Lizzy Gold Onuwaje isn’t new to the world of show business. Her foray into the make-believe world started in 2006 when she won the Delta State Pageant as Miss Delta State. Then she tried her hands at the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria Pageant (MDGN) where she emerged as the second runner-up.
It was a crushing experience for her: “I cried. I felt so bad. It’s a very terrible experience that’s not good for anyone. I f you go for a competition, you have the hope of winning and when you don’t, it’s very terrible. I became shy at a point because Delta State sent some commissioners who came to support me, so they were very disappointed”, she says.
But that did not stop her from venturing further afield and it would be Nollywood where she tried out her luck next. “ I joined Nollywood two years ago because I was passionate about acting; l have always loved to act. So when the opportunity came; l enrolled in a film school, got trained to be an actress and here l am today”, she said.
Between 2012 and now, the ex beauty queen claims to have done over 30 films, after making her debut in “Shotgun” and the rest of the story:
What propelled you into joining Nollywood?
Actually, I’m just passionate about Nollywood, it’s not like anything pushed me. I love acting a lot, when I was very young, I used to act with pillows, chairs, with virtually everything in the house. I would get a cane and start flogging the chairs and mime like the chairs were crying.
How have the challenges been like?
It’s been very challenging, especially, when it comes to getting into characters. You have to assume you are the character in the script; you have to put yourself into it. If it’s a romantic role, you put yourself in the character with no strings attached.
What was the reaction of your boyfriend when you decided to go into Nollywood?
Initially, he was very sceptical about it. He said girls in Nollywood don’t stay in marriages. To me, it depends on individuals; I don’t think it’s true, because so far, some people like Omotola have kept their marriages. But he saw that I was very passionate about it when I went as far as attending an acting school in Lagos. I told him, it’s either he allowed me do my acting or he let me be. So he allowed me do my acting.
So what happened; are you still in that relationship?
No, we are no longer together.
What led to the break-up?
The affair didn’t crash because I went into acting. The basic truth is, he doesn’t have money, so I decided to end the relationship. I dumped him in 2013 because he didn’t have much in terms of money and he didn’t have any push as my kind of man..
Are you saying you can’t date a man who doesn’t have money?
Of course, if you don’t have money, don’t even bother to call my line, don’t even bother to admire my pictures (Laughs). I love money so much. I can’t marry a poor man. Never!
What about a man that is doing a bit okay?
I need a rich man; I don’t want a man that is a bit okay.
What does money mean to you?
Money means a lot to me, in fact, money turns me on. I just need to imagine so much money in my account and I’m turned on. When I get a credit alert on my account, Oh my God, I get turned on immediately.
How do you cope with male harassment?
It’s not like I’m a very rude person, but I’m blunt and friendly at the same time. But I like rich guys, if you are not rich; I can never be attracted to you. I like rich, clean, fresh guys. When I say rich, I don’t mean ‘Yahoo’ kind of guys, because they are not hardworking. I want a guy who is consistent with his work and rich. Right now, I’m okay where I am, so I don’t think I’ll leave him for any other.
What if he gets broke, are you going to dump him?
He’s not going to get broke.(Laughs)
What qualities attract you to a man?
I like men that are caring. You have to be rich, caring, romantic and nice. Some men are rich but stingy. Be rich and be willing to spend the money. If I tell you I need anything, let me get the alert. I like alerts (Laughs). Alerts turn me on.
What if he has all the money and he’s not able to meet your sexual needs and makes you feel like a woman?
That’s very important also, it’s not just money; he has to be a man down there!
What do you mean by ‘ a man down there’?
He should be physically endowed and good in bed. He should know how to use it properly, not all men do.
Are you in love presently?
Yes, I’m in love with the person I’m with now.
Is it because he’s rich?
Not just because he’s rich, he’s caring, generous and romantic. He’s nice, down-to-earth and humble.
Are you ready for marriage now?
Yes I am ready.
So if he proposes to you, will you accept?
Of course I will.
What if he doesn’t, will you be heartbroken?
No, I won’t. I’ll feel I’m not destined to get married to him.
Who is that actor or actress that you’ve dreamt of working with, but you’ve not had the chance to work with?
I love Genevieve and I’ll love to work with her. I will also love to work with Omotola and Stephanie Okereke. I’ve always loved to work with Mercy Johnson and by the grace of God; I’ve done some movies with her. She’s very nice, humble and accommodating. She’s motherly and gives one lots of advice.
Monday, 10 March 2014
The Borno attacks; Boko haram operation in the Northern state
Borno State has witnessed serial Boko Haram attacks since the beginning of this year. The attacks were mostly executed in the villages of Borno, the Sambisa forest and the mountainous villages of Gwoza and Gamboru Ngala council areas which share borders with Cameroon and Chad Republic.
The attacks, which claimed hundreds of lives, left thousands others injured and property worth billions of Naira destroyed. The attacks seem to be endless.
The terrorists have been described by Governor Kashim Shettima as better motivated to hold everybody in Borno State to ransom, as, according to him, Nigerian security operatives, including the military forces, are incapable of fighting or challenging the insurgents in the North-east sub region”.
Ruined motorcycles at local drinking joint in Dalla Maiduguri, where a bomb was detonated sunday evening. NAN photo
Shettima’s statement could be interpreted to mean that the terrorists have better weapons than our security agencies, and that is why, anytime they strike, they overawe our security forces and civilians.
Following the attacks, about 50 communities and towns in Borno State have been sacked/displaced in the last two months.
The Boko Haram killings since January 2014 in Borno total 852. The breakdown, according to Sunday Vanguard findings, are as follows:-
3rd January: Nine people killed in Kayamula village of Konduga LGA.
8th January: In Wala, the country home of member representing Chibok, Gwoza and Damboa federal constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Peter Biye, attackers destroyed the lawmaker’s house, a church before carting away foodstuffs, etc.
9th January: 38 insurgents and one soldier lost their lives when troops of 195 Battalion, Damboa battled insurgents.
11th January: Eight people were killed in Sabon Gari of Hambagda Jaji Ward of Gwoza LGA.
12th January: Five people killed in Kayamula village in Konduga.
14th January: 43 people killed in a bomb blast at the general area of Post Office in Maiduguri metropolis.
15th January: Insurgents attacked a police station in Banki, a town at the border with Cameroon Republic, and killed one policeman.
16th January: 12 people were killed in Gashigar village in Mobbar Council Area. Gashigar shares border with Niger Republic.
19th January: 19 people were killed in Ngawo Fate, Alau in Konduga LGA.
20th January: One member of staff of Government Girls Secondary School, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala L.G.A was shot dead.
20th January: Three persons were killed in Wala village in Gwoza LGA.
21st January: Eight persons were killed in Kaya village in Damboa LGA.
21st January: 10 persons were killed in Njaba village in Damboa LGA.
