Federal Reserve announces first rise in US interest rates since 2006

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates on Wednesday, ending an extraordinary period of government intervention in the financial markets that started at the height of the recession.

After holding its benchmark federal-funds rate near zero for seven years, the Fed increased rates a quarter-percentage point. The move signals the end of a monetary policy that began amid the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has said that he will go to the Supreme Court to challenge the decision of the Appeal Courtnullifying his victory in the April 11 2015 elections.

The Appeal Court, today, December 16, upheld the decision of the state election petition tribunal and ordered Wike to vacate the office immediately.

The governor announced his decision to approach the apex court via his Facebook page.

He wrote:

Biafra supporters hold protest [PHOTOS

This comes just a day after the state branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) warned traders againstparticipating in pro-Biafra protests.

The APC Lagos Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe in a statement said the state “will not hesitate to not only show such market leaders the exit from such markets but will take measures to ensure that such markets are not used as hatcheries for dangerous activities.”

“We warn every market leader to desist from acts or plots meant to weaken or compromise the security of Lagos as the state will henceforth take measures to ensure that any market that allows itself to be used as grounds for acts that compromise the security of the state will be thoroughly scrutinised to ensure bad eggs are forced out of such markets,” Igbokwe said.

See photos after the cut...

Ekiti Governor asks Buhari to probe Obasanjo

Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti state has lent his voice to the call by his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), askingPresident Buhari to probe former Presidents and Heads of State since 1984.

Fayose particularly called on Mr. President to probe OBJ and General Ibrahim Babangida.

This is coming on the heels of the PDP’s threat to expose the source of wealth of top politicians in Nigeria.

'I didn't receive any cash from Dasuki, only two SUVs' - President reacts to accusation

President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the accusation against him by the former National Security Adviser, retired Colonel Sambo Dasuki, that he received a cash of $300,000 from him.

Dasuki disclosed this in his statement to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). But the President said he never received a kobo from the ex-NSA.

Couple collaborate as they launch TV station, Mon Afrik

Nollywood actress, Stella Damascus, and Film maker, Daniel Ademinokan, now have more than a relationship as they collaborate on the launch of their new TV station, Mon Afrik.

The couple who have been dating for years now, are set to launch the test transmission of their online television station, Mon Afrik TV.

FG to remove fuel subsidy in 2016, as petrol moves from N87 to N97 per litre

The Federal Government has indicated that 2016 would be tough for Nigerians.

In view of the strict economic policies being put in place by theMuhammadu Buhari administration, the government has said it would remove  fuel subsidy in 2016, and jack up the price of petrol per litre to N97 from N87.

It was disclosed that over N1 trillion was spent on fuel subsidy in 2015, including the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Songstress drops new album titled 'Ope'

Singer, Sola Allyson, made popular by her hit single, 'Eji Owuro',has announced the release of her new album, 'Ope', translated to 'Appreciation' in english.

Allyson, a music graduate of University of Ibadan, came into limelight in 2003, and now has several hit songs to her name such as: 'Eji Owuro', 'Gbeje Fori' and 'Ire'.

Popular comic actor reported dead after performance at event

Nollywood comic Actor, Dede One Day has been reported dead after a brief illness.

The Nation reports that the comedian had died of high blood pressure in the early hours of today, December 14, after his performance at an event on Sunday.

Quoting the report, it read:

Court sets Dec. 17 for ruling on Pro-Biafra group leader's bail application

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday fixed Dec.17 to rule on a bail application for the detained leader of the "Indigenous People of Biafra’’, Nnamdi Kanu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Kanu, who is also the Director of the Pro-Biafra pirate radio, has been in detention for 90 days.

Court grants AIT Chairman N400M bail

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to the Chairman of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raymond Dokpesi after he was charged with money laundering by theEconomic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Court jails Ex-DPO over 2012 subsidy protest killing

A Lagos State High Court sitting in Igbosere on Monday sentenced a former Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Mr. Segun Fabunmi to 10 years in prison for manslaughter following the shooting to death of one Ademola Aderintola Daramola during the 2012 fuel subsidy protest in Lagos.

Nigeria’s lawmakers are about to pass a bill which could gag citizens on social media

Nigeria’s senators and house representatives are not exactly a popular bunch. Widely criticized for their high salaries and luxurious lifestyles, Nigerians have a frosty relationship with their senators. That relationship could get even worse with the introduction of a bill which is seen as aiming to gag free speech on social media.

