gistmaster

LATEST NEWS:COURT SENTENCES AL MUSTAPHA TO DEATH BY HANGING

2012-01-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

Major Hamza Al-Mustapha,a former Chief Security Officer to late General Sani Abacha, has been sentenced to death by hanging.He was found guilty of masterminding the death of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola,whose husband , Late Bashorun MKO Abiola won the 12 June 1993 election.
Also sentenced to death by hanging is Alhaji Lateef Shofolahan, a personal assistant to late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola at the time of the commission of the event. He was an accomplice.Before this breaking news, the trial of Al-Mustapha and Shofolahan had been on for 12 years.
-Gistmaster

NEWS OF THE DAY:3 TOPLESS PROTESTERS ARRESTED IN SWITZERLAND

2012-01-28T12:59:00.000-08:00

Three female protesters who went topless in Switzerland were today arrested.The three ladies who are from Ukraine said they were protesting on behalf of poor people around the world. They were arrested by Swiss Police at the entrance of the congress centre of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.Just wondering how the policemen managed to hold the protesters!

LORD OF AJASA OUT WITH NEW VIDEO

2012-01-28T11:40:00.000-08:00

Lord Of Ajasa releases video for ID Cabasa-produced track - ANywhere I Dey Go.

LORD OF AJASA drops the video for his new single titled ANYWHERE I DEY
GO Produced By ID Cabasa, Directed By Ayoola 'Awizzles' Opere.

ACCESS BANK SACKS INTERCONTINENTAL BANK STAFF,SHUT DOWN BRANCHES

2012-01-28T04:16:00.000-08:00

By Niyi Tabiti
Several branches of Intercontinental Bank that have been tagged 'not performing' has been shut down by Access Bank, the new owners of the bank just as over one thousand staff of the same bank lost their jobs. Gistmaster gathered some of the braches of Intercontinental Bank shut down by Access Bank includes the one at Ikeja, Ibafo and Akute.Austin Edoja, the
corporate affairs manger of Access Bank confirmed the new development.
Already, close to two thousand staff of Intercontinental bank has been sacked. However, we gathered that this just the first batch. Sources told gistmaster that Access Bank also plan to sack thousands of others soon.
Intercontinental Bank was hit by massive low patronage after the Central Bank of Nigeria indicted the erstwhile Managing Director of the Bank, Erastus Akingbola and other directors of fraudulent practices.

Get Onboard MOBILE MONEY Powered by MTN!

2012-01-26T02:40:00.000-08:00

As the New Year unfolds, Nigeria’s leading Telecommunication network,
MTN is partnering with GTBank to deliver a more convenient means of
money transaction between family, loved ones and business partners
across the country.
In partnership with GTBank, the newly introduced service “Mobile
Money” is a secure, convenient and affordable way of sending money
using an MTN mobile phone.
With this new exciting service powered by MTN, you can:
1) Send and receive money across the country with your phone.
2) Recharge your phone by purchasing airtime.
3) Pay bills e.t.c.
Mobile Money is a fast and convenient way of sending money when in an
emergency or when paying bills, we have been able to create this new
service which will be beneficial to a lot of Nigerians on the MTN
network as well as Non-users
MTN Users can dial *500# and follow the instructions to activate
MobileMoney service.
Visit www.mymobilemoneyng.com for more details.
You can also visit www.facebook.com/MTNLoaded or www.twitter.com/MTNNG
to get additional details

LATEST NEWS:JONATHAN REDUCES FUEL PRICE TO N97+SEE FULL TEXT OF HIS BROADCAST

2012-01-15T22:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Compatriots,

1. This is the second time in two weeks I will address you on the deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. In the last seven days, the nation has witnessed a disruption of economic activities. Although, the economic imperatives for the policy have been well articulated by government, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) went ahead to declare a nationwide strike.

2. There was also near-breakdown of law and order in certain parts of the country as a result of the activities of some persons or groups of persons who took advantage of the situation to further their narrow interests by engaging in acts of intimidation, harassment and outright subversion of the Nigerian state. I express my sympathy to those who were adversely affected by the protests.

3. At the inception of the deregulation policy, Government had set up the Justice
Alfa Belgore Committee to liaise with Labour and other stakeholders to address likely grey areas in the policy, but despite all our efforts, Labour refused the option of dialogue and also disobeyed a restraining order of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

4. However, following the intervention of the Leadership of the National Assembly, and other well-meaning Nigerians, Labour accepted to meet with government, but this yielded no tangible result.

5. It has become clear to government and all well-meaning Nigerians that other interests beyond the implementation of the deregulation policy have hijacked the protest. This has prevented an objective assessment and consideration of all the contending issues for which dialogue was initiated by government. These same interests seek to promote discord, anarchy, and insecurity to the detriment of public peace.

6. Government appreciates that the implementation of the deregulation policy would cause initial hardships and commends Nigerians who have put forth suggestions and credible alternatives in this regard. Government also salutes Nigerians who by and large, conducted themselves peacefully while expressing their grievances. Let me assure you that government will continue to respect the people’s right to express themselves within the confines of the law and in accordance with the dictates of our democratic space.

