White House, Aso Rock and budget crisis
A budget fraud in the United States? What many people who saw the front page story in the New York Daily News on Thursday thought before reading the story was about a budget fraud.
It turned out that there was not a budget fraud, but a reduction in spending on terror protection in the U.S with lesser money for New York City, and New York City representatives expressing opposition to the decision by the White House to slash the terror protection money for the city.
President Barack Obama has come into the story as the country's leader, who oversees the budget and who must know about everything in the budget before it is made public
It turned out that there was not a budget fraud, but a reduction in spending on terror protection in the U.S with lesser money for New York City, and New York City representatives expressing opposition to the decision by the White House to slash the terror protection money for the city.
President Barack Obama has come into the story as the country's leader, who oversees the budget and who must know about everything in the budget before it is made public
Scalia and the replacement scandal
Justice Antonin Scalia of the United States' Supreme Court has died at the twilight age of 79. He was reported to be one of the Conservative members of the Court. He is yet to be given the expected befitting burial for his meritorious service to the nation, but the issue about filling his seat has taken the front bench, with the White House and the Republican Party's campaigning presidential candidates already in a spar.
The first thing, many people will remember, on hearing about the death of this legal luminary, is about how his name loomed large among his peers as if he was the only one that constituted the lordship of the Court. Observers believe that when a judge dies, he will be replaced since his seat will not be left vacant forever, but that the political divide about filling a seat left behind by a departed judge as if the Court is a venue of influence peddling is nothing short of scandal.
The first thing, many people will remember, on hearing about the death of this legal luminary, is about how his name loomed large among his peers as if he was the only one that constituted the lordship of the Court. Observers believe that when a judge dies, he will be replaced since his seat will not be left vacant forever, but that the political divide about filling a seat left behind by a departed judge as if the Court is a venue of influence peddling is nothing short of scandal.
United States: Seven die in Amtrak train accident
By Abi Giwa
Seven passengers have been confirmed dead and scores injured in an Amtrak train accident following derailment in Philadelphia, United States, on Tuesday evening. The accident occurred at about 10.00 pm on Tuesday evening, while the train was traveling from Washington en-route New York City.
There were about 243 passengers on the train at the time of the accident, and one female passenger from New York was being sought for her whereabouts to determine her fate.
Picture shows that the accident occurred while the train negotiated a sharp corner and that about seven cars derailed; passengers fell off their seats amid cries of woe and that some passengers were trapped under seats and others struggled to locate an exit.
On Wednesday, efforts were still being made to ascertain the cause of the train accident. Reports said that the train's black box had been recovered and that it was being analyzed at the Amtrak's headquarters in Delaware.
There were about 243 passengers on the train at the time of the accident, and one female passenger from New York was being sought for her whereabouts to determine her fate.
Picture shows that the accident occurred while the train negotiated a sharp corner and that about seven cars derailed; passengers fell off their seats amid cries of woe and that some passengers were trapped under seats and others struggled to locate an exit.
On Wednesday, efforts were still being made to ascertain the cause of the train accident. Reports said that the train's black box had been recovered and that it was being analyzed at the Amtrak's headquarters in Delaware.
Pakistan: 40 die in terror gun spray
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Mediterranean human tragedy
These are men and women like us who seek a better life. Hungry, persecuted, injured, exploited, victims of wars. They were looking for happiness."
These are words of reaction from Pope Francis, following the news of another human tragedy in the Mediterranean Sea, where a boat carrying about 700 people from Libya capsized on Sunday. The Italian prime minister, Matteo Renzi, has called it a 'European tragedy.' Although, it is uncertain how many people were in the capsized boat, but it is believed that if the figure being mentioned is correct, it will be the worst tragedy in the Mediterranean Sea |
Nepal and quake
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Nigeria:Chibok girls found
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Nigeria: Absence of action destroys marriage
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Kenya: Killing innocent students
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United States: Menendez in public eyes
By Abi Giwa
Senator Menendez
Senator Bob Menendez of the Democratic Party (New Jersey), was on the television on Thursday, defending himself against accusation and charges of corruption. As he spoke, a guy in a pizza restaurant somewhere in New Jersey where this reporter watched the scene asked whether the senator was a mayor.
"He is not a mayor but a senator of the United States, " another guy, a customer corrected the pizza guy who agreed to his mistake and said he was not aware Menedez was not a mayor.
I had stopped over at the restaurant for a quick bite, while I awaited the arrival of a bus. I had expected the bus was arriving between ten and fifteen minutes. But when information from Jersey transit telephone check revealed the bus would not be there until about one hour, I decided on a quick action to fill the stomach, unaware of Menendez defensive show.
"He is not a mayor but a senator of the United States, " another guy, a customer corrected the pizza guy who agreed to his mistake and said he was not aware Menedez was not a mayor.
I had stopped over at the restaurant for a quick bite, while I awaited the arrival of a bus. I had expected the bus was arriving between ten and fifteen minutes. But when information from Jersey transit telephone check revealed the bus would not be there until about one hour, I decided on a quick action to fill the stomach, unaware of Menendez defensive show.
Axe inside crashed German aircraft
By Abi Giwa
It has been revealed that an axe was inside the crashed German aircraft that killed the entire 150 passengers, and that the axe was officially approved to be on the aircraft. Further that the captain tried to axe the cockpit door down after he was locked out.
Aside from the information about the axe inside the aircraft and its use by the captain, police searching Lubitz's homes were reported to have discovered documents indicating he had depression for which he had received treatment, but unknown to his employer.
The BBC said in its report that when the flight captain could not peacefully open the cockpit door, he employed the axe in his attempt to force the door open. At the same time, another statement investigators are working to see whether co-pilot Andreas Lubitz depression could have been responsible for his act of locking out his captain and sending 150 lives including himself to untimely death.
Aside from the information about the axe inside the aircraft and its use by the captain, police searching Lubitz's homes were reported to have discovered documents indicating he had depression for which he had received treatment, but unknown to his employer.
The BBC said in its report that when the flight captain could not peacefully open the cockpit door, he employed the axe in his attempt to force the door open. At the same time, another statement investigators are working to see whether co-pilot Andreas Lubitz depression could have been responsible for his act of locking out his captain and sending 150 lives including himself to untimely death.
Confrontation and suicide in the air?
Abi Giwa
Andreas Lubitz
Investigators of the crash of a German Airbus in the French Alps on Tuesday are working toward establishing whether the co-pilot may have have committed suicide, killing himself and the entire passengers on the flight.
Reports said that the 27 year-old co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz, locked out the Captain from the cockpit, and that the Captain knocked on the door softly to gain reentry. But when there was no response to the soft knock he banged heavily on the door.
The scenario points to yet to be established trouble between the Captain and his co-pilot. Why would a co-pilot lockout his Captain? Was there a feud between them? Or could it have been intentional suicide arising from an issue between the pilot and his co-pilot? Why would the co-pilot deliberately locked out his Captain from the cockpit without an issue between the two?
Reports said that the 27 year-old co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz, locked out the Captain from the cockpit, and that the Captain knocked on the door softly to gain reentry. But when there was no response to the soft knock he banged heavily on the door.
The scenario points to yet to be established trouble between the Captain and his co-pilot. Why would a co-pilot lockout his Captain? Was there a feud between them? Or could it have been intentional suicide arising from an issue between the pilot and his co-pilot? Why would the co-pilot deliberately locked out his Captain from the cockpit without an issue between the two?
New York City: Flatbush kids' McDonald's brawl
By Abi Giwa
Aniah Ferguson, who along with other five teens almost pummeled another young girl to death on Wednesday at Flatbush area of Brooklyn in the United States has all stigmas of a troubled teen. Six arrests in six months, a baby out of wedlock, dread at home for notoriety, the Daily News has revealed in a report about the 16 years old teenager, now in police custody and charged with gang assault and robbery.
News of the blow throwing kids gained public attention Wednesday evening, when about six teens were reported fighting only one teen and bystanders did nothing to help the one kid fighting against six. People described the scene as horrible and blamed the crowd at the McDonald restaurant on Flatbush Avenue for having done nothing to safe the girl besieged by six people.
News of the blow throwing kids gained public attention Wednesday evening, when about six teens were reported fighting only one teen and bystanders did nothing to help the one kid fighting against six. People described the scene as horrible and blamed the crowd at the McDonald restaurant on Flatbush Avenue for having done nothing to safe the girl besieged by six people.
Mali killings and visitation of evil
By Abi Giwa
A night club in Mali
People go to the bar to drink and listen to good music. Bar enthusiasts would hardly expect machine gun and grenade attacks but enjoyment derived from the love of getting high. But in Mali the event this weekend turned into horror, when five people were slain with machine gun and grenade attacks at La Terrace Bar in Bamako by a masked infidel.
According to a BBC report, a gun man exclaimed "Allahu Akbar". The report said further that the group the shooters belong is unknown, a sign of uncoordinated attack and fighters in disarray, on the heal of Boko-Haram's Shekau reported declaration of allegiance to the ISIS, in search of support at the onset of superior fire power of the Nigerian military.
Back to the death in the bar and what the Bamako incidence reminds in literature about people in merriment and the visitation of evil. It is in "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight"; a Christmas time at King Arthur's court, Knights and ladies in celebration, appearance of a stranger with an axe and the stranger asked the King to chop his the (stranger's) head. The King hesitated but got help from Sir Gawain who chopped off the axe man's head.
But the axe man replaced his own head as soon as it was severed and asked Gawain for an appointment in his own bunker on a New Year day. Sir Gawain fulfilled the appointment. The story of Sir Gawain's journey to the Green Knights' fortress is a classical example in bravery. He knew not what awaited him. Everyone, including all the Knights and ladies, feared for his life.
According to a BBC report, a gun man exclaimed "Allahu Akbar". The report said further that the group the shooters belong is unknown, a sign of uncoordinated attack and fighters in disarray, on the heal of Boko-Haram's Shekau reported declaration of allegiance to the ISIS, in search of support at the onset of superior fire power of the Nigerian military.
Back to the death in the bar and what the Bamako incidence reminds in literature about people in merriment and the visitation of evil. It is in "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight"; a Christmas time at King Arthur's court, Knights and ladies in celebration, appearance of a stranger with an axe and the stranger asked the King to chop his the (stranger's) head. The King hesitated but got help from Sir Gawain who chopped off the axe man's head.
But the axe man replaced his own head as soon as it was severed and asked Gawain for an appointment in his own bunker on a New Year day. Sir Gawain fulfilled the appointment. The story of Sir Gawain's journey to the Green Knights' fortress is a classical example in bravery. He knew not what awaited him. Everyone, including all the Knights and ladies, feared for his life.
Boko Haram encounters superior fire
By Abi Giwa
One of newly acquired in Nigeria"s armory
The anticipated battle of Gwoza in the North East of Nigeria between The African Multi-National Forces, AMF, and Boko-Haram insurgents is here at last. Already, the insurgents have been routed out of several communities by the AMF. Now, Boko-Haram no longer has a place to hide, with the AMF taking the battle to it. The insurgents' headquarter in Gwoza will be under fire of artillery anytime from now.
What is currently happening to Boko-Haram is proving the realism in a proverb that says everyday belongs to the thief and one day belongs to the owner. For several years, the evil sect has been kidnapping, maiming and killing innocent people, but its own end now seems near, as information reveal that it is preparing to defend its Gwoza fortification against the UAF's onslaught.
News published in Nigeria showed that Boko-Haram may have seen a sign of the end of its atrocities, and had freed some of its female captives and told civilians in Gwoza to leave. But the question this raises is whether Boko-Haram has suddenly become so humane to consider saving lives, considering the intensity it has been decimating lives over five years, resulting in loss of over 12,000 lives?
What is currently happening to Boko-Haram is proving the realism in a proverb that says everyday belongs to the thief and one day belongs to the owner. For several years, the evil sect has been kidnapping, maiming and killing innocent people, but its own end now seems near, as information reveal that it is preparing to defend its Gwoza fortification against the UAF's onslaught.