Nigeria’s Biafran Separatist Upsurge

The month-long demonstrations by pro-separatist ethnic Ibo youth in south-east Nigeria degenerated into violence on 2 December. At least eight of the thousands of protestors who had blocked the strategic Niger Bridge at Onitsha, Anambra state (linking the predominantly Ibo south east to western parts of the country) as well as two policemen, were killed. Demonstrators set fire to the city’s central mosque and eight trucks belonging to Dangote Group, a conglomerate owned by northern billionaire Aliko Dangote. Crisis Group’s Nigeria Analyst Nnamdi Obasi discusses Nigeria’s new struggle with supporters of the short-lived, secessionist Republic of Biafra, which was defeated by federal forces in 1970.

What triggered the recent surge of agitation for Biafran independence?

MTN's Nigeria fine increased again

Nigeria's Communications Commission has increased MTN's multi-billion dollar fine again after reducing it on Thursday.

MTN, Africa's largest mobile services company, said that the Nigerian regulator had hiked the fine to $3.9-billion after initially reducing the $5.2bn fine to $3.4bn.

Our protest will stop if Okorocha, Ekweremadu emerge presidential candidates in 2019 – Ohanaeze youths

The youth wing of the pan Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has lauded former military Heads of States, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Yakubu Gowon for their support for Igbo presidency.

Nigerian Shiites brave terror threat

They come from northern Nigeria, Ghana, Chad, Cameroon, Benin and Togo. Clad from head to toe in black, they have been walking together in large groups for days. The pilgrims' destination is the city of Zaria in Kaduna State, northern Nigeria, where they were set to be addressed by Shiite cleric Ibrahim Zakzaky.

Nigerian Senate pushes social media clampdown bill, hits back at critics

The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, hit back at critics of a proposed law which sets out heavy sanctions for people who “falsely” criticise public officials or institutions.

The bill, sponsored by Bala Ibn Na’allah, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress from Kebbi State, has been widely criticised, and is seen as not only a significant clampdown on freedom of speech, but a deliberate targeting of critics of federal lawmakers and the National Assembly.

I will transform the police to be more people-friendly – Arase

The Minister of Interior, Retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau, on Thursday canvassed for a strong Police Force for effective policing of Nigeria. Dambazau stated this during a familiarisation visit to the Nigeria Police Force headquarters, Abuja.  “Police is the most strategic as far as internal security is concerned.

Gospel singer on his way to Lagos for Experience 2015

Popular Gospel singer Pastor Donnie McClurkin is on his way to Lagos, Nigeria to minister at the tenth edition of the annual Gospel concert, The Experience.

Donnie McClurkin announced that he is on his way for the big Gospel music gathering yesterday (December 2, 2015) via his Twitter account.

The Experience Lagos is an annual praise-night organized byHouse on the Rock Church (HOTR).

PDP chieftain allegedly received N100M from Dasuki in alleged arms deal fraud

According to reports, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Bode George is allegedly one of the persons who benefited from the alleged $2 billion arms deal fraud for which former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki has been accused.

This was disclosed by a source at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), according to Sahara Reporters.

$2.1 BILLION ARMS DEAL| DSS Arrests Lateef Kayode Are

Former Director-General of the Department of State Services, DSS, Lateef Kayode Are is currently under house arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Lateef Kayode Are is a retired Nigerian Army Colonel, served as an officer in the Directorate of Military Intelligence up until retirement by General Sani Abacha, Are was appointed as DSS boss by President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Minister of State, Kachikwu replaces Alison-Madueke as OPEC President

Following his elevation as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu has replaced the immediate past petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, as the Conference President of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC.

Nollywood actress marks new month with hot new photos

Nollywood sweetheart, Ini Edo, shared two photos to mark the new month of December. She posted two photos on her Instagram, one which she captioned:

"As we come to close to the end of the year 2015, May God open our eyes to see beyond the ordinary.Not to be deceived by de selfishness of de heart of men and not be a tool nor fall for de devices of de devil. I pray for divine protection for all of us now n forever Amen. Happy December ya"ll"

See pics after the cut.....

Nnamdi Kanu’s case stalls over death of magistrate’s father

The hearing of the case involving the Director of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu was on Tuesday stalled due to the death of the magistrate’s father.

The court registrar, Salisu Yunusa said the magistrate’s father died on Thursday, November 26, adding that no date has been fixed for the hearing and ruling on the case.

On the protests regarding why the “Did any of the counsels complain to you,” Yunusa asked.

'Dokpesi is a victim of political persecution' - Party reacts to AIT boss' arrest

The statement said Dokpesi is a victim of political persecution and mob trial by the APC government because of his association with the PDP.

Dokpesi was arrested by the EFCC around 12 noon today over alleged involvement in the arms purchase scandal in which former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki is facing trial.

