsite

foods that kill your mood for sex

foods that kill your mood for sex

We rarely realise that what we eat has an effect on our mood. Feeling cranky and irritable is tolerable, but what when the food kills your mood for sex? Here's a list of foods to avoid if you want some action tonight.

beans Beans: So if you are planning to take your date back home for the night, make sure you keep those nasty beans off your plate. Beans tend to make you gassy and you definitely won't feel like doing it while you feel bloated.
alcohol Alcohol: Apart from the fact that a drunk person is the least desirable, too much alcohol does affect one's libido. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, alcohol does not only lower sexual desire, but men can also face difficulty in maintaining erections. The study further claimed that alcohol can affect one's ability of achieving orgasms too.
 Fried food Fried food: If it's date night and you plan to grab pizza or burgers, there's no way you will be in mood for sex at the end of it. The high trans fat content of the food not only makes you sluggish but also kills your libido!
 cola Sodas or colas: Sodas or colas are full of sugar that can cause severe dehydration and also lead to sexual dysfunction. According to research conducted by Child & Family Research Institute, too much sugar in your blood stream can turn off the gene that controls your sex hormones. Also, according to a study published in the journal Clinical Endocrinology, sugar lowers testosterone in the body, affecting one's sexual desire. Hence, it is best to stay away from sugary drinks!

source: theHealthSite

Oh! Why you should have sex in the morning

Why morning sex is good for you
 For most of us, the sound of the alarm clock blaring in our ears first thing in the morning is definitely not a happy sound. But instead of hitting that snooze button and sinking back into meaningless slumber, why not make use of that rude awakening to spruce up your sex life! Begin your day with some brilliant lovemaking. After all, morning sex is not only good for your love life, it is also beneficial health-wise. So surprise your partner by trying out the following tips and heighten the pleasures of that early morning rendezvous... This may not seem too relevant at the time, but always remember to relieve yourself of bodily fluids before you head to bed the night before. Nothing kills the mood more than trying to hold back the urge to visit the bathroom, while you are about to do it! - Don't forget to brush your teeth the night before. Also, consider keeping some dissolvable mints (NOT chewing gum) at your bedside to pop, when you wake up. Bad breath can ruin any sexual experience. - Try initiating sex in a different way, instead of opting for the same old predictable routine. Give your man a sexy 'wake-up call'. To do this, play some soft romantic music, and as soon as you both are awake and aroused, quietly slip out of your clothes. He'll definitely get the hint. - Keep condoms in an arm's length of the bed, for you never know what the early morning cuddling may lead to. You definitely don't want to scavenge the room searching for them. - Morning sex is refreshingly primal because it is difficult to hide your physical flaws, thanks to the view daylight offers. So let go of your inhibitions and draw back the shades; enjoy sex with a visual thrill! - You could experiment with positions too. Since you both will be groggy, try a position like spooning that requires little effort. - Your sexcapade need not be restricted to the bedroom. Take a hot-water shower together. You can rub aromatic body gel on each other's bodies, so that the scent arouses both of you. - After your lovemaking session, you can make your man feel special by getting him his favorite breakfast in bed. - If you are running late but still don't want to miss out on spending time with your partner, indulge in a quickie. Mornings are the perfect time, because you will probably be in a rush, and the heart-pounding adrenaline of hurried sex will intensify the entire experience. Also, quickies don't necessarily have to end in intercourse. A hot-and-heavy makeout session, before you dash out of the door for work, will go a long way towards igniting your passion.
 Why morning sex is good for you... - People who begin their day with sex are healthier and happier than those who simply opt for a cup of tea and breakfast before heading out of the door. No points for guessing the reason! - Having sex in the morning releases the feel-good chemical oxytocin, which makes couples feel bonded all day long. - Apart from the fact that regular morning sex makes you feel upbeat for the rest of the day, it also helps in building a stronger immune system. - Believe it or not, it makes you less susceptible to catching a cold or flu and can also improve the quality of your hair, skin, and nails. - Having morning sex three times a week lessens the risk of a heart attack or stroke. What are you waiting for?