News published in Nigeria showed that Boko-Haram may have seen a sign of the end of its atrocities, and had freed some of its female captives and told civilians in Gwoza to leave. But the question this raises is whether Boko-Haram has suddenly become so humane to consider saving lives, considering the intensity it has been decimating lives over five years, resulting in loss of over 12,000 lives?
Sierra Leone: Allaying fears of Ebola resurrection
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Nigeria: Jega's uncertain tomorrow
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Haitians angry, not suffering and smiling
By Abi Giwa
Haitians protest
Suffering and Smiling" is the title of a song by Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the late Nigerian Afro King, in which he addresses the way his compatriots in Nigeria have been confronting hard political and economic situation. Although, Fela's song is a recording in tandem with situation in his country, it also has universal appeal, since bad political and economic situation knows no bounds.
Currently, the unraveling of petroleum products' prices around the world is making people in countries with bad economy cry and angry as events in Haiti attest.
The Haitians are angry and they are not suffering and smiling. They are making bonfire on streets and protesting high prices of gasoline and its damning effects.
Currently, the unraveling of petroleum products' prices around the world is making people in countries with bad economy cry and angry as events in Haiti attest.
The Haitians are angry and they are not suffering and smiling. They are making bonfire on streets and protesting high prices of gasoline and its damning effects.
Nigeria's Gombe terror attack
By Abi Giwa
News reports on Monday said that President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria narrowly escaped an attack on Monday in Gombe, at a campaign venue. The news reveal that some innocent Nigerians lost their lives from an explosion detonated by a female suicide bomber, who also died. And some others are saying it is a car bomb.
Many people believe that the death of innocent Nigerians following the attack was news, apart from the attack. But that there is more news in the escape of the country's president from Boko Haram suicide bomber or a car bomb, few weeks to the presidential election.
They say that if the suicide bomber has hit her target and Jonathan has become a victim, Nigeria would have been thrown into turmoil, and the chaos, which the international community wants to stop by making the two presidential candidates in the forthcoming election sign an agreement for their supporters to avoid chaos, would have happened.
Although, none of the two presidential candidates, Jonathan and Muhammed Buhari, approves Boko Haram's onslaught on the country, but an attack on any of them would have resulted in unmanageable chaos. It is also being debated that an attempt on Jonathan on Monday at the campaign venue by a female bomber suspected as Boko Haram element is a picture of what the evil organization has had in its plans - to get rid of Jonathan, because Jonathan is standing between them and importing Sharia into Nigeria.
Many people believe that the death of innocent Nigerians following the attack was news, apart from the attack. But that there is more news in the escape of the country's president from Boko Haram suicide bomber or a car bomb, few weeks to the presidential election.
They say that if the suicide bomber has hit her target and Jonathan has become a victim, Nigeria would have been thrown into turmoil, and the chaos, which the international community wants to stop by making the two presidential candidates in the forthcoming election sign an agreement for their supporters to avoid chaos, would have happened.
Although, none of the two presidential candidates, Jonathan and Muhammed Buhari, approves Boko Haram's onslaught on the country, but an attack on any of them would have resulted in unmanageable chaos. It is also being debated that an attempt on Jonathan on Monday at the campaign venue by a female bomber suspected as Boko Haram element is a picture of what the evil organization has had in its plans - to get rid of Jonathan, because Jonathan is standing between them and importing Sharia into Nigeria.
First casualty of Buhari's certificate jam
22 January 2015 By Abi Giwa
Olaleye
Brigadier-General Olajide Olaleye, the officer who announced that General Muhammed Buhari's certificate was not with the army, and that no statement of result was found in the General's file, despite having a statement of result listed in nA Form 199 has been reassigned, news reports from Lagos indicate.
Olaleye is in the middle of Buhari's certificate controversy. He first announced that General Buhari's certificates were with the army and that if Buhari needed copies, he knew the procedure to follow.
But this week, probably after he checked the General's file and found that though a statement of results was noted in NA 199 Form, but there was no physical statement of result or certificate in the General's file. He said the authority do seek originals of academic document on interview, but he did not think that was the case in 1961, when he believed the General wrote his high school's finals and was admitted in the army.
Government College, formerly Katsina College, on Wednesday, January 21 2015, issued a statement of result to the General. Olaleye emerges as first casualty of Buhari's certificate gate.
Olaleye is in the middle of Buhari's certificate controversy. He first announced that General Buhari's certificates were with the army and that if Buhari needed copies, he knew the procedure to follow.
But this week, probably after he checked the General's file and found that though a statement of results was noted in NA 199 Form, but there was no physical statement of result or certificate in the General's file. He said the authority do seek originals of academic document on interview, but he did not think that was the case in 1961, when he believed the General wrote his high school's finals and was admitted in the army.
Government College, formerly Katsina College, on Wednesday, January 21 2015, issued a statement of result to the General. Olaleye emerges as first casualty of Buhari's certificate gate.
Zuma's Nkandla trouble worsens
22 January 2015 By Abi Giwa
Zuma
Jacobs Zuma's fight over alleged public fund used in his Nkandla's home is showing that to be a leader is surrendering one's life to scrutiny. The African National Congress, ANC and the office of the Public Defender have been at loggerheads over R246m said to have been used in renovation works at Zuma's Nkandla home.
Zuma had said the money was used for renovation works to beef up security for his home, but the Public Defender's office said swimming pool's renovation, part of the work in the president's home was not for security. The office demanded that Zuma pay back part of the money for the renovation of his home, but the president was adamant.
The ANC went to court in an effort to douse the raging fire over name calling it called false, which the DA used against Zuma in SMS message during electioneering, suggesting that Zuma had stolen the people's money to renovate his home.
The Electoral Court agreed with the ANC. An appeal was lodged by the DA to the Constitutional Court. But rather for the removal of the stealing tag employed by the DA against Zuma be upheld, the Constitutional Court ruled that using public money to renovate a president's personal home can be tagged stealing, since it is not a statement of fact, but it is only a comment or opinion.
Zuma had said the money was used for renovation works to beef up security for his home, but the Public Defender's office said swimming pool's renovation, part of the work in the president's home was not for security. The office demanded that Zuma pay back part of the money for the renovation of his home, but the president was adamant.
The ANC went to court in an effort to douse the raging fire over name calling it called false, which the DA used against Zuma in SMS message during electioneering, suggesting that Zuma had stolen the people's money to renovate his home.
The Electoral Court agreed with the ANC. An appeal was lodged by the DA to the Constitutional Court. But rather for the removal of the stealing tag employed by the DA against Zuma be upheld, the Constitutional Court ruled that using public money to renovate a president's personal home can be tagged stealing, since it is not a statement of fact, but it is only a comment or opinion.
Buhari's certificate jam
19 January 2015 By Abi Giwa
Buhari
General Muhammed Buhari's presidential bid on All People Congress, APC, platform, in Nigeria's February presidential election, has turned into a certificate jam. The controversy surrounding whether or not the former Army General has a high school leaving certificate or not has become a talk of the town, instead of going away.
"I attended Provincial Secondary School, Katsina, now Government College, Katsina, and sat the University of Cambridge /WASCE in 1961, the year we graduated alongside Shehu Musa Yar 'Adua, a former chief of staff, Supreme Headquarters and Justice Umaru Abdullahi, a former Appeal Court president. My number is 8280002."
Buhari said on Wednesday.
Buhari spoke for the first time on the certificate controversy, following a disclosure on Tuesday by the Nigerian Army's Director of Public Relations, Brigadier Olajide Olaleye, that the army did not have Buhari's certificates as claimed by Buhari in an affidavit , which he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
"I attended Provincial Secondary School, Katsina, now Government College, Katsina, and sat the University of Cambridge /WASCE in 1961, the year we graduated alongside Shehu Musa Yar 'Adua, a former chief of staff, Supreme Headquarters and Justice Umaru Abdullahi, a former Appeal Court president. My number is 8280002."
Buhari said on Wednesday.
Buhari spoke for the first time on the certificate controversy, following a disclosure on Tuesday by the Nigerian Army's Director of Public Relations, Brigadier Olajide Olaleye, that the army did not have Buhari's certificates as claimed by Buhari in an affidavit , which he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Men who want to rule Nigeria
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Three square meals after devastation
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Paris says 'hell' to terror
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Truth, satire, dragons and death
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Living with fear of terror
By Abi Giwa
Two terror suspects and accomplice were killed in Paris on Friday following deadly encounter, and attempt by suspects to prolong battle with taking of hostages. The scary picture of events has terror losing three and the society losing about 14 people.
What is obvious is that terror attacks always exact maximum damage, but the society in return always take down the known suspects - fewer in number than the number killed by terrorists.
Following the terror attack on the newspaper house in Paris, fears of like attack have grown in cities like London and New York, where already the systems of responses to terror are coded in different colors that determine levels of seriousness.
You go to the mall, you go with fears of terror; you travel by air, you go with fear of terror and you ride in train, you have to watch out for unusual persons or bags.
Everywhere you go, a notice like "If you see something, say something", stares you in the face. Everywhere you go, there is fear of terror. Obviously, no one wants to die in a terror attack, but yet people are dying in terror attacks and all that governments have to say is engaging terrorists a continuous battle against terror.
What is obvious is that terror attacks always exact maximum damage, but the society in return always take down the known suspects - fewer in number than the number killed by terrorists.
Following the terror attack on the newspaper house in Paris, fears of like attack have grown in cities like London and New York, where already the systems of responses to terror are coded in different colors that determine levels of seriousness.
You go to the mall, you go with fears of terror; you travel by air, you go with fear of terror and you ride in train, you have to watch out for unusual persons or bags.
Everywhere you go, a notice like "If you see something, say something", stares you in the face. Everywhere you go, there is fear of terror. Obviously, no one wants to die in a terror attack, but yet people are dying in terror attacks and all that governments have to say is engaging terrorists a continuous battle against terror.
Paris, Boston and tale of terror brothers
By Abiodun Giwa
A warning has emerged that law enforcement and intelligence agencies across the world to watch out for copy attacks, of the type on Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris, which claimed the live s of 12 staff that included the editor-in-chief, Stephane Charbonncer, a famed cartoonist, Luz, and two police officers.
The warning given by Morrell and published by the CBSNEWS said that the United States as a country needed to be alert.
But already, Global Pentorch research shows that the terror attack in Paris on Wednesday had some resemblance to an earlier attack in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, during a Marathon race that killed three people and injured 264 others.
The warning given by Morrell and published by the CBSNEWS said that the United States as a country needed to be alert.
But already, Global Pentorch research shows that the terror attack in Paris on Wednesday had some resemblance to an earlier attack in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, during a Marathon race that killed three people and injured 264 others.
Paris: Terror vs. Freedom
By Abi Giwa
These terrorists strike when they are least expected. This time the terror is in Paris, France, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. They killed twelve on Wednesday. Another female police officer reportedly killed on Thursday, but the cause of her killing still unknown. Two brothers known to the French police have been figured in investigation into the Paris killings and sighted at a gas station about 100 miles away to the scene of the killing and they are said to be heavily armed.
Terrorists hate the truth, either in written words or cartoon impression. The best they think they can attack the writers' or the artists' freedom of expression is to kill. Ironically, cartoon expressions are said to have been responsible for the current terror madness.
They killed close to 4000 in New York City in one day. They have been killing many other people around the world: Kenya, Nigeria, Mali, Sudan, Iraq, Afghanistan , Cameroon, Libya and Somali.
The reason for killing in less advance countries, where freedom is less established, is either for being in league with the advanced countries or refusing to embrace Sharia - an Islamic legal system. Not even the war declared on terrorism and terrorists seem to be stopping these terrorists. They are becoming part of the landscapes and part of the fear people have to live with, because terrorists, like mergers, live among us.