Governor plans to protest against his colleagues

Governor Adams Oshiomhole, speaking with the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Abuja said he will not hesitate to protest against any of his colleagues who refuse to pay the N18,000 minimum wage.

Oshiomhole said “I have told my fellow governors that when the going gets tough, everybody will answer his father’s name. I am not and I will not support any government, any governor, federal or state that misunderstood the problem to focus on the weakest link.

Governor seeks divine solution to Nigeria’s problems

Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun state has called on Nigerians to seek God’s face in the midst of the economic challenges Nigeria is going through.

Aregbesola said this while attending a two-day crusade organised by the Deeper Life Christian Ministry.

ISIS releases magazine which shows Obama and Putin in prisoner jumpsuits

Islamic State group released a new issue of Russian language propaganda magazine 'istoks'. The magazine focuses on the Russian plane crash and threats to attack US and Russia. US President Barack Obama and Russia's Putin were also pictured in prisoner jumpsuits.

Show us your skills.. How do you ask a girl out?

Winning a woman's heart is one of the most satisfying feelings a man can have. Usually he has to be able to master certain words, and have a particular kind of charisma that will make him appealing and irresistible to her. Even a man that isn't exactly handsome has a strong chance with even the most attractve woman if he is able to master sweet words.

This episode of Pulse TV VOX POP shows how men in Nigeria describe their individual styles of asking women out. Check it out.

Singer wins best new artist at 2015 Soul Train Awards

Nigerian-American singer, Jidenna, has emerged the winner of the Best New Artist award at the 2015 Soul Train Awards held on Sunday, November 29.The singer who has lived most of his life in the US, has had a lot of controversy of recent, since he began associating himself with Nigeria in recent times.
While accepting his award, the 'Classic Man' singer recalled how his father pushed him to be the best, as the award seems to be proof of this.
Jidenna made mention of a time when he brought home a test from school with a 98 score, and instead of a pat on the back, his father asked him: "Where are your other two points?".

See pics after the cut...

Nigeria President to visit South Africa this week

President Muhammadu Buhari will visit South Africa later this week, reports say.

Buhari is expected to be present in Johannesburg to attend the forum on China-Africa Co-operation which will hold from December 4-5, 2015, Daily Trust reports.

The Nigerian President will also discuss the $5.2billion fine on telecommunications company, MTN with his South African counterpart, Jacob Zuma on the sidelines of the forum, SA’s Sunday Times reports.

Is Punch Newspaper's website under attack from secession struggle?

In the early hours of Tuesday 1st of December, it was observed that the favicon on the online platform of Punch Newspapersshowed the flag of Biafra in place of the Punch logo.

See details after the cut

Bukola Saraki Caught in the Act? Dirty Deal Involving Jonathan Has Been Exposed (DETAILS)

New information revealed by SR has showed that Senate President Bukola Saraki blackmailed officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to "bribe" him with N250million as “hush” funds after the senator had found out that ex-President Goodluck Jonathan had illicitly approved N60billion for the former National Security Advisor (NSA), Sambo Dasuki, to purchase "arms".

An inside source, who is a senior CBN official, disclosed that bank officials paid the "bribe" to Saraki, who was not the Senate President at the time, to ensure that he and other senators kept silent about the irregular withdrawals by the NSA and the Jonathan administration.

Buhari, Queen Elizabeth, others to attend Ooni’s coronation

Queen of England, Elizabeth Alexander and President Muhammadu Buhari are expected to attend the coronation of the new Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II.

The Chairman, Media Committee of the coronation, Biyi Odunlade, made this disclosure at a press conference in Osun State on Monday.

Ex-President reportedly escapes death in Bayelsa [PHOTOS]

According to reports, former President Goodluck Jonathan, today, November 30, 2015, narrowly escaped death in Bayelsa State.

Jonathan is said to have been attacked by a group of militants, according to Leadership Newspaper.

The attackers reportedly chased the former president’s convoy from the Julius Berger bridge area of Yenagoa to the entrance of his home in the Kpansia area.

hey were however said to have been overpowered and arrested by members of Jonathan’s security team.

The suspects have reportedly been handed over to the police in the state for interrogation.

see pics after the cut

Nigerian Analyst Hails Iranian Leader's Letter to World Youth as "Important, Valuable"

"I wanted to summarize the letter first to release it (on my facebook page) but I saw that every words of it is important," Haroun al-Baynavi told FNA on Monday.

"The letter is short but important and numerous issues have been mentioned in it which should be studied correctly," he added.

Noting that the letter has targeted the hearts of the western people, Baynavi said, "The letter is read not only by the western youth but by their parents and this is an important development."

