US Travel Ban List: Chad Pleads on Trump Administration to Reverse Decision

 Chad has called on the US government to reverse its decision to include the country on its travel ban list.

Foreign Minister Madeleine Alingué said in a statement that the decision undermined the image of Chad and good relations between the two countries.

She added that Chad was a partner in the fight against terrorism and that the ban would ruin its bilateral relationship with the US.

Citizens of Chad are now banned from gaining business and tourist visas for the US.

Seven other countries are also affected by the ban - Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, North Korea and Venezuela - while Sudan was removed from the list.

US President Donald Trump's original ban in March was highly controversial, as it affected six majority-Muslim countries, and was widely labelled a "Muslim ban". It has been challenged in court.

What does the travel ban mean for Chad?

President Trump's proclamation will come as a surprise to many Lake Chad Basin watchers, but US intelligence suggests that Chadian authorities have not been sharing information relating to public safety and terrorism with their US counterparts.

The US also said that Chad, a mainly Muslim country, was a haven for jihadist groups but among the Lake Chad Basin nations (Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria) , it has suffered the fewest attacks from Boko Haram militants.

There is little to indicate that the activity of these groups in Chad is anywhere as significant as in, for example, Nigeria, which recently received US support in an arms and aircraft deal.

Chad has been, in Washington's words, "an important and valuable" partner in the fight against Islamist militancy and its capital Ndjamena is home to the headquarters of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) formed to tackle Boko Haram.

Lack of international support

Chad has also hosted the annual US-led Flintlock military exercise in West Africa three times.

France is another Western power that has seen value in keeping Chad close, basing its regional counter-terrorism force Operation Barkhane in Ndjamena.

It has not expressed any concerns - at least, not publicly - about its African partner not sharing intelligence.

President Idris Deby has long complained about the lack of international support in funding the fight against Boko Haram, even threatening to withdraw his troops from the MNJTF.

His forces have struggled to sufficiently police its vast northern regions and this could be part of what the US is concerned about.

However, over the years, Chadian troops have proven their effectiveness in battle during military interventions in the Central African Republic and Mali.

More recently, they made a significant contribution in suppressing Boko Haram fighters between 2014 and 2015 when the group controlled huge swathes of territory in neighbouring Nigeria.

Losing Chad's cooperation would be major blow to counter-terrorism efforts in the region.

This curious attempt to arm-twist the central African nation could be counter-productive.

Exxon Mobile factor?

Observers wonder whether Chad's troubles started when it attempted to slap a record $74bn fine on US oil giant Exxon Mobil.

At the time, the current US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson headed the company.

Exxon Mobil was accused of not making royalty payments but eventually avoided the fine, more than seven times Chad's gross domestic product, as both parties reached a settlement.

There is however little to suggest it was the cause of this ban.

Chad might feel hard done-by to suffer this punishment despite its counter-terrorism track record, while its eastern neighbour Sudan - labelled as a state sponsor of terrorism - is being removed from the US' bad books.

President Deby would not want to see his country experience similar diplomatic and economic isolation (from the West, at least).

Sudan out, Chad in

Sudan will see its omission from the travel ban list as a sign that the Trump administration will also remove wider economic sanctions on the country on 12 October.

The sanctions were first put in place in 1997 when Sudan was named a state sponsor of terrorism, while further penalties were imposed for alleged abuses carried out in the troubled Darfur region.

The State Department concluded that Sudan was cooperating better on counter-terrorism, and in improving humanitarian access to conflict areas, like Darfur.

In August, the Deputy Commander of the US Africa Command, General Alexander Laskaris, visited the capital Khartoum as both countries worked on resuming military cooperation.

Sudan will see the thawing of relations with the US and the outside world as a boost as it seeks to revive its bruised economy, one of the largest in the region.

It will welcome the renewed ability to trade freely with international partners and see this as a path to attracting investment in its agriculture, mining and petroleum sectors.

Source: BBC

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Lawmakers seek to oust Iraqi president over Kurdish independence vote

Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Some Iraqi legislators are attempting to oust Iraqi President Fuad Masum over the controversial Kurdish independence referendum.

Masum is being accused by opposing lawmakers of not upholding his oath of office to keep Iraq united.

"Masum was sworn in to maintain the unity of Iraq and his non-compliance with that means he failed to abide by his oath," one lawmaker told the Anadolu Agency on Tuesday, while collecting signatures to remove the Kurdish president from power.