 The Times of India

How long you sleep affects your chances of diabetes

Increased sleep duration and chronic short sleep duration are linked to increased diabetes risk in middle-aged and older women, claims a new research. Lead researcher Elizabeth Cespedes of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health stated that increasing sleep duration by 2 hours or more increased the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 15 percent even factoring in variations in diet, physical activity, snoring, sleep apnoea, depression and body-mass index. In the study, which included 59,031 women aged 55-83 years, change in sleep duration was recorded as the difference between self-reported 24 hour sleep duration. Diet, physical activity and covariates were updated every 2-4 years. Self-reported diabetes was confirmed via validated questionnaires. The researchers found that chronically sleeping six hours or less per day as well as increases in sleep duration of more than two hours per day were associated with modest increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. They also found women who increased their sleep duration were more likely to have been short sleepers to begin with, suggesting that the adverse influence of short sleep duration in mid- life may not be compensated for by later increases in sleep duration. The authors said that chronic short sleep duration and increases in sleep duration were associated with increased risk of diabetes. They concluded that decreases in sleep duration have modest, adverse associations with diet quality and physical activity, while increases in sleep duration have modest, adverse associations with weight gain. The study is published in the Journal Diabetologia. Source: ANI

Banana, watermelon can boost your sex drive

Beyond the fun of having sex, it has been found to increase bonding between couples, create the requisite atmosphere for having serious conversation and sharing deep secrets, boost their intimacy and further unite them. These numerous benefits seem to underscore the need for couples to have a healthy sex life. According to some studies, one of the keys to having a more fertile sex drive (libido) and ultimately, a remarkable sex life is the kind of food people eat. This implies that eating right enhances good sex. According to a naturopathic physician, Dr. Cammi Balleck, in her report on womansday.com, some food can help boost libido while some others can dampen it. Thus, a poor diet can lead to a dull sex life. She said, “A healthy balance of vitamins and minerals keeps your endocrine system humming, which in turn regulates the production of the hormones estrogen and testosterone, essential for sexual desire and performance. Enjoying an active sex life is essential to our well-being, and the food we eat play a large role in ensuring we feel in the mood.” Some of the food that have been identified to play a role in boosting sex drive include water melon, banana, avocados, nuts, cloves, lettuce, ginger, fruits and vegetables, oysters, in moderate quantity, eggs and meals balanced in protein and carbohydrate, among others. Interestingly, some of these food items increase blood flow to all parts of the body, including the genitals, while some have components that boost sex drive. For example, researchers from the Texas A&M Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Centre, found that watermelon is a good sexual drive booster. Even though it is 92 per cent water, the remaining eight per cent is full of nutrients that can boost libido and produce the same effects with Viagra, a drug that enhances male potency. “Watermelon contains a phytonutrient called citrulline, which relaxes blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the same way a medicine like Viagra does. It increases blood flow to parts of the body and helps men to last longer,” the study added. Also found to be of tremendous help in sexual potency is banana. Cheap, healthy, good source of energy, and has the tendency to reduce stress and anxiety and boost happiness, banana is said to be a storehouse of nutrients that increase energy flow and improve performance in the bedroom. According to a post on virilityprotocol.com, the tryptophan compound in banana is a good mood-enhancer and its magnesium and manganese compounds help to ensure a healthy and functional prostate. It adds that eating banana before sexual intercourse is good and would enhance performance, especially in men. “Banana improves sexual function and performance. It is high in bromelain and B vitamins, both of which have been shown to be potent in producing and regulating sexual hormones that can increase sexual desire, sexual function, libido and overall virility.” Also, in the report posted on mensfitness.com, eggs have been found to boost libido, especially the albumen, which is the white part of the egg. It explains, “Eggs are high in protein, which is a source of stamina, and they’re also low in calories. In addition, they are a good source for an amino acid L-arginine, which has been shown to be effective in treating types of heart ailments and erectile