22 Year Old American Otto Warmbier Dies After Spending 17 Months in North Korean Prison

Otto Warmbier, the University of Virginia student who was imprisoned by North Korea for over 17 months and was released last week while in a coma, has died, his family announced Monday.

 Reuters/Kyodo

Otto Warmbier was detained in North Korea for "hostile acts against the state."
Warmbier, a 22-year-old Ohio native who originally traveled to North Korea to take part in a tour offered by a Chinese company in 2015, was arrested by regime officials at the airport as he attempted to leave the country in January 2016. He was arrested on charges that he tried to steal a sign featuring former dictator Kim Jong Il.

Warmbier was convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison in March 2016 and it is believed that he fell into a coma shortly after that. Warmbier was released by the North Korean government and he was flown home and hospitalized in Cincinnati last week.

Last Thursday, doctors announced that Warmbier had suffered severe brain damage and that he was unresponsive. One doctor said that his condition could be "best described as unresponsive wakefulness."


"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home," Fred and Cindy Warmbier said in a statement. "Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m."

"It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost — future time that won't be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person. You can tell from the outpouring of emotion from the communities that he touched — Wyoming, Ohio and the University of Virginia to name just two — that the love for Otto went well beyond his immediate family."

The family also thanked the doctors at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for doing all they could to help their son.

"Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," the parents stated. "When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable — almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed — he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that."

Although the North Korean government claims that Warmbier's coma was a result of botulism and a sleeping pill, his family does not buy that excuse

(Screengrab: YouTube / PBS NewsHour)

Fred Warmbier, father of Otto Warmbier, speaks about his son's imprisonment in North Korea during a press conference in Wyoming, Ohio on June 15, 2017.
 
"Even if you believe their explanation of botulism and a sleeping pill causing the coma, and we don't, there is no excuse for any civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and deny him top-notch medical care for so long," Fred Warmbier told reporters during a press conference last week.

"North Korea is a pariah regime, they are brutal and they are terroristic," he added. "You can't believe anything ... We don't believe anything they say. We see the results of their actions with Otto."

Even though there is no hard evidence to show that North Korean officials had beaten or tortured Warmbier, doctors said that Warmbier showed no signs of having botulism. Additionally, Warmbier suffered extensive loss of brain tissue that suggests that he lost blood supply to his brain for an extended period of time.

According to The Washington Post, the University of Cincinnati Medical Center doctors said that Warmbier's condition is consistent with the signs of cardiopulmonary arrest and there is nothing from Warmbier's past medical history from before he went to North Korea that would have caused such an arrest.

However, Jordan Bonomo, a neurointensivist and emergency medicine physician at University of Cincinnati Health, said that one of the most common causes of cardiopulmonary arrest is respiratory arrest, which could be triggered by intoxication or traumatic injury.

Bonomo added that it is possible to have respiratory arrest resulting from an overdose of medication.

"He was kind, generous and accomplished," Sen. Rob Portman, R- Ohio, said in a statement after Warmbier's passing. "He had all the talent you could ever ask for and a bright future ahead of him. His passing today is a loss for Ohio and for all of us."

Commenting on Warmbier's death, Ohio Gov. John Kasich said in a statement that "this horrendous situation further underscores the evil, oppressive nature of the North Korean regime that has such disregard for human life."

President Donald Trump also issued a statement.

"Otto's fate deepens my Administration's determination to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency," Trump stated. "The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim."

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

“I stayed because of my children” — Mercy Aigbe cries as she bares it all in new interview

 Mercy Aigbe has finally bared it all in a new interview.. Just like Tonto Dikeh and Tiwa Savage, Mercy Aigbe spoke in an exclusive interview with Broadway Africa and she shared excruciating details on the messy scandal that have trailed her marriage with her husband, Lanre Gentry.

Recall, Mercy had earlier accused her husband of physical violence that has affected her sight and caused her to bleed internally from the physical abuse allegedly melted down to her on Sunday, April 16, 2017. Results she shared also claimed she suffered from a broken skull.

When she was asked why she came out to say her husband never touched her, she was quick to refute it. “I never for once came out to say that my husband did not beat me. The video people were referring to happened in 2013 when there were rumours of such and I did a video recording alongside my husband to debunk the claim. At that time I had to do it to protect his image and my marriage. I had to do a live video at that time”, she said.

Read the Interview below:

About Beating…

“He beats me consistently.” When probed on why she stayed that long after the consistent beating, Mercy revealed that she did because she wanted a home. “I stayed because I loved him and because everytime he beats me, he begs and gets family and friends to beg me. He promised regularly to change but he never did. When my husband gets angry, he gets physical, not only to me but to anyone. He has done that with my house help who reported him to the Police years ago.

“I stayed because of my children and because a lot of people look up to me. I was a role model of some sort and I really wanted to keep it together. I just wanted a home”.

Why she wants to leave now…
“It’s not like I wanted to walk away but I just feel like we need help. I spoke to my husband’s brother about it. I told him I was going to pack out for some time while my husband seeks therapy. I just wanted to feel safe, that is why I moved my things out. This last beating was brutal. I actually thought I was going to die”.

I’m Still Coughing blood
The Nollywood actress revealed that her husband broke her orbits which will necessitate a surgery for her to see properly. “I’m still coughing and sneezing blood even after three weeks”, she reveals how severe the injury inflicted upon her is.