Other leaders suggested that Kurdish legislators might also have to leave parliament.

"There is no need for the presence of Kurdish MPs in parliament since they supported the [independence] referendum," another lawmaker said.

In response to the referendum, held Monday, Iraqi officials deployed troops to several disputed areas under the control of the Kurdish Regional Government, as well as other land being fought over between Baghdad and Erbil.

Anglophone Crisis: National Commission on Bilingualism and Multiculturalism Meets Njiat, Cavaye, Others

The chairman of the National Commission on Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, Peter Mafany Musonge has called on the population of the North West and South West regions to exercise patience. Talking to the press after meeting with the President of the Senate, Marcel Niat Njifenji and the Speaker of the National Assembly, Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, he (Musonge) called on the Peoples’ representatives to champion the promotion of Bilingualism and multiculturalism.

Peter Mafany Musonge called for the collaboration with the Senate which is one of the highest institutions of the country to engage in the promoting Bilingualism, Multiculturalism and living together in Cameroon.

All the members of the commission were presented formally to the President of the Senate during the visit.

A similar meeting according to reports took place at the National Assembly where the commission members had a discussion with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Cavaye Yegiue Djibril.

Discussions also focused on the ongoing crisis in the North West and South West regions of Cameroon. The chairman of the National Commission on Bilingualism and Multiculturalism urged all Cameroonians to remain calm, responsible and avoid actions that might lead to the destruction of what has been built because tomorrow what is destroyed would have to be rebuilt.

eter Mafany Musonge in his word to the population of the North West and South West regions, said they should know that they grievances have been heard and they are being addressed.

He added that it requires a bit of patience for all that they have asked for to be studied and adequate responses provided.

The members of the National Commission on Bilingualism and Multiculturalism are scheduled to continue their three day visits to state institutions on the 26th and 27th September 2017.

According to their official schedule, the commission members are expected to meet the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Philemon Yang as well as President of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Ekobe Daniel and the President of the Economic and Social Council, Ayang Luc.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Music Industry Reveals Highest Paid Music Artiste in Nigeria

It will stun Nigerian music enthusiasts that David 'Davido' Adeleke despite the regular showcase of his opulent lifestyle, isn't the highest paid artiste in Nigeria.

 

Olamide

 

Seasoned artiste manager, Alex Ozone has revealed the highest paid artiste in Nigeria.

 

Ozone said that YBNL boss, Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide or Badoo is currently the highest paid in terms of international shows.

 

Ozone said this in a chat with Showtime while commenting on fees Nigerian artistes charge for shows in the United Kingdom and United States.

 

The manager, who has over 17-years experience in artiste management, revealed that though Davido, Wizkid, Tekno, Kiss Daniel and others are worth a fortune, Olamide is the most expensive.

 

According to him, “The business doesn’t have a fixed price, it depends on the artiste; I cannot tell you how much each of them is worth.

“But like I told you, I have worked with Wizkid, Tekno, Oritsefemi, Patoranking, Davido, Terry G, Kiss Daniel, YQ, Skales, Olamide, and Timaya.

 

“They are all good, they know their worth. But in Nigeria, Olamide has the highest rate.”

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Health: Here are the 8 Natural Ways to Improve Blood Circulation

The blood in the human body should be given adequate attention as it goes a long way in determining the well-being of an individual.

 

File Photo

 

Most people don’t give blood circulation much thought. Even when they have common symptoms of poor blood circulation like numbness in the legs and hands, cold hands and feet, fatigue and swollen feet or fingers.

 

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious problems like cardiovascular disease and stroke. Luckily, there are things you can start doing today to improve circulation. But making these changes may not help much if you don’t avoid habits that cause poor blood circulation. These habits include: Heavy alcohol drinking, tobacco smoking, poor diet, inactivity, high caffeine intake.

 

Get a good massage

 

Massage creates pressure which forces blood in congested areas to flow. This pressure also allows easy flow of new blood to different body parts. Get a good massage several times a week if you experience the symptoms of poor blood circulation I mentioned above.

 

Add herbs into your diet

 

Some herbs are good for blood circulation. They strengthen the blood vessels and help unclog the arteries.

 

Research shows that gingko biloba and cayenne pepper improve circulation. Cayenne pepper strengthens the blood vessels and stimulates the heart while gingko biloba improves blood flow which consequently improves memory.

 

Other helpful herbs include garlic, ginger, bilberry and parsley.