dysfunction. Another food item that has been found to boost libido are nuts. The study found that apart from reducing cholesterol, nuts are crucial to the synthesis of nitric oxide, a compound in the body involved in generating erections. Other food items pointed out by these researchers include fruits and vegetables. According to the director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Leslie Bonci, food made of plant are rich in nutrients that help to keep the arteries unclogged and help to prevent both heart disease and erectile dysfunction. A nutrition scientist and exercise physiologist, Dr. Shari Lieberman, also notes that a component of tomato, lycopene, which is a member of the vitamin A family, helps maintain prostate health, boosting overall sexual performance. Broccoli, whether cooked or eaten raw, has also been found to improve libido, especially in women. A dietitian, Keri Glassman, says, “Broccoli is essential for an improved sexual life because of its high vitamin C content, which aids blood circulation to organs and has also been associated with an improved female libido.” Coffee and chocolate have also been found to contain stimulants that put women in the mood. In a report on mensfitness.com, a study conducted on some women found that women who take small bites of cocoa regularly have more desire for sex and enjoy it more than those who don’t. This, according to the study, was partly due to the fact that cocoa increases blood flow through all the parts of the body and it relaxes blood vessels. The study also found that chocolate increases serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which boosts happiness and lowers stress level. Also, red wine has been found to increase women’s sexual drive. Researchers from the University of Florence in Italy found that women who drink about two glasses of red wine daily had a higher libido than those who did not or those who drank other alcoholic drinks. Other food items that have been found to improve sex drive include coffee, especially in the morning, liver, fatty fish, peanuts, which has been found to increase sperm count due to the zinc present in it, and strawberries, which improves circulation. Its Vitamin C compound, also helps men boost their sperm count, according to shape.com. Experts are of the opinion that these food items can help to boost the libido of both men and women. However, there are certain food items that have been found to dampen sex drive in both men and women. These include alcohols and processed food. Also, a report on Yahoo.com added that regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress and elimination of junk food from diet could help boost people’s libido and sexual performance. According to Dr. Anna Maria and Dr. Brian Clement, authors of Seven Keys to Lifelong Sexual Vitality and directors of Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida, United States, “Baked goods contain saturated trans fats that wreak havoc on human cells, including the immune system. “They surround the cells, coagulating them so that vital food glucose can’t be absorbed and remains in the blood, raising blood sugar and lowering libido. The fats also clog ventricles, reducing oxygen to sexual organs, and prevent the spleen from producing enough white blood cells, so eggs and sperm have difficulty multiplying.” Commenting on the study, a medical practitioner, Dr. Rotimi Adesanya, said the impact of the aforementioned food on sexual performance had not been medically proven, adding that such information were based on some people’s experience and testimony. He added, “Food items, like garlic, that contain chemicals that can increase blood circulation can be said to aid libido. What causes erection in men is increase in blood flow, so, it is believed that such food tends to increase sexual performance.” Adesanya said lifestyle plays a prominent role in people’s sexual performance. He advised that people should avoid smoking, reduce their alcohol intake and have reasonable rest. “Some people drink alcohol to get high, but when a person becomes a chronic alcoholic, the accumulation in the body can affect libido, he added. Also, a nutritionist, Mr. Okunola Oladimeji, explained that since libido has a lot to do with blood and energy, people should consume food items that would increase their blood flow and give them energy, while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar. He added, “Generally, the food items that can help boost people’s libido are fruits, vegetables, nuts (including cashew nut, groundnut, etc), beans, meat, fish and other food items rich in zinc. “However, of more importance is watermelon because of the presence of citrulline, a rich class of protein, in it and because it has abundance of minerals and vitamins. It should be consumed with the seeds and it has been found to work for both male and female, especially when consumed about one hour before sexual activity. “Food to avoid are processed food items and junks, and it is because of the effects of consuming such that people now resort to herbs. So, people should reduce their sugar intake.”