24th January: Military troops had an encounter with fleeing terrorists along Firgi- Gwoza Road during which four of the terrorists were killed.
24th January: Insurgents invaded Wala village in Gwoza council area and killed two civilians.
26th January: Insurgents invaded Kawuri village in Konduga council area and killed 85 residents.
30th January: Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) on Gwoza -Madagali Road killed seven bus passengers.
From 1st to 4th February: 75 Strike Group of NAF Yola “raided some identified Boko Haram hideouts at Bulabullin, Yujiwa, Alagarno villages of Damboa axis of the state and inflicted heavy casualty on insurgents”.
5th February: Three persons killed at a relaxation spot/ beer parlour in Askira Uba council area.
10th February: Seven persons killed by insurgents in separate attacks in Chinene and Jebra villages in Gwoza L.G.A.
11th February: 62 people killed in Konduga council area.
14th February: 10 killed in Baga in Kukawa council area. Baga is a fishing community bordering Chad Republic.
16th February: 106 people killed in Izge village in Gwoza L.G.A. This is prior to an ambush on Izge where about nine soldiers were killed.
18th February: Insurgents invaded the country home of Major General Tukur Buratai in Buratai District, Biu LGA. The assailants attacked the the family house of the army general and killed two guards. The general is currently the Commander of JTF in the oil rich Niger Delta.
19th February: Over 100 persons were killed in Bama LGA
19th February: About 75 insurgents were killed in Bama council area by military airstrikes while attempting to flee after an attack.
22nd February: Two persons were killed in Mairari village in Konduga LGA.
28th February: One female student of Waka College in Biu LGA was slaughtered in a rented room (off campus) in Bubalwada ward.
1st March: Over 70 people were killed in twin explosions in Ajilari Railway Cross, Gomari general area of Maiduguri metropolis.
1st March: 40 people were killed in Mainok village, Kaga, the council headquarters of Beneshiekh.
2nd March: 36 people were killed in Mafa council headquarters.
3rd March: About 15 were killed in Jakana village in Konduga council area.
5th March: A clash between terrorists and security operatives in Mafa General Area left many terrorists killed.
Mass Exodus hits Northern Nigeria
They move in droves: men, women and children; even the sick and those with bullet wounds. The able bodied ones among them carry what is left of their belongings, especially mats, food stuff and household items. Nursing mothers strap their infants to their back and carry loads on their heads.
They trek for days to no destination in particular. All they think of is how to escape insurgency attacks.
As they continue the journey, some settle in mosques and churches or any other place considered safe from Boko Haram Islamist group’s assaults. They have become refugees in their own country.
This is the situation many residents of Adamawa and Borno states have found themselves following serial attacks by Boko Haram.
Almost all the border settlements of Madagali and Michika in Adamawa and Gwoza, Bama, Konduga among others in Borno have been deserted as no single building stands in the communities.
The buildings have all been destroyed by insurgents. The number of dead is unknown even as property destroyed cannot be estimated.
Villages and communities that are yet to receive the baptism of fire from the insurgents and people that survived attacks in their areas have been on the move.
And they are on a journey without destination. Like Madagali and Michika LGAs in Adamawa, it was reliably gathered that thousands of residents have relocated to neighboring Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Benue and other states considered safe.
Some of the displaced people told Sunday Vanguard that they preferred to remain where the are than to be wiped out by insurgents in their own states. Solomon Tizhe, who hails from Michika, said he lost his wife and four children when insurgents attacked the town last month.
Besides, according to him, his supermarket with a stock worth millions of Naira was razed. “So what do you expect me to remain in the area to do? I know this is where I was born and brought up, but how do I start to return there?” He, like many others, spoke in tears.
Asked why they could not wait for relief materials from government, Tizhe retorted: “Wait for relief materials when the Boko Haram people are advancing?. We better find a new abode elsewhere.”
Meanwhile, all the boarding schools and tertiary institutions in the two local governments of Adamawa have been closed.
Their closure followed the latest attack by insurgents on the Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe.
Mass attack on Enugu seat of power-Nigeria
Security personnel foiled an attempt by about 50 armed men to forcefully gain control of the Enugu State Government House in the early hours of Saturday.
Police officers, men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and soldiers were among the security operatives who shot several times at the invaders and prevented them from gaining entry into the government house.
SUNDAY PUNCHlearnt that one of the attackers was killed during the shoot-out and three others were arrested.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sullivan Chime, Mr. Chukwudi Achife confirmed the incident.
He said the shoot-out lasted till about 4.30am, adding that no security personnel was injured during the attack.
Achife added that the arrested persons, along with some of the weapons, have been handed over to the Enugu State Police Command for further investigations.
A police source told our correspondent that the attackers arrived the government house in seven buses and parked about 400metres from the gate.
He said, “They carried flags with different inscriptions and insignia belonging to some secret cults.”
They were said to have told the security men to open the gate claiming that they were at the government house on a protest.
According to eyewitness account, when one the NSCDC officials opened the gate to ask why they decided to come in the night, one of the invaders made attempts to forcefully open the gate.
“Sensing that there was danger, the security operatives rushed out only to see many of them with machetes, giving orders to their members to move into the government house,” said an eyewitness.
It was gathered that the security operatives succeeded in repelling them after hours of shooting.
They had pursued them from the government house premises into the Independence Layout but only succeeded in arresting three o f the invaders.
Who controls Nigeria's wealth?
Last week, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Abubakar announced the promotion of 24,118 police personnel in the country. According to Police spokesman, Frank Mba, the exercise ranks as the highest number of Police Officers promoted in one fell swoop in the history of the Force. The announcement was a happy one for many families including that of this writer-our own cousin Joe, being one of the beneficiaries.
Two days ago, we held a lavish party in his honour in the family country home. On the occasion, many members extolled Joe’s qualities. Some even imagined that he would one day be the nation’s IGP. Why not? Although this writer neither doubted Joe’s qualities nor the possibilities of his rising to the top of his organization, I was only worried about whether or not, Joe was sure of his salary this month. My contribution was clearly unpopular. It was really obvious from the general disposition of everyone in the party that I was nothing more than the harbinger of bad news! The reaction was however not unexpected considering that many were looking forward to some gifts from the new Oga Olopa of our family.
I was not perturbed at all by the stigma because as a long-time news reporter, I am used to people getting angry with journalists who report ‘unpalatable’ stories. What I said at the party was not my wish. I merely deduced it from last week’s presentation of the current IGP at the National Assembly- an issue which I believe our newly promoted cousin Joe needs to ponder over whether he likes my views or not.
According to IGP, Mohammed Abubakar, who spoke at the budget defence of the Police before the House Committee on Police Affairs, a possible major crisis might be looming in the Force if the Federal Government does not reverse its decision to cut the personnel budget of officers and men in the 2014 budget. Last year, the personnel cost of the police was N293.5bn, but this year, it went down to N279bn, that is, a shortfall of N13bn. In the words of Abubakar, “this is a serious shortfall” adding that “very soon; it means that we will not be able to pay salaries”. Can anyone imagine what would happen to Nigerians if police salaries are not paid?