 

Keep your legs elevated

 

It’s hard for blood to flow from the feet to the heart since it has to flow uphill. In fact, this is the main reason poor blood circulation largely affects the legs. Elevating your legs will make it easier for blood to flow. Lift the legs above heart level and keep them elevated for 20 minutes.

 

Exercise every day

 

There’s a lot of research showing that exercise improves blood circulation. Even simple exercises like walking, climbing stairs can help. You may want to start with low intensity exercises if you’re out of shape and then increase intensity as you get fitter.

 

Reduce salt intake

 

Research shows that high salt intake can cause poor blood circulation. This is alarming because most people consume an average of 3.4 grammes of salt a day. That’s higher than the recommended 2.3 grammes per day.

 

Avoiding canned food and reading food labels can help reduce sodium in your diet.

 

Don’t wear tight clothes for long

 

Those skinny jeans can cut off blood circulation to the legs, research shows. In fact, one woman had to be hospitalised for four days because of squatting while wearing skinny jeans. On the other hand, clothes like the compression socks are said to improve blood circulation in the legs.

 

Drink more water

 

I don’t think you need any convincing that water is good for your health. Aim for two litres of water a day.

 

Here are tips that can help you drink more water.

 

Add nuts into your diet

 

Nuts contain vitamins and minerals that can improve blood circulation. According to this study, raw almonds and walnuts boost blood circulation. Nuts are also a great source of healthy fats. But eat them in moderation if you want to lose weight.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

US Adds Three New Countries to Its Controversial Travel Ban (See List)

 The United States of America has added three new countries to its controversial travel ban.

President Donald Trump

 

The United States has expanded its controversial travel ban to include people from North Korea, Venezuela and Chad. The White House said the restrictions follow a review of information sharing by foreign governments.

 

Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation late on Sunday.

 

"Making America safe is my number one priority. We will not admit those into our country we cannot safely vet," Mr Trump said.

 

The restrictions on Venezuelans apply only to government officials and their family members. The three new countries join five others from Mr Trump's original travel ban: Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Somalia. But the new proclamation removed restrictions that were placed on Sudan.

 

Mr Trump's original ban was highly controversial, as it affected six majority-Muslim countries, and was widely labelled a "Muslim ban". It was subject to a range of legal challenges and several large-scale protests, and is due to be considered by the US Supreme Court in October, having been partly reinstated in July.

 

The American Civil Liberties Union rights group said the addition of the new countries "doesn't obfuscate the real fact that the administration's order is still a Muslim ban". It is not yet clear how the president's new proclamation, which changes several key elements, will affect that legal challenge.

 

The addition of North Korea and Venezuela now means not all nations on the list are majority-Muslim. The criteria for the new ban list is now based on vetting procedures and co-operation, and the restrictions have now been "tailored" on a country-by-country basis:

 

*The White House said North Korea did not co-operate with the US government "in any respect" and failed all requirements - and so all travel to the US by its citizens has been banned.

 

*Chad, while an important counter-terrorism partner, did not share terrorism-related and other public information the US required - business and tourist visas for its nationals are suspended.

 

*Only "certain Venezuelan government officials and their immediate family members" have been banned - its government has recently been hit with economic sanctions by the US, who now say it does not co-operate "in verifying whether its citizens pose national security or public-safety threats" and does not receive deported nationals willingly.

 

Most of the restrictions come in the form of suspension of B-1 and B-2 business and tourist visas, and they do not appear to be time-limited in the way that Mr Trump's former executive order was.

 

In a fact sheet accompanying Mr Trump's proclamation, the White House said that while Iraq also falls short of the required criteria, the country was not included in the new restrictions "because of the close co-operative relationship between the United States" and their part in fighting so-called Islamic State.

 

The restrictions come into effect on 18 October, but will not apply to those already in possession of a valid visa, the White House said.

 

-BBC News

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

P-Square Music Group Finally Split

Amidst the rumours making the rounds that the P-Square brothers are having issues, Peter Okoye has now revealed to his fans that he is on his own after issuing a letter to their lawyer, demanding a split from the group.

Peter & Paul Okoye

 

Years of dominating the Nigerian music industry, the multi-award winning pop duo, Peter Okoye and Paul Okoye of P-Square music group, have finally split and gone onto their separate ways.

 

Here is how LIB exclusivley reported the story in full;

 

***************************

"Famous Nigerian music duo, PSqaure have split up years after news of their first explosive fight hit the internet and this is sadly 100% true!