7. Government will continue to pursue full deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. However, given the hardships being suffered by Nigerians, and after due consideration and consultations with state governors and the leadership of the National Assembly, government has approved the reduction of the pump price of petrol to N97 per litre. The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) has been directed to ensure compliance with this new pump price.

8. Government is working hard to reduce recurrent expenditure in line with current realities and to cut down on the cost of governance. In the meantime, government has commenced the implementation of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment projects: including the Federal Government- assisted mass transit programme which is already in place, and job creation for the youth.

9. Furthermore, the legal and regulatory regime for the petroleum industry will be reviewed to address accountability issues and current lapses in the Industry. In this regard, the Petroleum Industry Bill will be given accelerated attention. The report of the forensic audit carried out on the NNPC is being studied with a view to implementing the recommendations and sanctioning proven acts of corruption in the industry.

10. Let me assure Nigerians that this administration is irrevocably committed to tackling corruption in the petroleum industry as well as other sectors of the economy. Consequently, all those found to have contributed one way or the other to the economic adversity of the country will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

11. My dear compatriots, I urge you to show understanding for the imperatives of the adjustment in the pump price of petrol and give government your full support to ensure its successful implementation. I further appeal to Nigerians to go back to work and go about their normal duties as government has made adequate arrangements for the protection of life and property throughout the federation.

12. Government will not condone brazen acts of criminality and subversion. As President, I have sworn to uphold the unity, peace and order of the Nigerian State and by the grace of God, I intend to fully and effectively discharge that responsibility. Let me add that we are desirous of further engagements with Labour. I urge our Labour leaders to call off their strike, and go back to work.

13. Nigeria belongs to all of us and we must collectively safeguard its unity.

14. Thank you. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, GCFR

President,

Federal Republic of Nigeria

LATEST NEWS:NLC SAYS STRIKE CONTINUE AS MEETING WITH FG FAILED AGAIN

2012-01-14T21:15:00.000-08:00

The organised Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress (TUC) announced after the meeting with the Federal Government that the strike actions embarked upon by Nigerians will continue as no compromise was reached at the meeting with the Federal Governmemt over the controversial fuel increase in the country.

Millions of Nigerians

last week joined the protests on the street lamenting the untold hardship the fuel increase has caused since New Year day.

The NLC had insited at the meeting that the pump prices of fuel in Nigeria should be reverted back to N65 per litre instead of the imposed price of N141 by the government citing the removal of subsidy.
The federal government side was led by President of the senate, Mr. David Mark. Some state governors led by the Chairman of the Governors forum, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi were present at the meeting.Ministers of petroleum, Mrs. Diezeni Allison Madueke and her countrparts in the finance ministry, Mrs.Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as well as Mr. Adoke, the minister of Justice formed part of the government side of the talks with labour.
The Nigerians president, Mr. Goodluck Jonathan and his deputy, Architect Namadi Sambo were both absent from the meeting, according to the reports monitored by Gistmaster
-Report by Niyi Tabiti

KENNY OGUNGBE JOINS AIT BOARD OF DIRECTORS, SIGNS NEW MEDIA DEAL

2012-01-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

KENNIS MUSIC, one of the country’s biggest record label company, has rolled out plans for the new year even as its helmsman, Kenny Ogungbe just got elevated to the position of the 24-member of the Board of Directors, DAAR Communications Plc. His appointment was endorsed at the multinational’s AGM held on Friday, December 30, 2011.

With his new position, Ogungbe, a prolific music presenter and entrepreneur, is now part of policy making of the media conglomerate which includes Africa Independent Television, AIT, AIT National, AIT International, Ray Power FM, Ray Power FM network and DAARSat. “I and other board of Directors are saddled with the responsibility of ensuring the company brings dividend to its shareholders and a major task before us is to launch Ray Power in 22 cities before the end of June, this year to bring to 29, the cities where signals could be received,” Ogungbe said in an interview recently.

Kennis Music has also signed a strategic media partnership deal with rave of the moment media lobbying outfit, Media Image Managers, MIM. Thus, MIM would henceforth act as Kennis Music and its allied companies’ spokesman. Details of the deal are still sketchy but a source said the two brands would be collaborating on huge entertainment projects that would be mutually beneficial to all parties. The deal was signed at Kennis Music Magodo, Lagos office about a week ago. A short statement released on MIM website, www.mymediaimage.net and Facebook page, Media Image Managers, confirmed the partnership deal. “Media Image Managers, Kennis Music sign strategic partnership deal. The first for the two great brands,” the statement read.

The record label company on its part according to Ogungbe has concluded plans to release the works of four of its artistes in the early part of the year. Valentine’s Day date has been set aside for capital F.E.M.I. Joe EL, Minjin and Nigeria Jagajaga exponent, Eadris Abdukarim will all follow suit. “F.E.M.I has done three singles before now but he has recorded 25 songs from which we will pick 15 for the new album. I just returned from Los Angeles where I went to do the mastering. Joe EL has recorded 10 songs already and they are all free style love songs, really a crazy innovation if you listened to them. Minjin’s album project has reached advanced stage so with Eadris Abdukarim who has a new album coming titled Nigeria My Country. His song dedicated to Boko Haram also titled Boko Haram is a sure hit. Eadris has always been a misunderstood social crusader, many people especially politicians misinterpreted his monster hit, Nigeria Jagajaga, but ask yourself, all what Eadris said in the song, has anything changed? Rather, things are getting worse. But with Nigeria My Country and Boko Haram song, Eadris has towed a new line of musical agitation,” Ogungbe said.