They killed two police officers in New York, and they have killed another one in Paris.
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Kenya and social media ethics
By Abi Giw
News report say that a fourth year Kenyan university student, Alan Wadi Okengo, has been sentenced to one year in jail with a fine of certain United States dollars. The reason for Kenya's judiciary's big stick against the student was said to be for an abusive statement he posted against President Uhuru Kenyatta on social media.
Reports said Okengo was arrested while he made a spirited effort to get out of the country, through one of the country's land borders. Kenya's Daily Nation reported that Okengo pleaded guilty and that he said he was ready to personally apologize to the president, if he was not jailed.
In some other countries, Okengo's offense may be overlooked as insignificant or as merely an expression of freedom of speech. But in others like Kenya, the student could be arrested as it had happened to Okengo, and arraigned in a court of law. This will naturally lead to discussions about media freedom et al.
Reports said Okengo was arrested while he made a spirited effort to get out of the country, through one of the country's land borders. Kenya's Daily Nation reported that Okengo pleaded guilty and that he said he was ready to personally apologize to the president, if he was not jailed.
In some other countries, Okengo's offense may be overlooked as insignificant or as merely an expression of freedom of speech. But in others like Kenya, the student could be arrested as it had happened to Okengo, and arraigned in a court of law. This will naturally lead to discussions about media freedom et al.
Belgium workers' protest
Belgium workers are protesting government's decision to freeze wages, raise pension age and make public service cuts to align with EU requests, the BBC reports. The striking workers comprise steel workers, teachers and dock workers.
About 100,000 workers, comprising teachers, steel workers and dock workers, went on a peaceful protest demonstration in Central Brussels that later become violent, and the police responded using tear gas and water cannon. |
Berlin's fall and London's memorial
Britain is remembering her war heroes who have died fighting various wars from 1914, and Germany is in celebration of the Berlin Wall's collapse. The Berlin Wall collapsed 25 years ago. The remembrance in London is with pomp and pageantry, the Queen and family in trendy uniform like dresses, but the country itself is in quiet mood, news reports reveal.
German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, said Berlin's fall demonstrates that dreams do come true and that nothing is permanent. |
Nigeria: Bomber kills 48 students Boko Haram
A bomb detonated by a bomber in a school assembly session in Potiskum, capital of Yobe State in the North East of Nigeria had killed 48 students, mostly children.
Reports revealed that the bomber disguised in the school's uniform and mingled with students in the assembly. Eye witnesses reported confusion and soldiers rushing in to help victims, but that the soldiers found angry people stoning them for their inability to stop continued human carnage by Boko Haram. |
Spenser frees from Ebola Walks out of Bellevue Hospital
Dr. Craig Spenser, the Doctor without Borders' member and Ebola survivor, has called world attention to the Ebola's devastation of families in West Africa.
"My case may ganner international attention, it is important to remember that my infection represents just a fraction of the more than 13,000 cases reported in West Africa, where families are being torn part and destroyed," he said in a short statement at a ceremony honoring him in New York City, after his discharge from the Bellevue Hospital on Tuesday. |
G20 and Ban ki Moon's world
Leaders of G20 countries are meeting in Brisbane, Austalia. Although the basis of their meeting is to discus the world economy, But the opening session has witnessed political brickbats and talks about some of the countries' use of coercion and intimidation against less powerful countries. No less than the person of Russian President Vladimir Putin has come under intense criticism for his role in Ukraine.
David Cameron said that there may be more sanction needed to tell Russia's intervention in Ukraine was undesirable. |
Obama's zig-zag immigration tune
Millions of immigrants' hope to benefit from President Barack Obama's touted executive action through a pathway to citizenship has been dashed, if latest information on the president's maneuver around immigration is considered.
Latest information says the president's plan that has been targeted to benefit about 11 million undocumented immigrants may have been scaled to just five million, according to a New York Times' report that says the president's plan will benefit about 5 million to discourage family separation. |
The Abuja fiasco
There was a drama at the Nigeria's National Assembly complex in Abuja on Thursday, following the return of the House Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, his first official appearance in the complex after his defection from the People Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Peoples Congress, APC.
On arrival in the complex, the speaker and his supporters found the complex under police siege and needed to identify themselves to the police before they could be allowed in. The speaker and his supporters said the siege was the handiwork of his political opponents in the PDP, and that there was a plan to remove him. |
The Washington fight
In one of its front page stories on Wednesday titled "Patent Troll Fight Heads to the Round Two", Politico asked Washington to get ready for a fight over patents troll that is coming back.
But the truth that is unfolding, apart from the patent troll, is that Washington will have more than the fight over patent troll to contend. Already, the fight over immigration has begun and it marks the beginning of a fight people say will be the tune of the working relationship between the White House and the Congress in President Barack Obama's remaining two years in office. |
New York City: Police arrests 223 in Garner's protest
By Abi Giwa
223 protesters have been arrested by the police in New York City from demonstrations over non-indictment of the officer in Eric Garner's death.
The figure was officially released by the police department that has been working round the clock to contain public anger and outrage following the grand jury's decision of Wednesday.
Peaceful protests began from Wednesday evening with people faking death on the ground around tree lighting ceremony at the Rockefeller Center and in other areas in the city, where chokehold -suspected to have been used by the officer in the death case - has become a symbol of oppression and death.
"I can't breath," Garner's last words as he laid on the floor pinned down by police officers have become a rallying message from protesters to the authorities.
Some officers interviewed by Global Pentorch wondered why the resort to chokehold as a message to authorities, while other issues that led to the confrontation between Garner and the police not considered by protesters. They said it was not chokehold, but that Garner was brought down for arrest after he had resisted arrest.
Some members of the public said nothing would come out of the protests with reference to past experiences on police and community relations in the country. Some guys said that the police officer involved in the chokehold case is standing because he is white, and that if he is black or Latino, the case would have been otherwise.
But others say this is not a case about white, black or Latino, but a demand for justice as white people are among protesters.
The figure was officially released by the police department that has been working round the clock to contain public anger and outrage following the grand jury's decision of Wednesday.
Peaceful protests began from Wednesday evening with people faking death on the ground around tree lighting ceremony at the Rockefeller Center and in other areas in the city, where chokehold -suspected to have been used by the officer in the death case - has become a symbol of oppression and death.
"I can't breath," Garner's last words as he laid on the floor pinned down by police officers have become a rallying message from protesters to the authorities.
Some officers interviewed by Global Pentorch wondered why the resort to chokehold as a message to authorities, while other issues that led to the confrontation between Garner and the police not considered by protesters. They said it was not chokehold, but that Garner was brought down for arrest after he had resisted arrest.
Some members of the public said nothing would come out of the protests with reference to past experiences on police and community relations in the country. Some guys said that the police officer involved in the chokehold case is standing because he is white, and that if he is black or Latino, the case would have been otherwise.
But others say this is not a case about white, black or Latino, but a demand for justice as white people are among protesters.
Nigeria: Boko Haram turns Mosque into grave
By Abi Giwa
Boko Haram turned Kano Central Mosque in Kano into a grave yard with a Friday Jumat service hour bombing, killed over 100 and injured more than double the number of the dead.
The bombing of the Mosque happened less than two weeks after the Emir of Kano called on residents to protect themselves against infidels fighting to establish an Islamic state, and had committed such atrocities such as kidnapping 200 female students and beheaded or slit the throats of innocent male students in their hostels.
Boko Haram have been killing Moslems and Christians alike, making people to now ask about its real objective. Observers are convinced that there is no longer pretension that Boko Haram's objective is beyond religion and if its objective is political, the question is what does it intend to achieve attacking Christians and Moslems alike. Is its attack on both Christians and Moslems sign of frustration of inability to achieve its aim of creating a Caliphate?
The bombing of the Mosque happened less than two weeks after the Emir of Kano called on residents to protect themselves against infidels fighting to establish an Islamic state, and had committed such atrocities such as kidnapping 200 female students and beheaded or slit the throats of innocent male students in their hostels.
Boko Haram have been killing Moslems and Christians alike, making people to now ask about its real objective. Observers are convinced that there is no longer pretension that Boko Haram's objective is beyond religion and if its objective is political, the question is what does it intend to achieve attacking Christians and Moslems alike. Is its attack on both Christians and Moslems sign of frustration of inability to achieve its aim of creating a Caliphate?
Kenya: Al-Shabab kills 28
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Nigeria : Police ransacks APC's Data Center
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Compaore's disarray
30 October 2014 By Abi Giwa
Compaore
Is President Blaise Compaore of Burkina Faso still in power or forced out of power by irate protesters who say with vehemence enough of his 27 years rulership of the West African country? But reports say the beleaguered president is refusing to vacate the office, and instead working to extend his term with a vote in the parliament.
Yesterday, uncertainty reigned in Burkina Faso as Burkinabes took to the streets in protest, defied authorities and set notable public buildings ablaze. They speak of enough of long years of deceit and one man's ploy to remain in office for so long with no social and economic development and comfort among Burkinabes to show for it.
Compaore came into office in a questionable thirst for power 27 years ago following his elimination of Thomas Sankara, a popular leader. He had manipulated the system ever since and remained almost invincible.
This time, people are saying Burkinabes may not grant him the additional one year he has sought to remain in office.
Yesterday, uncertainty reigned in Burkina Faso as Burkinabes took to the streets in protest, defied authorities and set notable public buildings ablaze. They speak of enough of long years of deceit and one man's ploy to remain in office for so long with no social and economic development and comfort among Burkinabes to show for it.
Compaore came into office in a questionable thirst for power 27 years ago following his elimination of Thomas Sankara, a popular leader. He had manipulated the system ever since and remained almost invincible.
This time, people are saying Burkinabes may not grant him the additional one year he has sought to remain in office.
Ebola: New York's first case
October 2014. By Abi Giwa
Craig Spencer
A medical doctor, Craig Spencer, who recently returned from Guinea to New York City, had tested positive to Ebola and had been quarantined at the Bellevue hospital with wife and two other people he had contact, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced.
However, city officials have said that the level of the affected doctor's infection is not contagious enough to have put those he may have had contacts on Wednesday evening in A and L trains in danger of Ebola, Dr. Mary Bassett, city's health commissioner, said in a New York Times report.
A taxi driver the doctor rode in his car had also been cleared of possibility of infection, because the level of their contact was minimal.
But observers are saying the news of Ebola in the city will rile the public and will make members of the public to be conscious of need to avoid contact with anyone suspected of having the virus.
Recent Ebola outbreak in West African countries of Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone and the high death toll have put the world on red alert.
However, city officials have said that the level of the affected doctor's infection is not contagious enough to have put those he may have had contacts on Wednesday evening in A and L trains in danger of Ebola, Dr. Mary Bassett, city's health commissioner, said in a New York Times report.
A taxi driver the doctor rode in his car had also been cleared of possibility of infection, because the level of their contact was minimal.
But observers are saying the news of Ebola in the city will rile the public and will make members of the public to be conscious of need to avoid contact with anyone suspected of having the virus.
Recent Ebola outbreak in West African countries of Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone and the high death toll have put the world on red alert.
Ebola's Curse, Fear of Death and Rights' Denial
8 August 2014 By Abi Giwa
Arriving at Emory
If Ebola has not re-emerge in West Africa after its devastation in DR Congo, Sudan, Gabon and Uganda, its curse and scuttling the respect the living accords the dead in burial rites would have remained a secret. Now, Ebola victims are dressed in overall hospital provided wears to forestall contact with others, and when they are dead they are likely buried in the same garment, because the body alive or dead - is adjudged as capable of transmitting the virus to the living. No relation will accept a dead body of an Ebola victim or family has no say how bodies are disposed off.