Here's what happened! Peter sparked speculation recently that all was not well with him and his twin brother/business partner - Paul after he referred to himself as Mr. P (his personal brand name). He also dropped cryptic messages on Instagram, one of it addressing how no one's opinion should matter about something that makes you happy.

Though no names were mentioned, Paul Okoye replied in a post via his own Instagram page, talking about how the birth of his twins was making someone jealous and restless.

 

He accused the person of having sleepless nights, and also indirectly called out Peter's wife Lola - saying; "Only a woman can come where there's peace and destroy it. Try me this time, I swear Nyash go open. You will know that blood is thicker and stronger than juju."

LIB can now exclusively confirm that Peter has sent a termination letter to their lawyer Festus Keyamo (SAN), demanding for a termination of the agreement between Psquare.

In the letter (which LIB has obtained), he defends his decision by making some serious allegations against his twin Paul and older brother/group manager Jude.

According to Peter, Paul is no longer willing to co-operate with him, even going as far as cancelling their planned US tour this year without informing him, and he (Peter) has exhausted all options to make it work.

He also accused Paul of slandering his wife and children with lies on social media, and alleged that they've now been receiving threatening messages.

Peter further accused his older brother Jude of once threatening to kill him and shoot his wife Lola. This allegedly happened in the presence of Paul and former first lady of Cross River state Mrs Imoke. Jude allegedly also threatened to bring a coffin for him (Peter) if he ever comes near his house.

Peter insists that he has had enough of the drama and wants out of the Psqaure group and contract. The singer who now refers to himself as Mr. P, stated that he loves his brothers and their families, and he wishes them the very best in their careers. However he cannot betray his wife and kids as they are very important to him."

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Anglophone Crisis: How People Power Eclipsed Administration, Elected Officials

The massive peaceful protest that took place in several Cameroon English-speaking towns and villages on Friday September 22, 2017 in protest against the continuous detention of some of the inhabitants of the regions was described as the people power by expressionists .
The demonstrations in the North West and South West Regions come at the time when President Paul Biya was addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York.   Despite bans issued by Mezam Division and Bui Division SDOs and another by the Governor of the North-West Region on movement of persons at night the population came out massively to stage a peaceful protest.
The demonstration spread to Buea in the South-West Region where women led the march with hundreds behind them carrying leaves, tree branches and flags of the Cameroon separatist movement.

Reports say about five persons were killed as the defiant protesters were trying to draw the attention of the international community on the Southern Cameroons case. More so, there have been widespread rumours that some five Members of Parliament resigned due to the pressure from the population, yet haven’t submitted official resignation letters to the Speaker of the National Assembly. Political analysts say the move was more political given that they said MPs (four of the SDF party and one from the CPDM are still to submit a written document).

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

U.S. Won't Strike North Korea because of Nukes-Russian Foreign Minister

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Sunday he is confident the United States will not strike North Korea. File Photo by Justin Lane/EPA-EFE

Matters Arising from UNGA: Mugabe Says Trump is Modern Version of Biblical Goliath

Zimbabwe's President, Robert Mugabe doesn't seem to be a fan of US President Donald Trump, that is if his speech at the UN general assembly is anything to go by.

Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe

While speaking at the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, the 93-year-old President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, called on US President, Donald Trump to embrace peace and dialogue which are the tenets of the United Nations.

Mugabe said Trump threatened the existence of other nations, adding that the US President is a modern version of the biblical Goliath who now threatens to make other countries go extinct.

Read an excerpt of his speech below:

“We believe a different and better world is possible. The continued denial of the rights to self-determination to the people of Western Sahara and Palestine, who are living under colonial and foreign occupation, is immoral and an urgent issue for those seeking peace in our time.

“My country is an unflinching advocate of the respect of independent and sovereignty rights of each country. We cannot, however, remain silent when those decisions negatively affect our own welfare.

“And on this, may I say some of us were embarrassed, if not frightened, by what appears to be the return of the biblical giant called Goliath. Are we having the return of Goliath to our midst who threatens the extinction of other countries?

“May I say, today, United States President, Mr. Trump, please blow your trumpet in a musical way towards the values of peace, unity, co-operation, togetherness, dialogue which we have always stood for and which we read in our very sacred document —  the charter of the United Nations.

“Upon those values, each nation can build its greatness, including the United States. And it’s the greatness in recognising those values that we will want to be guided by and not by the promise of our damnation.