source: punch

Banana Facing Extinction as Deadly Fungus Spreads

According to a study published recently in the journal PLOS Pathogens, the newer strain of the disease, known as Tropical Race 4, has been spreading like wildfire across Cavendish plantations around the world.
The Cavendish is considered the world’s most popular Banana.
Since 2013, however, Tropical Race 4 has reportedly spread to areas in several continents, including parts of South Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Australia despite efforts to contain the disease.
Study co-author Gert Kema said “This research demonstrates that the quarantine measures and information provided around the globe apparently have not had the desired effect.
The researchers explained that the Cavendish is a monoculture, which means the plants are all clones of one another and have no genetic diversity and this is why they cannot sexually reproduce and evolve leaving them defenceless against the disease.
Bananas are critical for food security and income generation for more than 100 million people in Africa.

Arms deal: Okonjo-Iweala asks FG to call Oshiomhole to order

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Former Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has requested the Federal Government to call Edo State Governor, Mr Adams Oshiomhole, to order over the Governor’s recent efforts to link her name to the alleged $2.1 billion arms issue.
The Minister stressed that she has absolutely nothing to do with the issue.
She stated that it is an abuse of public office, the judicial process and her human rights for Governor Oshiomhole whom she stopped from taking a highly suspicious N15 billion loan to make false allegations against her while hiding behind the constitutional immunity granted state governors.
As recently confirmed by the Debt Management Office, professional analysis showed that Oshiomhole’s loan request which was based on using low interest World Bank loan to offset high interest commercial loans would have left Edo state with a heavy debt burden and the the state would have found it very difficult to pay back.
She said that it is unconscionable for the Governor to embark on a campaign of lies against her because she thwarted his dubious loan request.
She described the Governor’s unsubstantiated allegations as a cynical personalization of the anti-corruption campaign to achieve ignoble objectives.
Dr Okonjo-Iweala therefore put Oshiomhole and his ilk on notice that she has briefed her lawyers and that she is ready to explore all legal means, local and international, to defend her name against corrupt and compromised persons.

It has become a pattern of behavior that each time Dr. Ngozi OKonjo-Iweala is internationally recognized, Governor Oshiomole and his cohorts embark on a cynical and devious ploy of trying to pull her down locally. Just last night, December 1st, Dr Okonjo-Iweala was honored at a high profile event attended by Vice President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton. Dr Okonjo Iweala was honored alongside Michael Bloomberg, Bill and Melinda Gates and Mo Ibrahim for their contributions to global development and humanity.
Gov Oshiomole and his cohorts should realize that their ill-motivated attempts to taint Dr Okonjo Iweala’s reputation will never succeed!

Ondo enforces condoms in hotels, screens for HIV

The Ondo State Government on Tuesday screened about 800,000 residents for Human ImmunoDefeciency Virus and assured residents they would soon be freed of the virus.

The Secretary to the State Government and Chairman, Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Aderotimi Adelola, said this during a condom use and safer sex sensitisation held in some hotels in Akure, the state capital in commemoration of the 2015 World AIDS Day.

Adelola warned that the government would thenceforth go tough on hoteliers, who refused to make provision for condoms in their hotel rooms.

ADVERTISEMENT

He said, “The government is working towards ensuring there is zero HIV infection in the state. There will also be campaigns against discrimination and stigmatisation of people living with HIV. ODSACA has embarked on consistent HIV counselling and testing in every nook and cranny of the state.

“The law relating to HIV in the state empowers ODSACA to enforce HIV related laws, as such, it is a severe offence for hoteliers not to put condom packs in their rooms in order to promote safer sex, reduce the spread of the virus; the agency will not hesitate to prosecute defaulters.”

The SSG said the agency with the support of other stakeholders was implementing strategic action plans in order to promote behavioural change, ensure care and support for people living with the virus.

He encouraged people to know their status, noting that HIV was not a death sentence.

“HIV education is now being inculcated in the secondary school curriculum. Youths are encouraged on abstinence and to spread the campaign in their homes and among their peers. Private sectors are also urged to see the task as a social responsibility to provide care and support for people living with the virus,” he added.

Copyright PUNCH.

Police release men who chased ex-president in Bayelsa

The men were said to have chased Jonathan’s convoy from the Julius Berger bridge area of Yenagoa to the entrance of his home in the Kpansia area on Monday, November 30, 2015.

• 

  Suspects who trailed former President Goodluck Jonathan in Bayelsa on November 30, 2015  

Four men who were accused of chasing the convoy of former President, Goodluck Jonathan in Bayelsa State have been released by the police, reports say.

The men were said to have chased Jonathan’s convoy from the Julius Berger bridge area of Yenagoa to the entrance of his home in the Kpansia area on Monday, November 30, 2015.

They were subsequently overpowered by the former president’s security detail and handed to the police.

However, it was discovered after investigations that they followed Jonathan’s convoy with the mistaken assumption that they were following the campaign trail of All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Timipre Sylva.

The Bayelsa governorship elections are expected to hold on Saturday, December 5.

President Buhari continues travels, heads to South Africa tomorrow

• 

  President Muhammadu Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari will travel to South Africa tomorrow, December 3, 2015, to attend the forum on China-Africa Co-operation which will hold from December 4 to 5.

This was disclosed by Buhari’s media aide, Garba Shehu via a statement released today, December 2.

The president will expectedly discuss the $5.2billion fine on telecommunications company, MTN with his South African counterpart, Jacob Zuma on the side-lines of the forum.

The statement reads in part:

“President Buhari is also expected to discuss ways of removing all obstacles in the way of the 3,050 MW Mambila Power Station, considered a strategic project which was conceived in 1982 but has not taken off.”