It has been quite a busy 2011 for artistes on the Kennis Music label as revealed by Ogungbe. “Eadris was touring with Glo, Kenny St Brown, KSB, aside the numerous shows she played also took time out to test her skills on the acting turf and she just returned from location in the UK. Essence and Jaywon are on tour of the UK and F.E.M.I and Goldie also have had a terrific year 2011. This year I believe would be busier for everyone as we have started early even when some of them have spilt over on their schedule from last year.”

Plans for this year’s Kennis Music Fiesta scheduled for April as usual are already in top gear. “While I won’t reveal some of the plans yet, but we want to assure Nigerians that we won’t as usual disappoint them as far as show organising is concerned because that is our life; we breathe, eat and drink music and entertainment everyday of our life and that is why we have remained number one all these years. We are music people and we don’t pretend to be anything else. Also, we give Nigerian and African artistes a platform to excel.”

In the midst of all this, Kenny Ogungbe still has time to be on air Monday through Friday on Ray Power and OGBC while Kennis Music International is on Ray Power network, Tuesday through Saturday weekly. The schedule changes a bit on Inspiration FM as he dishes out entertainment to listeners of that station from Thursday through Saturday.

Kennis Music channel, a music and lifestyle channel which plays Afro centric and music of black origin, is on Startimes satellite TV.

FATHIA BALOGUN ROMANCES AYO ADESANYA'S EX-HUSBAND,GORIOLA HASSAN-CITY PEOPLE

2012-01-09T03:32:00.000-08:00

Top Yoruba actress, Fathia Balogun and Goriola Hassan, ex-husband of fellow actress, Ayo Adesanya are the newest couples in town!They have been sighted together stepping out together at various events, giving room for speculations that they ignited the fire of love.
City People magazine this week made an headline banner story of their romance.
Fathia and Gori have been going to functions together. They were both at singer, St.Janet's show together. They stepped in together
and those that could read between the lines knew that they were passionate about each other. The two, City People magazine wrote, also stormed Mercy Aigbe's birthday party together.

Gori, a prince of Ikate Surulere was living in America before he met and married Ayo Adesanya, some years ago. They formalised their relationship with Adesanya's family in Ijebu giving their blessings.Before then, Ayo Adesanya was known to have dated few people within and outside the entertainment industry. She was an item with Pasuma in those days until they had to go their separate ways. (Click here to see photos of from Best of Nollywood awards)
Fathia on the other hand was married to marverick actor, Saidi Balogun before the marriage packed off. She moved out of their Ikorodu matrimonial home after allegations and counter allegations of infidelity and brutality. Saheed felt Fathia betrayed her by dating a popular marketer.
Last year, Fathia supposed wedding to an American businessman was well publicized but it was allegedly cancelled after it was reavealed that the Nigerian-American businessman was still legally married to an American woman. (Click here to read why Fathia Balogun's marriage could not hold)

-Gistmaster

PHOTO:YORUBA ACTRESS RONKE ODUSANYA A.K.A FLAKKY IDI DOWO

2012-01-09T02:38:00.000-08:00

Well endowned Yoruba actress, Ronke Odusanya now has a growing traffic of fans.The talented actress who has appeared in several Yoruba movies has been dating fuji musician, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma for years now. There were speculations here and there last year that the marriage plans
of the two celebs have reached advance stage. Some said they had plans to settle down as husband and wife last year. Trust Pasuma, he kept quiet over the wedding issue.
What do you think about Ronke in this picture? To me, she look well packaged!
-Gistmaster

SUSPEND SUBSIDY REMOVAL,HOUSE OF REPS TELL JONATHAN-THE NATION

2012-01-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

The House of Representatives has called for the suspension of the removal of the fuel subsidy by the federal government.

The decision was taken at a special session of the House held yesterday in Abuja.

It however set up two committees to meet with respresentatives of Labour and the federal government and monitoring of the subsidy regime.

Speaker of the House, Aminu Tambuwal said the decision of the house was in the best interest of the country.

"We have a responsibility to ensure that the government and the country is governed through due process and respect for the rule of the law" the Speaker stated

BEYONCE AND JAY Z WELCOME THEIR FIRST BABY

2012-01-08T05:04:00.000-08:00

Award winning singer and actress, Beyonce and her husband, Jay Z have announced the birth of their daughter at the highbrow Lenox Hill Hospital in New York. The new baby, according to what this blog gathered, have already been named Ivy Blue Carter.

Fans and friends of the high profile celebrity couple are already rejoicing with them on the birth of their first baby since they got married some years ago.

Report says when Beyonce went to the hospital, she was checked in as Ingrid Jackson

, at least to hide face from prying eyes of the general public.Bayonce baby birth reportedly cost the couple a fortune. She hired a the whole forth floor of the hospital for a whooping $1.3 million (US Dollars). She delivered the baby through Caesarean operation.
Congrats to Beyonce and Jay Z!
-Gistmaster

WHAT NIGERIA's PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN TOLD NIGERIANS IN HIS NATIONAL BROADCAST ON FUEL SUBSIDY

2012-01-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

The Nigerian President,Mr.Goodluck Jonathan has been doing all within reach to convince Nigerians why the prices of fuel in his country skyrocked as a result of removal on fuel subsidy.Here we present you the full test of his broadcast to Nigerians.