My Husband Was Sleeping With a Girl
Aigbe also revealed that the last incident started few days before when she discovered that her husband was sleeping with a lady. A lady she claimed to be her friend whom she was close to. This was a regular attitude from her husband; a man she claims has slept with a lot of people close to her, even her PAs.

He confronted him and it led to a huge argument which was turning violent before she had to keep quiet.

He Kept Beating Me
On the day of the incident, Mercy had informed her husband that she was attending a burial of her colleague. After his hesitance, she explained that it would not be fair on the lady since she had promised to be there and even invited him to come along.
Mercy revealed that it was her refusal to go and pick her husband up while she was still at her designer’s place that brought the fury of the man on her. He was said to have driven there and started to beat her in the presence of everybody.

“Immediately, I opened the door, he kept beating me. I was begging him and asking why he was beating me. He said he would destroy my face such that no make-up would fix it and destroy my career. He was acting like someone who was possessed. I told him “Lanre, mo ma bi mo fun e” (translated as “I have a child for you).

  
 I agree that I am a fool

In the exclusive interview, the Nollywood star said she agrees that she was a fool for staying that long even with all the beating and humiliation. “I believed that a wise woman builds her home. That’s why I stayed that long”, she said.

About Cheating
“If he had shown a bit of remorse, maybe things would have been different. He went on saying that I cheated on him several times. I never cheated. That’s why I told him to come out with proof”, she said.

My Husband was in detention for over 7 months
“My husband was in detention for over seven months and I never left him or go anywhere. Why would I want to go now? He says all this is make-up. He is not showing any form of remorse and still sponsoring lies against me.

 LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

Reno Omokri Reacts To Apostle Suleman Sex Scandal

Those condemning the Founder and President of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman over his alleged romance with Canada-based singer, Stephanie Otobo have been urged to exercise patience as there can be smoke without fire.

A Former Special Adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on Electronic Media, Reno Omokri said this in reaction to the Sex Scandal involving the clergyman.

Recall that Otobo had recently accused the Edo-born fiery preacher of impregnating and abandoning her.

Following her initial allegation against the preacher, the Canada based singer has continued to release more intimate details about her alleged romance with Suleman.

However, Suleman has since denied the allegations levelled against him.

Reacting to the allegation, Omokri said Nigerians were too hasty in their judgement of the case.

Omokri who believes that Suleman may be innocent of the allegations said those condemning him should wait until he died before burying him.

In a post on his Facebook wall, Omokri wrote: “Some of you are here on facebook spitting venom on Apostle Johnson Suleman for an accusation whose veracity you are not sure of.

“I just read from a fellow on facebook who wrote a statement with a lot of ifs. You are filled with ifs and yet you are making judgments? Rather than give the man the benefit of the doubt, you start casting aspersions and slurs.

“Do not wait until it happens to you before you know that there can be smoke without fire. If you have too much bile and venom inside you, then unleash on corrupt politicians. But before you bury Apostle Suleiman, I will urge you to wait until he dies.

“Apostle Suleiman, I do not think you are guilty, but no matter the case, in good times and bad times I will stand by you!”

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

Two Fulani Herdsmen Killed In Southern Kaduna Amid Fears Of Renewed Violence

There are fresh fears of renewed violence in Southern Kaduna following the killing of two Fulani herdsmen were killed on Saturday afternoon, March 11.

The herdsmen were reportedly shot while herding cattle in Anguwan Yashi village in Jema’a local government area.
The National Assistant Secretary of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Ibrahim Abdullahi, told PREMIUM TIMES over the telephone those killed are Anas Shuaibu, 20, and Yahaya Musa, 14.

Mr. Abdullahi however called on the Fulani community in the area “not to take the laws into their hands and allow the security agencies do their job”.

He also appealed to the attackers to “please give peace a chance.”

The spokesperson of the police in the state, Aliyu Othman, confirmed the incident and said nine persons have already been arrested in connection with the killing.
He said the police was proceeding with investigation of the murder.

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

‘President Muhammadu Buhari returns today’

Barring any last-minute changes, President\ Muhammadu Buhari is expected to return to the country today, the Presidency has said. Buhari left the country on January 19, for medical vacation for which he had sought extension twice through a letter to the National Assembly based on doctors’ recommendation for more rest.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, yesterday, the presidency expressed appreciation to Nigerians from across the country and beyond for their prayers and their best wishes while the president was away.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Rev. Justin Welby, yesterday visited Buhari in London, United Kingdom. The meeting took place in Abuja House. Buhari posted pictures of himself and his guest on his Twitter handle, @MBuhari on Thursday afternoon.

The President wrote, “Very pleased to welcome the Most Revd and Rt Hon @JustinWelby, Archbishop of Canterbury, to Abuja House this afternoon.”
Buhari was dressed in a golden yellow prayer gown with white skull cap while Welby was in black suit with clerical shirt and collar.

In a related development, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has denied media reports that he said Nigeria Christians are wishing Buhari dead.

Some sections of the media had reported earlier in the week that SGF Babachir Lawal, during a prayer meeting in Israel for Nigeria, had criticised Christians for wanting Buhari dead.

A statement in Abuja yesterday by the Director Press in the Office of the SGF, Bolaji Adebiyi said the full text of the sermon could be found on the Facebook page of the SGF, where he called on Nigerians, irrespective of their religious affiliations to love one another, celebrate achievements of our leaders and desist from destroying our heroes.

