Ayo Opadokun

The Convener, Coalition of Democrats for Electoral Reforms, Chief Ayo Opadokun, says the recent increase in fuel price should compel the Federal Government to accept the N56,000 minimum wage proposed by the Nigeria Labour Congress.
Opadokun, however, said the increase in fuel price was not acceptable.
He said in order to reduce hardship in the country, an increase in the minimum wage was important.
Speaking in an interview with our correspondent on Thursday, the human rights activist said the country could not afford a showdown with labour unions.
Opadokun said, “The Federal Government, as a matter of urgency, should accept the minimum wage proposal by the NLC because many workers across the country can no longer afford this high cost of fuel. Many of them have not even been paid for some months now.”
Opadokun urged labour leaders across the country to negotiate with the Federal Government in order to reduce the fuel price.
He said, “I am not persuaded that the increase is the right thing to do. I believe the pricing template of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency is wrong because they can arrive at a better price.
“The past six weeks have not been particularly easy for many Nigerians, so there is really no dividend in embarking on any showdown and strike.
“I totally disagree with the PPPRA on the price of fuel per litre. I think the PPPRA is merely punishing Nigerians for its administrative inefficiencies.
“I will appeal to the NLC to be cautious, especially in its plan to protest the increase in fuel price. If the protection of the ordinary man is its aim, it should hold a serious discussion with the Federal Government.”
Opadokun said the way out was for the Federal Government to ensure that all the petroleum products consumed in the country were refined in Nigeria.
He asked the Federal Government to hasten its plan to establish modular refineries close to the big refineries in the country.
He added, “We need to get out of this crisis. First, it is terribly wrong to solely depend on the importation of petroleum products.
“We must refine the petroleum resources we consume in Nigeria, not outside the country.”

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operatives yesterday searched former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode’s Abuja home.
The ex-Minister is in custody in connection with the N2.5billion illegally withdrawn from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and paid into the accounts of six chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Goodluck Support Group (GSG).
Fani-Kayode allegedly got about N840million from the funds which were pumped into the 2015 presidential campaign.
The search was said to have followed intelligence reports on some of the issues emerging from the grilling of the ex-minister.
Although there was no official statement from the EFCC, a source said: “Such a search is routine in the course of conducting this type of investigation.”
A statement by Jude Ndukwe, the Special Assistant on Media to the ex-Minister, said the search was conducted without any warrant.
The statement said: “Earlier today, the EFCC invaded the residence of Chief Femi Fani-Kayode even when he was still in their custody.
“What miffed us most was their mode of operation which was forceful, provocative and dangerous as they wielded their guns with needless threats.
”The worst is that the invasion was without a warrant as they forced their way in, and after terrifying all the staff at home, including the infant, they whisked the laundry man away even though he was later released.
“This is the fourth time the EFCC operatives would be invading Chief Fani-Kayode’s residence in just under a week.
“We condemn this act of executive lawlessness, harassment and intimidation. Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has served this country even at the highest levels and he deserves some courtesy.
“We call on the EFCC to endeavour to carry out their functions within the ambit of our laws and stop brazenly betraying the fact that Chief Fani-Kayode is under persecution. The world is watching!”
The EFCC last night denied insinuations that its chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, acted in contempt of a court order over a fundamental human rights matter by an Austrian businessman, Wolfgang Reini.
A statement by the Head of Media of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said the anti-graft agency had filed an appeal against the order in question.
The statement said: “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been drawn to media reports on May 12, 2016 accusing its chairman, Ibrahim Magu, of refusing to obey an order of court in the fundamental right enforcement action brought against the Commission by an Austrian businessman, Wolfgang Reinl, who is being investigated for his role in the now infamous $2.1 billion arms deal scandal.
“Contrary to the insinuations in the media, there is no disobedience to any court order by the EFCC and its chairman as the commission had since May 9, 2016 filed a notice of appeal at the appellate court challenging the April 20, 2016 ruling by Justice Peter Affen of the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
“The appeal thus nullifies any claim of contempt.
“It is trite law that judgement cannot be enforced in the face of an appeal.
In the Nigerian legal system, an appellant has 90 days to appeal a judgement it deems inappropriate and wrong. That window is still open to the EFCC.”

Good morning! Here's the tech news you need to know to end your week.

1. Apple has taken a $1 billion (£700 million) shot at Uber. It invested $1 billion in the ride-hailing company's Chinese rival, Didi Chuxing.

2. Mark Zuckerberg says there is "no evidence" to support the Trending News controversy. The social network has been accused of suppressing conservative media outlets and news topics.

3. Google has launched a keyboard for iPhones. Gboard integrates Google's search tech into iOS devices.

4. Apple has slashed the time it takes to get an app approved for the App Store. It now takes less than two days on average, Bloomberg reports, down from nine.

5. Tech layoffs have doubled in the Bay Area. And the real number could be even higher.

6. The cofounder of Google's Android just proved why you should always be careful what you say in work email. An email he sent in 2006 could end up costing Google billions in its legal battle with Oracle.

7. Apple is no longer the world's most valuable company. Its share price dropped on Thursday — pushing Google parent company Alphabet into the lead.

8. A massive, hidden shift is driving companies to use AI bots inside Facebook Messenger. Data from Socialbakers shows just how much demand there is for customer service bots.

9. A Google-backed project helping people navigate cities using only their smartphones just took a big step forward. Wayfindr has released its Open Standard.

10. ISIS has released a new Android app aimed at children. A news broadcaster affiliated with the Islamist group has created an alphabet-learning app.

A well endowed exotic dancer has teased her after raunchy photo of her broke online as she bares flesh after getting drunk.

According to reports, an exotic dancer created a scene recently as she went totally mad at a party.

The 21-year-old endowed dancer believed to be Zimbabwean, Vimbai Muzuva allegedly got drunk at a party before being caught by the camera.

It is not really clear what happened at the party but people believe she took too much of alcohol. However, others say she was just pulling another stunt.

See photo below:

Ten person have died while over 20 persons are trapped as a four storey building came crumbling in the Itokun Market area of Ogun State, South West Nigeria.

The spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Lagos Ibrahim Farinloye said the collapsed shopping plaza was still under construction when it came down.

The Federal Minister of Health, Issac Adewole, has revealed that there is a new disease in Nigeria which has killed a Nigerian while another is currently undergoing treatment at the National Hospital Abuja.

Briefing journalists in Abuja, on Friday, Mr. Adewole said the health condition known as Stephen Johnson Syndrome (SJS) was an unusual allergic reactions in Nigeria and some parts of Europe.

He said, “We have to find a means to communicate with Nigerians,so they should all be aware of this dangerous disease and it is the sole business of government to enlighten the society by trying to increase their awareness, knowledge and to improve their quality way of life.”

Dr. Olanrewaju Falodun a Senior Consultant Physician/Dermatologist at the National Hospital, Abuja, shed more light on the disease and the cases being handled in his hospital.

“Stephens Johnson Syndrome, is an immune complex mediated hypersensitivity reaction that typically involves the skin and mucous membranes and was first described in 1922 by Albert Stevens and Frank Johnson,” Mr. Falodun said.

SJS is a rare and unpredictable reaction, and is also a minor form of toxic epidermal necrolysis with less than 10 percent body surface area involvement, the consultant said.

“SJS is a rare but serious and potentially life-threatening contagious drug reaction. Incidence of SJS is estimated between 1.1 and 7.1 cases per million per year and is more prevalent in women than men. Incidence in Europe is two per million per year” Mr. Falodun said.

He confirmed that two cases were being treated at the Abuja National Hospital, saying one patient already passed while the other was still undergoing treatment.

He said the incidence was higher in Africa due to extensive use of herbal preparations and the prevalence of HIV.
He listed the symptoms of the SJS disease to include fever, sore throat, running nose, fatigue, general aches and pains, ulcers in mouth, genitals, an*l regions as well as conjunctivitis.

The health complications, Mr. Falodun said, are pigmentation problems, skin scarring, scarred genitals, joint pains, lung diseases, obstructive disorders and eye complications, adhesions, ulcers, and blindness.

He however said the cause of the disease remained unknown in a quarter to half of cases but that self-medications appeared to be one of its causes.

He advised Nigerians to avoid misuse of drugs, while individuals with previous drug reactions should always inform healthcare practitioners so that in future they would be able to predict who is at risk of the disease using genetic screening.

Here are ways Mr. Falodun said SJS could be managed by hospitals:

1. Cessation of suspected drugs

2. Hospital Admission: Preferably in burns unit/intensive care

3. Nutritional and Fluid replacement

4. Temperature maintenance

5. Pain relief

6. Mouth-care

The FIFA Council today appointed Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura of Senegal as FIFA Secretary General (SG).

Ms Samoura is a 21-year veteran of United Nations programmes who is currently the UN’s Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria.

The announcement was made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the 66th FIFA Congress in Mexico City.

“Fatma is a woman with international experience and vision who has worked on some of the most challenging issues of our time,” President Infantino said.

“She has a proven ability to build and lead teams, and improve the way organisations perform.

Importantly for FIFA, she also understands that transparency and accountability are at the heart of any well-run and responsible organisation.”

As required under FIFA statutes, Ms Samoura will undergo an eligibility check administered by the independent Review Committee, per Article 37 of the FIFA Statutes.

Ms Samoura will assume the role of FIFA Secretary General before mid-June.

President Infantino praised Ms Samoura’s integrity, and said the Council was particularly impressed with her operational experience, as well as her expertise in governance and working in multi-cultural environments.

He said her expertise will complement the long-standing and deep knowledge of world football within the FIFA leadership team and administration.

“It is essential for FIFA to incorporate fresh perspectives – from outside the traditional pool of football executives – as we continue to restore and rebuild our organisation,"

President Infantino said. "No one exemplifies what we need more than Fatma does, and we are thrilled that she has joined our team.”

Since starting her UN career as a senior logistics officer with the World Food Programme in Rome in 1995, Ms Samoura has served as country representative or director in six countries: Republic of Djibouti, Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, Madagascar and Nigeria.

She speaks French (her mother tongue), English, Spanish and Italian.

“Today is a wonderful day for me, and I am honoured to take on the role of FIFA’s Secretary General,” Ms Samoura said.

“I believe this role is a perfect fit for my skills and experience – strategic, high impact team building in international settings – which I will use to help grow the game of football all over the world.

"I also look forward to bringing my experience in governance and compliance to bear on the important reform work that is already underway at FIFA.

FIFA is taking a fresh approach to its work – and I am eager to play a role in making that approach as effective and lasting as possible.”

In her current UN role in Nigeria, Ms Samoura has wide-ranging responsibilities including budgeting, human resources, and procurement, among others.

She coordinates the activities of approximately 2,000 staff members, and monitors and evaluates the security, political and socio-economic situation and trends in Africa’s most populous country.

Prior to joining the UN, Ms Samoura spent eight years in the private sector, working in the fertiliser trading sector for Senchim, a subsidiary of Industries Chimiques du Senegal.

Her areas of responsibility included product export and import programmes, tenders, and the establishment of a national distribution network.

Ms Samoura earned her Masters Degree in English and Spanish at the University of Lyon; and a Post-Masters Degree in international relations/international trade from the Institut d’Etudes Supérieures Spécialisées (IECS)- Strasbourg-France.

The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) on Friday commended the Federal Government for removing subsidy on petrol.
This is contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a National Executive Council of PENGASSAN and NUPENG in Calabar, Cross River.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Mr Francis Olabode-Johnson, President of PENGASSAN and his counterpart of NUPENG, Dr Igwe Achese.

Welcoming the petrol price increase, the workers stated that the measure would benefit Nigerians in the nearest future.

“After a joint meeting of NUPENG and PENGASSAN, we hereby applaud the Federal Government for the removal of subsidy to create way for private participation in the oil and gas sector.

“We will seek negotiation with the Federal Government in other to monitor the proceeds that would accrue from the price increase.