If we cannot pay the Police, to where are we sending the money meant for that purpose? It is obviously not being saved to recruit more hands into the force. This view is informed by the revelation of the then supervising Minister of Police Affairs, Olajumoke Akinjide that plans to recruit additional police men and women to raise the current staff strength of 370,000 were hindered by meager allocation to the ministry.
Who then is getting what the Police is losing? Could it be the Judiciary? That is an unlikely beneficiary because the alarm raised by the IGP was not able to sound louder than that of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Aloma Muhktar, who lamented the fate of the Nigerian Judiciary at the recent swearing-in of 17 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN, at the Supreme Court.
The CJN argued that “a situation where budgetary allocation to the judiciary continues to drop while the general government budget is on steady increase every year is clearly an impediment to the quick and effective dispensation of justice in Nigeria and on the whole a set back to the current effort at transforming the judiciary.” In 2010, the judiciary got N95 billion. It got N85 billion in 2011 and N75 billion in 2012. In 2013, the budget fell even lower to N67 billion. The trend was roundly condemned by many analysts last year but what all the noise could achieve was a meagre addition of N1bn in 2014.Where then did all the drops from the allocation to the Judiciary flow into?
The argument that the problem may be due to a shortfall in the nation’s main economic source of strength-oil revenue is compounded by allegations by state governors that illegal deductions of oil revenues are being made from the federation account. What this seems to suggest is that there is no shortfall in oil revenues, rather what we have is a diversion of revenue. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State Governor said the other day that over N4.62 trillion had been frittered away from the Federation Account in the last three years being the amount not remitted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
The governor’s allegation became clearer to members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly when they realized that over N480 million was being deducted monthly from the revenue accruable to the state. What did the Ekiti legislators do with the information? Did they realize that it was an allegation? If so did they seek to investigate it? Did they discover that the deductions were being organized by President Jonathan? If not why did they call for his impeachment on the matter?
In reality however the issue is far too serious to be put into the politics of opposition. A much more robust approach is needed especially as it concerns the NNPC. We dare not fall into the same error of the Central Bank of Nigeria by speculating and giving the nation several conflicting figures concerning NNPC’s alleged non-remittance of funds.
We need to be more accurate about our statements because those holding-on to our commonwealth may just be invincible. For this reason, we have to look here and there up to the so called advanced nations that have since become known as the custodians of stolen money. Only last, week we read a story that the United Sates department of Justice has frozen more than $458million in corruption proceeds hidden in bank accounts around the world by former Nigerian leader Sani Abacha and others.
What exactly do they mean by frozen? Is it another way of saying they have confiscated the loot? If so, it is necessary to appeal to them not to join our heartless brothers and sisters who are holding-on to Nigeria’s money.
Who controls Nigeria's wealth?
Last week, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Abubakar announced the promotion of 24,118 police personnel in the country. According to Police spokesman, Frank Mba, the exercise ranks as the highest number of Police Officers promoted in one fell swoop in the history of the Force. The announcement was a happy one for many families including that of this writer-our own cousin Joe, being one of the beneficiaries.
Two days ago, we held a lavish party in his honour in the family country home. On the occasion, many members extolled Joe’s qualities. Some even imagined that he would one day be the nation’s IGP. Why not? Although this writer neither doubted Joe’s qualities nor the possibilities of his rising to the top of his organization, I was only worried about whether or not, Joe was sure of his salary this month. My contribution was clearly unpopular. It was really obvious from the general disposition of everyone in the party that I was nothing more than the harbinger of bad news! The reaction was however not unexpected considering that many were looking forward to some gifts from the new Oga Olopa of our family.
I was not perturbed at all by the stigma because as a long-time news reporter, I am used to people getting angry with journalists who report ‘unpalatable’ stories. What I said at the party was not my wish. I merely deduced it from last week’s presentation of the current IGP at the National Assembly- an issue which I believe our newly promoted cousin Joe needs to ponder over whether he likes my views or not.
According to IGP, Mohammed Abubakar, who spoke at the budget defence of the Police before the House Committee on Police Affairs, a possible major crisis might be looming in the Force if the Federal Government does not reverse its decision to cut the personnel budget of officers and men in the 2014 budget. Last year, the personnel cost of the police was N293.5bn, but this year, it went down to N279bn, that is, a shortfall of N13bn. In the words of Abubakar, “this is a serious shortfall” adding that “very soon; it means that we will not be able to pay salaries”. Can anyone imagine what would happen to Nigerians if police salaries are not paid?
If we cannot pay the Police, to where are we sending the money meant for that purpose? It is obviously not being saved to recruit more hands into the force. This view is informed by the revelation of the then supervising Minister of Police Affairs, Olajumoke Akinjide that plans to recruit additional police men and women to raise the current staff strength of 370,000 were hindered by meager allocation to the ministry.
Who then is getting what the Police is losing? Could it be the Judiciary? That is an unlikely beneficiary because the alarm raised by the IGP was not able to sound louder than that of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Aloma Muhktar, who lamented the fate of the Nigerian Judiciary at the recent swearing-in of 17 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN, at the Supreme Court.
The CJN argued that “a situation where budgetary allocation to the judiciary continues to drop while the general government budget is on steady increase every year is clearly an impediment to the quick and effective dispensation of justice in Nigeria and on the whole a set back to the current effort at transforming the judiciary.” In 2010, the judiciary got N95 billion. It got N85 billion in 2011 and N75 billion in 2012. In 2013, the budget fell even lower to N67 billion. The trend was roundly condemned by many analysts last year but what all the noise could achieve was a meagre addition of N1bn in 2014.Where then did all the drops from the allocation to the Judiciary flow into?
The argument that the problem may be due to a shortfall in the nation’s main economic source of strength-oil revenue is compounded by allegations by state governors that illegal deductions of oil revenues are being made from the federation account. What this seems to suggest is that there is no shortfall in oil revenues, rather what we have is a diversion of revenue. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State Governor said the other day that over N4.62 trillion had been frittered away from the Federation Account in the last three years being the amount not remitted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
The governor’s allegation became clearer to members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly when they realized that over N480 million was being deducted monthly from the revenue accruable to the state. What did the Ekiti legislators do with the information? Did they realize that it was an allegation? If so did they seek to investigate it? Did they discover that the deductions were being organized by President Jonathan? If not why did they call for his impeachment on the matter?
In reality however the issue is far too serious to be put into the politics of opposition. A much more robust approach is needed especially as it concerns the NNPC. We dare not fall into the same error of the Central Bank of Nigeria by speculating and giving the nation several conflicting figures concerning NNPC’s alleged non-remittance of funds.