Dear Compatriots,

1. A week ago, I had cause to address Nigerians on the security challenges we are facing in parts of the country, which necessitated the declaration of a state of emergency in 15 Local Government Areas in four states of the Federation. That course of action attracted widespread support and a demonstration of understanding.
With that declaration, government had again signaled its intention to combat terrorism with renewed vigour and to assure every Nigerian of safety.

2. The support that we have received in the fight against terrorism from concerned Nigerians at home and abroad has been remarkable. We believe that it is with such continued support that progress can be made on national issues. Let me express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has expressed a commitment to support us as we strive to improve on the country’s security situation, and build a stronger foundation for the future. The recent mindless acts of violence in Gombe, Potiskum, Jimeta-Yola and Mubi are unfortunate. I urge all Nigerians to eschew bitterness and acrimony and live together in harmony and peace. Wherever there is any threat to public peace, our security agencies will enforce the law, without fear or favour.

3. This evening, I address you, again, with much concern over an issue that borders on the national economy, the oil industry and national progress. As part of our efforts to transform the economy and guarantee prosperity for all Nigerians, Government, a few days ago, announced further deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. The immediate effect of this has been the removal of the subsidy on petrol.

4. Since the announcement, there have been mixed reactions to the policy. Let me seize this opportunity to assure all Nigerians that I feel the pain that you all feel. I personally feel pained to see the sharp increase in transport fares and the prices of goods and services. I share the anguish of all persons who had travelled out of their stations, who had to pay more on the return leg of their journeys.

5. If I were not here to lead the process of national renewal, if I were in your shoes at this moment, I probably would have reacted in the same manner as some of our compatriots, or hold the same critical views about government. But I need to use this opportunity as your President to address Nigerians on the realities on the ground, and why we chose to act as we did. I know that these are not easy times. But tough choices have to be made to safeguard the economy and our collective survival as a nation.

6. My fellow Nigerians, the truth is that we are all faced with two basic choices with regard to the management of the downstream petroleum sector: either we deregulate and survive economically, or we continue with a subsidy regime that will continue to undermine our economy and potential for growth, and face serious consequences.

7. As you all know, the subject of deregulation is not new, we have been grappling with it for more than two decades. Previous administrations tinkered with the pump price of petroleum products, and were unable to effect complete deregulation of the downstream sector. This approach has not worked. If it did, we would not be here talking about deregulation today. I understand fully well that deregulation is not a magic formula that will address every economic challenge, but it provides a good entry point for transforming the economy, and for ensuring transparency and competitiveness in the oil industry, which is the mainstay of our economy.

8. As a President, elected and supported by ordinary Nigerians, and the vast majority of our people, I have a duty to bring up policies and programmes that will grow the economy and bring about greater benefits for the people. Let me assure you that as your President, I have no intention to inflict pain on Nigerians.

9. The deregulation of the petroleum sector is a necessary step that we had to take. Should we continue to do things the same way, and face more serious economic challenges? Or deregulate, endure the initial discomfort and reap better benefits later? I want to assure every Nigerian that whatever pain you may feel at the moment, will be temporary.

10. The interest of the ordinary people of this country will always remain topmost in my priorities as a leader. I remain passionately committed to achieving significant and enduring improvements in our economy that will lead to sustained improvement in the lives of our people.

11. I am determined to leave behind a better Nigeria, that we all can be proud of. To do so, I must make sure that we have the resources and the means to grow our economy to be resilient, and to sustain improved livelihood for our people. We must act in the public interest, no matter how tough, for the pains of today cannot be compared to the benefits of tomorrow. On assumption of office as President, I swore to an oath to always act in the best interest of the people. I remain faithful to that undertaking.

12. To save Nigeria, we must all be prepared to make sacrifices. On the part of Government, we are taking several measures aimed at cutting the size and cost of governance, including on-going and continuous effort to reduce the size of our recurrent expenditure and increase capital spending. In this regard, I have directed that overseas travels by all political office holders, including the President, should be reduced to the barest minimum. The size of delegations on foreign trips will also be drastically reduced; only trips that are absolutely necessary will be approved.

13. For the year 2012, the basic salaries of all political office holders in the Executive arm of government will be reduced by 25%. Government is also currently reviewing the number of committees, commissions and parastatals with overlapping responsibilities. The Report on this will be submitted shortly and the recommendations will be promptly implemented. In the meantime, all Ministries, Departments and Agencies must reduce their overhead expenses.

14. We are all greatly concerned about the issue of corruption. The deregulation policy is the strongest measure to tackle this challenge in the downstream sector. In addition, government is taking other steps to further sanitize the oil industry.

15. To ensure that the funds from petroleum subsidy removal are spent prudently on projects that will build a greater Nigeria, I have established a committee to oversee the implementation of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme. I sincerely believe that the reinvestment of the petroleum subsidy funds, to ensure improvement in national infrastructure, power supply, transportation, irrigation and agriculture, education, healthcare, and other social services, is in the best interest of our people.