ISIS and Iraq, U.S to the Rescue
8 August 2014. By Abi Giwa
President Obama
A larger part of Iraq has come under the boots of ISIS marauders. The worry of people in the country, unlike other parts of the world, where worry about Ebola has become a pre-occupation, Iraque people are worried about events that have turned their country into a theater of war and bloodshed. They are calling on the world to safe them from the invading ISIS forces. But the help that is coming is not as stout as they have expected. President Barack Obama has made it clear that America will not go into another war in Iraq. However, the president said he had given orders for the ISIS forces to be targeted from the air.
Some Nigerians Local Solution to Ebola
8 August 2014 By Abi Giwa
Onyebuchi Chukwu
Many Nigerians believe they have found solution to Ebola's spread with bathing and drinking of boiled water and salt solution, a telephone call from Benin City early in the morning of Friday reveals.
The caller asks if the reporter has heard about the latest sickness that is ravaging the world. When asked whether it was Ebola, the caller answered in the positive, and followed with what she said was a piece of good news.
"What is the good news about?"
"Haven't you hear about the boiled water you have to bath and drink as solution to Ebola?"
"Is it real?" The caller say it is what she wants to ask, because virtually everyone there is bathing with boiled water and drinking the water after bathing.
The caller asks if the reporter has heard about the latest sickness that is ravaging the world. When asked whether it was Ebola, the caller answered in the positive, and followed with what she said was a piece of good news.
"What is the good news about?"
"Haven't you hear about the boiled water you have to bath and drink as solution to Ebola?"
"Is it real?" The caller say it is what she wants to ask, because virtually everyone there is bathing with boiled water and drinking the water after bathing.
Cameroon's Vice MP's Wife Rescued
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Explosives Under Hijab
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Israel - Palestine Explain Role in War
28 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
Israel and Palestine are on defensive over morals of war between them, after end of truce and resumption of fight, despite international community's call for ceasefire. United States' President Barack Obama has called on Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netayanhu to do everything in his capacity to end the war.
But Netayanhu said Hamas is deliberately killing Israelis and its own people by choosing to engage in war and using its own people as human shield. Netayanhu's defense of Israel's position in the stalemate is caused by outcry of the number of Palestinian casualties in the war. Former President Bill Clinton has joined in the defense of Israel's position.
One Palestinian leader interviewed on CBS on Monday morning broadcast said that Palestine will continue to fight until the siege against it is lifted. He compared Palestine's fate to that of the US against Britain in the war of independence.
But Netayanhu said Hamas is deliberately killing Israelis and its own people by choosing to engage in war and using its own people as human shield. Netayanhu's defense of Israel's position in the stalemate is caused by outcry of the number of Palestinian casualties in the war. Former President Bill Clinton has joined in the defense of Israel's position.
One Palestinian leader interviewed on CBS on Monday morning broadcast said that Palestine will continue to fight until the siege against it is lifted. He compared Palestine's fate to that of the US against Britain in the war of independence.
Plane Drops on Beach, Kills and Injures
28 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
People go to the beach to unwind, swim and have enjoyment on the side, but hardly expect a plane dropping from the sky. But it happened on Sunday when a plane dropped at Caspersen beach in Sarasota, Florida, United States, killed a 36 year old father, Ommy Irizarry, mortally injured his daughter, Oceana Irizarry and others.
Father and daughter were reported walking on the beach, unaware a plane above in the air had developed a mechanical problem and sought a place for emergency landing. The pilot is reported to have radioed about his inability to get the plane to the airport. (Read More)
Father and daughter were reported walking on the beach, unaware a plane above in the air had developed a mechanical problem and sought a place for emergency landing. The pilot is reported to have radioed about his inability to get the plane to the airport. (Read More)
Female Suicide Bomber Blows Herself Up
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UFC-Fox Boxing: Lawler Defeats Brown
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The Lagos 'Ebola' Scare
26 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
A Liberian, Patrick Sawyer, on a flight from Monrovia to Lagos, had fever, vomiting and diarrhea, in transit, at the Lagos airport last Sunday. The symptoms were suspected to be characteristic of deadly Ebola, a disease currently ravaging some West African countries and said to be incurable. Sawyer was taken straight to the hospital from the airport, but died on Thursday - four days after his hospital admission. Medical examination revealed Sawyer had the Ebola Virus, according to Nigeria's Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu. (Read More)
Debate Over Children Migrants
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Temporary Truce in Gaza
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Algeria Airline Crash: All Passengers Gone
25 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
More than 100 passengers aboard the Algerian jet airliner AH5017 reported missing between Burkina Faso and Algeria had been reported dead. The aircraft was flying from Quagadougu to Algiers.
The aircraft was believed to have gone down in Western Mali due to stormy weather.
A man walking into a bank in New York early on Friday morning said the world had witnessed three major air crashes in a spate of one week.
It began July 17 with the Malaysia Airline flight in Ukraine and followed by the crash in Taiwan and the crash between Burkina-Faso and Algeria. Bringing total number of lives lost to about 450 in one week.
The aircraft was believed to have gone down in Western Mali due to stormy weather.
A man walking into a bank in New York early on Friday morning said the world had witnessed three major air crashes in a spate of one week.
It began July 17 with the Malaysia Airline flight in Ukraine and followed by the crash in Taiwan and the crash between Burkina-Faso and Algeria. Bringing total number of lives lost to about 450 in one week.
United States Lifts Ban on Tel Aviv Airport
24 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
The United States' Federal Aviation administration, F.A.A, has lifted its ban on flights from the US and to Israel, despite continuous rain of rockets and combat between Israel and Palestine. The F.A.A in a New York Times report said it has adequate precautions, meaning it does not consider the war between Israel and Palestine will endanger commercial flights going into Israel. However, commercial flights from Europe continue to avoid flying to Israel.
Israel had protested the F.A.A's ban originally meant to be in place for 24 hours but was extended into Wednesday. A Delta flight reportedly diverted from Israel to Paris on Wednesday. Israel believes it has enough precaution for aviation safety. And yesterday, former Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City added his voice to the protest with a direct criticism of the F.A.A's decision as wrong.
Israel had protested the F.A.A's ban originally meant to be in place for 24 hours but was extended into Wednesday. A Delta flight reportedly diverted from Israel to Paris on Wednesday. Israel believes it has enough precaution for aviation safety. And yesterday, former Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City added his voice to the protest with a direct criticism of the F.A.A's decision as wrong.
47 Die in Taiwan Plane Crash
23 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
47 people had been reported dead with 11 survivors, following the crash of Flight GE 222, caused by bad weather on Wednesday. The aircraft owned by TransAsia Airways encountered trouble as it tried to land. Official spokesman for the Penghu disaster response, Wei Chia-hung confirmed the number of the dead .
The bad weather in Taiwan was said to have been caused by Typhoon that destroyed houses, smashed cars and caused enormous damage.
In another development, two military aircrafts belonging to Ukraine had been reported downed by Russian speaking separatists in the East of Ukraine, bringing to five Ukraine military aircrafts loss, aside from the Malaysia airline that claimed 298 lives.
The bad weather in Taiwan was said to have been caused by Typhoon that destroyed houses, smashed cars and caused enormous damage.
In another development, two military aircrafts belonging to Ukraine had been reported downed by Russian speaking separatists in the East of Ukraine, bringing to five Ukraine military aircrafts loss, aside from the Malaysia airline that claimed 298 lives.
Tel Aviv Airport and Michael Bloomberg
24 July 2014 By Abi Giwa
(www.veooz.com)
Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has a grouse with the flight ban on the Tel Aviv airport, news report has revealed. According to a report on CBS Channel 2, the mayor said it was not alright for everything to be shut down in Israel over the feud between Israel and Palestine. "
"Halting flights here – when the airport is safe – hurts Israel and rewards Hamas for attacking Israel. Hamas wants to shut down the airport; we can’t let that happen, "Bloomberg said and added "I am a pilot – and I’ve always believed the FAA does a great job – and still do. But on this issue, I think the agency got it wrong," New York Daily News reported.
The mayor was welcomed at the airport by Benjamin Netanyahu in an embrace. (Read More)
"Halting flights here – when the airport is safe – hurts Israel and rewards Hamas for attacking Israel. Hamas wants to shut down the airport; we can’t let that happen, "Bloomberg said and added "I am a pilot – and I’ve always believed the FAA does a great job – and still do. But on this issue, I think the agency got it wrong," New York Daily News reported.
The mayor was welcomed at the airport by Benjamin Netanyahu in an embrace. (Read More)
Fate and Death
298 people were forced out of existence against their will last Thursday as it often happened on this dark plain called earth. If they had a choice, they would never have chosen to exit the world that day and that way.
Cast your mind back and remember people who had died not in a way any human being would ever wish to die. You will find the numbers innumerable, and you may remember Matthew Arnold's poem Dover Beach and his words about, "The turbid ebb and human misery, and that the world which seems to lie before us like a land of dreams, so various, so beautiful, so new, hath really neither joy, nor love, nor light, nor certitude, nor peace, nor help for pain, and that we
(Read More)
Cast your mind back and remember people who had died not in a way any human being would ever wish to die. You will find the numbers innumerable, and you may remember Matthew Arnold's poem Dover Beach and his words about, "The turbid ebb and human misery, and that the world which seems to lie before us like a land of dreams, so various, so beautiful, so new, hath really neither joy, nor love, nor light, nor certitude, nor peace, nor help for pain, and that we
(Read More)
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Malaysia Airline Downed with 298 Passengers
Eric Gardner, Police and Force Eric Gardner's sudden death in police hands in Staten Island, United States, last week has re-opened the debate about the police and the use of force. In some other countries, the police is synonymous to an organization with the use of force and the word 'force', added to their name. (Read More)
Nigeria: Children Kidnap Drama Two men are helping the Nigeria Police, in connection with two children reportedly kidnapped from Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, but have been found in Ebonyi State. The children are aged 9 and 7 years old. The police statement said that men of the criminal investigation department in Ogun State branch of the police tracked down the suspects. (Read More)
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Malaysia Airline's Crash and Ukraine's warWhat was your immediate reaction, when you heard of Malaysia Airline's crash in Ukraine? To most people it was consternation and questions to confirm if it was true that another Malaysia Airline's flight had been involved in a crash. The question was caused by the fact…(Read More)
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El-Sisi's Misuse of Power
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Korean Ferry Sinks with 400 Passengers
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Kiev's Toothless Bulldog
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Nigeria in Distress
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Nigeria's New Nyanya Bombing Kills 12 Another explosion has been reported in Nyanya area of Abuja in Nigeria early Thursday evening and kills 12 people. According to the Premium Times, the latest explosion is close to the location of the earlier one.
MH370 Ends Journey in Ocean?
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MH 370: A Repeat of 1972 Episode?
21 March 2014 By Abi Giwa
Two weeks into the Malaysia's Flight 370 saga without trace of what may happened, mixed feelings surround the fate of 239 souls in the aircraft. Some people think and recall the miracle of the Chilean Rugby players, whose aircraft disappeared in 1972 for 70 days, but later recovered in the Andes mountainous area, where it had crashed with 15 survivors, an unbelievable story of survival.
Russia Recognizes Crimea
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18 Nigerians Die in Employment Stampedes
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As Signal from Black Box Fades
April 2014 By Abi Giwa
Searchers for the missing Malaysian Flight MH 370 are working to get to the signals from the black box before deadline. If they do, it will be lead to unraveling circumstances that may have led to the aircraft's disappearance.
Tuesday is the deadline that the signal from the black box will fade, 30 days after the aircraft's disappearance from the air, between China and Malaysia, with 239 souls on board.
Already, two signals are said to have been picked up by China and an Australian ship respectively, but waiting for confirmation.
A British ship equipped to determine whether these signals are from the missing aircraft's black box is heading to Australia, and the ship is expected to arrive there on Monday.
Tuesday is the deadline that the signal from the black box will fade, 30 days after the aircraft's disappearance from the air, between China and Malaysia, with 239 souls on board.
Already, two signals are said to have been picked up by China and an Australian ship respectively, but waiting for confirmation.