“At no time, during the sermon, did the SGF castigate Christians in the negative manner reported in the story,” Adebiyi said.Meanwhile, the absence of the ailing president is generating mixed reactions in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, representing Egor/Ikpoba-okha in the House of Representatives, told The Guardian in Abuja that there is no need for Nigerians to be worried about the absence of the President.

Agbonayinma said that as a human being, the president can take ill and all that is expected from Nigerians are prayers for him to recover and return to his duties.

Ahmed Abubakar, a law student at the Kogi State University said there’s nothing to be worried about over his absence.However, Florence Idoga, a prison warder, expressed frustration over the lingering issue. According to her, the suspense is too much.

A petty trader, Mrs. Victoria Osiwere said: “Everyday, they keep postponing the date of the president’s arrival. What are they really hiding from us? We want to know the true state of health of our president.”

Meanwhile, there is tension in Anambra State over the planned pro-Buhari rally billed to hold in Awka, today with the branch of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) distancing itself from the event.

The State Secretary of APGA, Tony Ifeanya, yesterday condemned reports linking the party to the rally, warning that APGA has no hand and would not have any hand in such event. 

Read More

Read What Amosun Has To Say About His Visit To Buhari In London

One of the few people reported to have visited President Muhammadu Buhari in London where he is spending his medical vacation, Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, has finally opened up about his visit.

There has been controversy over a picture showing Mr. Amosun and the president in the United Kingdom, amid allegations an old image was edited to make it look recent.

However, on Monday at an event at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Mr. Amosun told journalists that he indeed visited the president in London.

The event at the library was a climate change knowledge immersion workshop organised by the Federal Government in conjuction with the World Bank.

“Yes it is true I visited our president in London and he is doing fine. If you ask me pointedly whether I saw him or not, yes I did and that is the only thing that I can say. And of course you can see he is very well, he is okay. So I don’t know what else you want me to say,” Mr. Amosun said.

Asked of the condition he found the president when he visited, t‎he governor said he was not in the right position to talk about his health, saying such should be left to his spokesperson who were already doing that.

“I am not one of the spokespersons of Mr. President; so it will be out of place for me to talk on that. But then, they are doing their job and you’ve listened to all that they have said,” Mr. Amosun said.

LIKE AND SHARE THIS POST

Read More

[REVEALED] Presidency Staff Put On Standby For Buhari’s Imminent Return

President Muhammadu Buhari’s imminent return from London, United Kingdom where he has been for a few weeks for his medical vacation has put the presidential aides on standby.

PUNCH gathers that Buhari was being expected this weekend. The sources within the Presidency said presidential aides and officials of the Protocol Unit, as well as security operatives, had been put on the alert over the President’s imminent arrival.

One of the sources said, “The President is expected back this weekend. We are expecting him to return either on Saturday or Sunday.

Get reviews of the best phones, electronics and home appliances in Nigeria

“As of now, we are not sure of the time of his arrival yet. The Protocol Unit will confirm that to us later.”
Another official said if the President would return by Saturday afternoon, his arrival time would be clear by the (Saturday) morning.

Amidst growing concern that Buhari had extended his vacation indefinitely as his new resumption date was not included in his latest letter to the National Assembly, Adesina had during the week, said the President would return sooner than expected.

“In a communication to the National Assembly, the President did not disclose when he is coming back but the President may be coming back sooner than people think,” the presidential spokesman had told a television station.
Atiku urges Nigerians to pray for the President.

Read More

‘Nigeria Will Stop Fuel Importation By 2019’ – Kachikwu

Mr Ibe Kachikwu, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources has said that Nigeria will stop importing refined petroleum products by 2019.



Kachikwu made the disclosure at a public hearing on the review of petroleum pricing template for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) organised by the House of Representatives on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that within two years, the Federal Government revived refineries that were non-functional to contribute about eight million out of over 20 million litres of petrol consumed in the country daily.

He explained that the Federal Government initiated a model which attracted foreign investors to partner with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to repair the country’s refineries within the two years period.

“This has consistently served as a target for this government so that by December 2018, NNPC must be able to deliver on some of the terms given them, one of which is to reduce petroleum importation by 60 per cent.

“By 2019, we should be able to exist completely on the importation of petroleum products in this country.

“Cognisant of the fact that Dangote is building one refinery, we expect to have an excess situation,’’ he said.
The minister said that Nigeria must also have the capacity to stop exporting crude oil.

According to him, selling crude oil is not different from selling agricultural produce in an unprocessed manner.

“The world is leaving that, every member of OPEC is leaving that because of the pricing, volume and market challenges is now shifting from selling crude to selling refined petroleum products.

“That is what this country must do and there is a template we are working on.

He further said that the ministry intended to create an enabling environment that would promote local refining of crude oil.

“The issue is not giving licences to illegality, the issue is how do we ensure that we create an investment environment that pulls individuals from illegal creek activities to legal business activities.

“We are looking at modular refineries, about 60 licences were given out just before this government came in and none of that was utilised because it requires a lot of money, land and crude security.

“But now we are going out to identify refineries, get individuals who can build refineries on the same platforms where our refineries are and identify some key specific modular refineries backed up by foreign investments working with state governments.

“Hopefully this will address the restiveness you see in the Niger Delta,’’ the minister said.

On the possibility of reducing the fuel pump price, Kachikwu said there was no padding in the petroleum pricing template for PMS currently sold at N145 per litre.