“It is not all about price increase; we must monitor the proceeds and ensure that it is being re-invested into critical sectors of the economy.

“We will watch with keen interest how the money that would accrue from the increase would be implemented to better the lives of Nigerians,’’ the communiqué said.

According to it, Nigerians have been yearning for the removal of subsidy for many years now but to no avail.

“The price is the secondary issue; the Federal Government has brought up a policy that would stop money from entering into the hands of few individuals.

“The subsidy removal is a welcome development; we must not mortgage our economy into the hands of few selfish individuals,’’ the workers said.

They said that they would push for a new minimum wage demand of N90, 000, given the new development.

“With the new pump price of N145 per litre, government must speed up the negotiation process for a new minimum wage of N90, 000 to cushion the effect of the envisaged inflation.

“ As the price of fuel increases, there should also be an increment in workers’ salary as the old minimum wage of N18, 000 has no effect again,’’ they stated.

NAN reports that both unions condemned the renewed spate of pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, and urged the government to check the illegalities of the militants.

They also urged the government not to sell refineries to private individuals as scrap, but should grant full financial autonomy to the management of the refineries for optimal production. (NAN)

A Chevron facility in the southern Niger Delta was reportedly attacked by militants on Friday, the second attack in a week on the US supermajor's operations in the restive area of Nigeria.

If confirmed, it was the latest recent attack on oil assets in the country, raising concerns of a revived militant threat in the region.

The spate of attacks have contributed to a sharp fall in Nigeria's oil production. The drop of roughly 300,000 barrels per day has brought the country's output to its lowest levels in more than two decades, according to reports.

According to a Reuters report on Friday, an explosion hit a Chevron oil well at the Marakaba pipeline in Warri. No further details were immediately available.

Chevron declined to comment.

Last week, a group calling itself the Niger Delta Avengers claimed an attack on a separate Chevron facility in the Delta region. That attack, on the Okan facility, was said to shut down 90,000 bpd of production.

Little is known about the group, but it has used its website to warn oil companies to leave the region within two weeks. It claims to be fighting for independence for the Delta region, and wants a greater share of oil revenues and an end to oil pollution.

On Thursday, the group apparently specifically warned Chevron against repairing the last week's damage.

The group has also claimed attacks that have closed Shell's 250,000-bpd Forcados terminal and two local refineries.

The companies have both reportedly evacuated staff.

In an email to journalists on Thursday, the Avengers said they would step up their attacks unless oil firms left the region within two weeks.

"If at the end of the ultimatum you are still operating, we will blow up all the locations," the statement said. "It will be bloody. So just shut down your operations and leave."

"To international oil companies, this is just the beginning and you have not seen anything yet. We will make you suffer," it said.
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Former senior special assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on public affairs, Doyin Okupe, has recounted how he begged and prostrated before former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Narrating his encounter with the former president on his Facebook page, Friday, Dr. Okupe said he ( Obasanjo),” descended on me heavily and vented his anger copiously. I prostrated and held his feet as a well trained Yoruba man and pleaded earnestly for his forgiveness.” Okupe wrote: ” Last Sunday , in the company of some friends I met with Baba Obasanjo principally to try and settle and resolve the misunderstanding that has existed between Baba and I since I joined the Jonathan’s administration,” he wrote on his Facebook page on Friday, May 13.



“Vintage Baba, he descended on me heavily and vented his anger copiously. I prostrated and held his feet as a well trained Yoruba man and pleaded earnestly for his forgiveness, occasionally given short explanations for areas I considered my actions were misunderstood. “Also typical of Baba, ever willing to forgive a repentant son, we embraced, I even kissed him as a loving son.“Politics sometimes is such a bad business, you hurt your friends and even benefactors, but its all that is well that ends well.” Okupe is one of the Chieftains of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West, who vowed to pull out of the party if its Chairmanship position is not zoned to the region.

•The protesters at the Palace of Olona of Ada, Osun State... yesterday

Angry indigenes of Ada, Aagba and Ororuwo communities in Osun State, yesterday protested against naming Iree the headquarters of the newly created Boripe North Local Local Council Dvelopment Area.

The communities were formerly under Boripe Local Government before the creation of the new LCDA.

The protesters, including youths and market women carried placards and moved around the three communities to express their dissatisfaction about the position of the state government on the matter.

Speaking with reporters, the chairman of Ada Development Council, Mr.Adewale Olugbemiga Abimbola, said that the protest was meant to let the state government know that it has done a great injustice to the three communities by going against the wishes of their people and making Iree the headquaters of the new LCDA.

He said: “Following the announcement of Iree as the purported headquarters of Boripe North Local Council Development Area by the government of State of Osun on the 8th of March, 2016, the three communities of Ada, Aagba and Ororuwo that jointly presented and requested for the location of the Boripe North LCDA headquarters at Modaa, Ada spontaneously and unanimously registered their objection and dissatisfaction via a letter of protest dated March12, 2016.

“The said letter of protest was addressed to Governor Rauf Aregbesola and was presented to him by the combined entourage of eminent personalities led by the three traditional rulers of Ada, Aagba and Ororuwo during their visit of14th March, 2016 to the Government House in Osogbo.”

He disclosed that the communities after several consultations and review of the issue across the strata of traditional rulers, council of chiefs, religious groups, opinion and political leaders, youths, market men and women, then resolved to hold a stakeholder’s meeting of the three communities on March 29, 2016 at Olona’s Palace, Ada.

According to him, through the communique signed by the Olona of Ada, Oba Abimbola Olalekan Abioye II, the Alaagba of Aagba, Oba Rufus Ilufemiloye Ogunwole Kujosin I and the Regent of Ororuwo, High Chief James Kolapo Dada, the three communities made some demands from the state government.

He said the communities have resolved to press further their demand with “this protest because the state government is not taking any concrete step to redress “this ungodly and inhuman act against our collective sensibitity.”

Earlier, the chairman of Aagba Develooment Council, Hon. Anthony Oladipupo, read out their five-point demands as contained in the comminique.