A British ship equipped to determine whether these signals are from the missing aircraft's black box is heading to Australia, and the ship is expected to arrive there on Monday.
Flight 370 Passengers' Nightmarish Experience
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Lagos Boat Mishap Claims 13 Lives
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Bin-Laden's Son-in Law Faces the Law in New York
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Central African Republic Still Boiling
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Boko-Haram Shedding Innocent Children's Blood
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Nigeria's Central Bank Governor Suspended
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3 Deaths from Mall Shooting
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Another Snow Day of Trouble
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Funeral for Avonte Oquendo
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Samba-Panza Sets for Peace
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Indigent Wins Hearts with Sermon Welcoming 2014
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New York is Clean Again
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New York Nears Shutdown from Snow
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Elliot Spitzer and the Press
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One Man's Prayer Effect?
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Speed - Cause of Train Derailment
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Fatal Plane Crash in Russia
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Morsi's Testimony and Gulliver's Experience
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Lagos School Principal Loses Work for Transparency
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Remember the Philippines Needs Help
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Anne Heslin, Superstorm and Survival
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Amaechi Dissolves Council Against Court's Order
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Death from Deadly Alcohol
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Halloween, Children and Hurricane
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Death Toll Near Temple Rises to 115
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Kenyatta's ICC Trial in the Mire? President Kenyatta
Following the African Union's request for a postponement of President Uhuru Kenyatta's appearance at The Hague for a year after its meeting in Adiss-Ababa last weekend, reports say Western diplomats are considering the request, based on a report by The Telegraph.
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Nigeria: Incarceration and Denials
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Columbus' Day Parade Party
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Lampedusa Tragedy, Human Nature and Inequality
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Mystery and the Society
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The Effects of War
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Aircraft Carrying Former Governor's Remains Crashes
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67 Nigerian Students Killed While They Slept
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300 Die after Boat Capsizes in the Coast of Lampedusa, near Italy
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Hofstra Honors Herbert
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Mini War Grips Nigeria's Ruling Party
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Bloomberg's 'Stop and Frisk' Drowns
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New York City Council vote, over rides Mayor Michael Bloomberg's veto in 'Stop and Frisk' Policy.
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12 Die in Navy Yard Shooting
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Thompson Concedes Defeat to De Blasio
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Ozekhome Regains Freedom?
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Nidal Hassan Bags Death
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Anthony Weiner's Song Turning Off
Published: 24 July 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Anthony Weiner
Anthony and Huma Abedin Weiner want Anthony Weiner to be mayor, while he seeks therapy to be weaned off his love of texting strange women. Sequel to a news report by the "The Dirty" that Weiner had texted another woman after he resigned from the Congress following revelations of his earlier sexting. Now Anthony and Abedi are begging the electorate for another round of forgiveness. But Weiner's opponents in the mayoral race ask him to quit, citing untruthfulness and inconsistency unbecoming of a mayoral candidate. But Weiner has continued campaigning, leaving Anthony the verdict about his fitness or not, to voters.
2 Climes, two shocking judgments
Published: 14 July 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Zimmerman (Courtesy: nytimes.com)
The United States and Nigeria are several thousand miles apart, but the 2 nations witness two shocking discharge and acquittal in horrendous murder cases, the same week.
From Nigeria, The Sun News online reported Hamza Al Mustapha, a former chief security officer to Late General Sanni Abacha condemned to death by a Lagos High Court was discharged and acquitted by an appeal court in the murder of Kudirat Abiola.
. In the U.S., the New York Times reported George Zimmerman was discharged and acquitted in the killing of unarmed 17 years old Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida. People in the U.S. woke up on Sunday morning and learnt through newspaper reports that Zimmerman was a free man, discharged and acquitted of second degree murder and manslaughter.
Many Human Rights activists and Abiola's family expressed shock at the upturning of the death sentence on Mustapha. In the U.S., many observers cringed in their skin at the jurors' decision in Zimmerman and Trayvon's case.
Mustapha was head of Abacha hit squad that allegedly claimed many lives in Nigeria. Zimmerman reportedly followed Martin despite a police instruction on the radio for him to leave the boy alone.
From Nigeria, The Sun News online reported Hamza Al Mustapha, a former chief security officer to Late General Sanni Abacha condemned to death by a Lagos High Court was discharged and acquitted by an appeal court in the murder of Kudirat Abiola.
. In the U.S., the New York Times reported George Zimmerman was discharged and acquitted in the killing of unarmed 17 years old Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida. People in the U.S. woke up on Sunday morning and learnt through newspaper reports that Zimmerman was a free man, discharged and acquitted of second degree murder and manslaughter.
Many Human Rights activists and Abiola's family expressed shock at the upturning of the death sentence on Mustapha. In the U.S., many observers cringed in their skin at the jurors' decision in Zimmerman and Trayvon's case.
Mustapha was head of Abacha hit squad that allegedly claimed many lives in Nigeria. Zimmerman reportedly followed Martin despite a police instruction on the radio for him to leave the boy alone.
Egypt's Turmoil + Questions Over Morsi's Sack
Published: 6 July 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
The Egyptian Army demonstrated a high sense of discipline by its avoidance of seizing power, installed a caretaker leader while preparing for an election. It is what some observers of events in Egypt are saying in respect of the military decision and Morsi sack. Some other observers are against the military decision, they regard it as a coup and they lament what they call treachery against an elected government. The debate among observers over the Egyptian turmoil is a perfect representation of the argument among Egyptians; Morsi supporters on one hand are against his removal, but others opposed to his rule say it serves him right.
(Read More)
(Read More)
Egyptian Army Accepts Killing Morsi Supporters to Thwart Terrorist Attack!
Published: 8 July 2013
The Egyptian Army had accepted the claim that it killed about 40 of Morsi supporters. It said the killing happened when some terrorists
tried to storm the barracks, where Morsi was believed to be held.
Deadly Terror Reprisal in Nigeria
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Egypt's Turmoil out of Control?
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As Egypt's Military Ultimatum Expires, Morsi Vows To Defend the Constitution With His Life
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Statue of Liberty Reopens
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19 Elite Fire Fighters Die in Arizona
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JLO's Birthday Wish Backfires
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35 People Die in Egypt's Protest, Muslim Brotherhood's Office on Fire
Published: 1 July 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
35 people were reported killed in a protest in Egypt. Protesters had asked President Mohammed Morsi to step down; accusing the Moslem Brotherhood for using the Egyptian revolution to entrench its power and the Islamic law, the BBC reported.
A 21 years old American, Andrew Pochter, who captured events with a camera was mentioned as one of the dead. An Egyptian, Abdel Lateef, told Reuters that a stone will cry out against the current state of affairs in the country. Egypt has hardly witnessed peace since Morsi became president.
The military had warned to intervene if law and order was allowed to break down. But a Morsi loyalist had told the public to discountenance the military warning. Morsi said he was to die in defense of the constitution.
A 21 years old American, Andrew Pochter, who captured events with a camera was mentioned as one of the dead. An Egyptian, Abdel Lateef, told Reuters that a stone will cry out against the current state of affairs in the country. Egypt has hardly witnessed peace since Morsi became president.
The military had warned to intervene if law and order was allowed to break down. But a Morsi loyalist had told the public to discountenance the military warning. Morsi said he was to die in defense of the constitution.
Supreme Court Ruling Favors Same Sex Marriage Marriage advocates at the Supreme Court
The United States Supreme Court's ruling that favors same sex marriage
in California has resulted in celebration for gay marriage enthusiasts. They say the court's decision will positively affect gay fortune in other states, where it is still illegal. With the court's tossing of the Federal Marriage Act, gay couples will now enjoy the same federal rights like conventional couples in states where same sex marriage is legal, the New York Times reported, and said that the two decisions by the court will bolster same sex marriage. |
Hope for Immigration Reform Protesters seeking immigration reform
.Observers are awed with possible immigration overhaul in the United States; following the senate's bipartisan vote and on the heel of same sex marriage triumph. They see this summer as a season of possibilities.
Just like the victorious same sex couples are wading through legal patch works, immigrants awaiting the path to citizenship are praying for continuous possibility as the immigration bill goes to the House of Representatives, amid optimism and trepidation. |
Mandela Critically Sick
Published: 24 June 2013
Mandela
Nelson Mandela is reported to be in critical condition in the hospital where, he has been receiving treatment for lung
infection, President Jacob Zuma said in a press conference.
Mandela was earlier listed in serious but stable condition, and was said to be breathing normally.
infection, President Jacob Zuma said in a press conference.
Mandela was earlier listed in serious but stable condition, and was said to be breathing normally.
Egypt Joins Countries Considering Troops Against Protesters
Published: 24 June 2013
ban ki-moon
Egypt has joined the list of countries considering calling out the troops against protesters, an announcement in the country has revealed.
Egypt is one of the countries experiencing endless protests for neglect and face off from protesters seeking accountability.
Earlier, Turkey had said it would call out troops if protest continues in the country. Brazil joined the list at the weekend, before Egypt entered the queue - the army expressing a decision to intervene if protest goes out of control.
Egypt is one of the countries experiencing endless protests for neglect and face off from protesters seeking accountability.
Earlier, Turkey had said it would call out troops if protest continues in the country. Brazil joined the list at the weekend, before Egypt entered the queue - the army expressing a decision to intervene if protest goes out of control.
Brazil Protest to Continue
Published: 23 June 2013
Rousseff
Brazil's president, Dilma Rousseff has said she plans to address protesters' grievances with reforms in housing, education and employment provision.
But despite her promises, protesters were reported in major news reports that the protest will continue. How the current situation in Brazil will impact the election in the country next year is already being analyzed.
But despite her promises, protesters were reported in major news reports that the protest will continue. How the current situation in Brazil will impact the election in the country next year is already being analyzed.
Snowden Travels Through Moscow En Route Cuba and Ecuador?
Published: 23 June 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Edward Snowden
Edward Snowden has departed Hong Kong and available information says he is likely on his way to Moscow en-route Cuba and Ecuador.
"We have a treaty with Russia and we expect the country's cooperation to ensure Snowden's arrest. " Senator Charles Schumer said on a television report. John Kerry said Snowden places himself above the law and said there will be consequences if Snowden is allowed to board a flight from Moscow.
Snowden's effort to escape United States' effort to extradite him began on Sunday on an Aeroflot flight from Hong Kong to Moscow.
The U.S government has charged him for espionage at home and has asked Hong Kong to hand him over. Moscow has said Snowden is welcome if he chooses to live there. But news reports say he is seeking a safe route to Cuba en-route Ecuador where he has applied for asylum.
Right now, Snowden is far flung from the long arms of the U.S. law. Questions are being asked why the U.S waited for two weeks before it
cancelled Snowden's passport.
"We have a treaty with Russia and we expect the country's cooperation to ensure Snowden's arrest. " Senator Charles Schumer said on a television report. John Kerry said Snowden places himself above the law and said there will be consequences if Snowden is allowed to board a flight from Moscow.
Snowden's effort to escape United States' effort to extradite him began on Sunday on an Aeroflot flight from Hong Kong to Moscow.
The U.S government has charged him for espionage at home and has asked Hong Kong to hand him over. Moscow has said Snowden is welcome if he chooses to live there. But news reports say he is seeking a safe route to Cuba en-route Ecuador where he has applied for asylum.
Right now, Snowden is far flung from the long arms of the U.S. law. Questions are being asked why the U.S waited for two weeks before it
cancelled Snowden's passport.
Snowden Charged for Espionage
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Brazil's Cabinet in Emergency Meeting
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Kanye West's First Father's Day
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Brazil's Samba of Discontent
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104 Men Under Arrest for Patronizing Prostitutes
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A New Law Sparks Memory of Mary Slessor's Humanitarian Deeds
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Turkey's Erdogan Against the People
Published: 5 June 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
The people want untainted environment, but the prime minister- Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey - thinks otherwise, and pushing to have his way against the people. He has vowed to continue with construction work at Gezi Park in Istanbul, the real cause of protests and demonstrations by aggrieved Turks who feel that the prime minister is stubborn and undemocratic.