“Damnation we shall always resist, no matter whence it comes. We have resisted when it was in the form of imperialism, as we fought for our own independence and culture and sovereignty to be masters of our own destiny.

“That is why we call ourselves free today… It is because the monster of imperialism was defeated by us. Bring us another monster by whatever name, he will suffer the same consequences,” Mugabe said.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

WWE No Mercy: Roman Reigns Overcomes John Cena, Brock Lesnar Wins

Roman Reigns (L) locks down John Cena during their match Sunday at WWE No Mercy. Photo courtesy of WWE/Twitter

 

Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Two main events including Roman Reigns taking on John Cena and Brock Lesnar defending his title against Braun Strowman took place Sunday during WWE's Raw-exclusive pay-per-view event, No Mercy.

The first main event featured a battle between two of the WWE's biggest stars, Cena and Reigns as they fought for respect and the right to be the true face of the company.

Despite Reigns starting things off in a dominate fashion, Cena was able to regain his composure and bounce back into the bout that featured the 16-time world champion delivering four Attitude Adjustments to The Big Dog including a one from the top-rope and two AAs delivered in a row.

The onslaught of finishing moves would not keep Reigns down. He wore down Cena after he speared the Total Bellas star through a table and then later in the middle of the ring for a three count after delivering a Superman Punch.

Afterwards, Cena showed respect to Reigns by raising his hand in victory. After Reigns exited, Cena remained in the ring and received a standing ovation from the audience followed by a "Thank you Cena" chant.

The second main event which closed out the night, was a battle of the giants as Lesnar collided with Strowman in an earth-shattering championship match.

Strowman looked impressive in the early going as he dominated Lesnar in a way few other Superstars have. After delivering a Running Powerslam, The Monster Among Men seemed destined to be the one to finally slay The Beast as Lesnar looked stunned by Strowman's power.

Lesnar turned things around after he nearly broke Strowman's arm by applying the Kimura Lock for an extended period of time. Now down to one arm, Lesnar was able to take his opponent to Suplex City and withstand more Running Powerslams that seemed to further injure Strowman's arm.

Lesnar ended the match with F-5 for the three count, continuing his long championship reign.

In the women's division, against all odds Raw Women's Champion Alexa Bliss retained her title in a Fatal 5-Way Match that featured Sasha Banks, Bayley, Nia Jax and Emma.

The match, which featured Jax delivering an impressive double Samoan Drop to Bliss and Banks, ended after Bliss was able to side-step a charging Jax and deliver a DDT to Bayley for the victory.

Other moments from No Mercy included Elias defeating Apollo Crews; The Miz retaining his Intercontinental Championship against Jason Jordan; Finn Balor defeating Bray Wyatt; Enzo Amore defeating Neville to become the new Cruiserweight Champion and Raw Tag Team Champions Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins retaining their titles against Cesaro and Sheamus.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Darci Lynne Farmer wins 'America's Got Talent' Season 12

Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Darci Lynne Farmer is the newest winner of America's Got Talent.

The 12-year-old singing ventriloquist edged out 10-year-old singer Angelica Hale to win Season 12 of the NBC reality competition Wednesday.

Farmer and Hale both shed tears as host Tyra Banks prepared to disclose the winner. Farmer's two brothers rushed onstage to embrace their sister after Banks announced the ventriloquist's name.

"It was like waterworks right here on this face," Farmer said in an interview with USA Today after the show. "It was like a water faucet."

"[My feelings were] all bottled up inside, because I felt so loved on my America's Got Talent journey... and it just all came out," she explained.

"I'm really, really happy because my little brother cried and he's never cried before," the star added. "And it made me laugh too, because I'm like, 'You're crying, man. You're crying.'"

Each America's Got Talent winner receives $1 million and the chance to headline a Las Vegas show. Farmer said she plans to spend her money on new appliances for her mom and a puppy.

"I have to get my mom a dishwasher, and maybe get a fridge along with it," the preteen said. "I want a pug so bad, because I love puppies and it's been a long time since I had a puppy."

Hale congratulated Farmer in an Instagram post Tuesday evening, and later announced she will join the ventriloquist at the America's Got Talent Live show Nov. 3 and Nov. 4 in Las Vegas.

"Tears of joy!! Congratulations @itsdarcilynne I [love] u! #AGT @agt #AGTFinale," the singer captioned a photo with her dad.