“The Chinese president had informed President Buhari of the willingness of his country to finance the whole project through a special loan agreement," the statement said.”

Buhari will be accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah among others.

Meanwhile, some Nigerians, including Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, have criticized the president over his frequent travels.

Buhari’s aide, Garba Shehu, however rose to his boss’ defence saying that the president's foreign trips are for the country’s good and not for his personal enjoyment.

Lol! Man swallows blade and nail to win bet of $900, gets hospital bill of $1500

A man in China found himself in an hospital after he overheard two people making a bet about swallowing a nail and metal blade and then decided to give it a try so he can pay his rent.
The man identified as Xiao Gong approached the men and agreed to swallow a saw blade and a five-inch screw nail in exchange for $900.

Gong swallowed the five-inch nail for 2,000 Yuan ($300) and a saw blade for 4,000 Yuan ($600).
Soon after winning his bet, Gong was admitted in an hospital with severe injuries life-threatening injuries to his stomach.
Doctors after looking at an xray of Gong’s stomach, were surprised by its contents. The nail and blade where both embedded in different parts of his stomach.

Doctors were however able to remove the nail after a two-hour surgery but they said the damage to the lining of his stomach puts him at risk of an infection and he will require further treatment.
Gong who almost died over the bet was given a hospital bill of over 10,000 yuan ($1,500).

Nigerian Senate’s Legislative Activities In November

 Abang Dove, an Abuja-based blogger, enlists what she deems the most significant bills that the Nigerian Senate passed for second reading in November.

The month of November has been a busy but eventful one for the Nigerian Senate. Lots of bills were presented and a few motions passed. Some of all the bills presented passed for second reading.

Below are a few of the bills that were presented at the House.