These aggrieved Turks have taken over the Square and have vowed not to leave. Erdogan had called them names such as looters and vandals. The people in turn have described the prime minister as proud, arrogant, selfish and stubborn. And almost in allusion to the peoples' description of him, he says from where has traveled that he does not support or approve government by give and take. He says his party has been elected thrice and does not expect the minority to tyrannize the majority.
Consequently, a protest that began over a square in Istanbul had almost turned into a national issue, protesters having attracted sympathy across the country, following police brutal shooting of tear gas against them. Erdogan's deputy, Bullent Arince, apologized for the police brutality. But Erdogan is acting like an Emperor aiming to stall the peoples' wish. (Read More).
These aggrieved Turks have taken over the Square and have vowed not to leave. Erdogan had called them names such as looters and vandals. The people in turn have described the prime minister as proud, arrogant, selfish and stubborn. And almost in allusion to the peoples' description of him, he says from where has traveled that he does not support or approve government by give and take. He says his party has been elected thrice and does not expect the minority to tyrannize the majority.
Consequently, a protest that began over a square in Istanbul had almost turned into a national issue, protesters having attracted sympathy across the country, following police brutal shooting of tear gas against them. Erdogan's deputy, Bullent Arince, apologized for the police brutality. But Erdogan is acting like an Emperor aiming to stall the peoples' wish. (Read More).
Birds of the Same Feather
Published: 29 May 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Jonathan and Amaechi
Rotimi Amaechi, the governor of oil rich Rivers State of Nigeria has announced that he is a victim of witch-hunt from the country’s presidency and the party he belongs- the People Democratic Party. This, he says, is because he has expressed opposition to President Goodluck Jonathan’s wish for another term in office. He has raised an alarm over his safety and has asked people to pray for him.
President Jonathan and Governor Amaechi are members of the same party- the People Democratic – that has majority in the Senate and the House of Representatives. The president’s wife - Dame Jonathan -
hails from the same state as Amaechi. Instead of the governor and the president’s wife to agree for the benefit of their party, both claim superiority and that has affected the relationship between the president and the governor. Consequently, the governor who also has been the chairman of the country’s Governors Forum turns into equity seeker against the president and his party.
In seeking equity, Amaechi has forgotten he needs to come with cleans hands. (Read More)
President Jonathan and Governor Amaechi are members of the same party- the People Democratic – that has majority in the Senate and the House of Representatives. The president’s wife - Dame Jonathan -
hails from the same state as Amaechi. Instead of the governor and the president’s wife to agree for the benefit of their party, both claim superiority and that has affected the relationship between the president and the governor. Consequently, the governor who also has been the chairman of the country’s Governors Forum turns into equity seeker against the president and his party.
In seeking equity, Amaechi has forgotten he needs to come with cleans hands. (Read More)
Twist in Arias case
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Funeral for Andrea
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A house on fire after an explosion in Howard Beach, Queens, New York
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Stop and Frisk in a Dystopian Society
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Nigeria's Tale of the Bombardier
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Nigeria's rich and the Gatsbies
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Seeking to Destroy Humanity
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Nigeria Declares War on Boko Haram
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Nigeria's Gallant Stride Against Terrorism
Published: 15 May 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Nigeria's president, Goodluck Jonathan, has declared a state of emrgency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States, north east of the country. The Nigerian government's decision is seen as an effort to exterminate Boko Haram's menace in
the affected states. The president said in a nationwide broadcast that the elected representatives in the states will continue in office, while the military commanders and the police will assume control of restoring law and
order.
"The activities of insurgents have been reprehensible, causing fear among our citizens and a near breakdown of law and order in parts of the country, especially north," the president said. (Read More)
the affected states. The president said in a nationwide broadcast that the elected representatives in the states will continue in office, while the military commanders and the police will assume control of restoring law and
order.
"The activities of insurgents have been reprehensible, causing fear among our citizens and a near breakdown of law and order in parts of the country, especially north," the president said. (Read More)
United States Gun Control Setback
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Explosion in a Texa's Plant
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A World of Errors
Published: April 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
A Physician watching human bodies
In a reminder of Shakespeare's 'Comedy of Errors', more than 200 people died in an earthquake in China, while two horrific young brothers declared a war on innocent marathoners, and held the world spell bound in confrontation with the law enforcement. This was followed by the death of more then 70 people when a building collapsed in Bangladesh. Those who died at the Boston's marathon hardly knew they would be victims of two brothers'insanity. So also was the MIT Police officer killed on the line of duty; victims of the earthquake in China and the Bangladesh house collapse would never have wished to go that way. But in a world of errors, no one can determine his or her fate.
The fear of Bombs and Guns
Published: 20 March 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
(Courtesy: FoxNews)
Early this week, about 50 people lost their lives in separate bombings in Nigeria and Syria. The two incidents have been ascribed to car bombs and chemical weapons respectively. The one in Nigeria by terrorists who say they hate western education, and in Syria by yet unknown combatants, because chemical bombs have been mentioned. The United States says it is investigating who among the combatants may have used the chemical weapons amid denials by Bashir al-Assad's government and the freedom fighters. Jay Carney, White House spokesman was straight forward in his assessment of situation in Syria,"We are skeptical deeply of the regime that they might make that charge given that it has lost all credibility in the eyes of Syrian people and the world." (Read More)
State of the Union address Over-Shadowed by Dorner's Event in California?
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Human Bodies in Syrian Jungle
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Hollande in Heroic Welcome to Mali
Published: 4 February 3013 By Abiodun Giwa
France’s president, Francois Hollande arrival in Mali on Saturday-2 February-was a surprise to many observers. The president’s decision to visit Mali amid inconclusive conflict at ousting the Islamist militants is seen by others as as expression of confidence and morale boosting to the French soldiers fighting in the embattled West African country.
Guilty!
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Where is Nigeria's Beowulf?
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Houses Collapse, a Universal Issue
Published: 20 January 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
About 25 people have been killed following collapse of a building in Alexandria, Egypt. The incidence has brought the issue of infrastructural decay and lack of oversight in approval of housing plans, other causes in Egypt and other parts of the world to public attention.(Read on)
Watch Your Back
Published January 2013 By Abiodun Giwa
Menendez
Watch your back, when in a train station in New York, because the fellow behind may do the unexpected, push you into the subway path!
It was what hapened yesterday at a No 7 subway station in Queens on Lowery and 40 Street, where the police confirmed a woman tossed Sunando Sen unto the subway path, and was killed by approaching train.
The woman, 31 years old Menendez, has been charged by the police for Sen's death,following a statement she made to the police. She was said to have been seen by 5 witnesses mumbling to herself outside the station before she walks into the station, sits on a bench-20 yards away from her victim. She was certain of a coming train before she did the havoc and ran away. But she was sighted on security camera.
It was the second time in one month that someone was tossed on a subway path to die. Altercation, mumbling and hearing voices are features in the scenario.
It was what hapened yesterday at a No 7 subway station in Queens on Lowery and 40 Street, where the police confirmed a woman tossed Sunando Sen unto the subway path, and was killed by approaching train.
The woman, 31 years old Menendez, has been charged by the police for Sen's death,following a statement she made to the police. She was said to have been seen by 5 witnesses mumbling to herself outside the station before she walks into the station, sits on a bench-20 yards away from her victim. She was certain of a coming train before she did the havoc and ran away. But she was sighted on security camera.
It was the second time in one month that someone was tossed on a subway path to die. Altercation, mumbling and hearing voices are features in the scenario.
The Gun Controversy
Published:December 24, 2012 Abiodun Giwa
Wayne LaPierre, NRA's CEO (Courtesy: Slate.com)
Two New York fire fighters were shot to death Monday in upstate, casting further cloud over National Rifle Association's standpoint on
the current gun debate that ran into storm. Backing down, the association's spokesman, Wayne LaPierre says he stands by his words that schools need armed guards just like government offices and banks.
The debate continues, while politicians in Washington are busy toward pushing a legislation. The question is whether gun laws in the United States be amended to ban the use of assault rifles.
It is the current debate among members of the public following the killing of innocent children and adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. It is the outcome of Adam Lanza's decision to use her mother's asasult riffle end her life, 20 innocent chlidren's in a school, and six adults working to bring up children in the same school. Some are sayng assault rifles be banned and others are asking for amendment in the law to remove guns from homes that have children with mental health problems. Assault riffles faces an uphill task of surviving the current debate.
In New York, some residents react angrily to what they describe as Mayor Michael Bloomberg extreme position on gun laws. They say if he has police officers guarding him with guns, he has no right to crusade against other people having guns to protect themselves. A lot of people are angry with the way the mayor ripped into President Barack Obama for what the mayor called the president's inaction and demand demand the president do something in his second term, against the reckless use of guns that has become alarmng, even before the Newtown school killings.
People ask what does Nancy Lanza does with three guns in her home? Why does she love acquiring so many guns? When some people talk about rampant illegal acquisition of guns, others say she has acquired her guns legally. Others ask why odes she allow the guns in her home when she knows her son has a mental issue? Apologists say the law doesn't stop anyone from acquiring guns when you have a child with mental issues, but when a person has mental issues, such a person is banned from acquiring a gun. It becomes clear from emerging arguments that Mrs. Lanza didn't commit any crime; but had made mistakes for acquiring and keeping guns in a home with a child with mental issues and for taking the same child to a gun range teaching him how to shoot.
Those close to her said she often locked her guns in a safe box in the basement of her house. But during three days of journey away from home, her son ran around to acquire a gun but was disallowed, because he failed the background check. What we don't know is how Adam eventually gets the key to her mother's safe box. And unaware of her son's plan, returns home and goes to sleep without checking if her box of guns hasn't been opened.She trusted her son, unaware of what was in his mind.
Available information from public discussions shows that the first step toward insulating elementary schools from Sandy Hook Elementary School's sad experience is to amend the law to keep guns out of every home that have children with mental issues. The second step has been raised by the NRA about a need for armed guards in elementary schools; this is specifically about elementary schools, because most colleges have their own security departments with either unarmed or armed officers. And some teachers have said they don't want guns in their schools in reactionto NRA's recommendation.
Connecticut's Beast Kills 27
Published December 14, 2012 By Abiodun Giwa
An anguished mother at the scene of the shooting. (Courtesy: New York Times)
27 people, 20 of them children, died today and scores wounded, in a shooting incidence at a Connecticut elementary school, law enforcement confirmed.
Lt. Paul Vance, Connecticut Police spokesman, said in a televised press conference that the gun man was dead. He took his own life.
A weapon was reportedly recovered at the scene in Bandy Hook Elementary School, Newtown, Conn. "It is obviously very tragic," a Los Angeles Times report quoted an FBI special agent in the state.
Reports said the gun man identified as Adam Lanza was in his 20s, had an argument with the school's principal, first shot some of the staffers and moved into a classroom his gun blazing.
President Barack Obama was visibly shaken by the incident and wiped tears from corners of his eyes, when he addressed the press over the shooting to death of innocent children, who went to school for learning but met with hard fate."We all have to come together and take meaningful action regardless of the politics", the president said.
Apart from adults and children killed by the gun man, scores were wounded and rushed to an hospital. Additional reports said that the gun man's mother, earlier said to be a teacher at Bandy Hook Elementary School but later disapproved was also a victim, killed in her home before the gun man
went to the school for more killings.
However, reports in the Fox News said there was a connection between the killer's mother and the school, the school's principal and the psychologist. The mother was reported to have made efforts in a court seeking mandate to commit the killer to a psychiatric home, and that the killer feared he would be sent away.
Lt. Paul Vance, Connecticut Police spokesman, said in a televised press conference that the gun man was dead. He took his own life.