"Beyond thrilled to announce that I will be joining @itsdarcilynne in the #lasvegas #liveshows @PlanetHollywood Nov. 3 & 4! Thx @agt & [America] #AGT," she added.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Google Acquires HTC Smartphone Staff for $1.1 billion

Google paid Taiwanese hardware manufacturer HTC $1.1 billion to acquire smartphone staff and intellectual property. Photo by maxpro/Shutterstock 

 

Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Google has signed a deal to increase its focus on hardware manufacturing by acquiring members from HTC's smartphone team.

Rick Osterloh, Google's vice president of hardware, announced the company has signed an agreement with Taiwanese hardware manufacturer HTC to acquire members primarily from its Pixel smartphone team.

"With this agreement, a team of HTC talent will join Google as part of the hardware organization. These future fellow Googlers are amazing folks we've already been working with closely on the Pixel smartphone line, and we're excited to see what we can do together as one team," he said.

HTC will receive $1.1 billion in the deal and will continue to manufacture its own smartphones and the VIVE virtual reality system.

The deal will also provide Google a non-exclusive license for HTC intellectual property.

Google and HTC had previously worked together to produce first Android smartphone, the T-Mobile G1,as well as the Nexus One smartphone in 2010, the Nexus 9 tablet in 2014, and the Pixel smartphone in 2016.

"HTC has been a longtime partner and has created some of the most beautiful, high-end devices on the market," Osterloh said. "We can't wait to welcome members of the HTC team to join us on this journey.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Six Signs You Are Unhappy In Your Relationship

 A relationship is supposed to bring happiness into your life despite the fact that it could be very challenging due to individual differences.
ou deserve to be in a relationship that will encourage, support and make you excited about life. Some people stay in their relationships for all the wrong reasons: comfort, safety, stability, children, fear of being alone or what society may think. The truth is that staying in a miserable relationship is never worth it, no matter what your reason may be.

 

If these signs sound familiar, then it’s time to reevaluate your relationship or put it to an end.

 

1. Being single again excites you

 

After being with one person for a long time, you may find yourself exploring the thought of being with other people, or just being single and “free” again. You flirt “innocently” with people you find attractive and say hi to your exes. It is one thing to notice that someone is attractive, but to think of waking up to them after a hot night, instead of your partner is a no. If this gets too much, you may end up doing something regrettable and hurt your relationship.

 

2. Your heart sinks when your partner calls or texts you

 

You should have a pleasant feeling when your partner calls or texts you unexpectedly when you are away from each other. There is nothing loving or affectionate about not wanting to speak to your partner or feeling down when you see a call or text from them.

 

3. You never want to get intimate

 

Intimacy is a good way to judge the state of your relationship. When you love someone, their touch alone makes you feel hot inside. Of course, this reduces as the relationship goes on. S*x doesn’t define a relationship but it is vital to having a healthy one. If you find that you are no longer sexually attracted to your partner, you need to sit down with them to figure out the true issue.

 

4. You do not enjoy spending time with your partner

 

They aren’t the first person you think of when you’re free and you would rather spend time with other friends or family. Spending quality time with them feels awkward as you never have anything to talk about. Let’s say you unexpectedly find yourself leaving work early, who would you first call to hang out? Who do you really want to see? The first people that come to mind are those you care about the most and find important to you. If your partner isn’t one of them, well… Do the math. You deserve a relationship with someone who will excite you, not dread spending time with them.

 

5. You get into unhealthy fights

 

Yes, every couple fights. That’s not something to really worry about. However, you may find yourselves arguing over or complaining about the slightest things. Or you may go through their private messages trying to know what’s going on, probably looking for a reason to argue.

 

Fights should be settled with mature conversations. But when you or your partner acts destructively or attempts to inflict physical or emotional pain on the other, then it becomes an unhealthy relationship and one or both of you doesn’t have much love and respect for the relationship.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Swaziland King Marries 19-year-old Woman as His 14th Wife (Photos)

King Mswati of Swaziland has married a 19-year-old woman as his 14th wife as she was unveiled following weeks of speculation.

Swaziland’s King Mswati the III

 

Swaziland’s King Mswati the III has officially unveiled a new bride, Siphelele Mashwama (19), daughter of a Swaziland Cabinet minister, Jabulile Mashwama.