According to him, 71 percent of the cost is for the production and freight, 18 per cent balance is covered by depot charges and retailers margin.

“In other words the storage tanks, the amount you get by verge of operating a filling station takes another 18 per cent, the output of those is already taking you to roughly about 90 per cent.

“The transportation is less than 10 per cent; we probably can do better, the templating is an insignificant 1 per cent or 2 per cent but that’s not where the problem is.

“The problem is with foreign exchange rate. There are two key elements in the template, how much you buy it is internationally fixed, it is not a Nigerian issue the cost of foreign exchange is a monetary policy issue.

“So at the time we did the template the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) monetary policy was N245, that was the basis upon which we calculated the pricing, today N305 is the exchange rate.

“And what we have tried to do is to ensure that anybody who sells us foreign exchange follows basically the instructions of the CBN in terms of the amount,’’ he said.

LIKE AND SHARE INFORMATION

Read More

Apostle Suleman Gets Invitation To White House, To Meet Donald Trump

The Founder and President of Omega Fire Ministry Worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman has sent his warm appreciation to Nigerians, Africans and the world in general for their exceptional show of love during his recent encounter with the Department of the State Security (DSS).

Suleman in his thank you message during the kick-off of this year’s edition of the annual ‘The Ebenezer’ programme to mark the ministry’s 13thanniversary, said:

“I’m grateful to all. I never knew I was so loved. For the first time ever, fellow Nigerians behaved like Americans. Nigerians naturally have business-like mentality but I was shocked that on this particular issue, 90 percent of Nigerians spoke with one voice, saying enough is enough.

We were not fighting any government, we just declared our stand that we are not cowards and we cannot be cowed by fear. I was so shocked at the level of strength and courage that I had throughout the period.

And the courage I surmounted was aided by the love and exceptional concern shown me from all over the world. From over 70 nations, I received a lot of phone calls and text messages from people showing their love and compassion. I got messages of love from different people that I have never even met. I got up to 18,000 different text messages. I read and read. The solidarity was overwhelming. I was moved to tears,’ states the man of God.”

Furthering, Apostle Suleman said,

“One thing that first moved me was when I got to Abuja to see the DSS, the crowd I saw almost made me to go into hiding. The crowd was so massive that they were ready to take bullets on my behalf. It moved me.
The love shown was not just about me but for what they believe in and it gave me so much courage and made me to realize that I was not alone. I’m not taking it for granted, that’s why I’m saying thank you to all. I have to confess that I’m yet to recover from that show of affection. I therefore want to enjoin Nigerians that in whatever situation that we find ourselves, they should keep hearing our voice and I want them to know that one day, things would be fine.

Meanwhile, the firebrand cleric will be visiting the White House, the American seat of power, in March. According to a reliable source from the church, Apostle Suleman’s planned visit was on the invitation of the Mayor of Washington.

It was gathered that during the august visit, the man of God will have a prayer session with both the Mayor and the president of the United States, Mr. Donald Trump.

The invitation, the source notes, was in recognition of Suleman’s selfless service and commitment to humanity and delivering souls.

The Ebenezer programme of OFM started on Wednesday 8th of February, 2017, with people from 32 countries of the world arriving Auchi, the headquarters of OFM worldwide. This year’s programme themed ‘From Glory To Glory’ will end on Sunday 12th.

Also, the church is warming up for the birthday celebration of the matriarch of the ministry, Reverend Dr. (Mrs.) Lizzy Suleman on Sunday, February 26th 2017, although the birth date is February 28th.

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

Prophet Who Predicted Jonathan’s Defeat Says What Will Happen To Buhari, Agbaje

Osun State-born Prophet, J.K. Hephzibah, otherwise known as Baba Peculiar, who predicted the defeat of Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan in the presidential election has disclosed that the President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari needs fervent prayers from Nigerians in order not to die in power like President Umaru Yar’Adua.

The respectable cleric made this known on Saturday, April 4, 2015 in Lagos while addressing national issues.

According to Hephzibah: “One of my seven-point messages to the president-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, that is been packaged to be released during my miracle night in Lagos in a few days time is that Nigerians should pray for President Buhari in order to avert his death.

“I saw the new president in my vision being kept somewhere for most of his followers to rule this country.”

Baba Peculiar, in his predictions, further said Buhari, as loved by many, is not the messiah to save this country.

He said he would just rule for a period of time to pave the way for God’s chosen person that will take Nigeria to the Promise Land.

Get reviews of the best phones, electronics and home appliances in Nigeria

The cleric added: “I see Professor Yemi Osinbajo ruling this country, while General Buhari will just be there like a ceremonial head.

“In fact, Osinbajo also needs to be careful because he would be assassinated by an ex-military Head of State.

“God told me he is giving the mandate to Jimi Agbaje of PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) in Lagos State, but the power that be in APC (All Progressives Congress) will try to upturn the election in their favour and if care is not taken, this may lead to crisis.”

The notable prophet, in his conclusion, urged all men of God to pray for Buhari in order for him to complete is term.

“I implore Nigerian men of God to avoid being used by politicians.

“By doing so, they are playing God and the consequence will not be palatable,” said Hephzibah.

Read More

"BOKO HARAM IS CURENTLY BROKE"-– UN

The destructive Boko Haram insurgency group is currently plagued by financial difficulties, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, has said.