He said the three communities would remain undaunted in their request for Modaa, Ada as the headquarters of Boripe North LCDA.

Also, the chairman of Ororuwo Development Council, Mr. Folorunso Oderinu, wondered how Iree, which he said was never part of agitation for new LCDA with the three communities could be made the headquarters.

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT:
THE FUEL PRICING DEBATE:
OUR STORY Fellow Citizens:
I have read the various observations about the fuel pricing regime and the attendant issues generated. All certainly have strong points. The most important issue of course is how to shield the poor from the worst effects of the policy. I will hopefully address that in another note.



Permit me an explanation of the policy. First, the real issue is not a removal of subsidy. At $40 a barrel there isn’t much of a subsidy to remove. In any event, the President is probably one of the most convinced pro-subsidy advocates. What happened is as follows: our local consumption of fuel is almost entirely imported. The NNPC exchanges crude from its joint venture share to provide about 50% of local fuel consumption. The remaining 50% is imported by major and independent marketers. These marketers up until three months ago sourced their foreign exchange from the Central Bank of Nigeria at the official rate. However, since late last year, independent marketers have brought in little or no fuel because they have been unable to get foreign exchange from the CBN. The CBN simply did not have enough. (In April, oil earnings dipped to $550 million. The amount required for fuel importation alone is about $225million!) . Meanwhile, NNPC tried to cover the 50% shortfall by dedicating more export crude for domestic consumption. Besides the short term depletion of the Federation Account, which is where the FG and States are paid from, and further cash-call debts pilling up, NNPC also lacked the capacity to distribute 100% of local consumption around the country. Previously, they were responsible for only about 50%. (Partly the reason for the lingering scarcity). We realised that we were left with only one option. This was to allow independent marketers and any Nigerian entity to source their own foreign exchange and import fuel. We expect that foreign exchange will be sourced at an average of about N285 to the dollar, (current interbank rate). They would then be restricted to selling at a price between N135 and N145 per litre. We expect that with competition, more private refineries, and NNPC refineries working at full capacity, prices will drop considerably. Our target is that by Q4 2018 we should be producing 70% of our fuel needs locally. At the moment even if all the refineries are working optimally they will produce just about 40% of our domestic fuel needs. You will notice that I have not mentioned other details of the PPRA cost template. I wanted to focus on the cost component largely responsible for the substantial rise, namely foreign exchange. This is therefore not a subsidy removal issue but a foreign exchange problem, in the face of dwindling earnings.

Traveling can be the most divine feelings of the world for all those who simply love packing their bags and setting out on tours and expeditions. While there are travelers who book tour packages well in advance and plan their entire trip, there are some who simply put on their backpacks, bring out their two-wheeler or four wheeler and set out to enjoy the beauty of nature and of the road leading to their destination.

There is no other happiness in the world for a true travel freak at heart to enjoy the beauty of nature and experience fun on the wonderful roads the lead to wonderful destinations. In fact, there are a few roads that are so prettier and more beautiful than the picnic spots of the world that you would want to drive on them all your life and wish you never reached your destination. Want to know where these roads are? Read on!

10. Atlantic Ocean Road – Norway

For all the travel freaks across the world who love experiencing the beauty of roads more than their destination, the Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway will satisfy your thirst for nature’s beauty. This amazing and breathtaking road is built by a group of islands that connect beautiful villages to one another. The small stretch on this road, known as Country Road 64, is particularly known for its natural beauty and landscapes. The road is simply a wonderful experience for drivers and travelers and can also offer a glimpse of ocean life to passers including whales and seals.

9. Hana Highway – Maui

For all the adventure lovers and admirers of natural beauty, the Hana Highway, located in Maui, is yet another must-visit. This beautiful highway has breathtaking views that would surely offer you peace of mind and a treat to your eyes. This 84-kilometer long highway passes through a lush green tropical rainforest that makes it a live personification of beauty. However, as beautiful as the road appears, it is also tricky and offers a great challenge to drivers since the roads are narrow. In fact, driving on the road will require you to pass through 600 curves, 59 bridges some of which are even single lane and bridges that are more than 100 years old.

8. Rohtang Pass – India

The Rohtang Pass in India, well known for its picturesque landscapes and incredible beauty, is a road that can make every travel lover to pack his bags and set out on a drive. One of the most treacherous yet wonderful roads in the world, the Rohtang Pass can give you goosebumps with its beauty and landscapes. This road is open to travelers from the months of May to November since driving can be utterly dangerous in the winters due to heavy snowfall. But, if you are fortunate enough to experience zero traffic or no landslide while you are here, I bet the road will give you an experience of a lifetime with its breathtaking views of snow clad mountain peaks, rivers, and glaciers.

7. Col de I’Iseran – France

For everyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some quality time in the bounty of nature, the Col de I’Iseran road in France is a perfect getaway! One of the highest paved roads in the world, this is a road that is absolutely spectacular and amazing. While driving on this beautiful stretch of road, you are sure to be mesmerized by the beauty of the waterfalls, galleries, tunnels and all the scenic areas. The road is only accessible in the summers.

6. National Route 40 or Ruta 40 – Argentina

Experienced driving on all the roads listed so far? Give some visual treat to the traveler within you by heading to this beautiful and one of the largest highways in the world. The National Route 40, or Ruta 40, is a scenic highway that is really long and mesmerizing. Believe it or not, but the road passes through a dozen mountains and rivers and also across as many as 20 national parks. Long and utterly beautiful, this is a road that will give you the feel of a never-ending journey. And, you can even take halts to visit the pretty national parks, isn’t it?

5. US 1 – Key Largo to Key West Florida

If you are a true traveler and explorer at heart, this one is something you wouldn’t want to give a miss! The US 1 highway extending from Maine all the way to Florida is a north-south highway that every traveler must explore at least once in his life. The stunning beauty of the road is sure to captivate every driver that passes from this amazing and breathtaking highway in the US. The road passes through a number of coral reefs, islands and warm waters that are so beautiful that you sometimes get the feel of driving on the waters itself. Thrilling, isn’t it?