We need to be more accurate about our statements because those holding-on to our commonwealth may just be invincible. For this reason, we have to look here and there up to the so called advanced nations that have since become known as the custodians of stolen money. Only last, week we read a story that the United Sates department of Justice has frozen more than $458million in corruption proceeds hidden in bank accounts around the world by former Nigerian leader Sani Abacha and others.
What exactly do they mean by frozen? Is it another way of saying they have confiscated the loot? If so, it is necessary to appeal to them not to join our heartless brothers and sisters who are holding-on to Nigeria’s money.
Sultan to Jonathan: use presidential powers to stop Boko Haram
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to use presidential powers to stop the killing of innocent prople in North East and Benue.
Abubakar spoke in Sokoto on Saturday when Jonathan paid him a courtesy visit.
“Human life is sacred. I always express sadness over the insurgency in North East and the most worrisome of it is the killing of innocent school children in Yobe.
“This is the height of madness of the insurgency and the killing must be stopped immediately’’, the Sultan said.
He called on Jonathan to do everything possible to bring all political and religious leaders and all the ethnic nationalities together to tackle the insurgency.
The Sultan stressed that politics should not be played with the lives of Nigerians.
Abubakar appealed to leaders to be pious, honest and fair to all.
The monarch contended that 2015 was an issue that bothering all Nigerians.
“There should be atmosphere conducive for elections and there must be justice in whatever we do’’, he said.
Abubakar stated that the visit of the President would strengthen the unity of Nigeria.
How Nigerian ex-president spent late dictator loot
How Obasanjo’s Govt Spent $500m Abacha Loot –Okonjo-Iweala
Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has explained how the Olusegun Obasanjo administration she was part of spent the loot recovered from the late maxiumn dictator, Gen. Sani Abacha.
She said contrary to reports that the sum of $2bn was recovered from Abacha’s loot, $500m was the actual amount recovered under her watch when she was first made finance minister.
But while speaking in London in November 2006, the pioneer Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, had said that “Abacha took over $6bn from Nigeria,” and that $2bn of the loot had been recovered.
Ribadu repeated the same figure in the same month during the 12th International Anti-Corruption Conference in Guatemela.
Three months ago, Ribadu repeated the same claim in Dakar at the 2nd Annual High Level Dialogue on Governance and Democracy in Africa.
Also, as Minister of Finance in the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, Okonjo-Iweala, in 2005 – a year before Ribadu made his claim – at a news conference in Switzerland reportedly said that Nigeria had recovered about $2bn total of asset from Abacha.
But now she is singing a different song. Reacting to issues of the stolen money, Okonjo-Iweala said through her Special Assistant on Communication, Mr. Paul Nwabuikwu, that the recovered $500m under her watch was verified and used in a structured manner for developmental projects.
Nwabuikwu said, “The minister did not say only $500m was recovered as the entire loot of Abacha. What she actually said was that under her watch when she was in government as a minister, it was that amount that was recovered. And that money was used in a structured way to carry out some programmes of government.
“You will recall that at a point, she left government to return after some years and she cannot be held accountable for whatever happens when she was not in office. So the bottom line is that only $500m was the amount recovered when she was in government.”
Since that Coordinating Minister of the economy is running from "responsibility" who will now give account?
Gays in Nigerian- An insight
There is no doubt that pockets of gay people in the country would be living in fear as a result of a recent law that criminalises homoséxuality in Nigeria, with the possibility of 14 years imprisonment.
But investigations by Punch shows that a bar by the roadside in the Agege area of Lagos, might be offering a sort of comfort zone to those who have decided to go with same séx partners.
A true confession:“My family confronted me about whether I was gay once but when I got the girl pregnant, they stopped doubting me. People in my area were the ones feeding them with all sorts of rumours,” a confirmed gay opened up.
Aware of how dangerous this kind of curiosity could be, our correspondent went under the guise of being a model looking for where to have fun and also “organise” young men and women for his clients....
Our correspondent visited the bar. The bar, which is located next to a popular petrol station in the area, brings to mind the popular saying that the best way to hide anything is to put it in plain sight. Dressed casually to blend with the crowd, our correspondent learnt on getting to the bar that a 24-year-old young man owns and runs the place.
Stoutly built with an average height of about five feet, the bar owner’s (name withheld) feminine disposition in a way seemed to suggest that he might be gay. Still apprehensive about a possible raid, our correspondent asked if the place had ever been raided by the police.
“No, my shop is very safe and has not been raided before,” the owner replied.
To any observer, the bar is like any regular hang-out spot but visitors would immediately be conscious of the peculiarity that would suggest that this might be a gay bar. On a good business day, homoséxuality, runs in the guise of prostitution and Indian hemp smoking thrive in the bar.
The coloured lights in the bar made it impossible to determine the colour of the interior. Even though there was no television, guests had to manage the non-stop party music. It was later learnt that those who could not get inside the bar stay outside to have their drinks.
The small bar is divided into two sections, there is a section where the drinks are and sometimes used for quick romance as observed by our correspondent. The outer part is where the table and chairs are arranged for customers to sit and have a good time.
Immediately our correspondent settled in the bar, the owner came to sit close. “I think I saw you earlier in the day strolling around, or was it not you?” he asked.
“Yes, that was me. I actually noticed you were looking at me and that’s why I decided to come and hang out here. I came to see a friend and I would leave here in some days,” our correspondent said. It was a cue to earn his trust. The conversation ended there.
Barely five minutes after the brief conversation, the bar owner astounded our reporter as he kissed one of his friends on the mouth before he briskly went to attend to another male customer that had just walked in. When he came back, he sat playfully on the laps of his friends before finally settling down in the middle of the two men.
The young man whom the bar owner kissed wore a shirt with the inscription 'T-boi Swag'. He stood up and started dancing seductively. It was not clear if the theatrical gesture was for my benefit or the bar owner’s.
He was at it for a long while before he finally stopped.
Shortly after, another young man walked in and ordered a drink. As if jolted from a long sleep, the scruffy looking dark skinned guy with the dreadlocks ordered a can of energy drink, dipped his hands in his pocket and brought out a roll of Indian hemp which he smoked as he drank.
This reporter invited the young man who came in last to sit with him and started a conversation to determine if he was a part of the happenings in the bar. He looked puzzled:
“I only came to see a relative around here and I decided to come here to have some drinks out of boredom,” he said. He left shortly after.
Another scenario played out when one of the young men was eating diced pineapple. The bar owner asked to be fed some and when his friend opted to feed him, he shook his head signalling that he wanted a mouth-to-mouth feeding with his friend. Without hesitation, his friend obliged and a brief kiss was shared.
Some other three young men walked in, all ‘sagging’ their trousers, ordered drinks and brought out their stash of Indian hemp. A smoking session soon began as they puffed on their stuff freely.
Just when this reporter thought he had seen it all, a set of four girls dressed in skimpy and tight-fitting clothes walked in and greeted the bar owner in a very familiar manner.