16. Fellow Nigerians, I know that the removal of the petroleum subsidy imposes an initial burden on our people, especially the rising cost of transportation. Government will be vigilant and act decisively to curb the excesses of those that want to exploit the current situation for selfish gains. I plead for the understanding of all Nigerians. I appeal to our youth not to allow mischief-makers to exploit present circumstances to mislead or incite them to disturb public peace.

17. To address the immediate challenges that have been identified, I have directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to embark immediately on all projects which have been designed to cushion the impact of the subsidy removal in the short, medium and long-term, as outlined in the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme Document.

18. Tomorrow, 8th January, I will formally launch a robust mass transit intervention programme to bring down the cost of transportation across the country. The programme will be implemented in partnership with state and local governments, labour unions, transport owners, and banking institutions, and supported with the provision of funding at zero interest rate as well as import duty waiver on all needed parts for locally-made mass transit vehicles, which will create additional jobs in the economy.

19. We will keep these incentives in place for as long as it takes. I want to assure you that Government will not rest until we bring down the cost of transportation for our people. Let me thank the transporters’ associations that have agreed to reduce transport fares. I have directed the Minister of Labour and Productivity to work with these associations to come up with a sustainable plan to guarantee this within the shortest possible time.

20. In addition, I have ordered the mobilization of contractors for the full rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt –Maiduguri Railway Line and the completion of the Lagos-Kano Railway Line. I have also directed the immediate commencement of a Public Works programme that will engage the services of about 10, 000 youths in every state of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory. This will create an additional 370, 000 jobs.

21. Government has taken these decisions in the best interest of our economy, so that we not only have benefits today, but to ensure that we bequeath even greater benefits to our children and grandchildren.

22. Let me assure Nigerians that every possible effort will be made to ensure that we march forward, with a collective resolve to build a Nigeria that can generate greater economic growth, create and sustain new jobs, and secure the future of our children.

23. This Administration will aggressively implement its programme to reposition and strengthen our economy, while paying adequate attention to the immediate needs of our citizens.

24. I assure you all that we will work towards achieving full domestic refining of petroleum products with the attendant benefits.

25. As I ask for the full understanding of all Nigerians, I also promise that I will keep my word.

26. Thank you. May God bless you; and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR

President

Federal Republic of Nigeria

January 7, 2012

OFFICIAL STATEMENT BY NIGERIA's FINANCE MINISTER ON ALLEGED PLAN TO RESIGN OVER SUBSIDY REMOVAL

2012-01-05T11:28:00.001-08:00

It has come to our notice that a well coordinated campaign of calumny against the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, founded on outright lies and despicable distortions is being executed by cowardly persons hiding behind the ongoing controversy over the government’s decision to deregulate the petroleum sector.

For obvious reasons, the faceless campaigners have elected to tell their lies online because the normal journalistic principles of facts and balanced reporting are generally absent there.

For instance, we have received numerous enquiries regarding an alleged threat by the Coordinating Minister to resign if the government goes back on its decision to end the fuel subsidies. The threat was supposedly made during the emergency Federal Executive Council meeting which held yesterday.

This speculation, like numerous others is absolutely false. DR OKONJO-IWEALA WAS NOT AT THE MEETING BECAUSE SHE WAS OUT OF THE COUNTRY WHEN IT WAS GOING ON. In other words, they are saying that she made a threat at a meeting that she did not attend. She made no such threat physically or through any other means. She had no reason to.

The agenda behind the alleged threat and similar stories is obvious: to inspire public hatred and odium against her person by manipulating public opinion so that she is seen as the sole person pushing for the removal of subsidies.

Their calculation is that Nigerians are so angry and so gullible that they will believe anything if the lies are supported with manufactured “facts”. But we believe that fair minded Nigerians are not fools.

It is clear that governments and certainly the Jonathan administration do not work in the manner that the peddlers of falsehood are saying. It is not only naive but also highly disrespectful to the President and the government as a whole to suggest that the entire decision making machinery of government is the sole preserve of any official.

We urge the media and the Nigerian public to ignore the antics of people who obviously believe that Nigerians are fools.

For the avoidance of doubt, Dr Okonjo-Iweala supports the decision on fuel subsidy removal because she believes that ending the subsidies will drastically reduce corruption in the downstream sector.

Deregulation will also help to end the waivers enjoyed by powerful cabals at the expense of the Nigerian people. In addition, the vast majority of Nigerians will also gain as the proceeds will be redirected into safety nets, other identifiable social interventions as well as provision of sorely needed infrastructure projects nationwide.

The statement was signed by Paul C Nwabuikwu,the

Senior Special Assistant to the Coordinating Minister for the Economy/Minister of Finance

NAETO C AND NICOLE WEDDING INTRODUCTION

2012-01-05T10:31:00.001-08:00

Music star, Naeto C and his girlfriend, Nicole Chukwueke have finally taken the bold step in marriage.Maestromedia broke the news of their mandatory introduction recently as the first part of their grand wedding ceremony. This will be followed by the traditional engagement, registry and church wedding.