4. Trollstogen Road – Norway

Seems like Norway is home for several beautiful roads in the world! After the Atlantic Ocean Road, here is yet another mind blowing and breathtaking road in Norway that will give you thrills and bring out the traveler and explorer in you! This beautiful road is a literal personification of its name; it is a troll ladder with a waterfall on the top that is surely what every travel freak in the world must experience at least once in his life. A popular tourist attraction, this road has some crazy turns and twists along with captivating landscapes that can serve as an awesome treat to your eyes. It also has a car parking at the top so that tourists can overlook the beauty of the road.

3. The Cabot Trail – Nova Scotia, Canada

Quench your thirst for adventure this season and head out on a journey that is going to be unforgettable for a lifetime. A house to some of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world, Canada offers this amazing and breathtaking road for travelers that is beautiful and awesome in its own way. The Cabot Trail was built primarily to attract tourists and its is perfectly serving its purpose till date. The road passes through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and even through the rugged coastline which makes it unforgettable.

2. The Milford Road – New Zealand

If you are in New Zealand or are planning to visit the place, do not miss a drive on the amazing Milford Road. It is one of the highest roads in the country in terms of elevation and also one of the most dangerous public roads for driving. Giving thrills to the driver and traveler within you, this is the road that would put your soul to peace and offer a beautiful treat to your eyes so that your journey becomes memorable for a lifetime

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway – Appalachia

The Blue Ridge Parkway is yet another highway in Appalachia that is known to give drivers an experience of their lifetime. The 469 miles highway in the United States passes through Virginia and North Carolina and is particularly well known for its spectacular scenery, amazing rivers, creeks and limestone caves. The stunning views are surely a heaven for all the travel lovers in the world.

So have you decided your destination for your coming outing?

If not, simply pack your bags and head out for a long and mesmerizing drive on these beautiful roads!

The recent hike in the price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol, had thrown up a number of disturbing realities, that, henceforth, Nigerians are at the mercy of oil marketers, who are mainly profit-oriented; subjected to vagaries in the international crude oil market; and are at risk over low value of the naira against major international currencies.


PRESIDENT BUHARI

The fact remains that with the gradual rebound in the price of crude oil in the international market and the weak economy of the country, Nigerians are yet to see the end to the hike in the price of PMS, as Nigerians should be prepared to pay between N250 and N300 for a litre of the commodity. President Muhammadu Buhari, in his early days in office had rebuffed calls for fuel price increase, vowing not to increase the hardship of the people, especially with the challenges faced by the petroleum industry and the economy in general. His administration also promised to fix the refineries and pipeline network, increase the country’s refining capacity and secure oil facilities, as there were the conditions agreed upon with organised labour and other stakeholders before any price increment is effected. Today, the refineries are still in a dysfunctional state, pipeline sabotage is still the order of the day, while the country still refines less than five per cent of its local fuel consumption; yet the Federal Government increased the price from N87 per litre to between N135 and N145 per litre, leaving Nigerians at the mercy of market forces, in spite of the seeming less-than competitive market economy, that tilts more towards oligopoly with the existence of cartels. Though what obtains currently does not qualify for deregulation, it is believed that the marketers have been given a leeway in determining the prices within the price range of N135 and N145 per litre. It is also expected that the new price would remain in force till the end of June, pending further review based on price of crude oil in the international market and the value of the naira against major currencies. The arguments put forward by the Federal Government in hiking the price of PMS appeared tenable. Some of the arguments were centred on the inability of oil marketers to access foreign exchange (forex) at official rate from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to import the product, and the fact that the government cannot afford to pay subsidy with the current economic realities. Also, the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, stated that the new pricing regime would solve the unending fuel crisis by ensuring availability of products at all locations of the country. It also argued that the new pricing regime would reduce hoarding, smuggling and diversion substantially, and also stabilize price at the actual product price; ensure market stability and improve fuel situation through private sector participation. It added that the new price will create labour market stability, especially as it had the potential to create additional 200,000 jobs through new investments in refineries and retails, while also preventing potential job losses of nearly 400,000 jobs in existing investments. However, the Federal Government has refused to inform Nigerians of the outcome of the agreements reached with International Oil Companies, IOC, to provide foreign exchange at official rate to some oil companies to import the commodity. From recent developments, it appeared the agreement failed. The PPPRA claimed the hike in petrol price became necessary due to the rise in crude oil price and the prevailing high cost of importation, stating that due to the decline in government income there is neither funding nor appropriation to cater for subsidy in the 2016 budget. Though the hike was applauded by the organised private sector, the burden of additional increase in the prices would continue to linger until efforts are made to strengthen the economy, build more refineries, fix and secure the pipeline network, repair existing refineries and strengthen the value of the country’s currency. Until the country changes its policy on the petroleum industry, ensuring that the local oil and gas industry is insulated from the vagaries in the international market, while ensuring that its oil and gas resources are utilised for the benefit of the country with less emphasis on crude oil export, the good intentions of government would continue to be met with distrust and apathy. Specifically, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, Director, Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law (CPEEL), University of Ibadan, called on the Federal Government to delink the economy from short term commodity volatility, through the Sovereign Wealth Fund, SWF and oil price-based fiscal policy; and the creation of new and efficient institutions and structure for the sector. He advocated a full deregulation of the downstream sector to allow for private sector participation, the setting up of regulatory, institutional and legal system that responds appropriately to commodity volatility and the development of institutions to build state capacity. He said current emphasis on crude petroleum exports must stop and should be replaced with seeing petroleum as source of energy and growth enabler, while he called on the Federal Government to develop a medium to long term strategies to anticipate developments in the oil market. Adenikinju recommended that the Federal Government, “Promote vertical integration within the oil industry in order to develop a fully integrated economy that is able to generate jobs and development; provide special incentives for marginal field producers; ensure that we are part of the current innovation drive in the energy industry; and promote mergers and acquisitions by oil and gas companies.”

The Federal Government on Friday alerted Nigerians to the outbreak of a killer disease known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome in the country.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, who announced the outbreak of the disease at a news conference in Abuja, said the disease had killed one person.