1. FCT University of Science and Technology, Abaji, (Est. etc) Bill, 2015 (SB. 59) by Senator Philip Aduda (FCT): This bill seeks to establish the Federal Capital Territory University of Science and Technology to develop and offer academic and professional training particularly in the field of sciences and to act as a catalyst for the technological advancement of the country.
2. A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria Act, 1973 and Re-enact the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria for other Matters connected therewith, 2015; (Sb. 14) by Senator Uche Ekwunife (Anambra Central): This bill seeks to make the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria more focused and target-oriented. Similar institutions like the Raw Material Research and Development Council, Agric Research Council, and Nigeria Institute of Social and Economic Research have all repealed and re-enacted the laws establishing them. Hence, the effort to re-enact the FRIN bill for more productivity.
When re-enacted, the bill will also avail the institute the following: training, research and capacity building, collaborations with local and international organizations as well as business communities. It will also enable the institute to maximize its potentials in areas like tree planting, research into biodiversity of indigenous and exotic tree species, biological control of gully erosion sites.
3. North-East Development Commission (Est, etc) Bill, 2015 (SB. 163) by Senator Ali Ndume (Senate leader) and all other 17 North-East senators: This bill seeks to establish the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) with the mission to restore the areas devastated by insurgency. This could be achieved by facilitating the rapid and sustainable development of the North-East into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically peaceful.
Also, other plans are waiting to be implemented:
— surveying the North-East in order to ascertain measures necessary to promote its physical and socio-economic development;
— formulating policies and guidelines for the development of the area;
— conception, planning and implementation, in accordance with set rules and regulations, of projects and programs for sustainable development of the North-East in the areas of transportation, health, employment, industrialization, agriculture and fisheries, housing and urban development, water supply, electricity and telecommunications, etc.
4. Frivolous Petitions (Prohibition, etc) Bill, 2015 (SB. 143) by Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah (Kebbi South): This Bill seeks to prohibit unserious formal written requests appealing to the Senate in respect of a particular cause in forms of petitions.
A typical example of this is a petition that was brought by one Engr. Adamu Suleiman Yakubu to the Senate and forwarded to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. This petition was signed against the National University Commission (NUC) for alleged unlawful dismissal from service. After the case was read out to the committee, it was discovered that Engr. Adamu Suleiman Yakubu was found culpable for forged documents, lies and of questionable character.
This led to Senator Dino Melaye dissociating himself from the petition.
5. National Youth Service Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2015 (SB. 147) by Senator Stella Oduah (Anambra North): This bill seeks for the amendment of the NYSC Act to provide that members of the service corps shall not be posted to states where conflict exists. It also further provides that members of the service who are posted to states where conflict exists or suddenly erupts may reject the posting.
The bill also seeks to provide adequate security for all members of the corps assigned to states for the duration of the service: the evacuation to safety and rehabilitation of members of the corps in states where conflict arises, and to ensure that no corps member who has been duly posted to any ministry, department or agency of government shall be rejected by such public establishment.
6. Confirmation of Ministerial Nominees with assigned Portfolios Bill 2015 (SB. 139) by Senator Suleiman Nazif (Bauchi North): This bill seeks for the president to attach portfolios of ministerial nominees to their names before forwarding them to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation. The intent of the bill is to ensure that national interest is protected in every transition to power and to strengthen government and ensure that round pegs are placed in round holes.
7. Constituencies Development Catalyst Fund Bill, 2015 (SB. 103) by Senator Buhari Abdulfatai (Oyo North): This bill seeks to foster the creation of constituency projects to ensure a minimum presence of government in every constituency by having some grassroots project sited in each, during the budgeting process.
Legislators will merely require identifying projects that they wish to be sited in their constituencies for inclusion in the budget, with a financial ceiling for the budgetary provisions for such projects in each constituency.
8. Renewable Energy Bill 2015 SB. 131 by Senator Stella Oduah (Anambra North): Renewable energy has an important role to play in meeting the future energy needs in both rural and urban areas. The development and utilization of renewable energy should be given a high priority, especially in the light of increased awareness of the adverse environmental impacts of fossil-based generation. The need for sustainable energy is rapidly increasing in the world. A widespread use of renewable energy is important for achieving sustainability in the energy sectors in both developing and industrialized countries.
This bill seeks to develop, promote and harness the renewable energy (RE) resources of the country and incorporate all viable ones into the national energy mix.
The bill further seeks to promote decentralized energy supply, especially in rural areas, based on RE resources; de-emphasize and discourage the use of wood as fuel; promote efficient methods in the use biomass energy resources and keep abreast of international developments in RE technologies and applications.
9. Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 (Amendment) Bill, 2015 (SB. 138) by Senator Nneji Athan Achonu (Imo North): This act seeks to amend Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 Bill to vet in the state government ownership right of solid minerals found in their states.
10. Companies Income Tax Act (Amendment) Bill 2015 (SB. 140) by Senator Andy Emmanuel Uba (Anambra South): This bill seeks to amend the Companies Income Tax Act Cap C21 LFN 2004 to, among other things, make for tax incentives for economic growth and creation of employment opportunities, make it more responsive to the tax reform policies of the federal government and enhance its implementation and effectiveness.
11. Communication Service Tax Bill, 2015 (SB. 164) by Senator Ali Ndume (Senate leader): Service tax, by the government, is a tax levied on service providers for certain service transactions, but is actually borne by the customers. This bill seeks to levy service providers on certain service transactions.
In the past week, the inaugurations of the various standing committees of the Senate were concluded, among other bold steps taken by the 8th Senate in the period under review.
The Saraki-led Senate is truly to be commended for the way and manner the committees were selected. Since the commencement of the Fourth Republic and indeed for the first time in the history of the composition of the various Senate committees, the upper chamber has witnessed such show of maturity, unlike the confusion that was experienced at the lower chamber.
It is also pertinent to know that most committees of the Red Chamber, immediately after their inauguration, commenced their full legislative oversight functions.

Why you should wear condoms regularly

Many should know by now that shunning condoms during sex puts them at a higher risk of contracting sexually-transmitted diseases or getting pregnant every other month. But the majority still shun condoms.

According to a recent study conducted by the Society for Family Health, 80 per cent of the 1.8 billion sexual activities that occur in Nigeria yearly occur without the use of condoms.

The report states that in spite of its scientifically-proved efficacy in reducing the spread of the dreaded HIV/AIDS infection, eight out of every 10 Nigerian men do not use condoms during sexual intercourse and that most women do not insist on men wearing condoms either.

ADVERTISEMENT

Why is condom use not popular in Nigeria? Though it is debatable, many are quick to give the excuse that it is uncomfortable and reduces the pleasure of sex.

Experts are worried about the low use of condoms among Nigerians. They note that the danger of not using them outweighs the displeasure associated with using them.