The celebrity couple have been dating for sometime now.Unlike other celebs who usually hide the identity of their partners, Naeto, son of a former minister of Aviation in Nigeria, Mrs. Kema Chikwe and Nicole, a model and daughter of Germaine Auto place owner in Lekki have never shy away from the fact that they are in love.
-By Niyi Tabiti

MNET KICKED OFF ENTRIES FOR BIG BROTHER AFRICA 7+HOW TO PARTICIPATE

2012-01-04T22:41:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! So says M-Net who kicked off 2012 with the news that the seventh season of the continent’s attention-grabbing Big Brother Africa series will be hitting DStv screens in May 2012! With TV commercials promoting the series’ return now screening on M-Net, entry for the new season opens in just a few short days.

What can viewers expect from the reality TV powerhouse that continues to draw widespread audience interaction, fan fervor and some of the most entertaining personalities on African television? According to series executives,
viewers can once again get set for drama, action and entertainment with twists and turns galore!

“This show is definitely a high demand property that draws and holds audiences from start to finish,’ explains M-Net Africa Managing Director Biola Alabi. ‘And while the basics are the same, every season is different from the last. Re-invention is crucial so I am very pleased to confirm that this year we’re doing something that has never been done before in the history of Big Brother Africa!”

She continues, “Big Brother Africa remains relevant because it constantly surprises audiences with everything from twohouses, more housemates, unexpected guests and new participating countries to unveiling two winners, an All Star reunion, super star performers and the list goes on. So to be able to say that we’re doing something that has never been done before in Big Brother Africa is wonderful. And we really believe it’s what our audiences want to see next!”

With more details of the new season to be revealed shortly, there is one secret M-Net is opening up about already. “At the end of 91 days, while many housemates will walk away with fame and the experience of a lifetime, there will be only ONE winner. So this season, the winner takes all,” says Alabi.
“And we’re announcing the new season very early so that people who are interested in participating can start thinking about whether they want to take this incredible journey. That decision is the first step on a road that may well lead right to the Big Brother house!”

For more information on how and when to enter the new season of Big Brother Africa, keep a close watch on M-Net, or check the website www.mnetafrica.com regularly for updates. And with the entry criteria and the all-important prize money also set to change again, it’s clearly going to be a rollercoaster ride every step of the way. But then again, who expects anything else from Biggie?!
Big Brother Africa is produced for M-Net by Endemol South Africa and is seen, live 24/7, in 47 African countries only on DStv.’

NIGERIA FINANCE MINISTER DENIES SHE WILL RESIGN OVER SUBSIDY

2012-01-04T11:55:00.000-08:00

Nigeria's finance minister, Mrs.Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has denied reports that she issued a threat to President Goodluck Jonathan that she would resign if the latter reversed the removal of oil Subsidy.Okonjo Iweala said this through her tweeter handle.
Nigerians have been protesting against the removal of fuel susbsidy, which skyrocked the price of the essential commondity to 65 Naira per litre to 150 Naira.
It would be recalled that Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala was
also a Minister for Finance durning the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo but she resigned under controversial circumstances shortly after she was moved to the External Affairs ministry.

FEMI FANI KAYODE LAMBASTS PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN

2012-01-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

When President Olusegun Obasanjo was in power we spent 300 billion per year on the fuel subsidy. Under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan it shot up to 1.3 trillion naira in the last one year alone. Can someone please explain to me how it got so high in 4 years and what exactly they were subsidising with the extra one trillion naira? When the Obasanjo government left power in 2007 the country was no longer in debt and the 30 billion dollar foreign debt that Obasanjo met when he came to power in 1999 was fully paid off.
Today, under the administration of Jonathan,
our country is back in debt to the tune of 41 billion dollars (both foreign and domestic) and we are still borrowing. Can someone please tell me what the loans were used for and whether we will ever be able to pay them off? When the Obasanjo administration left power in 2007 our foreign reserves were 80 billion dollars even though when he came into office in 1999 we only had 1.5 billion dollars.

Today our foreign reserves have dropped from 80 billion dollars in 2007 to 33 billion dollars. Can someone please tell me where all the money went? When the Obasanjo administration left power in 2007 23 billion dollars was left in the Excess Crude Account after he built it up from nothing in 1999. Today we do not have one dollar left in that account because the money has been squandered and the account scrapped.
Can someone explain to me who spent that money and precisely what it was spent on? By the time the Obasanjo administration left power in 2007 not one bomb had gone off in Abuja throughout his 8 years in office and neither did we shy away from confronting the evil and dealing a hard blow to the terrorists wherever and whenever it was necessary to do so.
Today bombs go off at will all over the north, the President hides in the Villa and churches were targetted on christmas day in Abuja. When Obasanjo was in power we did not remove the fuel subsidy because it would have caused too much pain to the Nigerian people and because there was no safety net in place to reduce that pain.
President Jonathan however did not have any such inhibitions or qualms. Just seven days after we suffered the horrendous trauma of the xmas day bombings and probably as a New Year's Greek gift to the Nigerian people, our President finally removed the oil subsidy. He did this knowing fully well that it will lead to untold suffering and terrible hardship for the next few years for the Nigerian people, most of whom still live below the poverty line.
Can someone please tell me why President Jonathan wants Nigerians to cry? Yesterday he not only said that he would "crush Boko Haram" but he also declared a state of emergency in a few local government areas in some northern states. Can someone please tell me why our President could not do this 6 months ago when some of us first advocated it and thereby save many lives? Why has it taken him so long to find the guts to confront Boko Haram and to lead the fight against them with ruthless zeal, strengh, courage and total faith in God? Why has he done so little when it comes to this matter and why has he done it so late? Does he not know that a king is meant to lead his people into battle and if necessary die for them? He has been unable to handle and contain Boko Haram and now he has removed the fuel subsidy which is something that is expressly against the wishes and interest of the overwhelming majority of the Nigerian people.