He added that another person affected by the disease was responding to treatment at the National Hospital, Abuja.

Urging Nigerians not to panic, Adewole said that the Federal Government was doing everything possible to check the outbreak.

The minister described the health condition as an unusual allergic reaction to medications found in Nigeria and some parts of Europe.

He said, “We have to find a means to communicate with Nigerians, so they should all be aware of this dangerous disease and it is the sole business of the government to enlighten the society by trying to increase their awareness, knowledge and to improve their quality way of life.”

The minister urged Nigerians to be vigilant and seek urgent medical attention should they notice any sign of a rare disease.

Adewole urged members of the public to be more careful while using medications of all kinds.

He announced that the call became necessary considering the fact that a sibling of marathoner, Fedeshola Adedayo, died of the ailment.

He called for increased awareness in the use of drugs and in the reading of drug leaflets.

The minister also called attention to the need for thorough scrutiny of drug leaflets before taking such drugs to guide against adverse effects.

He urged Nigerians to always involve health practitioners when unexplained reactions occur as a result of infections or in the use of drugs as the syndrome is unpredictable and more prevalent in women.

At the press conference, a Senior Consultant Physician/Dermatologist at the National Hospital, Abuja, Dr. Olanrewaju Falodun, explained the symptoms of the disease and the cases being treated in his hospital.

“SJS is an immune complex mediated hypersensitivity reaction that typically involves the skin and mucous membranes and was first described in 1922 by Albert Stevens and Frank Johnson,” Falodun said.

“SJS is a rare and unpredictable reaction, and is also a minor form of toxic epidermal necrolysis with less than 10 per cent body surface area involvement.”

“SJS is a rare but serious and potentially life-threatening contagious drug reaction. Incidence of SJS is estimated between 1.1 and 7.1 cases per million per year and is more prevalent in women than men. Incidence in Europe is two per million per year.”

According to him, the incidence of the disease is higher in Africa because of the extensive use of herbal drugs and the prevalence of HIV.

Falodun explained that the symptoms of the SJS disease include fever, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, general aches and pains, ulcers in mouth, genitals, an*l regions as well as conjunctivitis.

According to him the health complications include pigmentation problems, skin scarring, scarred genitals, joint pains, lung diseases, obstructive disorders and eye complications, adhesions, ulcers, and blindness.

The medical doctor said the cause of the disease was unknown, adding that self-medications appeared to be one of its causes.

He urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication, adding that individuals with previous drug reactions should report to health care practitioners.

The management of the disease include cessation of suspected drugs; hospital admission, preferably in burns unit/intensive care; nutritional and fluid replacement; temperature maintenance; pain relief and mouth care.

A pathologist, Dr. Idris Durojaiye, described SJS as “a very severe reaction to drugs.”

He said, “The whole skin will peel off but it is usually linked to a drug that the person has taken, so if there is an outbreak, it is because people are reacting to a particular drug being circulated.

“It is usually doctors that can try to identify the drugs that may be responsible because if there is an outbreak, it means there is a pattern. So basically, it is the duty of the health authorities to trace the pattern to know if there is a particular drug that is responsible for it.

“Normally, a patient cannot know if he would react to a drug because you cannot know if you have never reacted to the drug before. So my advice is that whatever drugs that people have reacted to in the past, they should try and avoid it. But the problem is that if you have never taken a drug before, you cannot know if you will react to it.

“If the health authorities can find out if the patients took something that is common to both of them; there has to be a link somewhere if the patients are in the same location.”

Former Chairman and Secretary, Nigeria Medical Association, Lagos State Chapter, Dr. Olusola Olowoselu, described SJS as not completely new.

He said, “It is something we in the medical profession encounter from time to time in the hospital. The disease is mostly managed by dermatologists.

“We encounter it all the time especially among patients using certain types of drugs like Septrin, Metirapin, and a host of others. Some individuals are sensitive and so their bodies react to medications in different ways.

“Beyond medications, infection can also play a role in persons being afflicted with the ailment. It is something we see and deal with all the time in the hospital.”

The Medical Director of OAR Hospital, Ile-Epo, Lagos, Dr. Abiodun Ojifinni, also said that SJS was not a new disease in Nigeria and that it does not break out regularly.

Ojifinnin identified the symptoms of the disease as rashness all over the human body and fever, among others.

“The disease is contagious and once it kills one or two people, it disappears to break out some years later,” he said.

The symptoms of the disease include facial swelling, tongue swelling, hives, skin pain, blisters on the skin and shedding of the skin, according to Mayo Clinic.

It described the disease as a “rare and unpredictable reaction”, which is usually “triggered by a medication or an infection.”

Drugs identified as possible causes of SJS include anti-gout medications, such as allopurinol; pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others); and naproxen sodium (Aleve).

Others include medications to fight infection, such as penicillin, medications to treat seizures or mental illness (anticonvulsants and antipsychotics) and radiation therapy

The clinic identified infections that can cause the disease to include: “Herpes (herpes simplex or herpes zoster); Pneumonia; HIV and Hepatitis.”

In the United States, about 300 new diagnoses are made each year. The condition is more common in adults than in children. Women are affected more often than men, with cases occurring at a two to one ratio.

If 10 per cent of the body surface area is involved, the disease has a mortality rate of around five per cent.

Less than 24 hours after the Federal Government announced a new price of N145 per litre for petrol, which signaled the end to the subsidy regime, queues have disappeared from filling stations in some parts of the country. This is even as more reactions trailed the new price regime with some Nigerians hailing the move, while others condemned the government action.

Across the country, the long queues that have been on for more than two months have disappeared. In Lagos and its environs, most filling stations are now dispensing to the public, lending credence to the argument that some of them were hoarding the product.