Feltman stated this while briefing the Security Council on the UN Secretary-General’s Fourth Report on the threat the group poses to international peace and security efforts to “check and roll it back” on Tuesday

The UN envoy also noted that Boko Haram was under intense military pressure, but warned against undermining its capacity to launch fatal attacks.

“ISIL-affiliate Boko Haram is attempting to spread its influence and commit terrorist acts beyond Nigeria.

“And Boko Haram remains a serious threat, with several thousand fighters at its disposal.

“It is, however, plagued by financial difficulties and an internal power struggle, and has split in two factions,” Feltman said.

While the previous reports on the subject had focused on South East Asia, Yemen and East Africa, Libya and Afghanistan, the fourth report focused on Europe, North Africa and West Africa.

It noted that ISIL had conducted a range of attacks in Europe since declaring in 2014 its intent to target the region.

Some of these attacks were directed and facilitated by ISIL personnel, while others were enabled by ISIL providing guidance or assistance or were inspired through its propaganda, it said.

The report stated that while the military offensive in Libya had dislodged ISIL from its stronghold Sirte, the group’s threat to Libya and neighbouring countries persists.

“Its fighters, estimated to range from several hundred to 3,000, have moved to other parts of the country.

“ISIL has increased its presence in West Africa and the Maghreb, though the group does not control significant amounts of territory in the region.

“The reported pledge of loyalty to ISIL by a splinter faction of Al-Mourabitoun led by Lehbib Ould Ali may elevate the level of the threat.”
Following the increased military pressure, Feltman said ISIL is now on the defensive militarily in several regions, but was also adapting to military pressure by resorting to covert communications such as the ‘dark web’.
“Although its income and the territory under its control are shrinking, ISIL still appears to have sufficient funds to continue fighting,” he warned.
Feltman noted that ISIL relies mainly on income from extortion and hydrocarbon exploitation, even though resources from the latter are on the decline.
According to him, UN Member States are concerned that ISIL will try to expand other sources of income, such as kidnapping for ransom, and increase its reliance on donations.
“ISIL is adapting in several ways to military pressure, resorting to increasingly covert communication and recruitment methods, including by using the ‘dark web,’ encryption and messengers,” he warned.
The report also noted some of the measures taken by Member States and the UN, stressing the need to develop sustained and coordinated responses to the grave threat posed by ISIL and associated groups and entities.
Feltman said that there were 19 universal counter-terrorism conventions and protocols, as well as related regional instruments on international terrorism, and relevant UN General Assembly and Security Council resolutions.
“But we need to do more, as Member States continue to face significant challenges to ensure effective international cooperation,” he said.
He warned that foreign terrorist fighters leaving the conflict could pose a grave risk to their homeland or to the countries they are travelling to or transiting through, such as Iraq and Syria’s neighbours, as well as countries in the Maghreb.
“Ultimately, it is the spread and consolidation of peace, security, development and human rights that will most effectively deprive terrorism of the oxygen it needs to survive,” he concluded. (NAN)

Read More

Buhari’s Wife Opens Up On His Health Status And Why He Visited The UK

Aisha Buhari, wife of Muhammadu Buhari, presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC has debunked rumours that her husband is ill and being hospitalized in a London hospital; DAILY TIMES reports.

Speaking to newsmen at the Westminster Plaza Hotel, in Waterloo, Mrs Buhari said, ”He’s just come here to rest. He’s just here to have a rest, at least a few days rest before he goes back to business”. ”When asked if her husband was in hospital, she said, ”I’m hearing it for the first time”.

Read More

Home » NIGERIAN NEWS » ‘Some Nigerians Prefer To Be Lied To But They Won’t Get It From Me’ – Femi Adesina ‘Some Nigerians Prefer To Be Lied To But They Won’t Get It From Me’ – Femi Adesina

 Following the attacks he has got for saying he does not speak directly to President Muhammadu Buhari who is in London for medical vacation, Femi Adesina has said some people prefer to be lied to, but such persons will not “get it from this spokesman”.

In a tweet on Wednesday, the Special adviser to the President on media and publicity said he had made an eternal commitment to speak the truth “no matter what”.

“Some folks would rather be lied to. But they won’t get it from this spokesman. An eternal commitment to the truth, no matter what. God rules,” he tweeted.

Lately, Adesina has been under fire over comments made on the health status of his principal, who is in the United Kingdom on a medical vacation.

On Tuesday, Adesina told Channels Television that he does not speak directly with Buhari, but that those around him have said “the president is fine”.

“I’m in touch with London daily, I’m not saying I speak with him direct, but I’m in touch with London daily, people around him we speak daily,” he had said.

LIKE and SHARE

Read More

Oyedepo lays curses on sponsors of violence in southern Kaduna

Founder of the Living Faith church, also known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, has asked God to break-up Nigeria immediately if that is His will for the country.

Bishop Oyedepo also invoked God’s wrath on those behind the mayhem in southern Kaduna.

Oyedepo lays curses on sponsors of violence in southern Kaduna
Vanguard reports that during a ministration in his church, Oyedepo rained curses on those promoting the killings and destruction of properties in the northern state and in an area predominantly occupied by Christians.

The angry Oyedepo was quoted as releasing powerful curses during a prayer session saying: “God sent me as His apostle of liberation to this continent to stop it from decadence.

“I heard from God and He has proved it beyond measure. Therefore, every occultic root, every political root of this uprising is cursed today!