A medical practitioner, Dr. Olumuyiwa Odusote, says going without condoms during sex does not only heightens one’s risks of contracting STDS like HIV/AIDS but it has also shown to increase maternal deaths arising from unsafe abortions of unwanted pregnancies.

He notes that many women who get pregnant through unprotected sex are often forced, depending on the environment, to seek unsafe abortions which could compromise their lives and health.

Odusote states, “Unwanted pregnancy is one of the complications that arise from unprotected sex. Sex is seen as a recreation not necessarily for procreation. When people are stressed and do not know what to do, sex is another way for them to relax. However, when an unwanted pregnancy arises from such activity, unsafe abortion is likely to happen.

“Many women have died seeking abortions of pregnancies that arose from an unprotected sex. Many homes have been broken because of unwanted pregnancies which occurred because some people, somewhere along the line, did not observe protection. Low condom use in Nigeria is one of the reasons the country has one of the highest rates of maternal mortality and unwanted pregnancy in the world.”

On sexually transmitted diseases, Odusote likens non-monogamous skin-to-skin sex to an invitation to sexually-transmitted infections.

He notes that though condom use does not guarantee 100 per cent safety, it has, however, been proved to reduce one’s chances of getting infected by more than 80 per cent.

“HIV is not the highest killer disease in the world, but it has the potential to be because of its various modes of transmission which includes sexual intercourse. One can get infected without even recognising it. Condom use has shown to reduce its transmission in Nigeria. I think it is high time people familiarised themselves with its use because HIV/AIDS is real,” he adds.

This advice is for young people hoping to become parents someday. Doctors warn that discarding the rubber during sexual intercourse may have great consequences for their fertility in future.

Odusote states that STDS, like gonorrhoea, syphilis and Chlamydia, which are transmitted during unprotected sex may lead to infertility.

He states, “Infertility is a growing problem in the world and statistics show that one-third of the male population may have fertility challenges. This development has been linked to increase in STDs like gonorrhoea and Chlamydia.

“These are infections that are difficult to detect and treat and using condoms has been known to prevent their transmission. This is a major reason we advocate condom use for young people.”

The physician stresses that it is not only the responsibility of a man to ensure that sex is safe, a woman can also ensure that she is protected by using a female condom.

He adds that some school of thoughts even suggests that female condoms were invented because men do not like wearing theirs. So, if your partner refuses to wear a rubber, you can use yours.

He says, “It is the woman that bears the brunt of an unwanted pregnancy in Africa. So, women should insist that their partners wear it. If he refuses, you can always use yours. Safe sex is a joint responsibility.”

If you must go without a condom, ask yourself sincerely – is your partner faithful to you? If you are not sure of the answer, don’t go with him/her to bed without condom.

Copyright PUNCH.

Bill to curb abusive statements on social media passes second reading in Senate

The Senate on Thursday passed into second reading a bill seeking two years imprisonment with an option of N2 million fine for any Nigerian who posts “abusive statements” on the social media.
The bill, which was sponsored by the Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah, is seeking to provide punishment for frivolous petitions‎ by making sure that only credible and verifiable petitions are presented for public use.
According to the bill, any person who through text messages, tweets, What’sApp or any of the social media posts any abusive statement knowing same to be false with intent to set the public against any person and/or group of persons, an institution or Government or such other bodies established by law shall be guilty of an offence and upon conviction shall be liable to an imprisonment for two years or a fine of N2 million or both such fine and imprisonment.‎

Na’Allah said: “The bill, which appears “Sunset” in its nature, consists of four sections, which in clear terms spelt out the punishment for frivolous petition, what constitutes frivolous petition.
“The bill seeks to provide punishment for frivolous petition by making sure that only credible and verifiable petitions are presented for public use.

“The utility of the bill is to equally save the time for good governance and resources that go into investigating frivolous petitions.
“The bill would equally assist in shaping our negative thinking by elevating hard work over and above sycophancy and indolence.‎”

Agbani DaregoFormer Miss World shows off hot body

Former Miss World Agbani Darego shows off hot body in new photo...

• 

The former Miss World shared a snap of herself in a mirror selfie looking all sorts of good in a bodysuit.

The beautiful ex queen chose a white one piece with a plunging 'V' neckline and cutout details showing off her endless legs.

Agbani Darego wore very little makeup with her hair down in the selfie looking every inch graceful as per usual.

Video: Watch 2face, Di'Ja, Ice Prince and Yemi Alade on #CokeStudioAfrica