Most of the stations are however selling above the N145 cap. One of the stations on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Amoo Oil sold at N150 per litre. However, in some other states, the price still hovers between N250 and N300 per litre. In Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, most of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, mega stations that have not been selling in past few weeks opened for business yesterday, with their pump price adjusted to N145. Most independent marketers are selling at between N250 and N200, while motorists are already complaining that some of the stations are under dispensing, despite selling far above the new price. Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, CESJET, applauded the president’s resolve to remove subsidy, describing it as a gift to Nigerians. CESJET’s Executive Secretary, Comrade Ikpa Isaac, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, said the removal of the subsidy will end the incessant fuel crises, which have put the nation and innocent citizens at the mercy of a certain cabal.

He said: “Different revelations have emerged of massive fraud in the fuel subsidy process; trillions of naira is alleged to have been fraudulently stolen from the government purse in the name of fuel subsidy payments. “It is heart wrenching to discover that the country is being bled on the side, despite its already anemic financial status.” Ikpa said the removal of subsidy will not only break the cabal, but also encourage those who have had approved refining licenses several years ago to go ahead to build their refineries. Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, University of Ibadan chapter, Dr Deji Omole, called on Nigerians to resist the increment. Omole, while speaking with journalists in Ibadan yesterday, described the present government as that of propaganda and impunity. While flaying the news of the increment as an insult to the sensibilities of Nigerians, Omole said all that has to be celebrated under the Buhari government is one year of poverty through increment in electricity tariff and many other anti-poor policies.

He insisted that the government thrives on propaganda, wondering why the All Progressives Congress, APC, which campaigned that there was no subsidy under the Goodluck Jonathan administration, is now talking about subsidy. The ASUU boss noted that it is sad that since 2009, no single kobo has been added to the ‘poverty wage’ being paid to workers, stating that the cost of living within the same period has quadrupled. Omole called for mass resistance to what he called the ‘callous’ policy. Legal icon and founder, Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, in his reaction described the increment as a sad story. He said it was because the increment would cause more hardship for many Nigerians, majority of who live below the poverty line of two dollar a day. Aare Babalola made the observation in an exclusive interview with National Mirror in Ado-Ekiti. He said he foresaw the increment coming because it was just impossible to sustain fuel importation on subsidy. He however added that it was unfortunate and painful, the adverse effect of the increment on ordinary Nigerians.

“I never believe in subsidising imported fuel and since I am not in government and also not among the policy makers, there is little or nothing I can do in that regard,” he said. He however urged Nigerians to cooperate with and support the current government in every area and with every mean possible to be able to move the country forward. House of Representatives Majority Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, said the increase was necessary but untimely. Gbajabiamila, who spoke to newsmen in Abuja, however, insisted that in the light of the increase, government must accede to the demand by labour to pay a new minimum wage of N56,000.

The lawmaker said he has always opposed the removal of subsidy, but now, as a key leader of the ruling APC, he was in a dilemma. He pointed out that the only justification for any such increase now would be the wage increase, as there was the need for a review of the minimum wage to cushion the effects of the deregulation. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, said the new pump price of N145 would help to sustain supply and reduce the suffering to get the product. Kachikwu told newsmen in Abuja yesterday that NNPC did not have the resources to supply the product to meet the demands of the nation.

“I want to explain the situation with the recent price of the PMS and I know that a lot of you that watched the movement of the price from N86 to N145 will understand more. “The reality is that we are unable to bring the product with the prices we sold before, that is why we see the systemic queues all over the country for a very long time. “I will urge you to trust that we are trying to do what is right and there is no better time to do this other than now under the leadership of President Buhari,” he said He added that non-availability of foreign exchange and inability to open letter of credit forced marketers to stop products importation. This, he said, imposed 90 per cent supply on NNPC since October 2015 against its supply strength of 48 per cent.

This development, Kachikwu said, contributed to the continuous queue witnessed in the country. He said with the NN86.50 pump price of PMS, Federal Government would have been paying subsidy of N13.7 per litre, which he added, translated to N16.4bn monthly. The minister said government could not go on with such funding and had completely removed subsidy and working with the price modulation to get things done right. He added that the renewed pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta had drastically reduced national crude oil production to 1.4 million barrels per day as at yesterday.

This, he added, was against 2.2 million barrels per day as proposed in the 2016 budget. “This will further reduce income to the federation account and also affect crude volume for PMS conversion and Federal Government’s foreign earning. “To continue massive importation of PMS, it is clear that unless immediate action is taken to liberalise the petroleum supply and distribution, the queues will persist,” he said. The minister said diversion would worsen and the current price spiral out of control. Kachikwu further said if pump price was not increased, more states would have no money to pay salaries as monies accrued to the federation account would not be able to solve their needs. He assured that the current policy would help to sustain and create jobs instead of job loss that was witnessed in the system. The minister said the situation would also put to an end various sharp practices such as hoarding, smuggling, and diversion and ensure market stability.

“It will potentially create additional 200,000 jobs through new investments and prevent potential loss of nearly 400,000 jobs in existing investments. “It will provide government more revenue to address social and infrastructural needs of the country,” he added He urged Nigerians to trust government’s effort to ensure growth and development in the oil sector.

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After being consulted prior to the deregulation of the downstream sector of the oil industry, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday resolved to join forces with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to mobilise Nigerian workers to shut down the whole country starting from next week Wednesday should the federal government fail to reverse the recent hike in the price of petrol from N86.50 to N145 per litre.

However, in a sign of a major crack in the labour family, The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) yesterday applauded government’s decision to deregulate and scrap fuel subsidy, describing the decision as courageous and long overdue.

They made their positions known at a press conference staged at the end of their joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the Transcorp Hotel in Calabar.

In a related development, Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo yesterday stated the rationale behind the federal government removal of fuel subsidy, saying it could no longer provide the foreign exchange for the importation of the product.

The NLC threat to shut down the nation was made after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the Labour House, Abuja.

The NLC NEC gave the federal government till midnight of Tuesday within which to revert to the old prices of petrol products and electricity, or face a total nationwide strike.

The congress said there would be formal communication today in Abuja about the strike option, and that labour will address all the issues at stake and plans to ground the whole country.

“The NLC has deliberately delayed their press conference till today (Saturday) in order to liaise with their TUC counterpart, harmonise their positions and jointly address the media,” said a source.