 

According to MpumalangaNews, this is coming after many weeks of speculation, the 19-year-old Siphelele Mashwama was confirmed the new bride for the Swazi King Mswati by royal festivities overseer, Hlangabeza Mdluli who revealed that the new bride is currently in New York in the United States, where the king (49) is attending the United Nations General Assembly.

 

Mdluli told local journalists on Sunday while the king was about to board his flight to the New York, that the king has officially made a choice of the new wife. Siphelele seems to be king Mswati’s latest and youngest wife in terms of age.

 

Other of his wives include: Inkhosikati LaMatsebula, Inkhosikati LaMotsa, Inkhosikati LaMbikiza, Inkhosikati LaNgangaza, Inkosikati LaMagwaza (deserted), Inkhosikati LaHoala (deserted), Inkhosikati LaMasango, Inkhosikati LaGija (deserted), Inkhosikati Magongo, Inkhosikati LaMahlangu, Inkhosikati LaNtentesa, Inkhosikati LaNkambule, Inkhosikati Ladube and Inkhosikati LaFogiyane.

 

Swazi king Mswati is also said to have over 13 children which include his eldest daughter HRH Princess Sikhanyiso, Sibahle Dlamini, Makhosothando Dlamini, Majaha Dlamini, Tiyandza Dlamini, Sakhizwe Dlamini, Saziwangaye Dlamini, Bandzile Dlamini, Lindaninkosi Dlamini, Mcwasho Dlamini, Temtsimba Dlamini and Temaswati Dlamini, among others.

 

Siphelele (middle) at the reed dance after she was chosen by King Mswati the Third

 

It’s a common tradition for the Swaziland king to choose a wife every year. Last year, the Sherburne-educated King chose a new bride during the well-known Reed Dance ceremony, also known as Umhlanga).

 

The Reed Dance ceremony is an annual Swazi and Zulu tradition held in August or September. In Swaziland, tens of thousands of unmarried and childless Swazi girls and women travel from the various chiefdoms to Ludzidzini to participate in the eight-day event and would-be brides are publicly checked to ascertain that their virginity was still intact.

 

It would be recalled that the 49-year old Swazi king Mswati who calls himself ngweyama, “the lion,” had months back kicked against people filing for a divorce, saying it was against the culture of Swaziland.

 

“In our culture, once you marry someone, there is no turning back. There is no word for “divorce” in Siswati, the official language of Swaziland," the king added.

 

The Swaziland officials went further to explain the king’s comment, saying that the comment about divorce was not a decree until he officially tables them, run counter to a recently submitted marriage bill by Swaziland’s attorney general that allows for divorce on certain grounds. Divorce is not permitted under current legislation but a process called Kumbuyisela ekhaya, which refers to reuniting a married woman with her family, is allowed.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Age Not Just a Number: See How Mugabe Dozes Off During U.N General Assembly Meeting (Photo)

President Robert Mugabe whose old age has taken its toll on his leadership capabilities was caught on camera 'chasing his dreams' during an international event.

 

President Robert Mugabe (highlight) peacefully hibernating during the meeting

 

94 year old President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe appeared to be sleeping yesterday afternoon as President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly.

 

In the past, Mugabe has been photographed sleeping at public events on several occasions and he's not stepping down from power anytime soon. 

 

Mugabe once read the wrong speech during a public gathering as well as missing his steps on two other occasions. A wheelchair has been acquired for him by the state in case his legs fail him.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Buhari Addresses 72nd Session of United Nations General Assembly (Full Speech)

 This is the full text of President Muhammadu Buhari's address to the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as posted by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President, Femi Adesina.

 Statement Delivered By His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria at the General Debate of the 72nd Session of United Nations General Assembly, in New York, on Tuesday, 19 September 2017.’

 

Mr. President,

Fellow Heads of State and Government,

Mr. Secretary-General,

Distinguished Delegates,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

1. On behalf of my country, Nigeria, I congratulate you Mr. President on your election and Mr. Gutteres on his first General Assembly outing as our Secretary-General. I assure you both of my country’s solidarity and cooperation. You will indeed need the cooperation of all member States as we are meeting during extra-ordinarily troubled and dangerous times. Let me also thank former Secretary-General Mr. Ban ki Moon for his service to the United Nations and wish him peaceful retirement.

 

2. The previous year has witnessed many far-reaching developments. Some of the most significant events include the Iran Nuclear Deal, the Paris Climate Change Agreement and, of grave concern, the North Korean nuclear crisis.