“All the northern forces that are sponsoring this uprising and killings, I decree the curse of God upon them.

“Lord, if it is your will to break up Nigeria, break it now!”

He told his members: “Come on, pray in the spirit everybody. Pray in the spirit; open fire, call down the Holy Ghost fire to descend on the camp of the enemy. Enough is Enough!

“If Nigeria wakes up, wait for the church to rise, there will be no more nation, what nonsense.”

“What demonic devils. What Islamic demons. If Nigeria waits for the church to rise, Nigeria will disappear as a nation.

“You mean God cannot protect people? What a mess!

“Every agent of destruction in Government today, call fire down on their head, call fire down on their head.

“Everyone sponsoring evil against the nation, let your fire fall on him!

“A Boko Haram agent was captured and they said he escaped. Everyone connected to his escape, fire consume them, consume them, consume them!

“Fire of the Lord consume them!

“I was even told from report that they were targeting this church. I said what? Even if I was asleep, if you see anybody here kill him! Kill him and spill his blood on the ground. I am saying that to you, what nonsense, what devil. You think our God is an idol?

“If I put fire on your tail to overrun the city, you will do it in one minute. What is that? What devil?

“I stand today with every authority on me, and I declare the Boko Haram camp cursed!

“I declare their collaborators cursed! I decree their sponsors cursed!

“I declare their collaborators cursed. I decree their sponsors cursed!

“Must the north continue to rule?

“What devils!

“God has anointed me to lead a revolution against the Islamic jihadist and as the Lord liveth and as the anointing of Jeru-Baal that’s on me, we declare them extinct in the name of Jesus! Amen!

“You catch anyone that looks like them, kill him!

“There is no reporting to anybody. Kill him! Pull off his neck! And we spill his blood on the ground. What nonsense.

“They said why should Christians say they could defend themselves, hold it! What stupid statement, why should Christians say they could defend themselves? So, they should watch for you to put a knife to their necks?

“You think we are dummies? What! What?

“All those zeros census they are fake. Where are the human beings?

“Where are they? We go around the place. Where are they?

“We’ve never had a successful census in this country. Where are they?

“Don’t mistake only those in politics as in power. The anointed in the Lord are the ones in power. By divine ordination, don’t mistake that.

“There was a king in the land but Elijah was determining the events of the nation.

“If i say it will not rain here for three years, it will not drop. What nonsense!

“Who born their mother, who born their father? They are too small.

“Come! Get excited and walk in confidence. Any devil that misbehaves around you will be slain by the fire!"

The congregation reportedly chorused ‘amen’. 

Read More

Flora Nwapa’s 86th Birthday

• 
  Today is Flora Nwapa‘s birthday and Google celebrates it with one of its signature anniversary doodle.
  
  Flora Nwapa is Nigeria’s first female novelist. She was a close friend of Chinua Achebe who gave her her big break as a writer. Read the inspiring story here. Her most popular work is a Efuru, a dark, quirky love story set in a Nigerian village at the turn of the 20th century. She went on to write four other novels, short story collections, and children’s books. She also established Tana Press, a pioneering platform that created opportunities for women writers.
  
  Nwapa broke into the global literary scene at a time when African writing was largely male dominated. She, alongside women like Nadine Gordimer and, later, Bessie Head, opened the way for a generation of women to own and tell their stories.
  

  
  Flora Nwapa, Nigeria's first published female novelist and Africa's first internationally-acclaimed English-language female writer, held the spotlight for nearly her entire adult life. She was not only an accomplished author, but a publisher, public servant, and activist.
  From Nwapa's first novel, Efuru, published in 1966, to the establishment of her publishing company, Tana Press, Nwapa demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing and highlighting the women of Nigeria. Additionally, she used her books, and the books she published, to introduce Nigeria’s rich culture to a global audience.
  Nwapa served by day in the Nigerian government, becoming the first female Minister of Health and Social Welfare for Nigeria’s former East Central State in 1970. During that time, she worked to reunite children and their parents who were divided as a result of the Biafran War. Afterwards, she became Minister of Lands, Survey, and Urban Development, a position she held until 1974.
  Today’s Doodle pays homage to Nwapa, known as the “mother of modern African literature,” on what would be her 86th birthday.
  
  She has now been feature on one of over 2000 doodles that Google has shared on its home page over the last few years. Google celebrates her work because it believes that Nwapa, in her life and in her work, “reflects [its]…love for innovation.”
  
  Her being featured on a Google doodle says a lot about Nwapa’s cultural influence and her status as a global icon. Even though we do not need Google to tell us how amazing Nwapa is, we are delighted that her life is being recognized on such a global platform.
  
  ***********
  

  FEEL FREE TO SHARE

  
  

Read More

100% of Christians Face Persecution in These 21 Countries

WASHINGTON — One-hundred percent of Christians in 21 countries around the world experience persecution for their faith in Christ as over 215 million Christians faced "high levels" of persecution in the last year, a leading human rights watchdog group reports.

                                               

                                                                         (Photo: The Christian Post/Samuel Smith)
Open Doors USA CEO David Curry speaks at press conference in Washington, D.C. on January 11, 2017.


Open Doors USA released on Wednesday morning its 2017 World Watch List, which is the 25th annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most persecution.

"2016 was the worst year of persecution on record with a shocking 215 million Christians experiencing high levels of persecution for their faith," Open Doors USA CEO David Curry asserted during a press conference at the National Press Club.