Labour also directed all its affiliate unions across the states to put in place a monitoring team to ensure the success of the planned strike.

Osinbajo: we can no longer provide forex for fuel importation

Meanwhile, the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has clarified that the federal government removed petrol subsidy because it could no longer provide the foreign exchange for the importation of the product.

Osinbajo said the issue was not subsidy removal but foreign exchange problem, and described President Muhammadu Buhari as one of the pro-subsidy advocates.

In a statement made available yesterday by his spokesman, Mr. Laolu Akande, the vice president revealed that since last year, the private marketers had imported little or no product because they had been unable to get enough foreign exchange from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He noted that until three months ago, the marketers had sourced their foreign exchange from the apex bank at the official rate.

“However, since late last year, independent marketers have brought in little or no fuel because they have been unable to get foreign exchange from the CBN. The CBN simply did not have enough. (In April, oil earnings dipped to $550 million. The amount required for fuel importation alone is about $225million!),” Osinbajo said.

“I have read the various observations about the fuel pricing regime and the attendant issues generated. All certainly have strong points. The most important issue of course is how to shield the poor from the worst effects of the policy,” he added.

Providing further explanation to justify the measure, Osinbajo said the real issue was not a removal of subsidy, adding that a $40 a barrel there was not much of a subsidy to remove.

He described President Muhammadu Buhari as probably one of the most convinced pro-subsidy advocates.

“What happened is as follows: our local consumption of fuel is almost entirely imported. The NNPC exchanges crude from its joint venture share to provide about 50 per cent of local fuel consumption. The remaining 50 per cent is imported by major and independent marketers,” he said.

According to him, the NNPC tried to cover the 50 per cent shortfall by dedicating more export crude for domestic consumption.

He said besides the short term depletion of the Federation Account, which is where the federal government and States are paid from, and further cash-call debts pilling up, the corporation also lacked the capacity to distribute 100 per cent of local consumption around the country.

Osinbajo added that previously, NNPC was responsible for only about 50 per cent.

“We realised that we were left with only one option. This was to allow independent marketers and any Nigerian entity to source their own foreign exchange and import fuel. We expect that foreign exchange will be sourced at an average of about N285 to the dollar, (current interbank rate). They would then be restricted to selling at a price between N135 and N145 per litre.

“We expect that with competition, more private refineries, and NNPC refineries working at full capacity, prices will drop considerably. Our target is that by Q4 2018 we should be producing 70% of our fuel needs locally. At the moment even if all the refineries are working optimally they will produce just about 40% of our domestic fuel needs,” Osinbajo explained.

The vice president said he did not mention other details of the PPPRA cost template because he wanted to focus on the cost component largely responsible for the substantial rise, namely foreign exchange.

“This is therefore not a subsidy removal issue but a foreign exchange problem, in the face of dwindling earnings,” he added.

PENGASSAN, NUPENG back FG, demand N90,000 minimum wage…

National President of NUPENG, Comrade Igwe Achese, who addressed journalists on behalf of both bodies, described government’s decision to deregulate the downstream sector as a courageous policy that was long overdue.

“The deregulation of the sector is what we have been agitating for, for the past eight years or more. But each time we want to react, Nigerians want to live on the bedrock of lies. And that has been our problem. We have been living on the bedrock of lies. Successive governments come in, what we hear are full of lies. The oil and gas sector must have transparency and it is only when it is transparent that the nation’s economy will begin to grow and job opportunities would be created.

NUPENG and PENGASSAN however said that they would push for a new minimum wage of N90,000, given the new development. “With the new pump price of N145 per litre, government must speed up the negotiation process for a new minimum wage of N90,000 to cushion the effect of the envisaged inflation. As the price of fuel increases, there should also be an increment in workers’ salary as the old minimum wage of N18,000 has no effect again,’’ they stated.

Barcelona sealed their 24th La Liga title as Luis Suarez took his tally for the season to 59 goals with a hat-trick in a 3-0 win at Granada to hold off Real Madrid’s late-season surge. Real registered their 12th consecutive La Liga win, 2-0 at Deportivo La Coruna thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo’s double, but finished a point behind their bitter rivals.

Suarez’s treble also sees him become the first player in seven years other than Ronaldo and Barca teammate Lionel Messi to win the Pichichi award for La Liga’s top goalscorer with 40.

“We are deserving champions,” said Suarez. “We had to suffer, the pressure was put on us in the final few games, but this team is built to win titles.”

Barca had seemed set to cruise to the title until a run of three consecutive defeats for the first time in 13 years last month.

However, they bounced back like champions as, inspired by Suarez’s 14 goals, they scored 24 times without reply in the last five games to win the title. “We played very well over the course of the season. We were top for many weeks and the most consistent team wins the title,” said Barca boss Luis Enrique.

“We have won six of the last eight titles, which shows the club has a winning mentality. We must value each title win because each one is very difficult.”

Barca were put under pressure early on as Ronaldo struck after just seven minutes to put Madrid in front in La Coruna.

However, their nerves were settled by a brilliant team move on 22 minutes as Neymar freed Jordi Alba down the left and his low cross was turned into an empty net by Suarez at the back post.

Suarez then doubled Barca’s advantage when he nipped in ahead of Andres Fernandez to head in Dani Alves’s cross at the near post. Suarez sealed a stunning season when he completed his hat-trick from Neymar’s unselfish square pass.

“Six leagues from the last eight speaks of the cycle of success we continue to maintain and have to try to extend as long as possible,” added Barca captain Andres Iniesta.

Higuain also Sets New Serie A Goals Record

Gonzalo Higuain hit a hat-trick in Napoli’s final game of the season to beat a 66-year-old record for the number of goals scored in a single Serie A season. Argentina striker Higuain went into the final game against Frosinone two goals short of equalling Gunnar Nordahl’s 1950 record of 35 goals in a 20-team, three-points-for-a-win Serie A campaign. But after Napoli captain Marek Hamsik gave the hosts a 44th minute lead, Higuain hit the net three times to take the score to 4-0 in the 72nd minute and take his tally to 36.

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Guys, what would you do if you were the groom?


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