A weapon was reportedly recovered at the scene in Bandy Hook Elementary School, Newtown, Conn. "It is obviously very tragic," a Los Angeles Times report quoted an FBI special agent in the state.
Reports said the gun man identified as Adam Lanza was in his 20s, had an argument with the school's principal, first shot some of the staffers and moved into a classroom his gun blazing.
President Barack Obama was visibly shaken by the incident and wiped tears from corners of his eyes, when he addressed the press over the shooting to death of innocent children, who went to school for learning but met with hard fate."We all have to come together and take meaningful action regardless of the politics", the president said.
Apart from adults and children killed by the gun man, scores were wounded and rushed to an hospital. Additional reports said that the gun man's mother, earlier said to be a teacher at Bandy Hook Elementary School but later disapproved was also a victim, killed in her home before the gun man
went to the school for more killings.
However, reports in the Fox News said there was a connection between the killer's mother and the school, the school's principal and the psychologist. The mother was reported to have made efforts in a court seeking mandate to commit the killer to a psychiatric home, and that the killer feared he would be sent away.
A World of Pain and Trouble
Published:December 18, 2012 Abiodun Giwa
Hurricane Sandy swept through the Tri-States of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, and left miseries on its path. A helpless mother's two children swept away, among other unquantifiable losses.
A building collapsed in Ghana trapping innocent souls, some killed and others rushed to the hospital, uncertain of their fate. Before Sandy, a nanny whose job was to care for children left in her care put a knife against their souls and butchered them.
The world has heard of a madman who accosted a child coming from school, led him to his own home, butchered him and kept his decapitated remain in the refrigerator. Thus when a boy of 20 took his own mother's guns, shot his own mother, got into her car, drove to a school, and shot 20 children and 6 adults before taking his own life, it was turning an already bad case into worse scenario. And in between you heard about a woman who took her child to hospital and got hit with a bullet when she ventured out of the hospital walls. Before that you heard of a guy who came to New York from California and shot in the back of the head, execution style in day light. There are worse scenarios happening everyday around the world that we don't hear about. It is a world of pain and trouble, people have summed up.
"Why do these things happen?" a man the reporter met for the first time at an LIRR Station in Jamaica in the United States, asked. "My daughter got married two weeks ago and the man he married just died, two weeks after their marriage. When my daughter is in pain, I am also in pain. Does God exist; does He sees these things?"
To comfort him, the reporter told him about his own experience about loss, its misery,as a part of humanity that we learn its ruthlessness as we grow up.But to some observers interviewed for this story, it is like God has abandoned humans to their fate.
"When humans agreed and spoke the same language, God scattered their language because he was unhappy with them, and thought they might be coming to challenge his authority like his adverasry driven from heaven." a young man said, evoking John Milton's Paradise Lost.
Wasn't why Sophocles wrote in Oedipus Rex that let every man in mankind's frailty consider his last day; and let none presume on his good fortune until he finds life , at his death, a memory without pain?
A building collapsed in Ghana trapping innocent souls, some killed and others rushed to the hospital, uncertain of their fate. Before Sandy, a nanny whose job was to care for children left in her care put a knife against their souls and butchered them.
The world has heard of a madman who accosted a child coming from school, led him to his own home, butchered him and kept his decapitated remain in the refrigerator. Thus when a boy of 20 took his own mother's guns, shot his own mother, got into her car, drove to a school, and shot 20 children and 6 adults before taking his own life, it was turning an already bad case into worse scenario. And in between you heard about a woman who took her child to hospital and got hit with a bullet when she ventured out of the hospital walls. Before that you heard of a guy who came to New York from California and shot in the back of the head, execution style in day light. There are worse scenarios happening everyday around the world that we don't hear about. It is a world of pain and trouble, people have summed up.
"Why do these things happen?" a man the reporter met for the first time at an LIRR Station in Jamaica in the United States, asked. "My daughter got married two weeks ago and the man he married just died, two weeks after their marriage. When my daughter is in pain, I am also in pain. Does God exist; does He sees these things?"
To comfort him, the reporter told him about his own experience about loss, its misery,as a part of humanity that we learn its ruthlessness as we grow up.But to some observers interviewed for this story, it is like God has abandoned humans to their fate.
"When humans agreed and spoke the same language, God scattered their language because he was unhappy with them, and thought they might be coming to challenge his authority like his adverasry driven from heaven." a young man said, evoking John Milton's Paradise Lost.
Wasn't why Sophocles wrote in Oedipus Rex that let every man in mankind's frailty consider his last day; and let none presume on his good fortune until he finds life , at his death, a memory without pain?
Japan's Tunnel Accidental Collapse
Mexican-American Singer Dies in Plane Crash
Published: December 10, 2012 By Abiodun Giwa
Jenny Rivera, Mexican-American superstar has been reported dead in a plane crash near Monterrey in Mexico. Four other people and the pilot are reported to be traveling with her in the plane. She was 43.
Reports said she was flying from Toluca to Monterrey to record a Mexican version of NBC show The Voice on which she was a judge. A daughter of Mexican immigrant, famed for a type of Mexican music called
Banda, a domain earlier for men before her entrance.
Rivera sold 15m albums worldwide, .and 1.2m and
349,000 digital tracks in the United States, the New York Times reported.
The news of Rivera's plane crash, coming in the evening of a Sunday the world tries to come to term with Venezuela's Hugo Chavez's case, following his announcement that his cancer case isn't over and that he is heading to Cuba for chemoterapy, and that if anything unexpected should happen, his deputy be allowed to succeed him, makes reports of Rivera's death more devastating to her Spanish world. Her family and music lovers will miss her, as news of her death is already being attested with a larger than life coverage by Spanish television channels all over the world.
She is survived by five children.
Reports said she was flying from Toluca to Monterrey to record a Mexican version of NBC show The Voice on which she was a judge. A daughter of Mexican immigrant, famed for a type of Mexican music called
Banda, a domain earlier for men before her entrance.
Rivera sold 15m albums worldwide, .and 1.2m and
349,000 digital tracks in the United States, the New York Times reported.
The news of Rivera's plane crash, coming in the evening of a Sunday the world tries to come to term with Venezuela's Hugo Chavez's case, following his announcement that his cancer case isn't over and that he is heading to Cuba for chemoterapy, and that if anything unexpected should happen, his deputy be allowed to succeed him, makes reports of Rivera's death more devastating to her Spanish world. Her family and music lovers will miss her, as news of her death is already being attested with a larger than life coverage by Spanish television channels all over the world.
She is survived by five children.
CIA and the BBC Episode
By Abiodun Giwa
Petraeus &Broadwell(Courtesy:dailymail.uk.co)
Late on Thursday, a tweet questions what elevates a society, and proffers 'untainted family values' as an answer.
On Saturday a piece of news people couldn't have expected emerged: General David Petraeus, head of CIA resigned his job, for having been found in extra-marital affairs with his biographer, Paula Broadwell. Unbelievable, but true. It was the talk of the town all day on Saturday. Every news media published the story. Some published the story of the biographer alongside it.
Some observers wondered aloud about why it happened. Others said, "this things do happen." Some others suggested reasons why it happened. Some called it a scandal. Can anyone ever fathom the reason why evil happen to good people?
Some writings show understanding of what has happened to the respected General, and asked for his service to the country be remembered and respected.
"General Petraeus's service to the nation elevates the society. But what has happened leading to his exit from service doesn't," some said. Some view his exit as a fall from grace. No one seems to be asking or talking about his wife, who may have been bruised in the matter, and pray for the General the wisdom to manage the crisis to save his home.
The US isn't alone in the sex scandal. The BBC has put the UK in the map.
On Saturday a piece of news people couldn't have expected emerged: General David Petraeus, head of CIA resigned his job, for having been found in extra-marital affairs with his biographer, Paula Broadwell. Unbelievable, but true. It was the talk of the town all day on Saturday. Every news media published the story. Some published the story of the biographer alongside it.
Some observers wondered aloud about why it happened. Others said, "this things do happen." Some others suggested reasons why it happened. Some called it a scandal. Can anyone ever fathom the reason why evil happen to good people?
Some writings show understanding of what has happened to the respected General, and asked for his service to the country be remembered and respected.
"General Petraeus's service to the nation elevates the society. But what has happened leading to his exit from service doesn't," some said. Some view his exit as a fall from grace. No one seems to be asking or talking about his wife, who may have been bruised in the matter, and pray for the General the wisdom to manage the crisis to save his home.
The US isn't alone in the sex scandal. The BBC has put the UK in the map.
Halloween Nipped by Hurricane Sandy?
By Abiodun Giwa
Children in Halloween costumes
With Hurricane Sandy keeping all the people from the streets, and warning for people to keep indoor from dangers, the year's Halloween celebration may have been hampered.
"People are more concerned about the safety to lives now than a mundane celebration of Halloween," a woman said at one of the stores that manageably opened its doors on Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn.
Every year on October 30, children go from homes to stores asking for trickle-treats, and people freely giving gifts of money, candies and materials.
Tomorrow is supposed to be trickle-treats' day, when children look foreword for the Halloween escapade. But with Hurricane Sandy on its way, a likely landfall later this evening, and accompanied by maddening wind, it isn't likely parents will encourage their children to hit the street on Tuesday for the annual Halloween. Some say children may still hit the street for the Halloween, if the wind subsides, but say Sandy has certainly stemmed the momentum.
"People are more concerned about the safety to lives now than a mundane celebration of Halloween," a woman said at one of the stores that manageably opened its doors on Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn.
Every year on October 30, children go from homes to stores asking for trickle-treats, and people freely giving gifts of money, candies and materials.
Tomorrow is supposed to be trickle-treats' day, when children look foreword for the Halloween escapade. But with Hurricane Sandy on its way, a likely landfall later this evening, and accompanied by maddening wind, it isn't likely parents will encourage their children to hit the street on Tuesday for the annual Halloween. Some say children may still hit the street for the Halloween, if the wind subsides, but say Sandy has certainly stemmed the momentum.
A BLOODY WEEK
By Abiodun Giwa
Police searching for Fuller before his arrest (Courtesy: Robert Stolank, New York Times)
On Tuesday, police officer Arthur Lopez was shot to death in Long Island along with an innocent man, Raymond Fessy, in whose car the killer, Darell Fuller escaped before his arrest.
New Yorkers were still grappling with the Long Island shooting to death of the officer and the innocent man, when news emerged on Thursday evening about a nanny who stabbed 2 children, aged 2 and 6, left in her care to death!.
The shooter in the Long Island case was arrested before he could take his own life. The police said a second suspect,Gerald Williams, who may have helped in Fuller's suicide attempt before his arrest has been arrested and charged along with Fuller.
In the same manner, the nanny whom the police alleged stabbed the 2 children was also found writhing in pain on thefloor in her own blood having tried to take her own life.
Information revealed that the shooter in the Long Island case, an ex-prisoner, was released from jail in 2009 for attempted murder. But the most horrendous experience was the case of a mother who left her children in the care of a nanny but returned and met her home in darkness, and her 2 children soaked in their own blood in a bath tub.
The New York's incidences came on the heel of yet another shooting to death of three women at a Wisconsin spa last Sunday. And the killer, Radcliffe Haughton, took his own life.
New Yorkers were still grappling with the Long Island shooting to death of the officer and the innocent man, when news emerged on Thursday evening about a nanny who stabbed 2 children, aged 2 and 6, left in her care to death!.
The shooter in the Long Island case was arrested before he could take his own life. The police said a second suspect,Gerald Williams, who may have helped in Fuller's suicide attempt before his arrest has been arrested and charged along with Fuller.
In the same manner, the nanny whom the police alleged stabbed the 2 children was also found writhing in pain on thefloor in her own blood having tried to take her own life.