 

3. I must also commend the UN’s role in helping to settle thousands of innocent civilians caught in the conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. In particular, we must collectively thank the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany under the commendable leadership of Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Governments of Italy, Greece and Turkey for assisting hundreds of thousands of refugees.

 

4. In an exemplary show of solidarity, the international community came together within my own region to assist the countries and communities in the Sahel and the Lake Chad regions to contain the threats posed by Al Qaida and Boko Haram.

 

5. We thank the Security Council for visiting the countries of the Lake Chad Basin to assess the security situation and humanitarian needs, and for pledging assistance to rebuild lives and livelihoods. Indeed, in Nigeria we are providing relief and humanitarian assistance to millions in camps and those afflicted by terrorism, drought, floods and other natural disasters.

 

6. In the last year, the international community came together to focus on the need for gender equality, youth empowerment, social inclusion, and the promotion of education, creativity and innovation. The frontiers of good governance, democracy including holding free and fair elections, and enthronement of the rule of law are expanding everywhere, especially in Africa.

 

7. Our faith in democracy remains firm and unshaken. Our regional organisation ECOWAS came together to uphold democratic principles in The Gambia – as we had done previously in Cote D’Ivoire.

 

8. Through our individual national efforts, state institutions are being strengthened to promote accountability, and to combat corruption and asset recovery. These can only be achieved through the international community cooperating and providing critical assistance and material support. We shall also cooperate in addressing the growing transnational crimes such as forced labour, modern day slavery, human trafficking and cybercrime.

 

Mr. President,

9. These cooperative efforts should be sustained. We must collectively devise strategies and mobilise the required responses to stop fleeing ISIS fighters from mutating and infiltrating into the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin, where there are insufficient resources and response capacity is weak.

 

10. This will require strong UN cooperation with regional organisations, such as the African Union, in conflict prevention and management. The UN should continue to take primary leadership of the maintenance of international peace and security by providing, in a predictable and sustainable manner, adequate funding and other enablers to regional initiatives and peacekeeping operations authorized by the Security Council.

 

11. New conflicts should not make us lose focus on ongoing unresolved old conflicts. For example, several UN Security Council Resolutions from 1967 on the Middle East crisis remain unimplemented. Meanwhile, the suffering of the Palestinian people and the blockade of Gaza continue.

 

12. Additionally, we are now confronted by the desperate human rights and humanitarian situations in Yemen and most tragically in the Rakhine State of Myanmar. The Myanmar crisis is very reminiscent of what happened in Bosnia in 1995 and in Rwanda in 1994.

 

13. The international community cannot remain silent and not condemn the horrendous suffering caused by what, from all indications is a state-backed programme of brutal depopulation of the Rohingya inhabited areas in Myanmar on the bases of ethnicity and religion. We fully endorse the call by the Secretary-General on the Government of Myanmar to order a halt to the ongoing ethnic cleansing and ensure the safe return of the displaced Rohingya to their homes in safety and dignity.

 

14. In all these crises, the primary victims are the people, the most vulnerable being women and children. That is why the theme of this session: Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet” is most apposite.

 

15. While the international community grapples to resolve these conflicts, we must be mindful and focus on the widening inequalities within societies, and the gap between the rich and the poor nations. These inequalities and gaps are part of the underlining root causes of competition for resources, frustration and anger leading to spiralling instability.

 

16. The most pressing threat to international peace and security today is the accelerated nuclear weapons development programme by North Korea. Since the Cuban missile crisis of 1962, we have never come so close to the threat of nuclear war as we have now.

 

17. All necessary pressure and diplomatic efforts must be brought to bear on North Korea to accept peaceful resolution of the crisis. As Hiroshima and Nagasaki painfully remind us, if we fail, the catastrophic and devastating human loss and environmental degradation cannot be imagined.

 

18. Nigeria proposes a strong UN delegation to urgently engage the North Korean Leader. The delegation, led by the Security Council, should include members from all the regions.

 

19. The crisis in the Korean peninsula underscores the urgency for all member states, guided by the spirit of enthroning a safer and more peaceful world, to ratify without delay the Treaty prohibiting nuclear weapons, which will be open for signature here tomorrow.

 

20. I end my remarks by reiterating Nigeria’s abiding commitment to the foundational principles and goals of the United Nations. Since our admission as a member state in 1960, we have always participated in all efforts to bring about global peace, security and development. Nigeria will continue to support the UN in all its efforts, including the attainment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 

I thank you.

 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)