Can someone please tell me precisely what has happened to our President and what has got into his head? What on earth makes him tick? He appears to have become enslaved to the dictates of the World Bank, the IMF and the Bretton Woods institutions.
At the expense of the Nigerian people he has become the darling of the leaders of the western world who seek to impoverish Nigeria through the auspices of a fully globalised new world order and who seek to bring our people to their knees. We have lost our enviable position of leadership in Africa, we have lost our voice on the world stage and we are the butt of cruel jokes and dire prophecies of imminent disintegration all over the world.
Worse still our government is not only weak, it not only lacks direction but it is also insensitive and callous. The only thing that it appears to be good at is attempting to silence, intimidate and crush all legitimate voices of opposition in the land. This new policy of murderous and brutal repression was eloquently reflected by the cold-blooded murder of a young man in Ilorin by the name of Mr. Muyideen Mustapha whilst he was exercisng his God-given, constitutional and democratic right to demonstrate and protest against the removal of the fuel subsidy.
This young man had nothing left to give the world or fight with except for his dissentimg voice and yet the government of President Goodluck Jonathan took even that away from him and silenced him forever.
Little did they know that by doing so they have turned this brave young soul into a modern-day martyr and his vicious slaying is now the rallying point and battle cry of the entire oppostion. What no-one told the supporters of President Jonathan was that when innocent blood is spilt for a worthy and noble cause it changes everything, it alters the tempo and temperature of the struggle, it moves the finger of God and it stirs the Hosts of Heaven. God forbid that this young man should die in vain and his noble cause, for which he gave his precious life, is one that those of us that he left behind will continue to pursue and fight to the bitter end. I assure you that unlike numerous other state-sponsored killings and atrocities in the sad and beleagured history of our nation, the consequences of this particular one shall reverberate throughout the world and may well act as a catalyst for the beginning of our own peculiar version of the Arab spring. Whichever way it goes I have absolutely no doubt that the removal of the fuel subsidy on New Year's day is the final straw: President Goodluck Jonathan, the King Rehoboam of our time, has hardened his heart unto destruction, just like Pharaoh once did, and he has fallen into the trap that has been set for him by God and by his enemies. May the Lord save Nigeria from this inexplicable and unpleasant mess and may the Nigerian people themselves wake up from their accursed slumber and take their destiny into their own hands. The smell of religious war, sectarian violence, regional and ethnic conflict, insecurity, untold suffering, rampant poverty and economic hardship is in the air. Nigerians are divided as never before and our country is slowly crumbling and dying before our very eyes. Who will save Nigeria? Who will stand up and say enough is enough? Who will pull us back from the brink? Who can we count on to take the bull by the horns and to do the right thing? Where is our deliverer and from whence will our Jehu come? When will our David with the heart of Cyrus arise? There must be a change. My God, let there be a change.

OIL SUBSIDY PROTEST BY NIGERIANS IN UK ON FRIDAY-SEE VENUE,DATE AND TIME

2012-01-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Nigerians in the UK have concluded arrangement to protest against the recent fuel subsidy removal by the Nigerian President, Mr. Goodluck Jonathan and members of his national executive council.
The London Metropolitan Police hours ago granted permit to Nigerian Students In Diaspora
and Nigerians In Diaspora under whose umbrella the Friday rally will hold in London

Date: Friday 6th, January 2012
Venue: Cross Station London (As soon as we confirm the post code we will update this post)
Time: 12:30
Please inform every Nigerian you know and friends of Nigeria to come out in their numbers to voice their angst against this insensitive and irresponsible Nigerian government

Inquiry: +447438348346

CHRISTMAS DAY BOMBING IN NIGERIA RECORD DEATHS IN CATHOLIC CHURCH

2011-12-25T03:09:00.000-08:00

Just as millions of people all over the world are celebrating Christmas, several people in abuja are morning deaths of their loved ones in Abuja when suspected Islamist group, Boko Haram denotated explosives killing unspecified number of people.

The christmas day bombing, gistmaster gathered, happened inside the St Theresa Catholic Church located on the outskirts of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Eye witnesses disclosed that several persons died in the bomb explosion.
Security agents from the military and police force are already on group at the scene of the incident.Officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are also there to help evacuate the dead and injured victims at the scene of the unfortunate incident.

Boko Haram, an Islamist group had claimed responsibility for various bomb attacks in Northern Nigeria and Abuja. It would be recalled that the explosion that rocked the United Nations office in Abuja and Police Headquarters in Abuja were widely condemned.