It was discovered that they were commercial sex workers. They ordered some drinks. Few minutes before this reporter left, another pair of commercial sex workers came into the bar.
Our correspondent spent three hours at the bar.
Before leaving, he called the bar owner outside for a brief discussion and to get his phone number. The young man initially hesitated.
But when the bar owner was told that there was money to be made if he could arrange men for orgies for our correspondent’s homoséxual clients his disposition became friendly and receptive at this point.
He told the reporter that he was also a make-up artiste and asked where the reporter was headed.
“I close around 12.30am.When you are done, you can come and pick me and we would have a nice time. I will call my aunt to tell her I am not coming home tonight,” he said.
This reporter never showed up till a few days later.
The next time our reporter visited the bar, it was around 1pm, but the bar was locked.
While pondering on what to do, he noticed a light-skinned lady staring at him. Just when he wanted to turn and leave, the lady and her friend came and tapped at his car glass, asking if he wanted to see the bar owner.
“I recognised you from your first visit,” she said. The ladies got into the car and took him to the guy's house.
The young man came out 10 minutes later with signs that he must have been sleeping.
Our correspondent and the bar owner drove away from the compound.
In the car, both our correspondent and the bar owner had an extensive talk, which was secretly recorded.
Our correspondent said he was a model based in South Africa. The bar owner was asked to handle the business our correspondent had told him about during the previous visit, promising that he could make between N50,000 and N70,000.
He was also asked how safe his bar was for the business as no interruption by the police would be needed. He said his bar had never been raided by the police since he had been running it for about five years.
The bar owner later opened up on his life as a gay, his bar and how he deceived his parents into thinking that he had a normal séxual orientation.
When asked about the kiss with his friend, T-boi, he said it was a normal thing but he was not in a relationship with the young man. He said that he was in a relationship with a boy and a girl. The girl was to serve as decoy to friends and family, so they won’t know his séxual preference.
He said, “I just kissed him that day but there is nothing between us. I am in a relationship with a guy and a girl; both of them.”
He explained that whenever his friends, the commercial séx workers, wanted to go out and have a good time with their customers, his bar was always the first point of call.
“They come to my bar first, drink, smoke shisha or weed if they want. From my bar, they go to their various destinations,” he said.
The bartender said that he also organised young ladies and men for interested clients. He said that for clients with a normal séxual orientation, he charges between N10,000 and N15,000. But homoséxual clients pay more.
“Yes, I have girls that can have séx with other girls. If there is money, they can do anything. If they want to do two some, not with lésbians, sometimes they collect N20,000 or N30,000 for the night. T-boi, on the other hand, does it for money. They always give him money. The guys I have collect about the same amount. If you give the girls about N20,000, they would be interested in being with a lésbian partner but if it is a normal day that they are not going to club, you can give them about N10,000.”
He told Saturday PUNCH that he would rather be with someone who has a normal séxual orientation and wait till the person flirts with him than with someone who already knew he was gay.
The young man said he was more of a romantic person and would not readily want to have séx with another man for money. He, however, said if he needed the money, he would take it.
He said, “I am always scared when I go out with a complete stranger. I am always careful when I meet people for the first time. I don’t know what the person could be up to; that is why I am scared.
“I really don’t like people that are openly gay; I prefer people who have a normal séxual orientation and do not know about my séxual orientation but make advances.
“I like them like that, but if people that are gay like me offer to give me money, I don’t accept it. I would rather introduce them to another guy. I have friends that would be interested mostly because of the money,” he said.
He believes that being a homoséxual is his destiny. He said he embraced it wholeheartedly about three years ago when he turned 21.
The young man told Punch correspondent that there were tell-tale signs that he was homoséxual when he was young as he always mingled with the opposite séx. He said it was his nature and that was the way he was created.
He said, “While growing up, I was always mistaken for a girl till I began to grow beards. Now, I’m attracted to men instead of women.
“I believe it is the nature of my body and my destiny. I cannot deceive myself any more because I have more feelings for men than women,” he said, making feminine mannerism.
“I count myself lucky because when people come from South-Africa, they come to my shop. I don’t know how they know my shop. This thing is natural, you cannot hide it. I was still a kid when I knew I was gay. Then, I used to play with girls and I was always involved in girls’ games like ten-ten, playing with dolls and the likes.
“Back then, people used to ask me to take money or bet on whether I was a girl or a boy. It was not until I started growing beard that they knew I was a man. While growing up, my girlfriends would always come to my house to invite me to play with them.”
The bartender said that he did not like the location of his shop as the neighbourhood sometimes scared away his customers. He said when he got more money, he would establish a hotel with a much bigger bar for his customers.
“I want to move because there are times when I meet some clients and I give them the address of my shop and they are scared to come because of the location. Most times, they like me but the location of my shop discourages them,” the bartender said.
The last born in a family of four, he said that he came from a good Christian home and none of his family members are aware of his séxual orientation. He said he once impregnated a girl to prove that he was not a homoséxual.
He said that the baby had a striking resemblance with him and that he had been responsible for the child as the mother insisted on keeping the baby.
The young man who said that he could play the role of both a male and a female in a relationship,gave hints on how to know who is the “king or queen” in a homoséxual relationship.
He said, “In a homoséxual relationship, it is easier to know the king than the queen. For example, the king in a lésbian relationship is the one that acts like a man. She likes men’s sports, dresses like a man and even fights like a man.
“The queen is not so easy to spot. If a girl is nakéd before her, once she sees her nipples, she would become aroused and attempts to touch the nipples. That’s when you would know the person is a lésbian.I play the two roles of both a male and a female.”
Hmmm...what a life!
Life and Choices
LIFE IS ALL ABOUT CHOICE, YOU CAN CHOOSE FALUR OR SUCCESS, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO SERVICE GOD OR DEVIL, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO MAKE IT OR NOT, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO MARRID OR TO WALK ABOUT, YOU CAN CHOOSE POSITIVE CHANGES OR NEGATIVE CHANGES, YOU CAN CHOOSE GOOD FRIENDS OR BAD FRIENDS, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO KILL OR TO SAFE, ETC. GOD HAS GIVING US THE POWER TO CHOOSE OUR"CHOICE". SO WHAT IS YOUR CHOICE???
Becoming a Billionaire, time out with Africa richest man
The richest man in Africa and 23rd in the world, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has shared his timeless business principle. It is a principle he learnt from his grandfather, which has helped grow his business and make him the richest black man on earth with an estimated net worth of $25 billion as of March 2014.
He shared the principle on his twitter handle @AlikoDangote, few days ago;
“My grandfather once told me; ‘the soul of business is not making money but making people happy”
He is the owner of the Dangote Group, which has interests in commodities with operations in Nigeria and several other countries in Africa, including Benin, Cameroon, Togo, Ghana, South Africa and Zambia
Dangote Group with its dominance in the sugar market and refinery business is the main supplier (70% of the market) to the Nigerias soft drinks companies, breweries and confectioners. It is the largest refinery in Africa and the third largest in the world, producing 800,000 tonnes of sugar annually.