On Sunday, Ayatollah Khamenei released an important message to the world youth on global terrorism, including the recent terrorist attacks in Paris.

Handsome Actor Gbenro Steps Our With Cute Wife Osas

Gbenro and his cute wife Osas stole the show with their looks at an Awards ceremony on Sunday. Nice!

LOL! Imagine What This Man His Doing To His Big Wife

So if Pastor didn't tell you to lift your problem to heaven you would not tell your wife her faults? #laughs

For N5M can you do without sex for 18 months?

In this day and age where sexuality is very rampant, how possible is it for anybody to stay celibate?

On this episode of Pulse TV Vox Pop we ask young people if they can do without sex for a year and six months for a 5 million Naira reward.

And wait... did we mention there is a "no masturbation" rule?

Source:Pulse TV Vox Pop

Terrorists may use illegal car operators to bomb airports – Association warns FG

The Airport Car Hire Association of Nigeria (ACHAN) has urged the federal and state governments to curb the activities of illegal cab drivers at airports.

Warning that security of passengers and facilities was at risk, ACHAN said 98 per cent of missing passengers’ cases were linked to those who boarded unregistered cabs.

Northern elites should stop pretending, they’re behind Boko Haram – Bishop Kukah

Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has accused some northern Islamic elites of indirectly sponsoring the activities of the Boko Haram insurgents.

Speaking on ‘the Muslim agenda for Nigeria: challenges of development and good governance’ at a conference organised by the Islamic Welfare Foundation at the Fountain University, Osogbo, Kukah said the fresh agitation for an Islamic state by Boko Haram could be traced to the promise made by northern leaders to ensure the total implementation of Sharia law.

Chidinma, Flavour kiss on stage during concert

For the umpteenth time, Chidinma Ekile aka Miss Kedike andFlavour N'abania shared a kiss on stage and this time, it was at the Phynofest concert in Onitsha.
They shared the kiss as they rounded up a performance of their collabo, 'Ololufe', just likein the music video.Speaking with Pulse.ng, Chidinma talked about her relationship with Flavour in September:

Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for release of IPOB leader

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has issued a communiqué signed jointly by its President-Chief Gary Enwo-Igariwey and Secretary- Dr. Joe Nworgu, calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

The Igbo group said the agitations in most South-Eastern states of Nigeria, is being fuelled by the continued detention of Kanu.

Ini Edo’s battle with extra weight celebrated

Akwa Ibom State-born Nollywood top actress has her seat in the front row of her career. So much so, fame and fortune are never too far cuddling her and giving her a blissful view of a world laced in oysters. Then the Nollywood damsel and Vanguard’s one-time first runner-up of Sexiest Woman in Nollywood contest, suddenly seemed to have lost grips on a lot of things.

See pics after the cut...

At Last, Dele Momodu Finds His Pen; Writes Buhari a Letter..Says Nigerians are Suffering

Dele Momodu who is an ardent supporter of President Muhammadu Buhari, writes a comprehensive letter to The President. In his letter, Mr. Dele Momodu touched the issues that affects Nigerians the most; the depressing State of the Economy, The continuing onslaught by Boko Haram, The fast depreciating Naira,  President Buhari’s fast eroding popularity and integrity,  President Buhari’s broken promise of selling the Presidential fleet.  Dele Momodu writes as a self appointed Special Adviser.

Read the letter below. Happy reading.

KOGI ELECTION| Crisis As James Faleke Writes INEC, Vows Not To Compromise Mandate

The Kogi State All Progressives Congress’ deputy governorship candidate, James Faleke has again written to the national chairman of the party, John Oyegun, insisting he is the governor-elect and should so be declared.

In his first letter to INEC on Wednesday, Mr. James Faleke said he was the proper beneficiary of the cast vote, and urged the commission to declare him governor-elect. In a second letter to Mr. John Oyegun,  Mr. Faleke, through his lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, again highlighted the danger of acceding to INEC’s directive of selecting a fresh candidate.

Dickson, Sylva Trade Insults During Election Debate

The debate organised by a local radio station in Bayelsa State and the British Council for all the candidates in next week's governorship election was turned into a battle field when Governor Seriake Dickson and his predecessor in office, Chief Timipre Sylva, traded insults.

Tempers flared between the governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the standard-bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), when Dickson described his predecessor's administration as being characterised by killings and cult-related violence.

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The prerequisite 6-month Portuguese language proficiency course is ongoing in our training center in Lagos Island, Lagos, and successful candidates will obtain full scholarships for post-graduate studies, and tuition-only scholarships for undergraduate studies.