Fightings between a special task force set up by the Nigeria Military and fighters of the Boko Haram sect have have reportedly claimed the lives of over 59 members of the sect.
-Gistmaster

CHRISTMAS CHICKENS JUST FOR YOU

2011-12-25T02:36:00.000-08:00

Merry Xmas to all fans of Gistmaster.We appreciate you all. Thanks for making us your favourite blog spot for authoritative lifestyle news and photos.
You guys mean so much to us.Count on us next year for more.You can have any of these christmas chickens for your enjoyment.
-Niyi Tabiti
On behalf of Gistmaster Team

NIGERIA'S MOST BEAUTIFUL GOSPEL ARTISTE,ZYON RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM

2011-12-23T05:14:00.000-08:00

Zyon one of Nigerian's most talented inspiration singers has released her album. She told gistmaster that it took sometime to finish work on her album because she wants it to meet and surpassed the expectations of many of her fans.
The album is titled 'Zyon' and it has 6 tracks- Zyon, I know who I am',Omewo Mnama,Moti seun rere,Jehovah and Instrumental.
The gospel album comes with a rich blend of traditional flavour of Yoruba and Igbo songs.
Zyon who is happily married also told us that she will forever be grateful to her husband,Chukky Chidi who is supporting her music career.She also thanked her Pastors-Chris and Anita Iyakhilome of Christ Embassy,Pastor Deola Okeowo her zonal pastor and others.
Television and radio stations have started playing the songs of this fast rising star.
More on her later!
-By Niyi Tabiti

WEDDING:HOW GULDER BROUGHT MUMA GEE AND PRINCE EKE TOGETHER

2011-12-23T03:17:00.000-08:00

We are excited that this December, it is the turn of beautiful traditional singer, Muma Gee to be married. Muma Gee's glamorous wedding to Prince Eke took place in Rivers State. Unknown to many people, Gulder beer played a very important role in their love story.
www.niyitabiti.blogspot.com gathered that they met shortly after the Celebrity edition of the Gulder Ultimate Search where Muma Gee and actor, Emeka Ike were participants. After the reality show sponsored by Nigerian Breweries Plc,there were speculations in town that Muma Gee and Emeka Ike had something in common. Rumour had it they started dating right from the location of the Gulder Ultimate Search.
Muma Gee denied that there was any such thing between them.As part of ways to douse the tension the rumour might have caused between Emeka Ike and his wife, Muma Gee went to visit the Ikes at their home. It was there she met Prince Eke, Emeka Ike's best friend.Initially, Muma Gee said she was reluctant but things later fell into place. As a way of getting a sincere marriage assurance, Prince Eke promised that there won't be any sexual relationships between them their wedding.

XMAS SURPRISES WITH MTN!

2011-12-22T14:03:00.000-08:00

In a bid to appreciate and reward patronage from loyal subscribers,
Nigeria's leading Telecommunication network, MTN is now offering a
more convenient and exciting means of communication this yuletide
period.

The offer which takes place from now till January 31, 2012 is summarized below:
1) Available to all customers on the MTN family and Friends "Xpanded":
Get one minute free worth N30 for every three minutes received. To
enroll and enjoy this bonus, text Bonus to 131.
2) Available to all MTN Prepaid customers: Enjoy the lowest call
rate at N8.33k when you pay only N100 for 12 minutes of
call to China, US, Canada and UK lines. To buy this bundle, Text YES
to short code 321.
3) Available to all MTN Prepaid customers: Recharge from N50 - N400
and get 10% extra airtime OR recharge N400 and above to get 20% extra
airtime free!

MTN came up with this exciting package to reward customers who have
been loyal throughout the year and also enable better communication
among family and friends this yuletide season since it is a season to
show love and care. Xmas Surprises is a more affordable package this
season, the international call bundle is the lowest international call
rate in Nigeria.

The brand is also on social media and you can connect via
facebook.com/MTNLoaded and twitter.com/MTNNG

WALE THOMPSON ACQUIRES NEW MUSICAL EQUIPMENT

2011-12-22T13:36:00.000-08:00

Wale Thompson, the ‘Lalale Friday’ Juju exponent just took delivery of new sets of musical equipment worth more than N5 million. The great mystery in Juju music in Nigeria and Africa as a whole has also perfected all plans to release his latest musical work in the first quarter of 2012.
This new album
which is loaded and well packaged for the delight of his fans home and abroad is superb. So, this season, while people will be celebrating Xmas and the New Year, Wale will be celebrating the acquisition of his new sets of equipment with his fans in Nigeria and also his acceptance back into the industry by his fans that he thought might have forgotten him due to his long sojourn abroad.

Having performed to the bewilderment of his fans, friends and other fun seekers at Troy Lounge, Ogba area of Lagos last Wednesday, no doubt, Wale T as he’s also called by fans, has truly returned to take over the mantle of leadership once again in the music industry with his Juju Hip-Hop Crooner's Band.

As the sun rises in the sky and the eagles flying so high, it’s obvious that you can’t compare Wale who has been recognized as a world-class Juju musician. He rose to prominence with his chart-buster album, ‘Lalale Friday’ and ever since, he has greatly expanded his fan-base even beyond the shores of Africa. And like the sounds of the forest, Wale is repackaged and reloaded to dazzle all and sundry…. Can anyone stop him now?