Apart from these, Dangote Group owns salt factories and flour mills and is a major importer of rice, fish, pasta, cement and fertilizer. The company exports cotton, cashew nuts, cocoa, sesame seed and ginger to several countries. It also has major investments in real estate, banking, transport, textiles and oil and gas. The company employs over 11,000 people and is the largest industrial conglomerate in the whole of West Africa.
We have a stalk in Nigeria-MASSOB
THE Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People has slammed the exclusion of the Ogoni ethnic group from participating in the National Conference billed for March 17, 2014.
MOSOP observed the conspicuous absence of Ogoni sons and daughters in the list of delegates to the National Conference to hold in Abuja.
President of MOSOP, Mr. Legborsi Pyagbara, on Saturday, described as unfortunate the exclusion of its people from the confab delegate list. Pyagbara, who spoke through his Media Adviser, Mr. Bari-ara Kpalap, noted that the development was coming on the heels of the recent exclusion of the late environmentalist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, from Nigeria’s centenary awardees’ list, which contained names of some corrupt persons.
“Coming on the heels of the just-concluded Nigeria’s centenary celebrations where the famous writer and environmentalist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, was deliberately omitted from the centenary awardees’ list that even contained the names of acknowledged corruption magnates and their likes, this exclusion is undoubtedly an indication of the Jonathan administration’s continuous war of exclusion of the Ogoni people from the scheme of things in this country.
“We recall, and evidence abound that the Ogoni people have fared far worse under the present Federal Government
than other elected regimes in this country since 1999. ”The attitude and response of the Jonathan administration to clearing the names of Ken Saro-Wiwa and others of a sham trial of which their innocence have been globally acknowledged and instead rewarded those that facilitated their illegal executive murder.
“Also, the government’s failure to implement recommendations of the UNEP environmental assessment report on Ogoni and the refusal to appoint Ogoni into offices, have strengthened our conclusion that the Jonathan administration has unpretentiously declared war on Ogoni,” he said.
Nigerian First High Court Female Judge is gone
The first female High Court Judge in Jigawa State, norther Nigeria, Justice Nana Abdullahi, died on Friday at the age of 54.
Her husband, Abubakar, Coordinator, National Open University of Nigeria, Dutse centre, confirmed her death on telephone on Friday.
Abubakar said she died during an illness at a private hospital in Dutse on March 5.
The deceased was Solicitor General, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice from 2000 to 2005 before her appointment as high court judge in 2010.
Chairman of the state chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr Muhammad Turaki, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family.
“We are proud of Nana Aisha Abdullahi as one of our prominent members; a dedicated member and mother of the association.
“The late judge served the judiciary and the State with diligence, courage and the fear of Allah.
“The association received the news of her death with shock and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah.
“Our condolences also go to the Jigawa judiciary, particularly the Chief Judge and Grand Khadi of the state.
“We pray to Almighty Allah to forgive her and bless her with Aljannatul firdausi and also give her family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss’’ a statement from the association stated.
When all else fails-Life
If all else fails, remove yourself
from the wrong situations and
relationships. Some people are like
dark clouds; when they disappear,
it’s a brighter day. Know when it’s
time to let go. Letting go of
negative people doesn’t mean you
hate them, it just means that you
care about your own wellbeing.
Every time you subtract negative
from your life, you make room for
more positive
Boobilicious Cossy Orjiakor Insight on her life
Controversial actress, Cossy Orjiakor, in a recent interview opens up on her career and current project while revealing that she could act in a P0*n flick if given the opportunity.
Excerpts:
On what she’s bee up to
Yeah (giggles) I’ve been having fun really doing my own thing. But I’m working on a reality TV show designed to give back to society. I have this large heart for giving back, so I want to have a reality TV show where the winners would be encouraged to bring forth proposals which I would sponsor with the little I have. But if I could get sponsors it would be great!
On her saddest moment
You should know now (laughter). Imagine all the false stories that they’ve published about me; ‘Cossy Orjiakor has HIV’, ‘Cossy had s*x with a dog’, ‘Cossy did this and Cossy did that’. You know, that’s not cool. But I’m a fun person and I dress for the occasion. Like if I’m going for a costume party I’d wear a sexy costume and that’s a party that happens basically in the night. But the thing is that in the morning, when normal people see the pictures of the clothes in the papers, they judge me unfairly.
On what the tattoo on her left b00b it signifies and the pain in getting it done
It’s a rose flower. I got it a long time ago. I just wanted to know what it feels like to have a tattoo; I actually have four. Yes, it was painful but I just wanted to know how it felt like having a tattoo (laughs).
On the craziest thing a fan has done to you after seeing your b**bs dangling so dangerously
(Laughter) Yeah… I’ve had a lot of experiences especially from females. I could allow a female touch my b**bs if I am in the mood. You know, they are like, ‘is it real?’ Men don’t really do much these days; it was a long time ago.
On Afrocandy’s offers to feature her in one of her P0*n movies
I’ve not met her but I think she’s a cool babe. I like her guts and Maheeda’s guts as well; they’re doing their own thing. If one way does not work, the other should; they’re paying their dues.
About the P0*n movie role
I can act in a P0*n movie but I can never go unclad myself. If I have to act with somebody and they use a body double to do the acting, that’s fine. But as for me, I can never go unclad. If you insist that I must act unclad then you have to use a body double. They’ve done it before. That was when I was dancing for Obesere. They superimposed a dog on me and said I was having s*x with the dog. And before I knew it everybody was calling me a P0*n actor! That picture was photo shopped. I can remember a guy called me up and said he had a picture of me having s*x with a dog and I told him to go to hell; he wanted to blackmail me, and then he published the story and my family was embarrassed.
On getting married
When I see the right man I will get married.
On how hot she is between the sheets
I don’t know (blushes). I’m very good though; I believe I’m very good. Do you want to find out? (Giggles).
On the most adventurous thing she has done sexually
I’m extremely adventurous believe me… when you’re adventurous you go with the flow and take over whatever happens; you don’t have a mind set of what you want to do; you just flow.
On why she’s not really acting these days
The offers that I get are not paying enough, so I’d rather do other things that get me money.
What other things she does
I work for myself. I get paid to go out and I have tenants that pay me rent; I’m a landlady.
Increase your breast size (For the ladies)
If you are interested in increasing your chest size naturally without surgery, changing your diet something you should consider. It is important to realize that food by itself cannot induce chest growth. For that you need chest enlargement herbs. However, without the amino acids and phytoestrogens that are contained in certain foods, your br**sts will not grow as much as they should, no matter how many herbs you take. The following ten foods are both good for you and available in any grocery store. Simply add them in your diet to boost your natural chest enlargement program.