Information revealed that the shooter in the Long Island case, an ex-prisoner, was released from jail in 2009 for attempted murder. But the most horrendous experience was the case of a mother who left her children in the care of a nanny but returned and met her home in darkness, and her 2 children soaked in their own blood in a bath tub.
The New York's incidences came on the heel of yet another shooting to death of three women at a Wisconsin spa last Sunday. And the killer, Radcliffe Haughton, took his own life.
WOMEN AGAINST HARASSMENT
By Abiodun Giwa
Members of the National Organization for Women New York, on Thursday held a rally against sexual harassment, focusing on Assemblyman Vito Lopez's case of having sexually harassed four women attached to his office.
Sonia Ossorio, president of the women's organization said that women need to be ensured of their safety in all areas of the city; in their home, in their places of employment and on the streets.
Susan Lerner of the Common Cause reinforced Ossorio's position by standing with her and calling on New York law makers to do what is right by making the work place safe for women. She condemned a situation where women below 21 are disenfranchised of employment, because of one law maker's act and the law maker is not being held accountable.
Lopez was suspended from office in August and lost the chairmanship of the Housing Committee after he was censured for harassment allegations by four women.
Sonia Ossorio, president of the women's organization said that women need to be ensured of their safety in all areas of the city; in their home, in their places of employment and on the streets.
Susan Lerner of the Common Cause reinforced Ossorio's position by standing with her and calling on New York law makers to do what is right by making the work place safe for women. She condemned a situation where women below 21 are disenfranchised of employment, because of one law maker's act and the law maker is not being held accountable.
Lopez was suspended from office in August and lost the chairmanship of the Housing Committee after he was censured for harassment allegations by four women.
Obesity War Goes Naughty
Dateline: New York By Abiodun Giwa 09/30/2012
Mayor Michael Bloomberg (Courtesy: Mommish.com)
In the olden days, it was a sign of wellbeing to be fat and a unhealthy to be lean. But times are changing, and peoples' perception are changing with more and more people having access to education, and science based educated fellows are flaunting their knowledge because of a wish to help keep people fit and save.
Consequently, to be extremely fat has become a phenomenon termed as obesity.
As part of the new enlightenment against obesity, Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York has enacted a ban to discourage excessive consumption of sugary beverages in the city. The first such ban in the United States. Resultantly, he has been called a nanny going too far to decide what residents will eat or drink.
Nonetheless the ban enjoys a strong support among residents because of its intention to aid residents' wellbeing and curb the drain on public purse from money spent on healthcare linked to illnesses associated with obesity.
But when one wakes up and hears on a television program about a viewer who has the temerity to write a news anchor that she has done nothing over the years about her weight and that she is a bad role model for young girls to emulate sounds bizarre. Doesn't it seems like intruding into another person's privacy that isn't his business?
It is what the woman the man has addressed a letter has said by going public and wondering about the hell he is teaching his daughters to go to school and tell a fat person, "You are fat." It raises a question: Is fatness now a sickness and can we all be slim against a natural tendency to be fat?
Consequently, to be extremely fat has become a phenomenon termed as obesity.
As part of the new enlightenment against obesity, Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York has enacted a ban to discourage excessive consumption of sugary beverages in the city. The first such ban in the United States. Resultantly, he has been called a nanny going too far to decide what residents will eat or drink.
Nonetheless the ban enjoys a strong support among residents because of its intention to aid residents' wellbeing and curb the drain on public purse from money spent on healthcare linked to illnesses associated with obesity.
But when one wakes up and hears on a television program about a viewer who has the temerity to write a news anchor that she has done nothing over the years about her weight and that she is a bad role model for young girls to emulate sounds bizarre. Doesn't it seems like intruding into another person's privacy that isn't his business?
It is what the woman the man has addressed a letter has said by going public and wondering about the hell he is teaching his daughters to go to school and tell a fat person, "You are fat." It raises a question: Is fatness now a sickness and can we all be slim against a natural tendency to be fat?
MIRACLE BIRTHS AMID QUAKE RUBBLE
By Abiodun Giwa
Building destroyed by quake
A 5.7 magnitude earthquake had claimed dozens of lives in a mountainous area of South West China. But amid the rubbles were births of two babies and saving of a 40 days old baby. About 20,000 homes were destroyed and 100,000 people homeless.
"The quakes are not over yet," warned Wen Jiabao, Chinese premier, who toured the
disaster area and visited hospitals where the wounded were taken, Disaster News Network, DNN, reported.
The 5.7 Magnitude quake in Guinzhou county, followed by another 5.6 magnitude in Yiliang county, and 16 tremors.
It was not the first time the quake proned area suffered the fate. The Inquirer News online reported the area suffered an 8.0 magnitude quake in 2008 that killed tens of thousands.
"The quakes are not over yet," warned Wen Jiabao, Chinese premier, who toured the
disaster area and visited hospitals where the wounded were taken, Disaster News Network, DNN, reported.
The 5.7 Magnitude quake in Guinzhou county, followed by another 5.6 magnitude in Yiliang county, and 16 tremors.
It was not the first time the quake proned area suffered the fate. The Inquirer News online reported the area suffered an 8.0 magnitude quake in 2008 that killed tens of thousands.
BROOKLYN BARCLAYS CENTER OPENS
By Abiodun Giwa
The building sits like a big ship berthed on the sea, on a piece of expanse land, between Atlantic and Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn. It is a shot away from a branch of P.C. Richards-the electronic giant- and opposite an array of supermarkets like Target, Pathmark, and a host of other clothing stores. It has ample space in the front and sides for a large crowd to mill, and has the entrance of the subway directly open to it.
For three months, the wave of its impending opening for official business was the talk of the town. First, the MTA flashed notices of the Atlantic Train Station's name to incorporate the center's name, making it Atlantic-Barclays Center. This was followed by official commissioning of the turnstile and the entrance to the subway from the Barclays Center on September 17, 2012, and followed by official commissioning and cutting of the tape of the Barclays Center on September 20, 2012. Simultaneously on September 28, the first concert was held with Jay-Z on the bandstand.
On the day the turnstile and the entrance to the subway was opened, a young man stood and looked at the gigantic building and at the new turnstile before him awe. He was overwhelmed and said," I passed here last night, it wasn't opened. It must have opened this morning. Yes, it must have opened this morning. It is good. I like it."
Almost everyone who have seen it like the sight of the center. Those who know or have the knowledge of Brooklyn's sports and entertainment say it is a comeback story since the departure of the Dodgers in 1957. They tell stories about how the lack of business, entertainment and sports center in the borough have taken them traveling to other boroughs to watch and cheer teams that are non-Brooklyn playing and identify with them. Their recollections are nostalgic. They say the new center will increase sales for businesses connected to it in the neighborhood, and especially the restaurants and bars in adjoining streets. Everyone agree it will employ a considerable number of people in the range of thousands.
Just as there are people who are happy and cannot hide their joy over the coming of the Barclays Center, the same way there are people who say that there is no way the center would affect them positively, but would bring a situation close to chaos, traffic bottlenecks and lawlessness associated with areas where such sports and entertainment arenas are located. It isn't a surprise that as a large number of people magnify their joy on the day the tape was cut to declare the place officially open, there are people who come out with placards protesting what they call the dawn of a nightmare.
The first wonder about the Barclays Center, following the first concert on September 28, 2012 with attendance of 18000 sold out tickets, the talk about traffic jams turns out to be non-existence.The traffic runs smoothly.
However, the truth must be said as opined by Eddy Joerge who said a place like Barclays Center has a class of people who can afford to patronize it regularly. He says he doesn't belong to that class of people, because his income as a low income earner cannot be adequate for him to buy beer and food in the center. He is saying in a sense that Barclays Center is a business center and the knowledge of that area of Brooklyn as a home to major businesses and a major train station must have informed its location.
"Now that the Barclays Center is opening, and the Nets are coming home to Brooklyn as a home team, what will happen to the Barclays Center in New Jersey, the Nets former home and playing ground?" a guy who preferred to be anonymous asked.
For three months, the wave of its impending opening for official business was the talk of the town. First, the MTA flashed notices of the Atlantic Train Station's name to incorporate the center's name, making it Atlantic-Barclays Center. This was followed by official commissioning of the turnstile and the entrance to the subway from the Barclays Center on September 17, 2012, and followed by official commissioning and cutting of the tape of the Barclays Center on September 20, 2012. Simultaneously on September 28, the first concert was held with Jay-Z on the bandstand.
On the day the turnstile and the entrance to the subway was opened, a young man stood and looked at the gigantic building and at the new turnstile before him awe. He was overwhelmed and said," I passed here last night, it wasn't opened. It must have opened this morning. Yes, it must have opened this morning. It is good. I like it."
Almost everyone who have seen it like the sight of the center. Those who know or have the knowledge of Brooklyn's sports and entertainment say it is a comeback story since the departure of the Dodgers in 1957. They tell stories about how the lack of business, entertainment and sports center in the borough have taken them traveling to other boroughs to watch and cheer teams that are non-Brooklyn playing and identify with them. Their recollections are nostalgic. They say the new center will increase sales for businesses connected to it in the neighborhood, and especially the restaurants and bars in adjoining streets. Everyone agree it will employ a considerable number of people in the range of thousands.
Just as there are people who are happy and cannot hide their joy over the coming of the Barclays Center, the same way there are people who say that there is no way the center would affect them positively, but would bring a situation close to chaos, traffic bottlenecks and lawlessness associated with areas where such sports and entertainment arenas are located. It isn't a surprise that as a large number of people magnify their joy on the day the tape was cut to declare the place officially open, there are people who come out with placards protesting what they call the dawn of a nightmare.
The first wonder about the Barclays Center, following the first concert on September 28, 2012 with attendance of 18000 sold out tickets, the talk about traffic jams turns out to be non-existence.The traffic runs smoothly.
However, the truth must be said as opined by Eddy Joerge who said a place like Barclays Center has a class of people who can afford to patronize it regularly. He says he doesn't belong to that class of people, because his income as a low income earner cannot be adequate for him to buy beer and food in the center. He is saying in a sense that Barclays Center is a business center and the knowledge of that area of Brooklyn as a home to major businesses and a major train station must have informed its location.
"Now that the Barclays Center is opening, and the Nets are coming home to Brooklyn as a home team, what will happen to the Barclays Center in New Jersey, the Nets former home and playing ground?" a guy who preferred to be anonymous asked.
New York's Horrific Harvest of Rape
By Abiodun Giwa
The latest case of rape involving a 16 year old boy is the third horrific case of rape in New York City in one month. The first case involved a 73year old woman at the Central Park three weeks ago; the second happened to a 25 year old at the Hudson Park less than two weeks, and now a 16 year old pizza boy intrudes into a woman's apartment and rapes her, with her seven year old daughter asleep by her side.
"Don't you have a mother," the victim of the second rape case asked the hoodlum who raped her. Almost coincidentally the daughter of the latest victim asked her own mother, "Doesn't he have a mother?"
The increase in the cases of rape casts a shadow over Mayor Michael Bloomberg's claim that the city is the safest in the world, when women no longer feel safe in the closet of their bedroom.
Obviously, the increase in the cases of rape in the city is equally worrisome to city officials, who all shout hoax following news of the rape case at the Hudson. What their reaction will be when they come to work tomorrow, over the latest report by a pizza boy's intrusion into a woman's apartment, is uncertain.
"Don't you have a mother," the victim of the second rape case asked the hoodlum who raped her. Almost coincidentally the daughter of the latest victim asked her own mother, "Doesn't he have a mother?"
The increase in the cases of rape casts a shadow over Mayor Michael Bloomberg's claim that the city is the safest in the world, when women no longer feel safe in the closet of their bedroom.
Obviously, the increase in the cases of rape in the city is equally worrisome to city officials, who all shout hoax following news of the rape case at the Hudson. What their reaction will be when they come to work tomorrow, over the latest report by a pizza boy's intrusion into a woman's apartment, is uncertain.