"It is worth repeating that nearly one in every 12 Christians today lives in an area or culture in which Christianity is illegal, forbidden or punished. Yet, today the world is largely silent on the shocking wave of religious intolerance," he continued. "The 2017 World Watch List and the information it represents presents one of the most complex and pressing challenges to President-elect Donald Trump and his administration."

According to a fact sheet provided by Open Doors, the organization documented as many as 1,207 Christians who were killed around the globe for faith-related reasons during the 2017 list's reporting period — Nov. 1, 2015, to Oct. 31, 2016.

However, that number is a conservative estimate since it doesn't include statistics from the list's No. 1 persecutor of Christians for the last 16 years — North Korea — and areas of Iraq and Syria. Additionally, there were likely many other Christian killings that went unreported.

The ministry also documented over 1,329 churches around the globe that were attacked or damaged.

"In the top 21 countries on the Open Doors World Watch List, 100 percent of Christians experience persecution," the fact sheet states. "Christians are a minority in all countries on the list, accounting for only 13 percent of the total population."

The top 21 countries on the list include in this order: North Korea, Somalia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Eritrea, Libya, Nigeria, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, India, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Kenya, Turkmenistan, Qatar and Egypt.

In North Korea, Christians are prohibited from practicing their faith and can be killed or jailed for simply owning a Bible. As the Communist Kim regime forces citizens to accept the cultic belief that the Kim family is divine, thousands of Christians have been killed and entire families have been thrown into torturous labor "reeducation" camps for practicing their faith or trying to defect.

Although little is reported about the persecution in Somalia, Curry said that no organized church is allowed to be established in the country and every citizen of Somalia is registered as Muslim despite what they believe.

"Small groups of Christians remain even though nobody knows the secret of their faith," Curry explained. "If their faith is discovered it means instant death, executed without trial and often on rumor alone."

Pakistan ranked as the fourth worst country in the world for Christians, which is the highest the Muslim-majority country has ranked on the World Watch List.

Christians in Pakistan are subject the public ridicule and are often accused of the capital offense of blasphemy by Muslims looking to settle personal scores. Additionally, hundreds of Christian girls and women in Pakistan are kidnapped, raped and forced into Islamic marriage. Police protection of the Christian community is inadequate and Muslim persecutors are often granted a level of impunity.

The fact sheet states that "Pakistan had the most overall violence against Christians."

"Cities have been burned to the ground, people have been roasted alive, girls are increasingly being raped and forced into Islamic marriage in attempts by Muslims to gain a special place in Heaven through proselytizing in this manner," Wilson Chowdhry, chairman of the British Pakistani Christian Association, told CP on Wednesday. "Government and statutory authority inactivity have built a sense of impunity for crimes against Christians."

It's no secret that Christians have been direly persecuted in the Middle Eastern nations of Iraq and Syria, considering the rise of the Islamic State terrorist organization forced hundreds of thousands of Christians to flee their homes or risk being killed by the Islamic death cult.

As very few Christians remained in the Nineveh Plains of Iraq until Iraqi-coalition forces began a liberation effort there in October, there is serious concern that Iraqi Christians could become extinct in their ancient homelands if nothing is done to assure that they will be protected if they return.

                                                                          (Photo: The Christian Post / Samuel Smith)

Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., speaks at a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on January 11, 2017.

While Christians continue to languish in displacement camps in Kurdistan and neighboring Middle Eastern countries, Congressman Chris Smith, R-N.J., told the press conference that the United States government has gone "AWOL" when it comes to helping displaced and persecuted Iraqi Christians.

Smith said he recently visited the U.S. General Consulate in Erbil, which he says is about a 10-minute drive from a major displacement camp where thousands of Christians are being housed.

"The United States government has not been helpful to the Christians that have fled Mosul in the Nineveh Plain. We have been AWOL when it comes to humanitarian aid," Smith said. "I went to a camp that I was told I couldn't go to because it was so dangerous. So, I went without the consulate general or the diplomatic security people only to find 6,000 wonderful families and clergy that were helping these people who are really on the edge, physically, with not even food, medicine and shelter."

"If it wasn't for the Christian community rallying for them, raising approximately $30 million, there would have been deaths and sicknesses. The camp is about 10 minutes max by car away from the consulate's office and no one had been there from the embassy or the consulate, except one who went almost before I went. Are you kidding?" Smith asked. "I had nine hearings on the genocide against Christians — nine of them. ... They left 70,000 Christians in Erbil with no help by the United Nations and the United States government."

Also speaking at the press conference was Knox Thames, the State Department's special advisor for religious minorities in the Near East and South/Central Asia, who was asked by The Christian Post to respond to Smith's complaint and answer why the U.S. government hasn't done more to help Iraqi Christians.

"I can speak to what we [the State Department Office of International Religious Freedom] have been doing. We met with the Christian leadership — Archbishop Warda [of Erbil] and [a bishop from] the Assyrian Church of the East — to hear those concerns. We have had conversations with USAID about how we can get resources to the Christian community," he responded. "But this is also in the context of incredible need and not enough resources and that has been the challenge that we have had to navigate. This is something that is very much on our radar screen and will continue to follow it across the transition."

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More

Joyce Meyer Celebrates 50 Years of Marriage With Husband Dave

 

Joyce Meyer and her husband, Dave, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sunday.