1. Alfalfa sprouts Alfalfa sprouts are rich inphytoestrogens and other nutrients that promote chest growth.
2. AvocadoAvocado contains amino acids and other nutrients that promote growth of the br**sts.
3. Flax seeds Flax seeds contain phytoestrogens, which stimulate chest growth.
4. MilkMilk is high in protein and also contains naturally occurring estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, which are needed for chest growth.
5. NutsNuts are high in monosaturated fat, which promotes chest growth.
6. ParsleyParsley is a plant which stimulates the production of estrogen and even regulates hormonal disorders.
7. SeafoodSeafood contains high levels of manganese, which helps to increase s*x hormones, thus. promoting the growth of chest tissue. Seafood also makes the chest tissues more susceptible to estrogen.
8. SoySoy products are rich in isoflavones and help fight the free radicals and cancer cells that might grow in chest tissues. It is also very rich in phytoestrogens, the hormone largely responsible for chest growth.
9. Sunflower seedsSunflower seeds are high in protein, which increases chest volume.
10. Whey proteinProtein is crucial to any chest enlargement program. Although including meat, poultry, and fish in your diet is an good way to boost chest growth, whey protein is an even more concentrated protein food.. If you want to grow your br**sts naturally, you can boost your progress by eating these ten foods.The best part of the natural chest enlargement experience is that aimost everything you do for chest growth also benefits your overall health in some way. Bigger br**sts and better health: what a great combination!
Oh No!!!! ASSU Strike again
Barely few months after they called off a six month industrial action, the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, and the Federal Government may clash again that could result into university lecturers embarking on another strike.
* ASUU President, Nasir Faggie
There is palpable tension in Nigerian universities, with ASUU boycotting the ongoing Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, seminar in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The university lecturers are threatening to down tools again if the government insists on getting them to join the new payment platform.
Recntly, the Federal Government directed all its Ministries, Departments and Parastatals, MDS, to join the computerised payment platform to reduce corruption and human error in the payment of salaries.
As part of measures to bring universities into the programme, the government distributed IPPIS forms to lecturers all over the country through the National Universities Commission, NUC.
However, ASUU members in Port Harcourt, Rivers State did not turn up for the seminar which kicked off on Monday in Port Harcourt
Also, a similar programme that was held in other geo-political zones of the country is also said to have been boycotted by members of the union.
A source from the University of Uyo told newsmen that ASUU had barred its members from attending the Port Harcourt seminar.
“The vice chancellor had intimated us about the seminar but based on the directive from our union, we cannot honour the invitation for the programme.
“ASUU is not against the computerised salary system but we are saying that the policy does not favour the peculiar nuances of the academia.
“For instance, the IPPIS does not recognise the peculiarity of the academic environment and cannot meet our payment needs. Our members go on sabbatical, act as adjuncts and we engage in regular recruitment of staff which are not addressed on the IPPIS platform.”
Having experienced the failure in the payment of monetisation, the source hinted that the union would not allow its members to be part of the new payment system.
It would be recalled that the University of Ibadan chapter of the union had early in January barred its members from filling the IPPIS form.
Attempts to speak with the National President of ASUU, Nasir Faggie, on the issue failed as he would not take calls or respond to a text message sent to his telephone.
Satisfying the Lady (the bedroom Job)
A girl once said"I'd rather die unmarried than marry a 2MINS man in bed"
What do some girls take we men for? SEX MACHINES? Or when has sex turned food? The world is moving at a very fast pace and its really affecting the male folks seriously! Some women would even say"he should be able to take me at least 5rounds"wtf! Is it that easy??
A man now have to take drugs, herbs and injections which delays ejaculation so they can last longer and at the same time impress their woman! That's absolute nonsense! Have You thought of the side-effects of those drugs/ injections or herbs? Seriously its not worth it!!!
Women should understand every man is not made the same! Some men are lions in bed while some are sheeps! If your man is the lion your luck and if your man turns out to be the sheep still fair enough! Its not about long sex its about satisfied and fulfilled love making!
Guys if You see such women just run away from them, they will only end up killing You!!!! Hahahahahahahah a
Boko Haram now runned by Al-Qaeda
There are very strong indications to suggest that al-Qaeda, the global terror organization founded by the late Osama Bin Laden, may have taken control of the notorious and deadly Jama’atu Ahliss-Sunnah Lidda’awati Wal Jihad, popularly known as Boko Haram, Sunday Vanguard can report authoritatively.
In addition, it was learnt that some of the camps used by Boko Haram members as safe haven in Cameroun have been detected by Nigeria’s security forces.
The problem, however, according to sources, is that “except Cameroun enters into concrete collaboration with Nigeria, nothing can be done”.
Aqim and Boko Haram
The alleged arrowhead of the take-over, which is the al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, AQIM, has its headquarters in Algeria.
Intelligence sources disclosed to Sunday Vanguard that members of Boko Haram had had collaboration with AQIM since 2010.
As far back as 2010, intelligence sources said “the Algerian government had said available intelligence reports confirmed that extremist Nigerian Islamic group, Boko Haram, has linked up with al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) which has its North African headquarters in Algeria.”
One of the sources added, “The revelation confirms Nigeria’s intelligence services assessment and worries that the previously unknown group has received training and support from al Qaeda.
“Even at that time, Algerian Deputy Foreign Minister, Abdelkader Messahel, told journalists that intelligence report showed both groups had been coordinating.
”We have no doubts that coordination exists between Boko Haram and al Qaeda.”
Reuters news agency quoted Messahel as saying “the way both groups operate and intelligence reports show that there is cooperation”.
AQIM was said to have grown out “of a conflict in Algeria between the government and Islamist militants”. An intelligence report said, “In the past few years, it has expanded its activities to include Mali, Niger and Mauritania but was not thought to have reached as far south as Nigeria”.
The report said Algeria’s assessment of ties between AQIM and Boko Haram carries authority because Algeria has the biggest intelligence-gathering operation on al Qaeda of any country in the region.
Sunday Vanguard was reliably informed that “the group sent out some six members to Algeria to learn how to make Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs.” A security source said, “Indeed, the students, in the light of Boko Haram’s bombing raids, appeared to have learnt well.
“It was discovered that after the ‘Arab Spring’- a peoples revolution across some North African countries – some of the militia and criminals hitherto nurtured by the fleeing leaders migrated southwards and were the ones largely responsible for and who inspired the civil strife in Mali.”
“The source went further: “It was these same people who moved easterly through Niger Republic and were causing problems in northern Nigeria.
“It was the emergency rule declared by President Goodluck Jonathan, the efficacy of which hemmed the terrorists to the north eastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa and even across the Nigerian borders that has restricted their activities to attacking soft targets”.
The source disclosed that the funding the sect members enjoy is not only derived from their robbery activities but from their links with AQIM; the sophistication of their attacks is also as a result of the strong involvement of AQIM.
Camps uncovered
Military sources confirmed that some of the camps used as hideouts by members of Boko Haram have been identified in North-western Cameroun.
Information provided last week by highly dependable sources suggest that the vastness of the border between Nigeria and Cameroun makes it very difficult if not impossible to fully police the area.
“The reality on ground is that it is not possible for Nigeria’s security forces to carry out aerial bombardment of the hideouts of the terrorists,” one of the sources told Sunday Vanguard.
“These camps have been identified but we cannot just go into another country and carry out bombing sorties.
“If the type of collaboration between Niger and Nigeria existed between Cameroun and Nigeria, we would have achieved more successes.
“Even at that, you will agree that our military forces have been intercepting and aborting some of the plans of the insurgents.
“But when people speed in and speed out into another country, you cannot pursue them into another country without the permission of that country”.
Led by the late Mohammed Yusuf, the first major uprising by Boko Haram actually began in Bauchi State on 26 July 2009 when hundreds of the sect adherents launched an attack on the Dutsen Tanshi Police Station. This attack failed, with reports of at least 50 people killed. In the next four days, the group carried out further attacks, with gun battles between the sect and the police reported throughout Bauchi, Kano, Yobe, and Borno States. The worst of the violence occurred in Maiduguri, where the group had relocated from its Kanamma base, Yobe State, a base aptly named Afghanistan.
Prior to July 2009 when the sect’s notoriety waxed strong, its members had been involved in dastardly incidents in Yobe in 2003 and in Kano in 2004. In April 2007, 10 policemen and a divisional commander’s wife were killed in an attack on the police headquarters in Kano.
On 13 November 2008, Yusuf was arrested following an attack on a police station in Maiduguri, in which 17 of his followers were killed. On 20 January 2009, an Abuja High Court granted him bail. This was to be an error, a fatal one.
He was apprehended again in December 2009 after the sect engaged the military in a gun battle lasting almost one week. He was handed over to the police where he died under circumstances that are still alleged to be extra-judicial.
Sunday, 9 March 2014
Boko Haram now run by Al Quada
There are very strong indications to suggest that al-Qaeda, the global terror organization founded by the late Osama Bin Laden, may have taken control of the notorious and deadly Jama’atu Ahliss-Sunnah Lidda’awati Wal Jihad, popularly known as Boko Haram, Sunday Vanguard can report authoritatively.
In addition, it was learnt that some of the camps used by Boko Haram members as safe haven in Cameroun have been detected by Nigeria’s security forces.
The problem, however, according to sources, is that “except Cameroun enters into concrete collaboration with Nigeria, nothing can be done”.
Aqim and Boko Haram
The alleged arrowhead of the take-over, which is the al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, AQIM, has its headquarters in Algeria.
Intelligence sources disclosed to Sunday Vanguard that members of Boko Haram had had collaboration with AQIM since 2010.
As far back as 2010, intelligence sources said “the Algerian government had said available intelligence reports confirmed that extremist Nigerian Islamic group, Boko Haram, has linked up with al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) which has its North African headquarters in Algeria.”
One of the sources added, “The revelation confirms Nigeria’s intelligence services assessment and worries that the previously unknown group has received training and support from al Qaeda.
“Even at that time, Algerian Deputy Foreign Minister, Abdelkader Messahel, told journalists that intelligence report showed both groups had been coordinating.
”We have no doubts that coordination exists between Boko Haram and al Qaeda.”
Reuters news agency quoted Messahel as saying “the way both groups operate and intelligence reports show that there is cooperation”.
AQIM was said to have grown out “of a conflict in Algeria between the government and Islamist militants”. An intelligence report said, “In the past few years, it has expanded its activities to include Mali, Niger and Mauritania but was not thought to have reached as far south as Nigeria”.
The report said Algeria’s assessment of ties between AQIM and Boko Haram carries authority because Algeria has the biggest intelligence-gathering operation on al Qaeda of any country in the region.
Sunday Vanguard was reliably informed that “the group sent out some six members to Algeria to learn how to make Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs.” A security source said, “Indeed, the students, in the light of Boko Haram’s bombing raids, appeared to have learnt well.
“It was discovered that after the ‘Arab Spring’- a peoples revolution across some North African countries – some of the militia and criminals hitherto nurtured by the fleeing leaders migrated southwards and were the ones largely responsible for and who inspired the civil strife in Mali.”
“The source went further: “It was these same people who moved easterly through Niger Republic and were causing problems in northern Nigeria.
“It was the emergency rule declared by President Goodluck Jonathan, the efficacy of which hemmed the terrorists to the north eastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa and even across the Nigerian borders that has restricted their activities to attacking soft targets”.
The source disclosed that the funding the sect members enjoy is not only derived from their robbery activities but from their links with AQIM; the sophistication of their attacks is also as a result of the strong involvement of AQIM.
Camps uncovered
Military sources confirmed that some of the camps used as hideouts by members of Boko Haram have been identified in North-western Cameroun.
Information provided last week by highly dependable sources suggest that the vastness of the border between Nigeria and Cameroun makes it very difficult if not impossible to fully police the area.
“The reality on ground is that it is not possible for Nigeria’s security forces to carry out aerial bombardment of the hideouts of the terrorists,” one of the sources told Sunday Vanguard.
“These camps have been identified but we cannot just go into another country and carry out bombing sorties.
“If the type of collaboration between Niger and Nigeria existed between Cameroun and Nigeria, we would have achieved more successes.
“Even at that, you will agree that our military forces have been intercepting and aborting some of the plans of the insurgents.
“But when people speed in and speed out into another country, you cannot pursue them into another country without the permission of that country”.
Led by the late Mohammed Yusuf, the first major uprising by Boko Haram actually began in Bauchi State on 26 July 2009 when hundreds of the sect adherents launched an attack on the Dutsen Tanshi Police Station. This attack failed, with reports of at least 50 people killed. In the next four days, the group carried out further attacks, with gun battles between the sect and the police reported throughout Bauchi, Kano, Yobe, and Borno States. The worst of the violence occurred in Maiduguri, where the group had relocated from its Kanamma base, Yobe State, a base aptly named Afghanistan.
Prior to July 2009 when the sect’s notoriety waxed strong, its members had been involved in dastardly incidents in Yobe in 2003 and in Kano in 2004. In April 2007, 10 policemen and a divisional commander’s wife were killed in an attack on the police headquarters in Kano.
On 13 November 2008, Yusuf was arrested following an attack on a police station in Maiduguri, in which 17 of his followers were killed. On 20 January 2009, an Abuja High Court granted him bail. This was to be an error, a fatal one.
He was apprehended again in December 2009 after the sect engaged the military in a gun battle lasting almost one week. He was handed over to the police where he died under circumstances that are still alleged to be extra-judicial.
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