 

"Out celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary with our children!" Meyer captioned a photo she posted on Facebook.

Dave is the vice president of Joyce Meyer Ministries and has worked in full-time ministry for nearly 30 years. Meyer has often said that without her husband's wisdom and stewardship in finance and administration, Joyce Meyer Ministries wouldn't be what it is today.

 

 Last year, Meyer took part in a Love Your Spouse Facebook challenge where she revealed her love for her husband for seven days straight.

The Love Your Spouse challenge was created for married Facebook users to post one photo with their spouse each of the seven days to keep the celebration of love and traditional marriage alive.

On the first day Meyer revealed that no one had asked her to do the challenge, but in hopes of keeping love and marriage trending she wanted to join in by posting social media dedications to her husband in celebration of their union.

Forgiveness, emotional stability, loyalty and faithfulness are just a few of the characteristics Meyer listed to describe her husband in the first three days of her participation in the Love Your Spouse Facebook challenge. 

 

Last year, Meyer took part in a Love Your Spouse Facebook challenge where she revealed her love for her husband for seven days straight.

The Love Your Spouse challenge was created for married Facebook users to post one photo with their spouse each of the seven days to keep the celebration of love and traditional marriage alive.

On the first day Meyer revealed that no one had asked her to do the challenge, but in hopes of keeping love and marriage trending she wanted to join in by posting social media dedications to her husband in celebration of their union.

Forgiveness, emotional stability, loyalty and faithfulness are just a few of the characteristics Meyer listed to describe her husband in the first three days of her participation in the Love Your Spouse Facebook challenge.  

 

 

 

 

KINDLY SHARE THIS

Read More

Deaf Muslim Man Who Learns About the Gospel for First Time Leaves Islam for Christ

                              (Photo: Reuters/Joe Penney)

A man prays after mass at the Martyrs of Uganda church in Bamako, Mali, November 8, 2015.

According to Florida-based Wycliffe Associates, one of the world's leading Bible translation organizations,
a Muslim man referred to by the name Ayo recently left Islam and accepted Christianity after attending a Wycliffe outreach event hosted by one of their church partners in a country that hasn't been named for security reasons.

"I know God used my friend to invite me to church today," Ayo was quoted as saying, according to Wycliffe Associates' online blog. "I have never been to a Christian church before. I have grown up as a Muslim. I mostly go to the mosque with my family; I have to, since my family expects me to. But, as you know, there is nothing that I gain by attending the prayers."

Ayo, who is the only deaf member of his family, explained that the problem he encountered while attending services at a mosque was that nobody at his mosque could converse with him in sign language. He added that no one at the mosque "cares about teaching me."

"Today I felt at home. I understood everything going on here," Ayo added. "The approach to teaching God's Word has touched my heart. I have clearly seen myself in the life of the prodigal son. God touched me. I feel very much at peace."

Despite the fact that he can't hear, Ayo now knows that God loves him no matter what his weaknesses are.

"I have made up my mind to follow Jesus Christ, as taught today from God's Word," Ayo said. "I know God accepts me just as the father accepted the prodigal son when he came back home. Please pray for me. I know there will be much opposition from my family and friends."

According to the Deaf Bible Society, there are over 400 sign languages being used in the world today and over 70 million people use a form of sign language as their primary form of communication.

But only 5 percent of all sign languages have Bible translation programs in operation and only 2 percent of the global deaf population has been introduced to the Gospel.

Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/muslim-man-gives-life-to-christ-church-sign-language-translator-shares-the-gospel-172799/#UFyPjuGZxgw1iFde.99

According to Deaf Opportunity Outreach International, only one sign language (American Sign Language) has a complete New Testament translation and a vast majority of sign languages don't even have a single Bible verse translated.

Wycliffe Associates is doing its part to bridge the gap as it operates studios in Africa and Latin America to help translate the Bible into unreached sign languages. The Deaf Bible Society also provides access to video translations of Scripture in over 20 sign languages.

DOOR International runs programs that help train deaf leaders to share the message of Christ with other deaf people and has been working in sign language translation since 2006.

"Each deaf community has a unique sign language and culture of their own," the Wycliffe blog states. "It's our vision to see God's Word reach each of these languages for the sake of people like Ayo. Please pray with us that God would raise up deaf leaders to take on the challenge of translating the Scriptures for their communities."

Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/muslim-man-gives-life-to-christ-church-sign-language-translator-shares-the-gospel-172799/#UFyPjuGZxgw1iFde.99

According to Deaf Opportunity Outreach International, only one sign language (American Sign Language) has a complete New Testament translation and a vast majority of sign languages don't even have a single Bible verse translated.

Wycliffe Associates is doing its part to bridge the gap as it operates studios in Africa and Latin America to help translate the Bible into unreached sign languages. The Deaf Bible Society also provides access to video translations of Scripture in over 20 sign languages.

DOOR International runs programs that help train deaf leaders to share the message of Christ with other deaf people and has been working in sign language translation since 2006.

"Each deaf community has a unique sign language and culture of their own," the Wycliffe blog states. "It's our vision to see God's Word reach each of these languages for the sake of people like Ayo. Please pray with us that God would raise up deaf leaders to take on the challenge of translating the Scriptures for their communities."

Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/muslim-man-gives-life-to-christ-church-sign-language-translator-shares-the-gospel-172799/#UFyPjuGZxgw1iFde.99

 

LIKE AND SHARE

Read More